The Spark

By WITFNews

The Spark episodes

February 24, 2024 Photojournalist Leon Laing discusses new exhibit at Harrisburg City Hall
Harrisburg City Hall is currently hosting a captivating exhibit that chronicles the dynamic journey of acclaimed hip-hop photojournalist, Leon Laing. Titled "Through the Lens: 20 Years of Hip-Hop," the exhibit features a compelling collection of photographs capturing the essence and evolution of hip-hop culture over the past two decades.
As visitors enter the exhibit, they are immediately transported into the heart of hip-hop's most iconic and influential moments. The gallery is divided into sections that showcase Leon Laing's work from various periods, offering a visual timeline of his illustrious career. The exhibit seamlessly weaves together old and new photographs, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of both the genre and the artist.
One section of the exhibit is dedicated to the early years of Laing's career, displaying iconic images of hip-hop pioneers and trailblazers. From the gritty streets of New York City to the vibrant scenes of Los Angeles, Laing's lens captures the raw energy and authenticity that defined the genre during its formative years.
Moving through the exhibit, visitors witness the evolution of hip-hop through Laing's eyes. The transition from vinyl records to digital streaming, the rise of social media, and the global impact of the genre are all documented in vivid detail. Laing's ability to adapt to the changing landscape of the music industry is evident in his diverse and compelling body of work.
One of the highlights of the exhibit is a section dedicated to Laing's ventures in the most iconic hip-hop affiliated areas. From the bustling streets of the Bronx to the historic neighborhoods of Compton, Laing's lens transports viewers to the very locations that have shaped the culture he so passionately captures. Each photograph tells a story, not just of the artists but also of the communities that have been instrumental in the development of hip-hop.
During a recent interview, Leon Laing expressed his excitement about the exhibit, stating, "This collection is not just about the artists; it's about the culture, the communities, and the journey. Hip-hop is a living, breathing entity, and I'm grateful to have been able to witness its growth and evolution over the years."
This exhibit is a celebration of not only Leon Laing's remarkable career but also the vibrant and ever-evolving world of hip-hop. The exhibit invites visitors to experience the culture, history, and impact of hip-hop through the eyes of a photographer who has been a silent witness to its evolution. Harrisburg City Hall is proud to host this extraordinary showcase, inviting the community to immerse themselves in the visual journey of a hip-hop photojournalist who has dedicated two decades to capturing the spirit of a musical revolution.
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23 min
February 23, 2024 Dr. Hannah Durkin discusses the details of the last slave ship in America
Despite the U.S. banning the importation of enslaved individuals from Africa in 1808, the insatiable demand for slave labor in the burgeoning cotton trade led Alabama plantation owners, such as Timothy Meaher, to venture into illegal slave runs. Meaher's audacious bet to bring a shipload of Africans back across the ocean materialized in 1860 when his schooner set sail from Mobile to the Kingdom of Dahomey under Captain William Foster. The vessel discreetly entered Mobile Bay under the cloak of darkness and navigated the Mobile River, bringing Africans captured by warring tribes back to Alabama. Some of the enslaved were shared between Foster and the Meahers, while others were sold. To conceal the illicit activities, Foster ordered the Clotilda, the ship used for the voyage, to be taken upstream, burned, and sunk.
The survivors of the Clotilda, liberated by Union soldiers in 1865, aspired to return to Africa but faced financial constraints. Overcoming adversity, they pooled their wages earned from various endeavors, including selling vegetables and working in fields and mills, to purchase land from the Meaher family. The establishment of Africatown ensued, a testament to their resilience. This new settlement embodied their roots, featuring a chief, a system of laws, churches, and a school. Descendants, including individuals like Woods, continue to inhabit Africatown, witnessing the validation and vindication of their ancestors' stories.
