The Spark

The Harrisburg Singers, established in 1984, have risen to prominence as one of Central Pennsylvania's most distinguished choral ensembles. With a rich history spanning four decades, the group has become synonymous with excellence in vocal performance. Comprising of 40 members whose voices and talents intertwine harmoniously, the Harrisburg Singers are poised to mark their 40th anniversary with a celebratory event on Friday, April 26th, at the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hershey.

As the ensemble prepares to embark on this milestone occasion, anticipation is high for an evening filled with music, memories, and reflection. The significance of reaching the 40-year mark is not lost on the singers, who view it as a testament to their enduring passion for choral music and their dedication to fostering artistic excellence. In an exclusive interview on The Spark, Susan Beckley and Breanna Echelmeier shared their insights into what this anniversary signifies to them personally and to the ensemble as a whole.

For many members, the 40th anniversary represents a profound journey of musical growth and camaraderie. Over the years, the ensemble has evolved both artistically and emotionally, forming deep bonds through a shared love of music. Each performance serves as a testament to the collective talent and commitment of the singers, who continue to inspire audiences with their captivating interpretations and impeccable harmonies. And as they look ahead to the anniversary celebration, the Harrisburg Singers are keenly aware of the historical significance of this moment. Forty years of dedication, perseverance, and artistic innovation have culminated in a legacy that extends far beyond the confines of a concert hall. It is a legacy built on a foundation of passion, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to the craft of choral singing.

In commemoration of this iconic milestone, the ensemble has curated a special program that pays tribute to their illustrious history while also embracing the future. Through a carefully curated selection of repertoire spanning the decades, they aim to showcase the breadth and depth of their musical journey. From classic masterpieces to contemporary arrangements, each piece serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music to unite, inspire, and uplift. As the Harrisburg Singers prepare to take the stage once more, they do so with a profound sense of gratitude for the journey that has brought them to this moment. With hearts full of song and spirits soaring, they invite audiences to join them in celebrating 40 years of musical excellence and toasting to many more years of harmony to come.

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The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) serves as a vital conduit for articulating the concerns and aspirations of the African American populace across Pennsylvania. It plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the community and the state legislature, championing policies geared towards fostering social equity, cultural enrichment, and economic advancement statewide.

April Ashe, the Executive Director of the PLBC, recently shed light on the multifaceted responsibilities and initiatives undertaken by the caucus during The Spark. Ashe articulated the caucus's commitment to amplifying diverse voices and addressing a spectrum of issues affecting the African American community.

One noteworthy project highlighted by Ashe is the James R. Roebuck Scholarship, a significant endeavor aimed at supporting the educational endeavors of high school seniors and college students. The scholarship not only assists students financially but also underscores the caucus's dedication to nurturing future leaders and empowering youth through education. Through strategic advocacy and collaboration, the PLBC endeavors to enact policies that foster inclusivity and opportunity for all Pennsylvanians. By engaging with legislators and stakeholders, the caucus seeks to dismantle systemic barriers and create a more equitable society. Moreover, Ashe emphasized the importance of community engagement and grassroots mobilization in driving meaningful change. The PLBC actively collaborates with local organizations and advocates to address pressing issues such as education, healthcare, criminal justice reform, and economic development.

In addition to its advocacy efforts, the PLBC serves as a platform for fostering dialogue and promoting understanding across racial and cultural divides. By facilitating conversations and promoting awareness, the caucus endeavors to cultivate a more cohesive and empathetic society. April Ashe underscored the significance of representation and diversity within the caucus, highlighting its role in amplifying marginalized voices and advocating for policies that reflect the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania's population. And looking ahead, the PLBC remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the interests of the African American community and promoting social justice across the Keystone State. Through collaborative partnerships, grassroots activism, and strategic advocacy, the caucus continues to serve as a catalyst for positive change and progress.

The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, under the leadership of Executive Director April Ashe, continues to be a driving force for social, cultural, and economic advancement in Pennsylvania. Through initiatives like the James R. Roebuck Scholarship and ongoing advocacy efforts, the caucus remains dedicated to building a more inclusive and equitable future for all residents of the state.

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Professional athletes have been playing on artificial turf since the mid-60s. Many college football stadiums were outfitted with plastic grass or Astroturf in the 1970s. More high schools are installing artificial turf today with the thinking that’s it’s easier and cheaper to maintain.

Pro athletes have complained about artificial turf for decades, saying they suffer more injuries than on real grass. But what if artificial turf contributes to more than just knee or ankle injuries? What if the chemicals used in the manufacture of the turf can lead to cancer for those who play on it?

For the past year, The Philadelphia Inquirer has investigated the forever chemicals or PFAs that go into artificial turf.

And it’s not just the turf. Those forever chemicals are used to make the gear that firefighters use.

