The Spark

Rich Everts, the co-founder and CEO of Bestie Bot, has received recognition for his significant contributions to the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In addition to his role at Bestie Bot, Everts is also the founder of Lancaster AI, an organization that hosts free monthly meetups focusing on the latest advancements in AI. Everts appeared on "The Spark" to offer insights into how AI will impact various industries.

The decision to feature Everts on the show reflects a growing recognition of the importance of staying informed about AI developments. With AI's continuous evolution, there is a palpable desire among many individuals to fully grasp its implications. Everts' expertise sheds light on topics such as AI's role in education, real estate, and medicine. Drawing from his firsthand experience as the head of Bestie Bot, Everts brings practical insights into harnessing AI technologies.

Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Everts' involvement with Lancaster AI underscores his commitment to fostering community dialogue around AI innovation. This commitment aligns with the broader trend of increased AI adoption across sectors. An article from Politico highlights how businesses, educational institutions, and medical professionals are integrating AI into their operations with growing frequency. Whether it's screening job applicants, providing educational support, or offering medical advice, AI's influence permeates various aspects of daily life.

The Politico article suggests that this widespread embrace of AI signifies a significant shift in society's interaction with technology. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into everyday activities, its transformative potential becomes undeniable. However, this embrace also raises questions and concerns about its implications. One pressing issue is its impact on employment. As AI capabilities expand, there is apprehension about potential job displacement caused by automation.

During his appearance on "The Spark," Everts addressed these concerns, explaining how AI will affect both blue-collar and white-collar jobs. While there may be job displacement in some sectors, Everts also highlighted the creation of new jobs involving AI technologies. And as AI continues to reshape society, staying informed becomes crucial.

Everts' recognition for his contributions to AI, coupled with his appearance on "The Spark," underscores the importance of understanding the implications of AI in various industries. With AI's increasing integration into daily life, it is essential for individuals to stay informed about its developments and potential impacts. Through dialogue and discussion facilitated AI experts, audiences and the general public can begin to navigate the evolving landscape of AI with greater insight and understanding.

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In "Healing Our Way Home," a profound exploration ensues as three Black women, all educators in the Plum Village tradition established by Zen Master Thích Nhất Hạnh, engage in candid dialogue. They delve into the complexities of their familial backgrounds, navigating relationships, confronting loneliness, embracing intimacy, discussing politics, dissecting popular culture, and grappling with issues of race, self-care, and healing.

Authors Valerie Brown, Marisela B. Gomez, MD, and Kaira Jewel Lingo create a safe space where no topic is off-limits, offering a treasure trove of mindful wisdom aimed at nurturing a profound sense of connection with both present relationships and ancestral heritage. They reflect on how the timeless teachings of the Dharma underpin their advocacy for social and racial equality, permeating both their professional endeavors and personal journeys.

"Healing Our Way Home" provides invaluable insights into the practice of embodied mindfulness. It serves as a powerful tool in the ongoing struggle against white supremacy, internalized racial oppression, and the pervasive influence of social and cultural conditioning. Through their shared experiences and reflections, the authors illuminate pathways toward healing, fostering a deep-rooted sense of belonging and enduring joy.

With its free-flowing narrative and expansive scope, the book offers a roadmap for individuals seeking to confront and transcend the barriers erected by systemic injustices. It underscores the transformative potential of mindfulness in dismantling oppressive structures and nurturing collective resilience. "Healing Our Way Home" stands as a testament to the resilience and strength inherent within marginalized communities, inspiring readers to embark on their own journeys towards healing and social transformation.

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Author Riley Kilmore, known for her diverse career spanning firefighting, policing, and adventure pursuits, has recently made waves in the literary world. Following her completion of an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction in 2022, Kilmore's talents were recognized when she clinched the top spot in the 2023 West Virginia Fiction competition. Now, she's captivating readers with her latest release, "Shay The Brave," a middle-grade novel with a fairy-tale flair.

"Shay The Brave" follows the journey of a young girl who harnesses her courage and intelligence to defend the creatures close to her heart. Kilmore's background in adrenaline-fueled professions adds depth to her storytelling, infusing the narrative with authenticity and excitement.

Readers are drawn into a fantastical world where Shay, the protagonist, navigates challenges with determination and resourcefulness. Kilmore's knack for weaving compelling tales shines through as she crafts a narrative that resonates with both young and adult audiences alike.

