The Spark

The Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional live music experiences and fostering music education, is gearing up for a weekend of enchantment with their natural world concert series at Lancaster Country Day School's Gardner Theatre.

Kicking off Friday and running through Sunday, the series promises an immersive musical journey celebrating the wonders of our natural world. From the frosty expanses of the Arctic to the enchanting mysteries of nature's embrace, audiences can expect to be transported through a symphonic odyssey unlike any other. At the heart of the concert lies Hovhaness' "Mysterious Mountain" and Copland's evocative "Suite from The Tender Land," each piece meticulously selected to evoke the awe-inspiring beauty and majesty of our planet. These masterful compositions, performed by the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra's ensemble of professional musicians, are poised to captivate and inspire. More than just a concert, this event underscores the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra's dedication to enriching the cultural fabric of Lancaster. Through their unwavering commitment to accessibility and excellence, they continue to elevate the city's artistic landscape while nurturing a deeper appreciation for the power of music.

For those eager to embark on this sonic voyage, the concert series offers multiple opportunities to experience its magic, with performances scheduled for Friday evening, Saturday afternoon, and Saturday evening. As the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra takes the stage, audiences can anticipate an unforgettable fusion of music and nature, inviting them to pause, reflect, and marvel at the splendor of the world around us. So, tune in this weekend and immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies and timeless beauty of the natural world, courtesy of Lancaster's finest musical ambassadors.

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For over two centuries, the Prison Society has been a lifeline for incarcerated individuals and their families, offering essential support services and shedding light on the often opaque world of prisons. Founded 235 years ago, the organization has remained a steadfast resource, providing invaluable assistance to those affected by incarceration.

With a focus on maintaining vital support networks and offering reliable information, the PA Prison Society serves as a beacon of assistance for families navigating the complexities of having a loved one behind bars. From guidance on staying connected to updates on specific facilities, the organization ensures that families have access to the information and resources they need.

Beyond direct support, the PA Prison Society plays a crucial role in advocacy, driving conversations on prison conditions and shaping the discourse on incarceration. By providing essential information to the public, elected officials, and prison administrators, the organization empowers decision-makers to make informed choices regarding policy and practice.

One of the Prison Society's latest initiatives, its bus transportation service, exemplifies its commitment to facilitating connections between incarcerated individuals and their families. Offering hassle-free and affordable rides to correctional facilities, the service prioritizes safety and convenience, ultimately bringing families closer together during challenging times.

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Finding Your Roots with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. is one of the popular TV shows on PBS. Every Tuesday at 8 p.m., Dr. Gates leads a celebrity through their family histories.

What makes the show so fascinating are the mysteries uncovered about their families.

Recently, Finding Your Roots did something it had never done before – it offered viewers of the program – people who aren’t considered celebrities – an opportunity to go on the show and trace their families’ roots. Nine-thousand viewers applied. Three were chosen to appear on the show.

Megan Robertson of Mechanicsburg was one of them and she was with us Thursday on The Spark.

On the show, the family mystery Megan was most interested in learning more about centered on her great-grandfather, "Green Marshall Church was born in North Carolina, and we knew very little about him as a person because his son, my grandfather. My grandfather's name was Eugene Dewey Church. Everybody called him Dude. And, my grandfather was only about five years old when Green passed away. He was a railroad worker in West Virginia and was tragically killed on the railroad. So my grandfather didn't have any information about his dad, so there was no information to be had because although Green's widow -- my dad remembers her -- they called her Ma Church. Although he knew her, I don't know that Green shared a lot about his past because it was maybe painful for him. I don't know that he shared it with his wife, his widow, so there was no information to be had by anybody. So, I remember growing up and when we would do school projects on our background or hey, where'd your last name come from? I would go to my dad and he said, where did Church come from? And he was like, well, we can go back to here, but we don't know. So we were always told that was his adopted name, and we didn't know what his actual last name would have been."

Megan said she learned a lot about great-grandfather, Green Church, including his military service record,"What I know about Green, he was a veteran of World War I. He served in France during World War I, and I don't know what they put it in the episode, but I know what battles he was in over there now. I didn't know any of that. I mean, we had some of his service records from from the military, but we didn't know a whole lot about that."

The Finding Your Roots episode that tells Megan's family story airs Tuesday night, April 9 at 8 p.m. on PBS nationally and WITF-TV. Megan hasn't seen the episode, so she doesn't know what was left in the program or edited out from the six-hour taping.