Joining us on The Spark Thursday were the two journalists who have investigated those forever chemicals, David Gambacorta and Barbara Laker.

Gambacorta explained how the series came about,"We took note, when David West, who had been a, a relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies in the early 1990s, died in 2022 from brain cancer. And he became, at that point, the sixth former Phillie to die from glioblastoma. And Barbara and I just sort of got curious as to whether there might be potentially some sort of common link between all these cases. And we noticed that, each of the former players had spent parts of their career at Veterans Stadium, which had been the Phillies' ballpark from 1971 to 2003. So the stadium was demolished, in 2004. But we were just trying to figure out what more we could find out about the stadium itself. And we were able to find pieces of the Astroturf that had been on the Vet's field, on eBay. So we bought four samples, and, Barbara had by then connected with, researchers at two different laboratories, who were willing to test the turf for us. We had no preconceived notion of what it might show. But the, the test found that the turf contained, 16 different types of PFAs."

PFAs have been found to increase the risk of cancer.

Laker said the artificial turf manufacturers wouldn't talk to them for their stories but she added,"We do know from internal documents, within DuPont that they knew that these chemicals were hazardous and could be harmful, and they knew that for decades. So, like, dating back to the 60s and 70s, there were tests they did on, on animals and, so they knew for a long time. And it just seems like David and I are finding it's almost every month that experts add another cancer or another health hazard that could be linked to PFAs. And, because the the cancer is, right now it's kidney and testicular. But some people believe that there could be links to many more cancers. It's linked to infertility, thyroid problems, asthma, I mean, a whole host of problems that people can have. And I just read this morning, in fact, that the rate of colorectal cancer is going up among young people, like drastically. And experts across the country are trying to figure out why. Some people believe there may be a genetic mutation component or the diet that younger people have eaten for a long time, but some people are are really looking, carefully at environmental hazards."

The turnout gear worn by firefighters has also been found to contain PFAs. Gambacorta talked about how it's raised concerns,"What we found last year, as we went deeper into our reporting on this project, was that the firefighting industry is now deeply concerned about PFAs as a potential driver of cancer cases. The International Association of Firefighters, the union that represents firefighters in America and in Canada, had told us that they, I think it was in 2022 added 261 names to a memorial that they have for fallen firefighters, and two thirds of them had died of cancer. And what they were really upset about was that their uniforms, the turnout gear that they wear, when they respond to blazes, contain PFAs that are often used as a water repellent. So it sort of makes sense that a firefighter's gear might have that. But studies have shown PFAs, not just on the outside of the firefighters gear, but on a middle layer, a middle barrier, and on the inside part of the uniform. That would be sort of up against their bodies. And so the the International Association of Firefighters is now involved in litigation over this issue. And there's a pretty significant effort, even in federal government now to research and develop firefighting gear that doesn't contain PFAs."

Congress is considering legislation that would provide $100 million to research and develop firefighting equipment that doesn't contain PFAs.

Gambacorta and Laker also reported that artificial turf is difficult to recycle and can't be disposed of in landfills. Rolls of the used turf are being stored on farms in Pennsylvania.

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After nearly 40 years of serving as office space for city agencies, Southern Market has undergone a transformative revival, emerging as a vibrant public space in early 2022. Reimagined and revitalized, the new Southern Market boasts a dynamic array of offerings to cater to diverse tastes and needs. At the heart of the revamped space is a sprawling first-floor food hall spanning 7,500 square feet, equipped with seating for up to 250 patrons. Nestled within this bustling hub is Bar 1888, a 30-seat bar overseen by the skilled hands of Southern Markets acclaimed mixologists. This central gathering spot is an unparalleled experience to many, blending innovative cocktails with a welcoming ambiance.

Beyond its culinary delights, Southern Market caters to various functions with a versatile layout. Visitors can avail themselves of co-working desks and private offices, ideal for remote work or collaborative projects. Additionally, the venue offers well-appointed meeting spaces, retail outlets, and community rooms, ensuring a multifaceted experience for all who step through its doors.

Positioned as Lancaster's newest culinary and communal hotspot, Southern Market beckons both locals and tourists alike. Whether for a quick bite, a productive work session, or a leisurely gathering, it promises to be a go-to destination for culture and collaboration. With its diverse amenities and welcoming atmosphere, it's poised to carve out a niche as a beloved fixture in the city's landscape. Opening its doors five days a week, from Wednesday to Sunday, Southern Market accommodates the schedules of busy urbanites and weekend explorers alike. This flexible operating model ensures accessibility for all, encouraging regular visits and fostering a sense of community among patrons.

In essence, Southern Market's rebirth marks a significant milestone in Lancaster's cultural and culinary scene. By repurposing a once-utilitarian space into a vibrant communal hub, it reflects the city's spirit of innovation and adaptability. As it continues to evolve and thrive, Southern Market stands as a testament to the power of revitalization in shaping urban experiences.