With its themes of bravery, friendship, and the importance of protecting those we care about, "Shay The Brave" promises to be a captivating read for anyone seeking an adventure-filled escape into the realm of imagination. As Kilmore continues to make her mark in the literary landscape, readers eagerly anticipate what thrilling stories she'll bring to life next.

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Nova Lorraine, recognized for her multifaceted talents as an author, fashion enthusiast, futurist, avid traveler, and Chief Metaverse Officer, emerges as an influential figure in the realms of Web3 and AI, owing to her diverse array of achievements. Transitioning from a background in psychology to establishing herself as a notable podcaster and entrepreneur, Nova's journey has garnered acclaim, positioning her among the top 100 influential women shaping the future.

In collaboration with Marquis Lupton on their project titled "The Spark," Nova Lorraine delves into a conversation about her recent milestones, drawing insights from her extensive global voyages, and elucidating on the integration of AI into her everyday encounters. This initiative serves as a platform for Nova to not only showcase her accomplishments but also to share profound reflections on her experiences across various corners of the world.

Nova Lorraine's journey epitomizes resilience and innovation, as she navigates through different domains, leaving an indelible mark in each. As an author, her works resonate with audiences seeking inspiration and insight into the future. Her passion for fashion transcends mere aesthetics, embodying a vision that intertwines style with technology and societal progression.

In her role as Chief Metaverse Officer, Nova stands at the forefront of the evolving digital landscape, pioneering new ways of interaction and connectivity. Her forward-thinking approach positions her as a trailblazer in harnessing the potential of emerging technologies to reshape industries and enhance human experiences.

Through her podcasting endeavors, Nova Lorraine amplifies voices and perspectives, fostering dialogue on topics ranging from entrepreneurship to personal growth. Her ability to engage audiences with authenticity and depth underscores her influence as a thought leader in the digital age.

As Nova continues to chart new territories and push boundaries, her journey serves as a testament to the power of vision, determination, and adaptability in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation. In a world shaped by constant change, Nova Lorraine stands as a beacon of inspiration, inspiring others to embrace the future with optimism and courage.

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There are certain things that many Americans look forward to in late winter and early spring – better weather, spring, flowers and trees budding, March Madness and something that is universal – Girl Scout cookies.

Many of us got our orders in early – probably from more than one Scout – have received our boxes thin mints, tagalongs and peanut butter sandwiches and are on to buying more cookies.

Girl Scout cookies are officially an American tradition and icon.

But how did the sale of Girl Scout cookies start, how did they become so popular and what does the money generated benefit?

With us on The Spark Wednesday were Jessica Mislinski, Director of Product Program and Cathy Hirko, Director of Marketing for Girl Scouts in the Heart of Pennsylvania. Both said taste is one of the reasons the cookies sell more than 800 million boxes each year, but Mislinski said there's more to it,"They benefit our girls and troops. But our girls learn so much with every box of cookies that they sell. They learn amazing skills. They learn money management, goal setting, decision making, business ethics, people skills. They learn all of this through the Girl Scout Cookie program. So whenever a customer buys a package of cookies from a Girl Scout, they're supporting more than just those goals that the troop has for what they want to do with those cookies that they sell. They're supporting the skills that the girls are learning and their lifelong skills that they'll take with them into their future careers."

Hirko indicated that social media is a great way for Girl Scouts to market the cookies,"They'll get on their Facebook page, they'll get on TikTok to be able to figure out how to market, just like any business is doing right now. They're figuring it out, and they helped us create a video, for TikTok and for one of the reels for Facebook. And that actually went viral. I think it was over 100,000 views."

Mislinski described the history Girl Scout cookies,"Girl Scout cookies started all the way back in 1917. A Girl Scout troop in Oklahoma called the Mistletoe Troop. They held their first cookie sale. They baked cookies in their own homes, and then they sold them in their high school as part of a service project. And from that point on, Girl Scout cookies just continued to grow. The first Girl Scout Cookie booth was held in 1933, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. So that was the very first cookie booth that was held. Girl Scout cookies were sold in every decade since 1917. They did have to pivot a little bit during World War two, and Girl Scouts actually sold calendars instead, because they weren't able to get some of the ingredients to make Girl Scout cookies. So Girl Scouts are definitely, innovative. They've been able to show over the decades that they can, you know. Take any challenge by the hand and just do something great with it."