The Finding Your Roots producers asked that she not divulge too much information before the show is broadcast, but she did say she learned the identity of Green Church's father and more about her family on both her father and mother's side.

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Renowned African American tenor and educator Jonathan Walker-VanKuren continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of music, both on stage and in the classroom. With a diverse repertoire spanning jazz, musical theatre, art song, and opera, Walker-VanKuren has captivated audiences with his powerful voice and versatile performances.

Currently serving as Assistant Professor of Voice and Artist Teacher of Studio Voice and Music Theatre at Lebanon Valley College, Walker-VanKuren balances his teaching duties with a busy schedule of recitals and operatic performances. His influence extends far beyond the college walls, as evidenced by the success of his students who have gone on to pursue music at prestigious institutions such as Texas A&M, Michigan State University, and Belmont University.

Recent highlights from Walker-VanKuren's performing career include his roles as Thamar in Opera Southwest's revival production of "Ali Baba," as well as captivating portrayals of the Witch in "Hansel and Gretel," Don Jose in "La tragédie de Carmen," Fenton in "Falstaff," Nelson in "Porgy and Bess," and Beppe in "Il Pagliacci." And in a testament to Lebanon Valley College's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the Music Theatre department is set to host a sensory-friendly performance of "Tuck Everlasting" on Saturday, April 6, at 1 p.m. in Leedy Theatre inside the Allan W. Mund College Center. This initiative aims to provide a welcoming environment for individuals with sensory needs or other social, cognitive, and/or physical challenges, allowing them to enjoy the magic of live theatre.

What To Expect:

Audiences attending the sensory-friendly performance can expect several modifications to enhance their experience, including keeping the lights dimmed throughout the show, reducing overall sound levels, and eliminating potentially overwhelming elements such as strobe lights and intense sound effects. Additionally, the cast and crew will adjust their interactions with the audience to ensure a comfortable atmosphere for all attendees.

To further support guests, a staffed quiet area will be available in the lobby for those who may need a break during the performance. Audience members are also encouraged to bring their own comfort objects and support items to personalize their experience and make the most of this unique theatrical event.

Through his dedication to both his craft and his students, Jonathan Walker-VanKuren continues to inspire and uplift aspiring musicians while fostering a culture of inclusivity and accessibility in the performing arts. As the curtain rises on this sensory-friendly performance, it serves as a shining example of the transformative power of music and the boundless potential for artistic expression to unite and uplift us all.

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On April 8, 2024, Pennsylvania will be graced with a breathtaking celestial show as a total solar eclipse traverses the state and country, spanning across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This rare phenomenon occurs when the Moon positions itself directly between the Earth and the Sun, obscuring the Sun's radiant face from view. The skies will transform into an ethereal spectacle, reminiscent of twilight, captivating onlookers with its mesmerizing allure.

Eclipses, whether solar or lunar, offer a profound opportunity to witness the cosmic dance of our celestial companions. As Earth, the Moon, and the Sun converge in perfect alignment, they gift us with a fleeting glimpse of their harmonious interplay.

However, amidst the marvel and wonder, safety remains paramount. Proper precautions must be taken to safeguard one's vision when observing a solar eclipse. During the peak of a total solar eclipse, known as totality, the Moon entirely shrouds the Sun, casting a shadow across the land below. Approximately 32 million individuals situated along the 115-mile-wide path of totality in the United States will have the privilege of experiencing this awe-inspiring event firsthand.

For those fortunate enough to find themselves within the path of totality, the opportunity to witness the full splendor of a total solar eclipse is a momentous occasion not to be missed. The last time such an event unfolded across the contiguous United States was in August 2017, making this upcoming spectacle a rare and cherished occurrence. Furthermore, the next opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse in this region won't present itself until August 2044, underscoring the significance of seizing the moment.

As the countdown to April 8, 2024, draws nearer, anticipation mounts among astronomers, enthusiasts, and curious spectators alike. It serves as a poignant reminder of the awe-inspiring majesty of the cosmos and the profound connections that bind us to the celestial realm. So, mark your calendars, secure your eclipse glasses, and prepare to be enchanted by the celestial grandeur unfolding above.

