The Spark

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 Spark and Smart Talk. Recorded in front of a live studio audience, this special program highlights Scott's significant contributions to WITF and the lasting legacy he hopes to leave. From compelling interviews to memorable on-air moments, Scott's dedication and passion for broadcasting shine through. This engaging retrospective show that honors Scott LaMar's remarkable career and the impact he has had on the world of media, and WITF.

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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.

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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.  The law had defined marriage as between a man and a woman.  The ruling made same sex marriage legal in Pennsylvania – the 14th state where same sex couples could marry at the time. It was a historic decision. At the time, many were interested in Judge Jones’ legal interpretation that went into his ruling. Same sex marriage was eventually upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Judge Jones joined us to discuss how he arrived at his decision and the role of the judiciary.

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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 Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. Over the course of minutes, they would kill twelve students and a teacher and wound twenty-four others before taking their own lives.

Since then, Sue Klebold, Dylan’s mother, has lived with the indescribable grief and shame of that day. How could her child, the promising young man she had loved and raised, be responsible for such horror? And how, as his mother, had she not known something was wrong? Were there subtle signs she had missed? What, if anything, could she have done differently?

Sue Klebold wrote a book -- A Mother’s Reckoning: Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy, in which she talks about Dylan’s seemingly normal childhood, the day of the Columbine shooting and the years afterwards when she grieved and struggled to understand her son and what’s she’s learned about mental health or brain health as she refers to it.

Mother and author Sue Kebold appears on this special edition of The Spark.

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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.

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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 significant experience in the banking sector, having worked at Santander Bank, BB&T, and First National Bank of Pennsylvania. During his tenure in these institutions, Brown excelled as a lender and relationship manager, cultivating vital business relationships and gaining valuable insights into financial services.

Brown's expertise and passion have led him to ASSETS, a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming communities through social enterprise and economic development. He firmly believes that the key to bridging the economic gap for women and minorities lies in business ownership and success, which can be fostered through accessible business capital tailored to these often underserved markets. This perspective is informed by his understanding of the systemic barriers that these groups face when navigating traditional lending channels.

Statistical evidence underscores the challenges that minority communities encounter in the financial sector. As recently as 2019, a significant portion of Black and Hispanic households were without basic banking services. Specifically, 13.8 percent of Black households and 12.2 percent of Hispanic households lacked a checking or savings account, a stark contrast to the 2.5 percent of white households without such accounts. This disparity is often attributed to a deep-seated mistrust of banks among many Black and Hispanic individuals, a sentiment that Brown recognizes and seeks to address through his work.

Brown's approach involves not just providing knowledge but also ensuring that business capital is readily available and specifically tailored to meet the needs of minority entrepreneurs. By doing so, he aims to foster an environment where economic success is attainable for all, thereby narrowing the economic divide. His work at ASSETS reflects a broader mission to empower communities by dismantling financial barriers and creating inclusive opportunities for economic growth.

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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 advocacy and creating trauma-informed communities, she highlighted the work of Mental Health America of Lancaster County (MHALC). At MHALC, the commitment to helping individuals achieve mental well-being is paramount. The organization advocates for a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. While many people focus on physical health through diet and exercise and spiritual health through personal beliefs, mental health often remains neglected. Witmer pointed out that neglecting mental health undermines the ability to achieve one’s full potential.

MHALC’s mission is to promote optimal mental health through advocacy, education, and support. Witmer's visit underscored the organization's dedication to fostering a community where mental wellness is foundational. She called for greater awareness and systemic changes to better support children at risk of entering the school-to-prison pipeline, stressing that mental health care is essential for a healthy, thriving society. Through their work, MHALC aims to create a society that values and actively supports mental well-being, recognizing its critical role in overall health.

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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 arts scene. During her visit, Thunda Khatt delved into the inspiration and passion driving this event, offering a glimpse into what attendees can expect from this compelling experience.

Scheduled for June 9th, MEN HAVE FEELINGS TOO is a poetry showcase dedicated to shedding light on the emotional experiences and vulnerabilities of men. This event aims to create a thought-provoking dialogue about masculinity and the often-overlooked topic of men handling their emotions. By bringing these issues to the forefront, Thunda Khatt hopes to foster a deeper understanding and empathy within the community. The MEN HAVE FEELINGS TOO showcase is a special edition of the popular poetry brunch series curated by the inimitable Thunda Khatt. Featuring an all-male cast and crew, this event aligns with Men’s Mental Health Month in June, making it a timely and significant occasion. The showcase is set for Sunday, June 9th at 11:30 AM, and promises to offer a poignant and reflective brunch event that attendees won’t want to miss.

During her discussion on The Spark, Thunda Khatt emphasized the importance of creating platforms where men can express their emotions freely and without judgment. She highlighted that societal expectations often suppress men's emotional expressions, leading to detrimental effects on their mental health. By providing a supportive environment through MEN HAVE FEELINGS TOO, Thunda Khatt aims to challenge these norms and encourage men to embrace and articulate their feelings. And as tickets are limited, Thunda Khatt urges those interested to secure their seats soon. This event not only promises to be an artistic triumph but also a meaningful contribution to the ongoing conversation about mental health and emotional well-being, particularly among men. Whether you are a poetry enthusiast or someone interested in the complexities of human emotions, this event is sure to offer valuable insights and inspiration.

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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 effective that are also environmentally friendly, how the insects in the garden – some are bad but others are essential. Are you feeding birds or even hummingbirds this spring?

These are all topics Erica addressed on the program.

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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 back into the community. Slated for June 2024, Juneteenth HBG will bring together community leaders, business owners, entrepreneurs, and organizations across Central Pennsylvania in a powerful show of solidarity and support. YPOC is calling on these leaders to contribute generously and participate actively, ensuring the event's success and sustainability.

"Juneteenth HBG is more than just a celebration; it’s a call to action," said Anna White from YPOC. "We aim to unite the community in a shared vision of progress and economic empowerment. By coming together, we can drive impactful change and honor the legacy of Juneteenth in a meaningful way."

One of the highlights of Juneteenth HBG 2024 is the YPOC SUMMER VIBES Juneteenth concert, featuring iconic hip-hop artists Ghostface Killah and Jim Jones. This event promises to be a major draw, combining entertainment with the spirit of the occasion. Attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets early, as prices are expected to rise closer to the date. In addition to the concert, the Juneteenth History Bowl Activation at the Black Arts Expo offers an educational and engaging opportunity for the youth. Participants will delve into the rich history of Juneteenth and Black cultural heritage, competing for prizes that celebrate their knowledge and engagement. This initiative underscores YPOC’s commitment to fostering awareness and appreciation of Black history among the younger generation.

The celebration will culminate with a keynote address at the Forum Auditorium by the incomparable Angela Rye. Known for her sharp political commentary and advocacy for social justice, Rye's presence is sure to inspire and motivate attendees. Her keynote will likely address critical issues facing Black and Brown communities today, providing both insights and a call to action for continued advocacy and empowerment.

YPOC’s Juneteenth HBG 2024 is not just an event, but a movement. It embodies a collective effort to uplift communities and honor the historical significance of Juneteenth. The organization's dedication to economic and social progress is evident in every aspect of the celebration. And as the excitement builds, YPOC encourages everyone in Central Pennsylvania to join the festivities, support the cause, and be a part of this significant cultural milestone. By participating in Juneteenth HBG 2024, community members will not only celebrate freedom but also contribute to the ongoing journey toward equality and prosperity for all. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the YPOC website. Join us in making Juneteenth HBG 2024 a memorable and impactful event for the community!

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