Mislinski was asked where the money generated from cookie sales goes,"Proceeds from the Girl Scout cookie program are used by local troops to fund a variety of different things. So, different educational field trips, whether that's locally, nationally, internationally, they use the proceeds to purchase different badges and patches and awards. They use it to support community service projects, and just celebrate their time together. They'll take some amazing trips, they'll go camping. They do a lot of different things with the proceeds. And then our council also benefits from the proceeds so it stays local. So we use it to provide programing across our 30 county footprint. And we also use it to provide financial assistance. So that way all girls have the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouts. So all of the proceeds from the Girl Scout Cookie program stay within our council."

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Tec Centro, established in 2014 as a division of the Spanish American Civic Association (SACA) in Lancaster city, stands as the primary provider of bilingual education and skills training in the region. With two existing locations in Berks and Lebanon, alongside extensions in York, Tec Centro is set to broaden its reach, expanding services to Harrisburg starting in July 2024. Catering primarily to families grappling with unemployment, underemployment, or poverty, Tec Centro offers a comprehensive array of services aimed at addressing basic human needs. These services encompass vital necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter, crucial for the well-being of the community it serves.

Moreover, Tec Centro plays a pivotal role in addressing broader issues faced by its constituents. It extends support to individuals navigating complex immigration matters, offering guidance and assistance through the intricate legal processes involved. Furthermore, the organization provides essential aid in the realm of employment, facilitating opportunities for skill development and job placement to empower individuals towards economic self-sufficiency.

Education stands at the forefront of Tec Centro's mission, with a commitment to providing accessible learning opportunities. By offering educational resources and training programs, the center equips individuals with the tools needed to enhance their prospects in the job market, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the community.

With its impending expansion into Harrisburg, Tec Centro is poised to extend its reach further, ensuring that its vital services and support systems continue to positively impact the lives of individuals and families across a broader geographic spectrum.

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One of the most popular and most read features in local newspapers and news websites are the food safety inspection results of restaurants and other places that prepare food.

It seems that most restaurants have violations, although many of them don’t have major violations that would shut them down immediately. An immediate shutdown is made only when it's determined there is imminent potential to make a diner sick or worse. The most common violations appear to be insects and equipment that isn’t clean.

But even those violations that are considered minor can lead to fines or even a suspension of a license if they’re not corrected.

On The Spark Tuesday, Shannon Powers, Press Secretary with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture was asked who or what are subject to inspections under the law,"Pretty much any place that food is sold out of the packet. In other words, not just, potato chips and things that are in sealed containers. So, food trucks. Convenience stores, if they prepare food, which many of them do now. It covers restaurants and bars, hotels, places that serve food, retail, schools.

Powers said there are fines and penalties for establishments that don't correct violations but punishment is not the point of the inspections,"It's about educating their staff, working with those business owners to make sure that their customers are safe. That's what every business owner wants. Nobody wants to make their customers sick."

You can access food safety inspections reports and learn about inspections here.

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Newbury Award-winning author Kelly Barnhill shared her poignant journey of grappling with the loss of her ability to write following a traumatic brain injury in an article for the New York Times. The ordeal began in December of 2021 when Barnhill suffered a fall down the stairs, rendering her unconscious for a concerning 15 minutes. What adds a chilling layer to her experience is her complete lack of memory regarding the incident. Since then, she has been battling post-concussive syndrome, a condition that has robbed her of her writing prowess.

Barnhill's latest work, the middle-grade fantasy novel titled "The Ogress and The Orphans," now stands as a poignant testament to her struggle, possibly marking her final literary creation. The gravity of this situation is underscored by the uncertainty surrounding her future as an author. The loss of her ability to write not only poses a personal challenge but also casts a shadow over the literary world, potentially depriving readers of future literary treasures from her imaginative mind.

In her heartfelt narrative, Barnhill offers readers a glimpse into the emotional turmoil of confronting such a profound loss. For an author whose craft is intricately woven into her identity, the inability to engage in her life's passion is undoubtedly a devastating blow. Yet, amidst the struggle, there is resilience and a determination to persevere, evident in Barnhill's willingness to share her story with the world.

This revelation serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of adversity. Barnhill's experience resonates beyond the realm of literature, prompting reflection on the profound impact of traumatic events on individuals' lives and livelihoods. It also underscores the importance of supporting those grappling with similar challenges, fostering empathy and understanding in the face of adversity.

As readers await updates on Barnhill's journey, her story stands as a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity and the unwavering spirit of creativity that continues to inspire despite the darkest of circumstances.

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For a long, long time, those suffering from mental illness or even suspected of mental illness or a disability would be locked up in an asylum. Often, they were just forgotten.

It was even worse for African-Americans – especially those in the South during the Jim Crow era.