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In Lancaster County, tens of thousands of residents have been coming together for over twenty-five years, joining forces with YWCA Lancaster to combat racism and empower women. The organization proudly hosts the biggest and longest consecutively Race Against Racism in the nation, inviting the community to participate in this vital movement. Recognizing that the journey to eliminate racism is ongoing, the YWCA emphasizes the importance of collective action in building a just future. While acknowledging that a 5K race cannot single-handedly eradicate racism, the event serves as a platform to raise awareness and mobilize individuals towards meaningful change. The YWCA Lancaster underscores the significance of "naming the need" and encourages unity among community members, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Every step taken together is deemed instrumental in making a difference. The organization pledges to persist until injustice is eradicated, institutions are reformed, and women, girls, and people of color are universally recognized as equal, powerful, and unstoppable.

Proceeds from the Race Against Racism are channeled into supporting the Center for Racial and Gender Equity (CRGE), which spearheads community education, training, advocacy, and change programs. Additionally, in observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April, the YWCA Lancaster is conducting a Comfort & Clothing Drive. The initiative aims to provide essential supplies to sexual assault survivors in local hospitals, aiding their recovery process and assisting them in regaining stability. Sexual assault remains a prevalent issue, with statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicating that over half of women in the United States, along with one in three men, have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact during their lifetimes. In response to this sobering reality, the YWCA Lancaster is committed to raising awareness and providing tangible support to survivors through initiatives like the Comfort & Clothing Drive.

Through its multifaceted efforts, the YWCA Lancaster continues to serve as a beacon of hope and solidarity for individuals affected by racism and sexual violence. By fostering community engagement, promoting awareness, and offering support services, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to create a more equitable and just society. As residents of Lancaster County and beyond unite in these endeavors, they embody the collective spirit necessary to effect lasting social change.

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Renowned Spoken Word Poet, Artistic Educator, and Motivational Speaker Brandon Leake continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his unique blend of artistry and charisma. With his distinctive personal narratives, Leake has graced stages across the globe, earning widespread acclaim and recognition. One of the most notable platforms for Leake's talent was Season 15 of NBC-TV's America's Got Talent. Millions of viewers witnessed his awe-inspiring performances, ultimately leading to his victory on the show. Notably, Leake received the prestigious Golden Buzzer accolade from judge Howie Mandel, solidifying his status as a standout talent. And on Thursday, April 4th, fans and enthusiasts of Leake's work will have the opportunity to experience his latest creations firsthand. The Ware Center in Lancaster will serve as the venue for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of poetry and inspiration.

Leake's performances transcend mere entertainment, often delving into profound themes and social commentary. Through his masterful use of language and storytelling, he has the power to evoke a range of emotions and provoke thought among his audience. Attendees can expect an intimate and immersive experience as Leake takes them on a journey through his latest work. From heartfelt reflections on personal experiences to poignant observations on the world around us, Leake's poetry resonates deeply with audiences of all backgrounds.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Leake is also recognized for his contributions to education and motivational speaking. His passion for empowering others shines through in everything he does, inspiring individuals to embrace their own creativity and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. And as anticipation builds for Brandon Leake's upcoming performance at The Ware Center, and for those fortunate enough to attend, it promises to be an evening filled with inspiration, reflection, and the transformative power of spoken word poetry.

In a world often fraught with division and uncertainty, Brandon Leake's message of unity, empathy, and resilience serves as a beacon of hope. Through his artistry and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact, he continues to touch the hearts and minds of people around the world.

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The glass ceiling – a metaphor for a barrier that kept women and other marginalized people from advancing – usually in their careers. The term is and was used often when a woman had reached a position or place in society for the first time. Breaking through the glass ceiling was seen as how far we’ve come as a society. But that glass ceiling isn’t the final destination or even the ultimate barrier for many women.

What about the "glass walls?"

Wilson College’s Chief Information Officer Amy Diehl has identified obstacles that women in the workplace still face in a book she co-wrote called Glass Walls: Shattering the Six Gender Bias Barriers Still Holding Women Back at Work.

Through their research, comparing women's experiences and anecdotes, Diehl and her co-author Dr. Leanne Dzubinski found the top six barriers woman are up against and that contribute to bias are male privilege, disproportionate constraints, insufficient support, devaluation, hostility and acquiescence.

Dr. Diehl will appear with Dickinson College’s Chief Information Officer, Jill Forrester, Monday, April 8 at 7 p.m. at Dickinson’s Anita Tuvin Schlecter Auditorium to discuss gender bias. Both Dr. Diehl and  Forrester were with us on The Spark Monday.

