The Spark

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.

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 of 2024 as the "Year of the Arts." Cody Hassler, head Broadcast Video teacher at Cedar Crest High School, is aiding in managing the film submission and judging process, leveraging his connections to the program where Evan was once an active member. Additionally, three of Cody's students serve on the MtGIFF committee. Janice Balmer, a resident and volunteer of Mt. Gretna, has been enlisted to ensure the smooth operation of the volunteer team for the festival. Set to debut on August 18, 2024, from 12-3pm, the inaugural MtGIFF aims to provide a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers, reflecting their collective dedication to cinema as an art form. The festival coincides with Mount Gretna's esteemed Outdoor Art Show, which has garnered national recognition and is also celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024. Held at the iconic Mount Gretna Playhouse, nestled within the wooded enclave of Pennsylvania's Chautauqua, the event promises a screening of carefully selected films alongside an awards ceremony, offering attendees a comprehensive experience celebrating the arts. With its roots deeply entrenched in the community and a mission to honor Evan's memory while fostering a vibrant cultural atmosphere, the Mount Gretna International Film Festival emerges as a testament to the enduring power of cinema and the arts to unite and inspire. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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 addressing diversity and equity within the theater, was doomed from the start. The dissolution of the committee raises questions about the theater's commitment to inclusivity and representation within its operations. Rios's commentary sheds light on potential shortcomings in the theater's approach to diversity initiatives. The decision to disband the committee comes amid broader conversations about equity and inclusion in the arts and entertainment industry. It underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in implementing meaningful change within institutions. The theater's move has not only disappointed its former committee members but also prompted reflections on the efficacy of diversity initiatives in the entertainment sector. As stakeholders and observers continue to grapple with these issues, the incident at the Fulton Theatre serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to foster genuine inclusivity and equity within cultural institutions, and Lancaster City. 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. As the anticipation builds and the excitement mounts, the Harrisburg Havoc, Central Pennsylvania's sole all women-led tackle football team, is rallying the region's residents to come out and support their upcoming season. Also on the program, the farm to hospital program, conceived by Dr. KimberLee Mudge, has emerged as a beacon of holistic healthcare in York County. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Common Ground," the highly anticipated sequel to the widely acclaimed documentary "Kiss the Ground," is set to make waves following its predecessor's success. "Kiss the Ground" reached an astounding audience of over 1 billion people worldwide and even spurred the United States Department of Agriculture to allocate a significant $20 billion towards soil health initiatives. In "Common Ground," the spotlight shifts to shed light on the unjust practices that have shaped current farming system, revealing a grim reality where farmers are literally sacrificing their lives to sustain us. However, amidst this stark portrayal, the documentary also showcases a beacon of hope in the form of a growing movement. This movement, comprised of black, white, and indigenous farmers, is embracing alternative "regenerative" models of agriculture. These models hold the potential to not only mitigate climate change but also enhance our health and stabilize the economy of the United States. Following the screening of "Common Ground," an expert panel discussion will delve deeper into the issues raised by the film. Moderated by Eric Finkenbinder, Chief Meteorologist of Channel 27 News and a farmer himself, the panel features a diverse lineup of voices: - Will Brownback from Spiral Path Farm - Tiana Zabela-Lopez representing GoggleWorks Center for the Arts - Lucas Waybright, the PASA Dairy Grazing Project Manager at PASA - Bill Chain, a retired farmer, teacher, and agricultural program manager at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation - Kat English from Rock Hill Heritage Farm of Hershey Attendees are encouraged not to miss the accompanying informational exhibits. Starting at 6 pm, guests will have the opportunity to explore a variety of local food options, engage with regional growers and producers, and discover resources related to health, wellness, and sustainability. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are about 15,000 children in temporary foster care in Pennsylvania. Most of them will return to their family of origin. It can be painful for kids to be separated from their parents or families and for younger children, it may be hard to understand what’s happening to them and around them. A new children’s book called The Watchful Owl tells the story of a young fox that loses his parents and lives with another animal family. It was written by Heather Paterno, an attorney who focuses on families and children’s issues and is a board member of Dauphin County’s Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children or CASA. The artwork in the The Watchful Owl also tells the story and will keep kids’ attention. It’s illustrated by artist P.D. Murray. Both Heather Paterno and P.D. Murray were with us on The Spark Wednesday. Paterno surmised the story,"The story is just a parable of sort of what could happen to a child in the foster care system, sort of told through a family of animals, so that children can understand it. And essentially what happens to Fennec is he doesn't have a father who's around. His mother's working hard, raising the family. And tragically, something happens to her. She gets picked up by a hunter and the great owl, that's a watchful owl, has always circled around the woods and looked out for all of the the creatures in the woods. And he gathers the community together. And they come up with a plan to look out for Fennec and his siblings." Fennec, the young fox is taken in by the deer family after he loses his mother. Paterno that's part of the story behind the story,"There is a lesson there. And really it is how a child can walk through the dependency system. This is a very common thing that we do. We have what's called family group conferences, where whenever a child is in care, obviously you want to keep them and the most natural place that you can. So that's why we look to family members. That's why we look to to community members. You never want to have to pick up a child and put them with strangers. Now this fox winds up being with strangers. But he also has two siblings that wind up living with family members. And it's very common. You'll see that a lot in the dependency system. They have these family group conferences and they bring in everybody. And how can we keep the child in their most natural environment of origin? And who are the supports? Who are the people that we can bring around to help assist this family?" Murray's illustrations help tell the story, especially of Fennec, who is vulnerable,"He's small in most of the scenes. He's little in these environments of these dark woods and larger animals and such. You know, people talk a lot about the importance of representation of kids, how they look, skin color, gender, all of those things in books. But I think it's really critical to -- and Heather has done this wonderfully to capture the needs state of children and to have representation of that. So this does a wonderful job of preparing children or children that aren't in the foster system. Probably build some empathy out of reading a story like this." Murray was asked what the takeaway is from The Watchful Owl,"I think it's a heartwarming story without being pollyannish. It really tells about the foster system when everything goes right, when there's a champion for a child." Proceeds from sales of the book will go to Dauphin County's CASA. Paterno explained what CASA does,"These are volunteers, community volunteers who get trained in child abuse and the dependency system. And then they are appointed either one child or one sibling group, one family group. And they also help to advocate for the child's best interests through their entire court proceedings. And, what I can tell you in Dauphin County itself, we have over 350 children right now who are in foster care. That's a lot of kids. And while each child has what I was, which was a guardian ad litem, I can tell you, is guardians of...

The Farm to Hospital program, conceived by Dr. KimberLee Mudge, has emerged as a beacon of holistic healthcare in York County. Addressing the root causes of illnesses through interventions such as diet and exercise, the initiative aims to combat food insecurity by supplying fresh, nutritious produce to UPMC Memorial patients, staff, visitors, and the wider community. Partnering with York Fresh Food Farms (YFFF), a local non-profit committed to cultivating and distributing affordable produce, the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation has facilitated the employment of a farm manager and farmhands for daily operations. Through careful selection and seasonal rotation of crops, the YFFF team ensures a year-round supply of fresh food to both patients and the community. With ambitious goals in sight, the program seeks to establish and manage a year-round farm spanning 3-5 acres, yielding approximately 10,000 lbs. of fresh produce annually. Distribution efforts will extend to York City's food deserts, UPMC Food Services, and local food banks. Moreover, the initiative emphasizes the importance of nutritional education, tracking co-op participant data, and the establishment of a permanent produce stand, and critical to the program's success are major donors, including the Memorial Health Fund of the York County Community Foundation, the Powder Mill Foundation, and York Excavating Co. In shifting the narrative from illness to wellness, the Farm to Hospital program underscores the significance of fresh food in combating prevalent health issues such as heart and renal diseases. Pairing dietary interventions with fitness, mindfulness, and spiritual healing, the initiative endeavors to foster a healthier community. The collaboration