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The Major League baseball season begins this week and the man with more hits than any other player in the game’s history – Pete Rose -- is not in the Baseball Hall-of-Fame.

Rose was banished for life from baseball in 1989 for gambling on his own team.

Best-selling author Keith O’Brien has written a new book, Charlie Hustle: The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose and the Last Glory Days of Baseball. It may be the definitive biography of a man who was one of the all-time greats and most admired players on the baseball field -- but off the field, lived a life of controversy, chaos and that may have ruined or at least had a negative impact on other people’s lives along the way.

O'Brien appeared on The Spark Wednesday where he described Rose as an American success story in many people's eyes -- someone who wasn't a great athlete, but through sheer determination and grit, made himself into the most prolific hitter in baseball history. Rose was known for his ferocity and hustle on the field, doing whatever it took to win and be successful as a player.

O'Brien added that Rose had that same ferocity off the field, in his private life, that led to recklessness, two marriages, multiple affairs with women, cavorting with criminals and gambling.

It was Rose's gambling on the Cincinnati Reds that he managed at the time that led then Baseball Commissioner Bart Giamatti to ban Rose from the game.

The question that often arises today about Rose is whether he should be enshrined in Baseball's Hall-of-Fame. Spark listeners (a small sample size), who commented on the question, were nearly unanimous that Rose should be in the Hall. O'Brien doesn't take a position in the book but said on The Spark that he agrees with one of the commenters that said Rose should be in the Hall-of-Fame for his on-field performance, but with his gambling transgressions mentioned on his plaque.

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Renowned producer and host Bryan Wade, drawing from his personal journey marked by adversity, has dedicated himself to illuminating the intricate tapestry of American life, transcending racial and socioeconomic barriers. With over two decades of experience in radio, television, and documentary production, Wade's work has consistently aimed at providing an equitable portrayal of diverse experiences across the nation. His acclaimed television series, "Worlds Apart," which aired from 1997 to 2008, delved into the complexities of race in America, challenging prevailing social constructs and stereotypes. Following this success, Wade embarked on a documentary project initially focused on the National Civil War Museum, evolving into the expansive "Keystones Oral Histories," now broadcasted on WITF and PBS stations nationwide.

Driven by a vision of fostering dialogue and understanding, Wade's documentary series, launched in 2017, sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of marginalized communities throughout history. Complemented by K-12 curriculum materials, meticulously aligned with educational standards, the initiative aims to broaden students' perspectives and promote inclusivity in learning. In collaboration with Ruby Media, the forthcoming installment of "Keystones" will spotlight the pivotal role of diverse populations in the Underground Railroad network across south-central Pennsylvania. With a focus on the collaborative efforts of Quakers, white and Black abolitionists, and conductors, the documentary underscores the grassroots origins of the civil rights movement.

To ensure historical accuracy, Wade has enlisted the expertise of regional historians, including George F. Nagle and Calobe Jackson Jr., among others, for in-depth research. In the face of challenges to comprehensive historical education, Wade's commitment to dismantling racial barriers and fostering unity remains steadfast. By encouraging viewers to recognize shared humanity beyond superficial divisions, he aspires to forge a more inclusive and harmonious society.

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It is officially spring. Daffodils have bloomed for the last few weeks and now it’s time to really get down to gardening for 2024.

Horticulturalist Erica Jo Shaffer was on The Spark Tuesday to talk about bulbs, getting a start on vegetable gardens, mulching and seeding the lawn.

Daffodils have been especially prolific this year and Shaffer described how to grow even more daffodils next year,"When your daffodils get done flowering, if you notice your clumps aren't flowering as much anymore, it's because they're busy down underneath the earth making small bulbs. And then they're all competing with each other. So after they get done flowering and just as the foliage starts to yellow and this is pretty much on, daffodils, snowdrops, crocuses, hyacinths, you can actually dig your clump up and divide them and have more and then put them right back in the ground. Don't store them in your garage. Don't wait till autumn to plant them, dig them up and put them right in. And then as a tip, our shovels go in at a 45 degree angle, and often we would slice the bulbs, and then they're dead. So you have to really hold your shovel up straight and go into the ground straight and go all the way around the clump, and then just, like, lift it up. Then you can put bulbs back in like five and a clump five and a clump, find your friends, your garden friends, or people who like all those daffodils, give them some and pass them out."\

Shaffer said it's too early in the season to mulch, especially since we're gotten so much rain lately, but she said she prefers pine bark mulch to wood mulch,"You have to ask is it bark mulch or is it wood. Because wood usually looks good for about three weeks to a month. And then it goes to that nasty gray color. And that's why they dye it. Is that good for your plants or how long does it last. Then here we are at mulch volcanoes. Like do you even need mulch. You know sometimes people got mulch that's even in the regular garden beds. Suddenly your mulch is four and six inches deep. And when we do get rain in the summertime, it can't even get through the mulch to the root. So maybe you want to just rake it, save yourself some money and fluff it up and rake it so it looks good again and ride it for another year."