Peabody and Emmy Award-winning NBC News journalist Antonia Hylton has chronicled what Black patients and workers faced at Crownsville State Hospital in Maryland in her new book Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum. Antonia Hylton joined us today on The Spark Monday.

What inspired her to write about Crownsville? "As a college student, I decided to study the history of psychiatry, and I came across information about this place called Crownsville Hospital, founded into in 1911. But it didn't close until 2004, within our lifetimes. And I just knew when I first read just a few sentences about it that I had to know more. And I, kind of used this site as a place to not just contribute to what we know about mental health and civil rights in this country, but also really to to better understand why in my family and why in so many communities of color, there is this longstanding shame and stigma around these issues. Why has it become so hard to address it and talk about it? And Crownsville and its story has really become my way to make sense of it all."

Crownsville State Hospital opened as Maryland's Hospital for the Negro Insane in 1911. One of the strangest parts of the history was that the original 12 Black men sent to Crownsville were actually forced to build the hospital as Hylton described,"That image was so shocking to me, that patients could be forced to create their own hospital before they could even benefit from their own health care. The way in which Black patients were treated so differently and seen as deserving so much less than everybody else. But also it raises questions where we write a how sick can somebody be? They're apparently so sick that they need to be removed from society. They need to be institutionalized, but they're so healthy that they can do around the clock physical labor, officials are writing about even forcing children to do this labor as young as ten and 12-years-old, some of whom are physically disabled, missing limbs. And they are part of the construction project as well. And so it raised all these questions about how someone can be seen as so sick, but also be such a talented, a craftsman, and contractor. Apparently they can build buildings that still stand up 100 plus years later. That to me has always really stuck in my mind."

Hylton pointed out that throughout its history, Crownsville patients worked to pay for their own care, "They make the patients build the hospital themselves, then they make them run a massive, highly productive and very modern farm. They use modern irrigation systems. And I found in the records that the patients at Crownsville are producing way more than any other patients at other peer hospitals that are larger than Crownsville. So the the white counterparts have actually more patients because the white population in Maryland is larger. But they are doing less than the patients at Crownsville. In addition to that, they're running a rug shop. They're creating a basket weaving program. And all of this is done to offset the cost of their own care. And so it sets up something. And this kind of brings you back to my point about the way in which the areas that come before us really impact us to this day. So because in those early years, the hospital never gets the amount of funding that it was supposed to get, if you compare it to its other institutions and it relies so heavily on patients really running the place themselves, that kind of mistreatment, that gap is never really made up for, even in the later decades when that forced, servitude and sort of constant labor stops and they're trying to professionalize and become a kind of normal hospital. They're still decades behind everyone else because they hadn't invested in infrastructure. They don't have all the same resources. They're way understaffed compared to other hospitals. And so the decisions made in those early years to make the hospital really like a plantation, sort of the recreation of the antebellum social order, even when we get to say, the 60s and 70s, and there are all these reforms and new Black employees are coming in and they're changing the game and all that's good and fine. The truth is, they're really up against a very difficult opponent systematically. I mean, because they're looking at decades of deprivation that they really don't have the opportunity to fully, make up for. And that affects the hospital all the way until it's closing (in 2004).

Hylton writes that often someone who was different or broke a minor law would be sent to Crownsville,"What I found in the records really disturbed me at times. I write about the story of one patient who's sent to Crownsville, and ends up there for decades for the crime of cutting a White person off in traffic. And another point I write about a patient named Mr. Bell who is discovered by one of the first ever Black employees who arrives in the early 50s, and she finds this man on the wards who tells her that he hasn't been outside. He hasn't seen the sun in many years. So she does a little research on him, and she takes him outside one day, and she finds out that her own supervisor had picked him up downtown in Baltimore, because he had overheard the patient speaking in a British accent. And the man didn't think that there were Black people who could have British accents. And so he thought, oh, he's crazy. And so he gets committed to Crownsville, sort of in the cover of night and stuck there for years with no relatives. And it turns out after she does some research that this man, was a jockey from London and had come to the United States and, and fell on some hard times. And it's stories like that that really changed me and helped me see the way in which in some ways, the asylum was almost an appendage to the criminal justice system or into almshouses, and wasn't always truly this therapeutic place."

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On this week's edition of The Spark Weekly,

Scott Lamar speaks with Professor Matt Wilson about Susquehanna University's Freshwater Research Institutes and how they have created their own beaver dams in an effort to restore streams.

Connor Rohrer talks with Marquis Lupton about his start in music and his most recent tour with Samara Joy, a triple Grammy winner.

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