between UPMC Memorial, the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, and York Fresh Food Farms signifies a concerted effort towards community wellness. Commencing with the creation of a walking trail on the hospital campus, repurposed from a former golf course, the initiative gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic as the community embraced outdoor activities. Further enhancing the wellness campus, the installation of the Breast Cancer Garden of Hope at the trailhead offers emotional solace to visitors. Leveraging high tunnels for crop cultivation, the program ensures sustainable practices through drip irrigation, solar power utilization, and water conservation efforts. Future endeavors include educational programs aimed at empowering the community with knowledge on urban farming and nutrition. Volunteers will play a pivotal role in the program's success, receiving training and schedules to assist with harvest activities. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three construction workers were killed while working on Interstate 83 in York County last week. The victims were sealing cracks in the highway in the early morning hours last Wednesday when a box truck collided with a construction vehicle and veered into the workers. It brought attention to just how potentially dangerous construction zones can be for those working and motorists driving in them. Nationally, there were 891 fatalities and almost 38,000 injured in work zones in 2022. Since 2010, work zone deaths have increased 52 percent. Why are those tragic numbers going up and what can be done to make work zones safer for both workers and motorists? Joining us on the program Tuesday were PennDot District 8 Traffic Engineer Chris Flad and Fritzi Schreffler, Safety Press Officer with District 8 Penndot. Flad was asked why crashes in work zones are increasing,"I think a lot of it has to do with more aggressive driving behaviors that are occurring in society lately and in general. I mean, we all seem to feel like, we need to get somewhere very quickly. Maybe it's a little bit of entitlement, but that sort of leads to aggressive driving behavior. Speeding. Cell phone use, not paying attention. And it doesn't take much to sway outside your lane in a blink of an eye which could change lives for the worse." Flad talked about what it feels like when traffic is driving by you,"When you're a novice you notice it more often. So you will be spooked by traffic. You'll be more cognizant of well, now trucks are going by, the noises. It's a lot of sensory overload in some cases. Because you have a job to do out there, and yet you have traffic within an arm's shot of you. And, as time progresses, you do get a little more comfortable working around. It doesn't make it any more dangerous. But some of that does go away. But, when you do stop and think and when you look at motorists driving alongside the work zone that you're working in, and you see some of the behaviors, that a lot of them might not even be looking at the windshield because they're looking down at their phones or, and things like that, changing their radio stations. It's a little scary. And you think why are they not caring enough? I am out here. I'm trying to better the world through keeping up our infrastructure. Try and do my job. I know they have their jobs to do. Please respect my job. And please allow me the safety to do what I need to do." According to federal highway safety officials, the most common mistakes made in work zones include speeding, following too closely, failure to yield the right-of-way, improper or unsafe lane movements, and driver inattention. Drivers cite poor visibility in work zones, altered traffic patterns, uneven surfaces, sudden stops and poorly marked hazards in work zones for many of the crashes. Schleffer pointed to what PennDot does to make work zones safer,"We do a lot of advance notice that we're going to be out there, even if it's an emergency repair that we have to do. We get information out to the media and to the public as soon as we possibly can. So there's signs, there's a lot of lights that are out there. Sometimes people say, well, how can you have all these trucks out there and they're only working in one spot? Well, per federal standards, there are and state standards, certain amounts of protection. So you have something called an attenuator truck. When you see the chevron on the back of that is there to protect the work zones and protect the workers in the work zone. Because that can take a hit and it can take the force of the hit provided somebody doesn't bounce off of them and into the workers. But, we follow standard operating procedures and try and have the right number of vehicles out there so that somebody isn't just going along in their lane and not paying attention. But unfortunately, it still happens." Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April marks Autism Acceptance Month, shedding light on the experiences of autistic individuals, particularly adults, with an estimated 7 million in the US who may be unaware of their diagnosis. Dr. Thomas Pineo, Medical Director at UPMC Community Osteopathic, joined The Spark to share his journey as part of the "lost generation" of autistic adults, emphasizing the transformative impact of his diagnosis on his personal and professional life. Dr. Pineo's recent paper on caring for autistic adults in the inpatient setting underscores the importance of advocating for marginalized groups, drawing from his leadership in healthcare. As an autistic physician, he highlights the need for acceptance and accommodation, stressing that simple gestures can significantly benefit autistic individuals. During this month of April, Autism acceptance encompasses various aspects from addressing sensory concerns to providing predictable routines and workplace accommodations. Understanding the significance of repetitive behaviors as coping mechanisms is crucial, along with recognizing communication differences and implementing strategies to bridge gaps. In healthcare, Dr. Pineo raises concerns about the unmet needs of autistic individuals, leading to health disparities and a shorter life expectancy compared to non-autistic peers. He advocates for sensory accommodations and clear communication to ensure equitable healthcare access and outcomes. Efforts to support autistic individuals extend beyond awareness to actionable steps, such as offering sensory aids, creating conducive environments, and fostering understanding in healthcare settings. And, by embracing acceptance and making meaningful accommodations, society can enhance the well-being and inclusivity of autistic individuals. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

April 22nd is Earth Day – 54 years since the first Earth Day that is credited with starting the environmentally movement and led to changes to protect the environment. However, Earth Day today is different. Climate change will be the focus of most of the Earth Day activities around the world. There will be talk about the changes in temperature, water levels, extreme weather and the dangers they pose physically to the planet. But how will climate change affect our brains and behaviors? A new book – The Weight of Nature: How a Changing Climate Changes Our Brains describes a profound and what could be depicted as a frightening future of neurological diseases, developmental disorders and increased anger and maybe even violence. The book was written by Clayton Page Aldern, a neuroscientist turned journalist , who was with us on The Spark Monday. Aldern explained how a changing claimate could impact our brains," There are cellular effects, those that are taking place at the level of the individual neuron, the individual brain cell. There are those that manifest at the level of the whole organism or at the individual, what's happening to us and our cognition and our behavior. And and then there are the effects that manifest again neurologically, but in the manner in which we treat one another right, in the interactions between people, the effects that manifest at the level of culture and socializing and and so, just to zoom the lens in a teeny bit very quickly at that cellular level, we're really talking about brain disease. We're talking about neurodegeneration and zoological diseases. This is the kind of stuff like bats, ticks, mosquitoes, all of these disease vectors that are responsible for brain diseases like yellow fever and cerebral malaria -- they're increasing their habitable ranges as a function of climate change. So even if we don't do anything differently as people, just the fact that there are more opportunities to come into contact with the ticks that cause brain disease will imply that there's going to be more brain disease in the future. And this is also true of the fact that climate change is really good at exposing us to neurotoxins. Environmental degradation is really good at exposing us to neurotoxins that we might not otherwise come into contact with. Air pollution is a great example. Particulate matter is really, really bad for your brain. It's one of these things that can cause low level inflammation in your brain. That chronically is likely one of the causes of something like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's. So, these are really cellular level scientific effects at the level of the individual. It's more about behavior. Think about the fact that, you're maybe a little slower of a thinker on a hot day. You're not a you're not as good at solving problems. I certainly feel like I'm a little sluggish when it's really warm out. And and we know from behavioral economics studies, for example, that, students are less good at taking exams on, on hot days. It's also true that immigration judges, for example, are less likely to rule in favor of an asylum applicant on a hot day. All else equal. So so there there are some effects with respect to, cognition and impulsivity that manifest at the level of the person. And then there are the effects that are all about the manner in which we treat one another. And what is this doing to culture? And I think aggression is a nice example of that. The fact that people tend to be more aggressive on hotter days. We're more prone toward violence. This is an effect that has been understood for centuries effectively, and I've again certainly felt it. But but the point here is that this is a this is a universal shared experience in terms of anybody, or anything with, a nervous system, basically a brain higher temperatures appear to be related, to aggression. And so as temperatures continue to rise, we should expect to see, more aggressive acts. And indeed, again, when you look at the...

