The Spark

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 schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. Those statistics may not tell the whole story. There seem to be more people who are suffering from depression and other mental illnesses or experiencing episodes of poor mental health since the pandemic. However, there are barriers to seeking help in the form of therapy or other treatments. One of the biggest is access to trained mental health professionals. There simply aren’t enough to keep up with the demand. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed a bill earlier this spring that could make more therapists and counselors available. Joining us on The Spark Tuesday to talk about mental health and access to treatment were Alison Pidgeon, Chief Executive Officer and Valerie McNicholl, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Chief Operations Officer, both with Move Forward Counseling. Pidgeon was asked why there are more people who seem to be experiencing poor mental health,"The pandemic for so many people was so difficult, and if they were already struggling a little bit, but maybe coping okay, the pandemic was just another humongous layer of stress on top of all of the things that they were already dealing with. And then it really just became apparent that they needed help. And then I also think the pandemic -- silver linings -- it just became a lot more normal to talk about mental health. The stigma was less because everybody just went through this very, traumatic experience. And so that's the other piece that we have seen as well." McNicoll addded,"I think obviously the pandemic has had an impact, but I think we were seeing an increase in mental health needs even prior to the pandemic. So that was just exacerbated. Even more so, I don't individually see clients any more, but I meet with the staff who do, and I'm just coming out of a meeting, where staff are expressing that clients seem to be sicker, that the acuity level, of some of the clients we're seeing in outpatient seems to be higher. And people seem to be struggling more. I also agree that I think the stigma is less. It's still there and it's still very strong, especially in certain communities. But I think particularly our younger folks, our Gen Z, younger millennial folks, they feel much more comfortable talking about mental health and talking about accessing help and support for mental health problems." Access to mental healthcare has been a problem for years according to Pidgeon and she explained why,"If you look at the cost of getting an advanced degree, you need to either a master's degree or a PhD to become a therapist. And obviously that's a very expensive and time consuming proposition and then you come out of school making very little money. And so I think that it just doesn't make financial sense for people to go to school to become a therapist. You don't want to spend $100,000 on a graduate degree and come out making $40,000 a year. So, I really think that the the answer is for insurance reimbursement rates to increase, to pay therapists at the level of other Masters and PhD level professionals in the healthcare field." Gov. Shapiro signed a bill in March that created a new licensure category, allowing individuals to practice as licensed associate marriage and family therapists and licensed associate professional counselors. The idea is to expand access to mental health services and addresses the need for more practitioners. Under the new law, individuals with the required educational qualifications but who have not completed the necessary supervised clinical experience can obtain an associate license. This enables them to provide mental health support...

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 nearly $13,000 more than that of their white counterparts. This troubling pattern is consistent across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, indicating a widespread issue within the state's judicial system. The study underscores the severe repercussions of even short-term pretrial detention. Individuals who spend just a few days in jail can experience life-altering consequences, such as job loss, deprivation of necessary medical care, loss of child custody, and even homelessness. Moreover, the study points to the broader societal impacts of pretrial detention and cash bail. Detained individuals are more likely to be convicted and receive longer sentences. The misuse and overuse of cash bail also correlate with an increase in crime rates, exacerbating the problem the system aims to mitigate. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 Edge of the World. The story that Dolin tells is one of incredible survival in the harshest of conditions. The book's publicist provides a good description: "Set against the backdrop of wartime conflicts, Dolin's narrative weaves a compelling saga of a chance encounter between an American sealing vessel, a shipwrecked British brig, and a British warship. Misunderstandings and mistrust led to the abandonment of three British sailors and two Americans, including Charles H. Barnard, the captain of the sealer, in the unforgiving terrain of the Falklands for a harrowing eighteen months. Left for Dead is a tale that unravels with intriguing complexity, offering surprising twists and turns. Reminiscent of David Grann's The Wager, Left for Dead reveals a spectrum of human behavior under extreme duress—depicting instances of greed, deception, and bullying juxtaposed with stellar leadership, ingenuity, and remarkable endurance. The story unfolds with banishment, the profound value of a loyal companion, the birth of a child, a perilous thousand-mile open-ocean voyage in a mere seventeen-foot boat, an unlikely rescue mission, and ensuing legal battles over a contentious wartime prize." Eric Jay Dolin talked about the book and the story on The Spark Monday. 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, 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 privacy information.