Dr. Hannah Durkin, a distinguished historian specializing in transatlantic slavery and African diasporic art and culture, plays a pivotal role in preserving this history. With a Ph.D. in American Studies and extensive teaching experience, she advises the History Museum of Mobile, working towards memorializing the Clotilda survivors. Dr. Durkin's expertise extends to her role as the keynote speaker at Africatown's 2021 Spirit of Our Ancestors Festival, founded by the Clotilda Descendants Association. Her numerous academic accolades, including a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellowship, underscore her commitment to illuminating the historical significance of events like the Clotilda's journey and the resilience of its survivors.
The Survivors of the Clotilda
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23 min
February 23, 2024 Tammi Morris updates us on Faith Friendship Ministries
In a disturbing turn of events, a law firm specializing in sexual abuse cases has filed a lawsuit against Faith Friendship Ministries, alleging negligence in identifying an employee at its personal care home as a serial sexual abuser. James Lee Zook faced initial charges in November 2022, leading to a cascade of revelations with 13 additional cases filed by residents in January, February, and March of 2023. Zook now faces a staggering 342 counts of institutional sexual assault and 346 counts of indecent assault. The 74-bed facility, catering to individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities, is teetering on closure due to these harrowing allegations.
As the legal battle unfolds, the prospect of homelessness looms over the residents, exacerbated by the existing housing crisis in the country and state. Faith Friendship Villa's Executive Director, Tammi Morris, joins The Spark today to shed light on the unfolding situation and discuss potential avenues to prevent homelessness among the affected clients. The gravity of the situation underscores the urgent need for action to safeguard the well-being of these vulnerable individuals caught in the crossfire of legal and housing uncertainties.
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23 min
February 22, 2024PA State police and PennDOT raising awareness of safety laws
February 18-24 is Highway Safety Law Awareness Week in Pennsylvania.
The Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation or PennDOT are reminding motorists about bicycle, motorcycle, pedestrian, work zone and emergency responder safety laws.
Joining us on The Spark Thursday were Trooper Megan Frazer, Public Information Officer with Troop H of the Pennsylvania State Police and Fritzi Schreffler, Safety Press Officer with PennDOT.
Tips and information from PennDOT during Highway Safety Law Awareness Week:
BICYCLISTS
Bicycle Helmet Law:
Pennsylvania law (Title 75, Section 3510) requires everyone under the age of 12 to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle.
This applies to anyone operating the bicycle, riding as a passenger, or riding in an attached restraining seat or trailer.
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation strongly recommends that all bicyclists wear helmets whenever they ride.
Ensure a proper helmet fit using these guidelines: https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.dot.gov/files/8019_fitting-a-helmet.pdf
General Bicycle Law:
Pennsylvania's Vehicle Code provides that every person riding a pedalcycle upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and responsibilities applicable to a driver of a vehicle, with certain exceptions.
If you ride in violation of the traffic laws, you greatly increase your risk of a crash.
Riding on the Roadway:
Bikes may be ridden on the shoulder of the road (in the same direction as the flow of traffic) but are not required to do so.
Bikes may also ride on the right half of the roadway as follows:
On a multilane roadway, bikes may be ridden in the right-most travel lane.
On a two-lane roadway, a bike may be ridden in the right lane.
On a roadway with no center line, a bike may be ridden anywhere on the right side of the roadway.
Bikes may move from the right lane:
When overtaking another vehicle proceeding in the same direction.
When preparing to make a left turn.
When an obstruction exists that makes it necessary to change lanes or cross the center line with due care.
Persons riding bicycles upon a roadway shall not ride more than two abreast (side-by-side), unless on paths or parts of a roadway set aside for exclusive use of bicycles.
A bicycle or motor vehicle may, with good caution, treat an intersection with an inoperable or malfunctioning traffic signal as a stop condition when red or as a caution condition when green or yellow.
Often signals with embedded detectors will not respond to the bike awaiting a green light, and this is treated as "inoperable" under law.