Coming up on this week's program. A new book about how star baseball players like Babe Rith and Shoeless Jow Jackson avoided military service in World War I by playing baseball for Bethlehem Stell plants., including in Lebanon and Steelton, also on the program we talk with former Obama social secretary and Author Deesha Dyer about her new book. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Paige Joki, Staff Attorney at the Education Law Center in Philadelphia, is leading a groundbreaking initiative aimed at upholding the rights of young black girls within the education system. The initiative, aptly named the Black Girls Justice Initiative, comes in response to the pervasive inequities faced by black girls due to various forms of discrimination including anti-Black racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, and economic injustice. In Joki's view, public schools should serve as supportive and affirming environments where black girls are championed in their academic and personal growth, yet the current reality falls short of this ideal. Black girls continue to encounter systemic barriers that hinder their ability to learn and thrive in educational settings. The Black Girls Justice Initiative operates on the principle of centering the needs and voices of black girls themselves, recognizing them as experts on the challenges they face in schools. Through this approach, the initiative aims to identify and address the interlocking educational barriers that disproportionately affect black girls. ELC's Black Girls Education Justice Initiative, spearheaded by Paige Joki and former ELC legal intern Brandon Miller, Esq., is guided by several key principles. Firstly, it asserts the belief that black girls deserve full and holistic support in their educational journey. Secondly, it emphasizes the necessity of investing time and resources to dismantle the various forms of oppression that black girls encounter in schools. Lastly, the initiative focuses on developing and implementing unique legal strategies to tackle these barriers effectively. Through legal, policy, and communication strategies, the Education Law Center is committed to challenging the root causes of inequity in education. By advocating for the rights of black girls and addressing the systemic injustices they face, the Black Girls Justice Initiative seeks to create educational spaces where black girls can thrive without fear of discrimination or marginalization. Paige Joki's leadership in this initiative underscores the importance of centering marginalized voices in the fight for educational equity. As the initiative continues to grow and evolve, it serves as a beacon of hope for black girls striving for justice and equality in education. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the anticipation builds and the excitement mounts, the Harrisburg Havoc, Central Pennsylvania's sole all women-led tackle football team, is rallying the region's residents to come out and support their upcoming season. With players itching to return to the field after months of intense preparation, the team is poised to showcase their skills against formidable opponents. Since October, the Harrisburg Havoc has been diligently honing their abilities, dedicating countless hours to training and strategizing for the challenges ahead. Their collective determination is palpable as they set their sights on their ultimate goal for the season: securing a spot in the National Championship, held in Canton, Ohio. For the women of Central Pennsylvania who harbor a passion for football, the Harrisburg Havoc provides a vital outlet to not only play the sport they love but also to compete at a high level, mirroring the opportunities historically afforded to men. And in a landscape where women's participation in tackle football is still relatively uncommon, the Havoc stands as a beacon of empowerment and equality, breaking down barriers and shattering stereotypes. Led by a dedicated coaching staff and fueled by the unwavering support of their fans, the Harrisburg Havoc embodies the spirit of resilience and perseverance. Their journey represents more than just athletic prowess; it symbolizes the triumph of determination over adversity, the triumph of teamwork over individualism. As the season unfolds, the Harrisburg Havoc invites the community to join them on their quest for greatness, to witness firsthand the grit and determination of these extraordinary athletes. With each tackle, each touchdown, they continue to inspire and uplift, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of women's sports in Central Pennsylvania and beyond. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deesha Dyer, renowned as the former Social Secretary of the Obama Administration, has made a significant mark as a speaker and creative event strategy consultant. Originally from Philadelphia, Dyer's journey into the political realm is characterized by her unconventional path. Despite starting as a hip-hop journalist, she joined the White House as an intern at the age of 30 while attending community college. During her tenure, Dyer spearheaded numerous high-profile events, notably coordinating the historic 2015 visit of Pope Francis. Her responsibilities extended to orchestrating State Dinners featuring distinguished guests such as leaders from China, Canada, and Italy. Dyer's knack for curating memorable experiences was evident in her bookings, which included performances