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Norma Vazquez, a seasoned Certified Lactation Counselor and Birth & Post-Partum Doula, is spearheading a crucial initiative to foster solidarity among women of color on their journey through motherhood. With 16 years of extensive experience in public health, Vazquez has honed her expertise in lactation support, particularly focusing on aiding individuals during childbirth. Her dedication led her to roles as a Lactation Counselor at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health and as the Founder of Mama La Lechera, a venture born from her observations of the racial disparities in breastfeeding support for BIPOC individuals.

Now, Vazquez is amplifying her impact by hosting a support groups at the YWCA, providing a vital space for the community free of charge. Simultaneously, she serves as a training coordinator and Instructor for a national breast pump company, furthering her mission to empower mothers through education and accessibility. Notably, Vazquez also operates a community lactation supply closet, offering essential resources like breast pumps and nursing pillows to anyone in need, irrespective of financial constraints. Her multifaceted efforts underscore her commitment to breaking down barriers to breastfeeding initiation and continuity, ensuring that all mothers and birthing individuals receive the support they deserve.

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The culture wars in this country are a clash of ideologies or beliefs. But sometimes – maybe even more often today – those emotional differences result in threats of violence or violence itself.

In a day that will be long remembered, the city of Lancaster was the center of the culture wars Saturday.

The Drag Queen Story Hour event was scheduled for the Lancaster Public Library Saturday morning. As part of the event, Christopher Paolini -- dressed in his drag costume -- was to perform and recite stories geared toward children.

Hundreds of people, that included children and their families, had signed up to attend.

The Story Hour was cancelled after a suspicious package was found and bomb threats were emailed that referenced the library, and the home addresses of the library’s executive director, the president of Lancaster Pride and LNP journalist Dan Nephin.

Nephin reported on the events all day Saturday and then became part of the story.

Dan Nephin was with us on The Spark Monday and read the contents of the email threat."It says "we are the ones that placed bombs at the Lancaster Public Library. We will kill Tiffany Shirley. That's the head of Lancaster Pride. We placed a bomb in her home and the home of Lissa Holland. That's the library executive director. My home. Starbucks in Lancaster. Lancaster Online office. At 1:30, the bombs will detonate. Bring the fire department. We placed pipe bombs as well as fuel. Bombs will likely cause a fire spreading to other buildings. Evacuate so no innocents die. You are exploitive, degenerate pedophiles, child abusers, or expletive cowards who rather let our children get preyed upon than be called a bigot? Expletive you degenerates, we will kill you all and purify our land." That is terrifying to have received."

Nephin said that Lancaster Mayor Danene Sorace called him to tell him he was mentioned in the email threat,"I reacted with some words and I'm not going to be able to say on the radio, and I knew I had to call home, let my partner know that something was up and she had to get the heck out of the house. But I'm also thinking "can I get a comment from you?" Because I knew we had to say that she also said that there was an evacuation and that there had been bomb threats elsewhere. So I was on the phone with her for about a minute. I hung up frantically, told Kathleen (his partner) to get out of the house again, using words I can't use here. But you can imagine what they are. And she asked where to go. I said, I can't tell you, I don't know, just get the hell out of there. I went over to my desk, and then I saw in my email the email that we  shared, virtually everything about it except by redacting the addresses and, saying expletive instead of the words that were used. So I forward that to my bosses. Then we realized that we, LNP, that we, we're also, mentioned that there was a bomb here, so we had to evacuate and relocate. We had probably a little over a dozen of our staff and reporters working. We just didn't know what to expect. There had been a lot of calls for protests and whatnot, so we had to scramble and relocate, to continue to do our our job at that point. We left and we were out of here in probably less than five minutes."

Lancaster County Commissioners Josh Parsons and Ray D'Augostino were among those who criticized the library holding the event, in essence saying it wasn't appropriate for children. A prayer vigil was held Friday night with participants asking God to stop the event, but they didn't call for violence.

Nephin quoted library officials as saying the Commissioners' criticism brought more attention to the event and helped to increase attendance.

Nephin reported later Monday that the suspicious box contained coloring books according to Lancaster Police.

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Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly:

Shannon Powers, Press Secretary with the Department of Agriculture joins us to speak about food safety inspections, what goes into them? Also on the program, Kelly Barnhill, author of the Ogress and The Orphan, joins us to speak about her traumatic brain injury, and what the future holds for her.

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