Motor vehicles must allow 4 feet of distance when overtaking a bicycle and travel at a careful and prudent speed. It is the motorist’s responsibility to provide this distance, not that of the cyclist.
Motor vehicles may also overtake a bicycle in a no-passing zone to avoid excessive delays, but this must be done with due care and while providing the required 4 feet of clearance.
No person shall open any door on a motor vehicle unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so and can be done without interfering with traffic flow.
Cyclists may be injured or killed when a door is opened in their line of travel (dooring). Therefore, a distance of 4 feet should be kept between parked motor vehicles and the line of travel when riding along parked vehicles.
Safety Talking Points:
Always wear a helmet. Pennsylvania law requires all cyclists under age 12 to wear an approved bicycle helmet.
Obey traffic laws.
Obey stop signs and red lights.
Never ride against the flow of traffic.
Be predictable:
Ride in a straight line with at least one hand on the handlebars.
Check to be sure your path is clear, and change directions without swerving.
Use hand signals to indicate when you are turning.
Make yourself visible:
Consider wearing bright cycling clothes.
Put reflectors on your wheels and on the front and rear of your bike.
At night, a front light and rear reflector are required.
Maintain your bike:
Carry a pump, a patch kit and a spare tube.
Take care of yourself:
Carry plenty of drinking water and snacks for energy.
Bring your cellphone in case of an emergency.
For more information, visit PennDOT’s webpage on Bicycle Safety and Pennsylvania Laws.
MOTORCYCLISTS
Motorcycle Helmet Law:
Pennsylvania Law (Title 75, Section 3525) requires that any person who operates or rides a motorcycle (including an autocycle) must wear protective headgear unless he or she is 21 years of age or older and has been licensed to operate a motorcycle for two full years or has completed a motorcycle safety course approved by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.
In addition, the operator or an occupant of a three-wheeled motorcycle or autocycle equipped with an enclosed cab is exempt from wearing a helmet.
The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program offers free motorcycle safety courses to Pennsylvania residents and active-duty military with a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and motorcycle permit.
Safety Talking Points
Rider Safety Tips:
Ride the bike that's right for you. Your feet should reach the ground when you're in the saddle, and the controls should be easy to operate.
Always wear the proper clothing, use your headlight, and ride in the best lane position.
Always let drivers know what you're doing by using the correct signals.
Keep your distance from others so you have more time to react and more space to adjust.
Always be looking for potential hazards and anticipating how you will react. If a car can cross your path, assume that it will.
Avoid obstacles by slowing down or going around them. On slippery roads, reduce your speed, use both brakes, and try to keep your bike as upright as possible.
Motorist Safety Tips:
Be aware that motorcycles are small and may be difficult to see.
Check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes and at intersections.
Be aware that large vehicles can block a motorcycle from a motorist's view and a motorcycle can suddenly appear out of nowhere.
Allow for more following distance. Leave at least four seconds when following a motorcycle.
Signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
Allow a motorcyclist a full lane width as the motorcyclist needs the room to maneuver safely in all types of road conditions.
For more safety tips and information on proper gear and upkeep, visit PennDOT’s webpage on Motorcycle Safety.
PEDESTRIANS
General Pedestrian Law:
Pennsylvania's Vehicle Code details the rights and duties of pedestrians.
Generally, people walking may cross the street at any point, but pedestrians and motorists must understand their responsibilities. Below are the basic laws to follow when crossing the street or driving.
When a pedestrian crosses the street in a crosswalk, the driver must yield.
Drivers are not required to yield until you begin to step into the crosswalk.
Pedestrians should not walk or run unexpectedly into the path of a moving vehicle. Pedestrians should not assume drivers will see or yield. Look left, right, and left again before stepping out.
It is illegal for drivers to pass a vehicle that is stopped for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, as the second driver may not see the pedestrian in the crosswalk.
If a pedestrian crosses the street not at an intersection and there is no crosswalk, the pedestrian must yield to vehicles.