by iconic figures like Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, and the cast of the Broadway sensation "Hamilton." Now, Dyer took center stage on "The Spark" to discuss her latest endeavor, a captivating memoir titled "Undiplomatic." In this revealing book, she chronicles her personal journey, shedding light on her transition from feeling like an imposter to making a tangible impact. With insights gleaned from her experiences, Dyer offers readers a roadmap for navigating their own paths to success. Her narrative is not just one of professional triumph but also a testament to resilience and determination. Despite facing obstacles, including her unconventional background and self-doubt, Dyer emerged as a trailblazer in her field, and through "Undiplomatic," she aims to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and harness it as a force for positive change. Furthermore, as a graduate of Milton Hershey School, Dyer's story resonates deeply with individuals from all walks of life. Her journey serves as a reminder that with perseverance and a willingness to challenge conventions, anyone can defy expectations and leave an indelible mark on the world. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fresh produce travels an average of about 1,500 miles from farm to your dinner table. It’s one of the reasons that many consumers prefer to buy local, believing the food they’re buying and eating is truly fresh with the added benefit of supporting a local farmer or community member. Those are two of the principles behind Community Supported Agriculture or CSA businesses, arrangements and plans that can be a win-win for both consumer and farmer. To explain more about CSAs on The Spark Thursday were Mike Nolan, owner Earth Spring Farm in Carlisle and Bethany Hinkle, CSA Manager at Spiral Path Farm CSA in Loysville, Perry County, who explained the concept of a CSA,"We see it as a relationship between the community and the farm that provides mutual support and commitment. Since the members (who join the CSA) met at the beginning of the season to be customers for the season, and then we as the farmers commit to the community to do all of the work of the seeding, the planting, the growing, harvesting and delivering those." Hinkle described how their CSA works,"We have different size options. So depending on how many vegetables you eat and we have different season lengths whether you want to get a box of veggies or our whole 35 weeks of growing, April to mid-December, or if you just want our peak summer season, or just want to try it out for a few weeks. And then we have delivery sites anywhere from Manheim to Shippensburg and everywhere in between, where we will do weekly box deliveries while we're in season that are farmer's choice of what veggies are ripe that week that we want to send out to our members." The customer benefits from the CSA by knowing they have fresh produce that was harvested recently and didn't have to be shipped a long distance. Nolan said there a few benefits for the farmer,"For us the benefit is we get to showcase what we're growing. We get to showcase what other farms are doing too, because we don't grow everything that we put in the CSA. So we will pull in from other farms that we know. They are almost all organic, with the exception of maybe a fruit farm. And then the benefit for us is that we just get a constant stream of revenue all year, because we do run all year with our CSA. You can also put your CSA on hold with ours. And then so we'll see the numbers sort of decrease over the winter time and then pick up during the summertime and fall. And that's just a trend that we deal with. But it's a nice little cash flow that kind of keeps things moving for us." Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bid to reshape the landscape of finance and address persistent racial wealth disparities, Joe Cecala and Dwain J. Kyles are on the brink of realizing a two-decade endeavor: the inauguration of the Dream Exchange, set to become the pioneering minority-operated stock exchange in the United States. The Dream Exchange, a brainchild of Cecala and Kyles, stands as a testament to their aspiration for a more equitable economic future. "It's actually truly born from the soul of two people that want to see the world become a better place," remarked Joe Cecala, co-founder and CEO of the Dream Exchange, underscoring the profound mission behind their initiative. With a launch imminent this year, the Dream Exchange aims to democratize access to the stock market, serving as a bridge between Main Street and Wall Street. Expected to be the eighth licensed stock exchange in the nation, the Dream Exchange distinguishes itself by placing minority leadership at its helm. Mirroring established exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange, the Dream Exchange will facilitate trading of stocks from smaller companies, fostering inclusivity in an arena historically dominated by larger entities. At the core of the Dream Exchange's vision lies a commitment to dismantling barriers to entry, particularly for communities of color grappling with limited access to capital. "The point is to make the stock market accessible to more people, specifically people of color who historically have less access to capital," Cecala asserted, emphasizing the transformative potential of this endeavor in empowering burgeoning enterprises. Recognizing capital as a pivotal determinant of success, the