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 prevention programs. By involving communities, National Prevention Week highlights the importance of implementing strategies that address these critical public health concerns. One of the primary purposes of National Prevention Week is to foster partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies and national organizations committed to improving public health. These collaborations enhance the dissemination of quality prevention resources and publications, ensuring that effective strategies reach those in need. The event underscores the significance of community involvement in addressing substance misuse and promoting mental well-being. Eric Kennel, the executive director of Compass Mark, has been instrumental in raising awareness and taking action for individuals suffering from substance misuse and other addictions. As National Prevention Week concludes, Kennel emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of substance misuse, providing support to those affected, and accessing available services. His insights highlight the collective effort required to combat addiction and support recovery, reinforcing the crucial role of community and organizational initiatives in fostering a healthier society. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 dedication and strength. Today, on WITF's The Spark, Sally Winchell and the Iron Mustangs joined Marquis Lupton to discuss their journey, preparation, and motivations behind embracing powerlifting later in life. The Iron Mustangs, a formidable team of senior powerlifters, showcased their remarkable abilities at the Senior Games, held at the sprawling Spooky Nook Sports Complex. Their success is not merely measured by the medals they won, but by the barriers they broke and the stereotypes they shattered about aging and athleticism. Sally Winchell, the spirited leader of the Iron Mustangs, spearheaded the team’s efforts. Among the many highlights, perhaps the most impressive was 70-year-old team member Jane Thompson’s stunning performance, where she deadlifted over 200 pounds. Thompson’s feat exemplifies the extraordinary capabilities of senior athletes when given the opportunity and support to thrive. Winchell, reflecting on their achievements, noted, "Our team is about more than just lifting weights. It's about lifting each other up and proving that age is just a number." Her words resonate deeply with many, as the Iron Mustangs’ story is one of perseverance, community, and the relentless pursuit of personal bests. The journey of these women into powerlifting is as inspiring as their performances. Many of them took up the sport after the age of 60, driven by a desire to stay active, healthy, and strong. Their training regimen is rigorous, involving not only physical preparation but also mental fortitude. The Iron Mustangs train diligently, balancing workouts with proper nutrition and recovery, ensuring they are always at their peak. Their preparation for the Senior Games was intensive, marked by months of disciplined training and a strong support network. The camaraderie among the team members plays a crucial role in their success, providing motivation and encouragement to push through the toughest challenges. On The Spark, the Iron Mustangs shared their individual stories and collective experiences. They hope to inspire other seniors to embrace physical activity and perhaps even powerlifting, demonstrating that it’s never too late to start something new. And, as the Iron Mustangs continue to celebrate their achievements, their influence extends beyond the competition. They are redefining what it means to age, one lift at a time, showing that strength, resilience, and determination have no age limit. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. The pivotal moment came during a trip to a remote village where Foltz saw firsthand the devastating effects of contaminated water. Children, their faces etched with hardship, were consuming water from a polluted source, leading to widespread illness and despair. This harrowing experience ignited a deep-seated resolve in Foltz to make a tangible difference. Determined to turn his vision into reality, Foltz founded Humankind with a singular mission: to provide sustainable, clean drinking water to underserved communities worldwide. Under his leadership, Humankind has embarked on numerous projects, installing water filtration systems, drilling wells, and educating communities on maintaining these vital resources. However, Foltz’s journey wasn’t undertaken alone. He received invaluable support from the SCORE mentoring program, an initiative dedicated to assisting aspiring business owners and entrepreneurs. SCORE, with its vast network of experienced mentors, played a crucial role in helping Foltz navigate the complexities of starting and growing his nonprofit organization. The mentorship Foltz received through SCORE was instrumental in Humankind’s success. SCORE mentors provided guidance on various aspects of running a nonprofit, from strategic planning and fundraising to operational management and outreach. Foltz attributes much of Humankind’s growth and impact to the insights and support he received from his SCORE mentors. Statistics support the efficacy of the SCORE program, where small business owners who engage in three or more hours of mentoring report higher revenues and increased growth. This was certainly true for Foltz and Humankind. The organization’s reach has expanded significantly, touching lives in numerous countries and providing clean water to thousands of people who previously had none. Today, Humankind stands as a testament to the power of one individual’s commitment to a cause and the profound impact of effective mentoring. TJ Foltz’s story is one of hope and a reminder of the difference one person can make when supported by a community of knowledgeable and dedicated mentors. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributors to the mother’s health, but especially the baby’s health. Prenatal care and eating a nutritious diet can have a lifelong impact on the health of the baby. Fortunately, there are programs to help expectant or new mothers. WIC or Women Infants and Children is one of the most successful that has provided nutritious food, breastfeeding resources and other services to millions of women across the country for the past 50 years. With us to discuss the WIC program and other services for families in need on The Spark Thursday were Sally Zubairu-Cofield, Pennsylvania’s WIC Director and Robin Rohrbaugh, President and CEO of the Community Progress Council. Zubrair-Cofield indicated that the WIC program provides much more than handing out food to expectant and new mothers living in poverty, like it did when it started in 1974. She added healthy food is just one challenge many women are facing, "Not only making sure that these moms are going to their doctors and keeping up with their appointments, but they're barriers that don't allow moms to do that. There are barriers that don't allow the practitioners to spend that time, not quality time, with the moms in the office. Some practitioners are seeing these, participants or their clients and these pregnant moms, maybe five, ten minutes in a quarter. So, we really, really stress trying to get that time and build those relationships with those mothers and make sure they have access to our care. We know that, if we can teach you how to eat better, we can teach you how to feed your child better. What's out there for your child? If your main issue is you don't have a place to stay, you're going through domestic violence, you don't have shelter, you don't have heat. So we really, really want to remove these barriers. Going to a WIC appointment is a barrier for some people. Getting the kids, taking off of work to make these appointment are barriers. So we do things like have mobile clinics. We have office hours. We are seeing participants on the weekends. We're driving in rural and different areas where participants may not have access to a clinic or can't get to a clinic. So we're really trying to meet the participants where they are. And we really, really are intentional about connecting with all of our community partners because we can't help the participants if we don't even know what's available to them." The Community Progress Council in York County offers services to assist those living in poverty to become self-sufficient -- especially financially,"We're trying to help people get to a place financially where they no longer need public or private assistance. We achieve our mission by delivering an array of services, work being one of those services. We are York County's Headstart and early Headstart provider. We have some Pre-K counts, classrooms, housing, counseling and education. And then we have a broad array of coaches who walk alongside of all of the families that we are serving and work with them to achieve their goals. So, we really focus on providing a comprehensive service to all of the families that come to us." Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 than one in five adults live with a form of mental illness. Alarmingly, over 20% of youth aged 13 to 18 have experienced a serious, debilitating mental illness at some point in their lives. These statistics underscore the urgent need for effective mental health interventions and resources. In recognition of Mental Health Action Day, The Spark invited two distinguished mental health specialists to provide deeper insights into the multifaceted issue of mental health, Dr. Matthew Hurford, President and CEO of UPMC’s Community Care Behavioral Health, and Professor Jihan Owens-Tyler, a psychotherapist and counselor at Elizabethtown College. Professor Owens-Tyler brings a wealth of expertise, having been trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure CBT, structural family therapy, emotion-focused family therapy, trauma-informed care, and psychoanalytic therapies. And while the national statistics on mental illness are sobering, there is encouraging news for Pennsylvanians. According to Mental Health America, Pennsylvania ranks eighth in overall access to mental health resources and stands out as the top state in the nation for youth-specific access to mental health services and the lower prevalence of youth mental illness. This ranking highlights the state’s commitment to providing robust mental health support, particularly for its younger population. Mental illness manifests in various forms, including anxiety, nervousness, worry, stress, loneliness, frustration, mood swings, and panic attacks. The diverse range of symptoms necessitates a comprehensive approach to treatment and support, emphasizing the importance of specialized care and accessible resources. And as Mental Health Action Day progresses, the focus remains on encouraging individuals to take actionable steps towards improving their mental health and advocating for better mental health policies and resources. By moving beyond awareness and towards action, society can make significant strides in addressing the mental health challenges faced by millions. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 the health of the Bay. Some have been successful while others have fallen short of their goals. Next year – 2025 – was set as a deadline to meet several of those goals in the restoration plans. It has the states and the federal government thinking about what comes next. The pollution in the form of nutrients came from wastewater, agricultural practices and storm water runoffs from sources like parking lots, streets and chemicals on lawns. Harry Campbell, Director of Science Policy and Advocacy with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Pennsylvania, was on The Spark Wednesday and talked about the goals for Pennsylvania,"We agreed to a reduction of pollution in the form of nitrogen and phosphorus and sediment of 40%, based on baseline numbers in the from the early 1980s, based on monitoring and things of that nature. So that was one of the primary goals. And then the secondary goals were more protection and