When crossing the street at a signalized intersection, both pedestrians and motorists must obey the traffic-control devices.
These signs and signals help identify who must yield.
When walking along a road with sidewalks and its use is practicable, it is unlawful for any pedestrian to walk along and upon an adjacent roadway.
Safety Talking Points
Tips for Pedestrians:
Cross only at crosswalks. Don’t cross between parked cars.
Look left, right then left again and keep looking.
Wait for a gap in traffic, then step one foot off the curb or fully enter crosswalk and make eye contact with approaching drivers.
Always obey traffic signs and signals especially pedestrian count down timers.
See and be seen – drivers need to see you to avoid you. Wear bright clothing during the day, and wear reflective materials or carry a flashlight at night.
Watch for turning vehicles at intersections, even if you have the right-of-way and proceeding lawfully.
Watch your children. Children can’t judge a vehicle’s speed and distance and need the help of an adult to be safe.
On streets with multiple lanes in each direction, be aware of what drivers in both near lanes are doing. If one driver is allowing you to cross, the other might not see you.
If no sidewalk is available, walk as far on the side of the road as you can, and always walk against traffic.
Always be aware of your surroundings, and never get distracted.
Tips for Motorists:
Slow down when approaching a crosswalk or intersection. Watch for pedestrians and be prepared to yield to them.
Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks – the law requires motorists to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks at signalized and non-signalized intersections.
Travel at a prudent speed. Don’t try to beat the light.
Watch for mid-block crosswalks. Pedestrians have the right-of-way in mid-block crosswalks, so yield to them.
Expect the unexpected – look out for children who may dart out between cars or buses or cross mid-block without a crosswalk.
Drivers on streets with multiple lanes in each direction should be aware that pedestrians may be crossing all lanes.
WORKERS (Work Zone, Emergency Responders)
The Law:
Pennsylvania's work zone safety laws are designed to protect both highway workers and motorists.
Posted Work Zones:
Headlights on. All motorists are required to travel with their headlights turned on in all posted work zones, not just active work zones. It is necessary for drivers in vehicles with daytime running lights to turn on their headlights in order to activate their taillights.
Speed-monitoring devices. Interstate work zones with a project cost exceeding $300,000 will have a speed-monitoring device to alert motorists of their speed prior to entering the work zone.
Active Work Zones
PennDOT manages two distinct programs relating to active work zones:
Criminal Violations under 75 Pa. C.S. § 3326 (Duty of driver in construction and maintenance areas or on highway safety corridors) identify fines and penalties when an officer pulls you over for a violation.
Posting of active work zones. Active work zones must be designated as such to notify motorists when they enter and leave the work zone. A white flashing light attached to the "Active Work Zone When Flashing" sign will indicate an active work zone. The flashing light will only be activated when workers are present and turned off when workers are not present.
Fifteen-day loss of license for driving dangerously. Motorists caught driving 11 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit in an active work zone, or who are involved in a crash in an active work zone and are convicted for failing to drive at a safe speed, automatically will lose their license for 15 days.
Fines doubled/jail time increased. Fines for certain traffic violations — including speeding, driving under the influence, and failure to obey traffic devices — are doubled for active work zones. Also, the law provides for up to five years of additional jail time for individuals convicted of homicide by vehicle for a crash that occurred in an active work zone.
Civil Violations under 75 Pa. C.S. § 3369 (Automated speed enforcement systems in active work zones) began in 2018. Section 3369 allows for a fine to be administered using calibrated and tested automated speed enforcement technology. Civil violations are only fines and don't reflect any points or insurance ratings.
The Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement (AWZSE) program uses vehicle-mounted systems to detect and record motorists exceeding posted work zone speed limits by 11 miles per hour or more using electronic speed timing devices.
AWZSE systems are only operational in active work zones where workers are present.