Dream Exchange seeks to catalyze growth for underserved businesses, nurturing prosperity within marginalized communities. "If we can build these companies up and expand them, we'll have prosperous communities," Cecala affirmed, highlighting the ripple effect envisaged by their initiative. For Kyles, the pursuit of economic equity resonates deeply, informed by the teachings of his father, a prominent preacher and confidant of civil rights luminary Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King's advocacy for economic parity serves as a guiding principle for Kyles, who believes that true equality hinges on empowering individuals to achieve financial stability and support their families. Central to the Dream Exchange's ethos is the conviction that economic empowerment can be realized through public listing. Citing research by the U.S. Treasury Department Task Force, which found that 92% of jobs within a company are generated post-public listing, Kyles and Cecala underscore the transformative impact of their endeavor on job creation and economic vitality. As the Dream Exchange prepares to embark on its historic journey, Cecala and Kyles stand as torchbearers for a vision of inclusivity and opportunity in the financial realm. With the promise of a more accessible and equitable stock market on the horizon, their pioneering venture embodies a beacon of hope for a future defined by economic justice and prosperity for all. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Burnout is such a problem for workers that some employers are considering reducing the length of the workweek. Nearly one-third (30%) of large US companies are exploring new work schedule shifts such as four-day or four-and-a-half-day workweeks, according to a KPMG survey of CEOs released last week. The idea to attract and retain talent in a hot job market where many employees feel over-worked and underpaid. American workers don’t get enough free time and our work has become central to our identities. Journalist Simone Stolzoff explores why what we do and how much we do for a living has become such a priority in our lives in his book The Good Enough Job: Reclaiming Life From Work. On The Spark Wednesday, he talked about how our jobs became our identities in many cases and how the four-day work week may help us take back our lives,"We live in a country where the majority of people get their health care through their employment. If you're an immigrant, your ability to stay in this country is often determined based on your employment. There are political reasons or economic reasons. There are cultural reasons why we got here. One of the big ones that I harp on in the book is there has been a precipitous decline in the past three or four decades, and the number of institutions and community groups that once provided great sources of meaning and identity in our lives, things like organized religion or social or neighborhood groups. And with the decline of these institutions, the need for identity, for purpose, for belonging remained. And so the majority of Americans turned to where they spent the majority of their time, which is the workplace. Now we live in a country that loves to treat CEOs like celebrities, we plaster "always do what you love" on the walls of our co-working spaces. It's a country where productivity and self-worth are almost one in the same. And so the question is what is the cost? If you're rising and falling based on your professional accomplishments alone, what gets left out? I think the pandemic was a great emblem of what are some of these costs. For one, that your job might not always be there. If you are deriving identity solely based on your title as an employer at a certain company or your job title, and you lose your job due to a furlough or getting laid off offered to retirement, you might be left wondering what's left. The second is just a matter of expectations. If we're always expecting our jobs to be a dream, if we're always expecting our jobs to be perfect, that creates a lot of room for disappointment. A lot of the rhetoric that we use around do what you love and never work a day in your life or follow your passion, obscures the fact that every line of work has monotony, has tedium in it. And if we have these sky high expectations, we can leave a lot to be desired. And the third, which I think really points to some of the studies that are coming out recently about the four-day workweek is that when we are only investing and giving our best time and our best energy into our work selves, we can neglect other parts of who we are. Certainly we all are more than just workers. We are neighbors and partners and parents and siblings and friends and citizens. And yet so many Americans are giving so much of their time and energy to their jobs that they're leaving little room for anything else." What does Stolzoff disagrees that not as much can be accomplished in a four-day work week,"It's essentially about our capacity to produce at a higher level. Everyone knows this intuitively. Not all hours in the day are created equally. And when workers are well rested. When workers have been able to fully recharge and invest in their lives outside of work, they tend to be better workers. They tend to be more innovative and creative problem solvers. They tend to be more productive on the whole. This might sound counterintuitive. I think a lot of us have internalized this idea that the more hours you work, the...