Diehl went into depth about the six walls,"Male privilege is men's inherent advantage caused by workplace cultures in which men are the leaders. They control the resources, they set the standards, and they assign women to a second class status. So women are allowed into the organization in ways that support the males, the men's privilege. The second one is disproportionate constraints. So again, women are allowed into the workplace, but they are constrained to act in ways that are supportive of the men and held to unequal standards when compared to the men...The third one is insufficient support, where women lack access to social structures and networks that would help them to advance. And it actually includes unsupportive leadership, in which leaders ignore women's needs or concerns. The fourth one is devaluation. It attempts to make women seem unimportant and detract from their authority. One example is, something that we, we didn't coin is term, but it's a term that's out there. It's called office housework. It's when women are assigned all the tasks that aren't, what are typically thought of as promotable tasks. So it's like cleaning the office refrigerator, taking notes in a meeting, even just helping a colleague with a project. It's, you know, it's all those things that that it's like, well, you're the woman, you're expected to do it. And if you to say no to that, you're going to get backlash...Fifth one out of the six is hostility, hostility and active, resistance to women's presence in the workplace through overt discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The goal of hostilities to keep women in their supposed place. And then the last, as a result of all the other barriers, is acquiescence. Where women internalize the obstacles, accept them as valid, and adapt to the limitations. One example is that being silent on issues, self-silencing, keeping quiet on workplace sexism, or even their own experience of experiences of harassment. And that's a self protection mechanism."

Forrester suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic that brought so many abrupt changes to Americans' lives were even more burdensome for working women who most often had to take care of children who were out of school and maintain households,"It was women who put their careers on hold and in many cases, actually stepped out of the workforce altogether. It wasn't that, well, I, I need to work part time or I'll work in after hours. They actually had to step out of the workforce. And when that happens to a woman who's on a professional trajectory towards leadership, it's not just if they step out of the workforce for a year that they've been set back a year. It can it really is a setback of could be 5 to 10 years on their professional trajectory to once again get the leadership opportunities that perhaps they were aspiring to. So very definitely a very real impact, to women, during the pandemic."

Diehl's book offers dozens of suggestions to reduce or stop gender bias.

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Coming up on this week's episode of The Spark Weekly.

Two Philadelphia Inquirer reporters that have investigated forever chemicals of PFAs that go into the making of artificial turf and firefighting equipment and that could also increase the risk of cancer.

Also on the program Bryan Wade, the proprietor of Keystones Oral Histories and organization that addresses the absence of historical documentation relation to ethnic minority communities.

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AJ Nutter and Dr. Kate Whiteley are the host and producer of the thought-provoking podcast "Self-Identities," which takes a unique approach to storytelling by engaging in conversations with convicted women murderers serving life sentences. Dr. Kathryn Whiteley, a feminist criminologist, leads the podcast as the primary host, with AJ Nutter serving as co-producer. "Self-Identities" stands apart from typical true crime narratives by eschewing the sensationalism often associated with the genre. Instead of focusing on the crimes committed by the women, the podcast delves into their personal stories and identities. By doing so, it aims to offer listeners an educational experience that goes beyond surface-level narratives.

The podcast's premise is to humanize these women, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and perspectives. Through candid conversations, listeners gain insight into the complexities of these individuals' lives, moving beyond the labels of "convict" or "murderer" to explore the nuances of their identities. Dr. Kathryn Whiteley's expertise as a feminist criminologist lends depth and sensitivity to the discussions, fostering an environment where the women feel heard and understood. Meanwhile, AJ Nutter's role as co-producer ensures the smooth operation of the podcast, from conceptualization to execution.

"Self-Identities" challenges societal perceptions of convicted criminals, offering a fresh perspective on empathy and understanding. By amplifying the voices of these women, the podcast encourages listeners to confront their preconceived notions and engage in meaningful dialogue about the complexities of crime and punishment. Through its commitment to education and engagement, "Self-Identities" serves as a beacon of empathy in a genre often marked by voyeurism and exploitation. By centering the stories of these women, the podcast not only sheds light on their individual experiences but also prompts broader discussions about justice, rehabilitation, and societal responsibility.

As "Self-Identities" continues to captivate audiences with its compelling narratives, it reinforces the power of storytelling as a tool for empathy and social change. In a world where true crime entertainment often prioritizes sensationalism over substance, this podcast offers a refreshing and enlightening alternative, inviting listeners to see beyond the headlines and embrace the humanity of those society has deemed irredeemable.

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