Work Zones that have an AWZSE system present and active will have unique signs in advance of the enforcement area, alerting drivers to the upcoming enforcement.
Registered owners receive a warning letter for a first offense, a violation notice and $75 fine for a second offense, and a violation notice and $150 fine for third and subsequent offenses.
These violations are civil penalties only; no points are assessed to driver’s licenses.
For more information on the Automated Work Zone Speed Enforcement program, including a list of projects where the units are deployed, visit https://workzonecameras.penndot.gov/.
Move Over Law
Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law requires drivers approaching an emergency response area who are unable to safely merge into a lane farther away from the response area to "pass the emergency response area at a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit and reasonable for safely passing." An emergency response area is where an emergency vehicle has its lights flashing, or where road crews or emergency responders have lighted flares, posted signs, or try to warn travelers.
Act 105 of 2020, signed on October 29, 2020 and effective 180 days later on April 27, 2021:
Creates a new point system that imposes two points for failure to merge into the lane not next to the emergency response area.
Sets fines at $500 for first-time offenders, $1,000 for a second offense, and $2,000 for a third or subsequent offense.
Requires a 90-day license suspension for a third or subsequent offense. The license suspension also applies to incidents that seriously injure or kill another person. The suspension is six months if the person injured or killed is an emergency service provider or was near a disabled vehicle.
Sets additional fines of up to $10,000 for violators who injure or kill an emergency service responder or a person in or near a disabled vehicle.
Doubled fines for several traffic violations when committed in an emergency response area when first responders are present.
A similar law (Title 75, Section 4572.2) requires motorists to move over or slow down when approaching a stationary trash or recycling truck.
Disabled vehicles are covered by the Move Over law when they display at least two of the following markings:
Vehicular hazard signal lamps.
Caution signs or other traffic control device.
Road flares.
Portable Emergency Warning Devices
Title 75, Section 4530 requires any truck class III or greater, truck tractor, bus, or any motor vehicle towing a trailer carry at least three portable emergency warning devices and display the devices when stopped on a roadway or shoulder for 10 minutes outside of an urban district, or on a divided highway anywhere, even in an urban district (like I-95 in Philadelphia).
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22 min
February 22, 2024 Dr. Sharee Livingston: Getting To Know Her
Dr. Sharee Livingston, a trailblazer in medicine, recounts her inspiring journey from humble origins to becoming a leading figure in obstetrics and gynecology, in an exclusive interview on NPR's The Spark.
Born and raised in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Dr. Livingston harbored a lifelong ambition to pursue medicine, with a keen interest in Women’s Health from an early age. Her dedication saw her volunteering as a candy striper at the Community General Osteopathic Hospital at a tender age of 9, marking the nascent stages of her illustrious career.
Her academic pursuits led her to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, followed by a medical degree from the prestigious Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Livingston further honed her skills through a rigorous Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Penn State Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
In 2006, Dr. Livingston commenced her practice as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist at UPMC Lititz, where she currently serves as the Chair of the Ob/Gyn Department and holds a position on the UPMC Lititz Board of Trustees. Notably, she has established herself as the foremost female robotic surgeon in Lancaster County, exemplifying her commitment to pushing boundaries and achieving excellence.
Dr. Livingston's ascent to prominence underscores her resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles in a male-dominated field. Her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring medical professionals, especially women, reaffirming that with perseverance and dedication, any dream is attainable.
Her groundbreaking work in robotic surgery not only exemplifies her technical prowess but also underscores her dedication to advancing medical practices, ultimately enhancing patient care and outcomes. Dr. Livingston's contributions extend beyond the operating room, as she actively engages in mentorship and advocacy initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion within the medical community.
As a beacon of achievement, Dr. Sharee Livingston's remarkable trajectory serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. Her unwavering commitment to excellence continues to inspire and uplift both colleagues and aspiring healthcare professionals alike, leaving an indelible mark on the field of obstetrics and gynecology.