management activities around those living resources, like the striped bass, like the oysters, like the crabs, so as to help provide a a more stable and healthy population for reproduction and growth of the economy and in the living resource." Some have suggested there has been too much attention to nutrients running into local streams, creeks and rivers and eventually into the Bay. Campbell indicated that maybe the numbers have gotten too much of the focus during the Bay clean-up,"One of the things that has occurred over the course of time during the these efforts is that we've kind of started to fixate on bean counting. And what I mean by that is how much of this, how much of that, how much did we do? An acre of that. How many linear feet of that and lost sight of the outcomes. So one of the five pillars we have are to focus on the outcomes, meaning the not just did we reduce a pound of nitrogen based on what a computer model tells us or based on how much linear feet of this or that we've installed, but focusing on the outcome in terms of like, what is the living resource response? Did it improve trout habitat? Did it create a situation where we have more young of the year, striped bass or other types of living resource responses? Then of course we have to promote innovation and focus in on people, and do a number of other things, like even building those partnerships, but by looking at the outcome instead of the widget or the bean counting, we can then really start to measure and I think improve and focus in on the things and the places and practices that improve water quality, but also the ecosystem at large." It's been suggested that more attention to making sure local streams, creeks and rivers are clean and healthy would be more a more tangible result for those who live in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Another discussion has centered on making climate change a priority over the Bay restoration. Campbell said the two are closely linked,"The effort to try to mitigate climate change, as well as save the Bay and our local rivers and streams and watersheds. You can't separate the two. The climate change and the responses to it, regardless of what you believe are the causes there, it's causing and contributing and increasing the amount of runoff and the pollution that enters our local rivers and streams in the Chesapeake Bay. By focusing in on the types of practices that build that resiliency, tree plantings, cover crops on our agricultural areas, forested riparian buffers and tree canopy in our suburban and urban areas. Not only does that actually help mitigate the impacts of climate change, but simultaneously is improving our local rivers and streams, as well as the...

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 pregnant people of color. This recognition stems from the U.S. News' comprehensive analysis of high-performing maternity care hospitals across the United States. In December 2023, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital was highlighted among a select group of 26 hospitals nationwide for achieving exceptional outcomes in cesarean sections and unexpected newborn complications among Black patients. On The Spark we spoke with Dr. Sharee Livingston of UPMC who stated that, at the core of UPMC Magee-Womens' success is its holistic approach involving providers, nurses, hospital staff, and community members. She states that together, they strive to address and mitigate health disparities, ensuring that every patient receives equitable and high-quality care. This collaborative effort is particularly evident in their innovative use of doulas, which has been a major focus over the past few years. Additionally, the Birth Circle Doulas of Magee program is a cornerstone of this initiative. It offers individualized doula support at no cost to at-risk women who face significant disadvantages due to adverse social determinants of health during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. These services include both face-to-face and remote (telehealth) support, ensuring comprehensive care regardless of the patient's circumstances. The utilization of doulas is well-documented to improve clinical outcomes for both the birthing person and the baby. At UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, doulas provide crucial emotional, physical, and informational support, helping to create a more positive and empowering birthing experience. This support is particularly beneficial for underserved women, who often face higher risks of complications and less access to quality maternal care. The hospital's recognition by U.S. News & World Report not only highlights its exemplary performance but also brings attention to the broader issue of maternal health disparities. By prioritizing health equity and pioneering effective programs like the Birth Circle Doulas of Magee, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital sets a benchmark for other institutions to follow. In a healthcare landscape where maternal mortality rates remain unacceptably high for Black women, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital's dedication to improving maternal health outcomes is both commendable and essential. This recognition serves as a testament to the hospital's unwavering commitment to providing equitable and excellent care for all mothers. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 pandemic and rising prices on food. Access to healthy food can be an event bigger challenge. With that in mind, Penn State Health is partnering with more than one hundred organizations with a unique approach to providing healthy food to those in need. With us on The Spark Tuesday were Ashley Visco, Community Health Director at Penn State Health and Zachary Zook, Senior Policy Research Manager at the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. Zook indicated there are more people who are food insecure than just a few years ago,"Relative to 2021 and the most recent data that we have available, nationally and in Pennsylvania is in 2022 -- food insecurity increased by more than 25%. So it now affects 12.8% of people nationally. And so that is a major jump from one year to the next. That's also the highest level of food insecurity that we have seen since 2014, since just getting out of the Great Recession. And I'll note that very low food security in particular jumped by 34%. From 3.8% to 5.1% nationally. And so 1 in 20 households in the U.S. experience is very low food security, which is extremely high." Visco talked about what makes the Penn State Health program unique,"Food insecurity is very nuanced. It's not just individuals who live in food deserts. We often think of food deserts as where the individuals who are food insecure live. But there's food deserts across all of Pennsylvania, regardless of where you live. So we try to have programing that meets the different needs of different types of people. So for instance, we have community gardens that we work closely with. So we partner with with community organizations. And we either help them build or we enhance community gardens that may be already exist as just one avenue. But what we try to do when we build these partnerships, as we don't try to just have, like a food access point, right? It's not like, here's a food access point. There's nothing else that exists there. What we try to do is really layer on services. So one of our best examples is we've partnered with in Lebanon County. We partnered with the Chestnut Street Community Center inside the Chestnut Street Community Center. There's a homeless shelter, there's IU 13, there is a an elementary school directly across the street. We have a community fridge located there, which means anyone can come and get produce as available, but also individuals can have community when they come to the garden, or they can walk down the street, they can grab a cucumber and they can chomp on it and they can walk back down the street. So we really feel like our strength is in our nuance of programing is where we go directly to the community partners and we say what do you need? What is most beneficial in your community? And we work with them to hopefully develop that." Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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, check the oil in a car, clean the windshield and doubled as the garage where a mechanic repaired or maintained cars. A new book remembers a time when gas stations were often the center of activity in a town and the attendants became familiar and friends. The Lost Service Stations of Central Pennsylvania is co-authored by Jimmy Rosen, who was with us on The Spark Monday, who talked about the nostalgia for gas stations,"back in the early days of full service, it was the focal point of neighborhoods. You, you you knew your mechanic, you knew your local service station, you trusted them, and you hung out there. Guys hung out there with their cars. They fixed their cars. And then a lot of times, girls hung out there to see the guys with their cars. And it was just a time mom and pop places like a lot of things, they've all but disappeared. And it's rare to find an independent, fueling station to service station at all." Published as by Arcadia Publishing as part of their images of America series, the book is full of photographs of old service stations in Central Pennsylvania. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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 award-winning anchor reporter with WBAL News Radio and longtime radio and TV journalist in Pennsylvania. 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, 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/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. Partnering with the Crispus Attucks Community Center and the Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County (CAP), Spring House Brewing Company embarked on a mission to commemorate and educate people about the historic significance of the Center, which has been a beacon of equity and justice in the community for nearly a century. The collaboration extends beyond brewing, with local artist Keisha Finnie lending her talents to create a visually stunning can design that honors the story of Crispus Attucks. Blending Finnie's artwork with a bold citrus graphic, the can reflects the vibrant essence of Saucy Boy, mirroring the beer's sweet, crisp, and citrusy notes. The choice of name, "Saucy Boy," carries profound meaning rooted in history. Crispus Attucks, an Indigenous-African man who escaped enslavement, met a tragic fate as the first American killed in the American Revolution. Yet, his memory endured, albeit tarnished by the derogatory remarks of the era. Future President John Adams infamously referred to Attucks and his compatriots as "a motley rabble of saucy boys," among other disparaging epithets. For the collaborators behind Saucy Boy, the name symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity. It represents the defiance of oppression and the unwavering spirit of those who have fought for justice throughout history. Through this partnership, they aim to shed light on this often-overlooked chapter of American history and pay homage to Attucks' enduring legacy. "We are grateful to have some awesome partners carrying Saucy Boy in support of the Center," expressed Joshua Hunter the center's director. This sentiment underscores the collaborative effort that has brought Saucy Boy from concept to reality, with local businesses and community organizations rallying behind the cause. And the launch of Saucy Boy serves as more than just a celebration of craft beer; it's a celebration of community, culture, and the resilience of the human spirit. With each sip, drinkers are invited to reflect on the legacy of Crispus Attucks and the countless others who have dared to defy oppression and pave the way for a more just and equitable future. As Saucy Boy finds its place on shelves and in glasses across the community, it carries with it a message of hope and remembrance—a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of resilience endures. And in raising a glass to toast to this shared history, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and inspire future generations to continue the fight for justice and equality. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 and assistance. Recalling the beginnings of this endeavor, Cheryl Holland-Jones, Dr. Jackson's daughter and the driving force behind the foundation, reminisces about a journey that commenced with a shared desire for change. Amidst social unrest and a global health crisis, the community found itself reevaluating its values and institutions. The renaming of a local school in Jackson's honor sparked discussions about representation and inclusivity, setting the stage for broader societal reflections. The renaming of Hazel Jackson Middle School was more than symbolic; it embodied the community's commitment to preserving Jackson's legacy. From these conversations emerged the idea of a foundation—a platform to perpetuate Jackson's values through scholarships, lectures, and community programs. At the heart of fundraising efforts lies a stage production chronicling Jackson's extraordinary life—a narrative of resilience, leadership, and advocacy. Through this artistic medium, the foundation seeks to inspire pride and unity, anchoring individuals in Jackson's enduring principles. And, reflecting on her mother's legacy, Cheryl, alongside her daughter Amber, underscores the pivotal role of community involvement in driving change. It was through grassroots activism and collective efforts that the school renaming became a reality—a tribute to Jackson's legacy and her ideals. Dr. Jackson's story epitomizes resilience in adversity. As the first African-American female teacher in the Lancaster school district, she confronted systemic challenges with unwavering resolve. Her nine-year journey symbolizes a steadfast commitment to her vocation. Beyond her pioneering role, Jackson's legacy encompasses a broader cultural and social influence. She paved the way for diversity and inclusion initiatives within the school district, leaving an indelible mark on successive generations. Furthermore, she embodied this commitment as the first African-American Professor at Millersville University. As the stage production unfolds, audiences will witness Jackson's remarkable odyssey—a testament to perseverance and community solidarity. Their support will fuel the foundation's empowerment mission, ensuring Jackson's legacy inspires future generations. Rooted in talent development and community resilience, the Hazel Jackson Foundation's endeavors, from scholarships to cultural events, aim to uplift and empower. Attendees of the play not only honor Jackson's memory but also contribute to initiatives that enrich the community. Ultimately, the production celebrates Jackson's life—a tribute to her enduring legacy and the values she embodied, serving as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of perseverance, leadership, and communal unity. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 deeply personal exploration of our nation's founding document. At the heart of the play lies the intertwined narratives of playwright and performer Heidi Schreck, whose own journey through Constitutional debate competitions as a fifteen-year-old forms the bedrock of this insightful production. Portrayed by Karen Ruch in a performance that promises to be both humorous and poignant, Schreck's journey traverses the landscape of American history, connecting four generations of women to the enduring principles enshrined in the Constitution. Under the creative guidance of Stuart Landon, the producing artistic director, "What the Constitution Means to Me" emerges as a testament to the enduring relevance of the Constitution in shaping individual lives and the collective ethos of a nation. With evening performances scheduled at 7:30pm on select dates from May 11th to June 1st, alongside matinee shows at 2:00pm on May 12th and 19th, audiences have ample opportunity to engage with this transformative theatrical experience. Moreover, special events such as the Opening Night & Reception on Saturday, May 11th, and an ASL Interpreted Performance on Sunday, May 26th at 6:00pm, ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all theater enthusiasts. For those seeking a blend of entertainment and enlightenment, "What the Constitution Means to Me" promises to be an unmissable cultural event, offering a fresh perspective on the document that continues to shape the American narrative. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 stereotypes, enriched perspectives on life, skill acquisition, expanded social networks, and avenues for civic engagement and community service. As the IG landscape evolves nationally and internationally, there's a call for enhanced training for professionals and broader access to resources, diverse program models, support systems, and evaluative research affirming program effectiveness. The Mid-Atlantic Intergenerational Conference, slated for July at the Lancaster Holiday Inn and hosted by Penn State University, is poised to be a focal point for stakeholders invested in IG initiatives. Tailored for community-based organizations, the conference beckons staff members, administrators, educators, scholars, advocates, volunteers, students, and others keen on deepening their understanding of intergenerational programs. To delve into the intricacies of IG dynamics and the significance of the upcoming conference, we featured on The Spark; Chris Kennedy, a nationally acclaimed thought leader in aging-in-place, elucidated the fundamental tenets of intergenerational collaboration. Ian Sanchez, the community relations specialist at Lancaster County Community Foundation, shared insights into local efforts fostering intergenerational connections. Dr. Matt Kaplan, a distinguished professor specializing in Intergenerational programs and aging at Penn State University, provided scholarly perspectives on the transformative potential of intergenerational initiatives. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.