Dozens of coal plants have closed in Pennsylvania over the last few decades as the Marcellus Shale boom made natural gas cheaper and some coal energy companies decided new environmental regulations are too costly. Coal plants have shutdown in other places across the country because of the amount of pollution they emit that contributes to climate change. A coal plant in Centralia, Washington, that at one time produced 10% of all the energy in the state of Washington will close for good next year. The Centralia plant was the county’s largest employer and largest taxpayer. However, plans for closing the facility and what comes next for Centralia is seen as a model for other transitions to other forms of energy production. StateImpact PA reporter Rachel McDevitt and WITF’s Digital Producer Jeremy Long traveled to Centralia, Washington last month and came back with how what has worked so far. Read Rachel McDevitt's reporting on Centralia, Washington's transition away from coal and see Jeremy Long's photographs. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patriotism and a rush to serve in the military characterized America when the U.S. entered World War I in 1917. Those who didn’t enlist in hopes of fighting in Europe or tried to avoid the military draft were called slackers. At the time, baseball was by far the American Pastime. Dozens of Major League baseball players like Ty Cobb and Christy Mathewson did enlist. But some of the biggest names in the sport like Babe Ruth and Shoeless Jackson played in baseball leagues formed by Bethlehem Steel plants or shipyards. There were teams in Lebanon and Steelton and most of the best players joined teams in Pennsylvania and Delaware. A new book called Work. Fight. Or Play Ball – How Bethlehem Steel Helped Baseball’s Stars Avoid World War I -- chronicles the industrial and shipyard leagues. Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author William Ecenbarger was on The Spark Monday and talked about the history when the U.S. entered World War I,"There was something called the work or fight order. It was issued by the War Department. That was what we called the Pentagon back then. And it said that either you have to work in a central industry or be drafted in the armed forces. It affected any young men between 18 and 32. And, so, the essential entities were, farming. That was one, munitions plants and, steel mills and shipyards. So, that was one way to to get out of the draft was to work in one of those industries." A man by the name of Charles M. Schwab (not the investment and financial Charles Schwab) was the president of Bethlehem Steel, who formed a six-team baseball league where Bethlehem mills and a shipyard were located -- Bethlehem, Lebanon, Steelton, a plant near Boston, Sparrows Point near Baltimore and a shipyard in Wilmington, Delaware. Ecenberger indicated superstar Shoeless Joe Jackson of Chicago White Sox should have had a draft exemption but everything changed when Jackson's local draft board in Greenville, South Carolina classified him as 1A on the draft board,"In 1918, some of the major leaguers figured out that if they could get on one of those teams, they would be in a central industry and they would be exempt from the draft. And so there began a slight exodus. Shoeless Joe Jackson was deferred from the draft. He had a dependent wife. He had his mother who was dependent on him. He had two sisters who would depend on him. And three of his brothers were already in the military. But somehow his draft board rescinded his exemption, and he became 1A. And that's when he fled to the shipyard in Wilmington. And, so after that, the major leaguers said, well, if he can get drafted, anybody can get drafted. So, that really pushed the exodus to these teams." Reportedly, Jackson actually did some work while employed at the shipyard in addition to playing baseball. Ruth played one game for the Lebanon team while he was on the roster of the Boston Red Sox,"Babe Ruth's job title was Blueprints Messenger, and no one quite knew what that meant. But I've talked to people who who remember him at the steel mill, and, they said that he showed up in very expensive clothes, would hang around for a couple of hours, talked about baseball, and then walked out. And that was it. That was his work day." In its two years of existence, the Lebanon Bethlehem team won the championship the first year and Steelton the next. Dozens of major league and minor league players dotted the rosters of the Bethlehem Steel League. However many did get drafted or enlisted. Several were killed. The war and shortage of men actually changed baseball history. Ecenbarger said the Red Sox were short on outfielders and they knew Ruth, who was a very good pitcher at the time, could hit, so they moved him to the outfield. Ruth ended up hitting 714 home runs in his career -- mostly with the new York Yankees -- and was the nation's most popular athlete. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.