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27 min
February 21, 2024 Is Pennsylvania outdoor recreation an untapped economic driver?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many Pennsylvanians re-discovered or discovered the outdoors all around them. Outdoor recreation has always thrived in Pennsylvania with its vast natural resources, state parks, trails, hunting, fishing, sports and so many other activities.
But it’s been only recently that outdoor recreation has been identified as an industry and economic driver in Pennsylvania. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, outdoor recreation adds $17 billion to the state’s economy and creates 164,000 jobs. The state has plans to grow the outdoor recreation industry even more.
Pennsylvania's Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, Nathan Reigner described who and what makes up the outdoor recreation economy on The Spark Wednesday,"We can think of them as including the stuff of outdoor recreation designers, manufacturers, retailers, distributors, repairers of clothing equipment, vehicles in outdoor recreation. We've got some fine brands coming out of Pennsylvania producing outdoor recreation equipment. So that's the first component of the industry. Second part of the of the industry or our experience providers, ski areas, mountain lodges, guides, outfitters, rental shops, food, beverage, lodging associated with outdoor recreation. And then we've got the third component of our industry and those who are our professionals, our creative professionals, our journalists, photographers, videographers, social media influencers working in the outdoors are technical professionals like mapmakers and guidebook writers, planners, designers, builders in this space. That's the first big component of our outdoor economy. The second big component of our outdoor economy is the contribution that the outdoors makes to community and economic development. And here we're really talking about quality of life, the quality of life for Pennsylvanians that live here now, and the quality of life that it can attract."
Reigner said the plan going forward is to activate the outdoor economy,"I think what we are realizing now is this phenomenon of outdoor recreation, the investments we make in it, the infrastructure we build to support it, the people who work in outdoor recreation. The benefits that that system generate go well beyond fun. They go well beyond health. They go well beyond advancing our conservation and sustainability. It really is at the core of the productivity of our Commonwealth. And for many of our communities particularly, are more rural communities. It is, in fact, a pathway to a better future for them."
Reigner pointed to Columbia in Lancaster County as an example of how outdoor recreation has helped revitalize a town,"The Northwest River Trail has been developed along the Susquehanna River. We have a crossing, new facility built along the river there. If we talk with the mayor of Columbia, if we talk to business owners, in the region, what we hear are stories about new entrepreneurial opportunities, new businesses opening up, and, visitors coming to town and those towns really, really thriving in a way that they hadn't been, a few years prior to the development of this outdoor recreation."
Reigner was asked whether the development of outdoor recreation will have to be weighed against traditional housing and industrial development that creates tax revenue,"For our economic development, for industrial developments to be productive, they've got to have people who want to live and work around those. And for people to want to live and work around, in any given community, that community needs to have a high quality of life, which is a product of outdoor recreation, of arts and culture, of historic preservation, of good schools, of public safety, etc.. So, I don't think we look for the biggest number on the spreadsheet and put all of our eggs there. I think what we're trying to do, I think certainly with the Office of Outdoor Recreation, with the Economic Development Strategy, etc., is develop a well-rounded and competitive Pennsylvania."

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22 min
February 21, 2024 The Rise Of The Phoenix: Trans Artist DDA discusses rising from the "ashes"
In celebration of Black History Month, Philadelphia-based Trans-artist and musician Diamond Anthony, known by the stage name D.D.A., has unveiled their latest musical endeavor, the album "Phoenix." D.D.A. is no stranger to the entertainment scene, having been in the music industry since 2020 and immersed in the world of drag for even longer. Their accolades include clinching the title of Mx. Philadelphia Leather for the 2020/2021 term and triumphing at the highly esteemed drag competition, Snatcherella 3000, in 2021.
"Phoenix" comprises 10 tracks that traverse various musical genres, including classic hip hop, R&B trap, invigorating ballroom beats, and anthemic house rhythms. D.D.A.'s versatility as an entertainer and musician shines through each track, effortlessly navigating different vocal styles to match the distinct tones of each genre. The album captures her confidence, and the seamless transitions between songs showcase her artistry.
One standout track, "Take My Breath Away," featuring Quinn Possible, lives up to its title, delivering a breathtaking experience. The instrumental is beautifully crafted, evoking chills on the first listen. When D.D.A. enters with their vocals, the song becomes a perfect blend of artistry. A noteworthy homage to Lauryn Hill occurs in the middle of the track, as it interpolates the iconic "Fu-Gee-La" by the Fugees. Quinn Possible's contribution adds grace and elegance, culminating in a flawless collaboration. The key changes towards the end of the track promise an unforgettable musical journey.
D.D.A.'s "Phoenix" stands as a testament to her multifaceted talent, leaving listeners captivated by the artful fusion of genres and the artist's commanding presence. The album not only reinforces her musical prowess but also serves as a noteworthy contribution to the celebration of Black History Month.
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22 min
February 20, 2024 What's in store for STEAM gem Whitaker Center in Harrisburg?

The Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts in Harrisburg is approaching its 25th anniversary. The Whitaker Center is a jewel of downtown Harrisburg and the region for families, children, students and adults to view and engage in science, movies and shows. It may be the premiere stop for "hands on" science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics or STEAM in Central Pennsylvania.
Mary Oliveira is the President and CEO of Whitaker Center and joined us on The Spark Tuesday where she said the Whitaker Center is still re-emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and wants Whitaker to be a Central Pennsylvania destination.
One of the unique aspects of the Whitaker Center is so many of the exhibits and programs are interactive, which Oliveira characterized as important,"People learn in a variety of ways -- whether it's hearing, reading, seeing and doing kind of combines all of that. For us, interactive and immersive stands out as a way that allows the parent and the child to do it together. That allows our professional educators to really see what they're teaching be executed. We start curriculum as early as three-years-old with our little learners on Wednesday mornings. And so teaching is one thing, but being taught back because of what they're showing and doing themselves is really a way to ensure that those lessons are being deeply embedded."
The Whitaker Center is a popular destination for schools to take field trips as Oliveira noted,"I think it's really more about the environment that they're immersed in. When they're at Whitaker. Again, they're not sitting at a desk. They're not sitting in front of a laptop or a computer. They're really able to move around at their own pace and guide themselves as well. And some of that capability of being able to learn on their own and self teach as they go through all of our different stations, I think, imposes a a level of enjoyment and ownership to what they're experiencing there versus being drilled to by a teacher or an educator at Whitaker."
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21 min
February 20, 2024 Renowned historian Allen Guelzo talks Lincoln and democracy
Americans are hearing about democracy often today – whether it is resilient and its future in particular. Abraham Lincoln is considered America’s greatest president for holding the union together when the nation was at its greatest peril during the Civil War.
Renowned historian and author Allen Guelzo’s new book Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy and the American Experiment examines Lincoln’s vision of democracy and how he guided the nation during democracy’s most dire crisis.
Lincoln was perhaps democracy’s greatest champion. Think about his words in the Gettysburg Address -- “of the people, by the people and for the people.”
Guelzo’s book takes a unique angle – examining how Lincoln applied democracy in areas like the economy, culture, race and civil liberties.
Allen Guelzo recently appeared at Midtown Scholar Bookstore in Harrisburg and spoke with The Spark's Scott LaMar.

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43 min
February 18, 2024 The Spark Weekly 2.18.2024
On this episode of The Spark Weekly:
Honeybees have been dying by the millions over the last 15 years, but beekeepers may be the key to saving them. Also on the program, a memoir about a woman who realizes she is in love with her best friend and had been for 20 years.
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44 min

About The Spark

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When people come together and talk about really interesting topics, great questions spark better understanding and opportunities for new ideas to form. On The Spark from WITF, host Asia Tabb starts…

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