In the heart of Oklahoma's jazz culture, a prodigious talent emerged, shaped by the rich harmonies of the genre and guided by the influence of legendary musicians. Champian Fulton, hailed as one of jazz's top talents, traces her musical journey back to her upbringing in Oklahoma, where the rhythms of jazz infused her childhood. Inspired by her father, jazz trumpeter Stephen Fulton, Champian's passion for music ignited at a young age. Surrounded by the vibrant jazz scene of Oklahoma, she found herself immersed in a world where melodies danced through the air and improvisation was second nature.

On a recent episode of The Spark, Champian delved into her upcoming endeavors with Marquis Lupton. The conversation centered around her highly anticipated tour and her 18th studio album, offering fans a glimpse into her artistic process and the inspiration drawn from her Oklahoma roots. Champian's journey into the realm of jazz was not solitary. Alongside her father's guidance, she found mentorship from luminaries such as Clark Terry and Major Holley, whose influence sculpted her musical identity. Their wisdom and expertise provided the foundation upon which Champian built her career, earning her acclaim as one of the most gifted jazz musicians of her generation.

During her interview with Lupton, Champian reflected on the significance of her upbringing in the Oklahoma jazz scene. She spoke fondly of the supportive community that nurtured her talent and the countless hours spent honing her craft in local clubs and venues. And, as she gears up for her upcoming tour, Champian remains steadfast in her commitment to honoring the traditions of jazz while infusing her own unique voice into the genre. Her 18th studio album promises to be a testament to her evolution as an artist, showcasing her mastery of the craft and her deep connection to her musical heritage.

With each note she plays, Champian Fulton pays homage to the jazz legends who came before her, carrying forward their legacy while forging a path of her own. As she continues to captivate audiences around the world with her unparalleled talent, her Oklahoma roots remain at the core of her identity, serving as a constant source of inspiration and strength.

In the heart of Oklahoma's jazz culture, a prodigious talent emerged, shaped by the rich harmonies of the genre and guided by the influence of legendary musicians. <a href="https://www.champian.net/">Champian Fulton</a>, hailed as one of jazz's top talents, traces her musical journey back to her upbringing in Oklahoma, where the rhythms of jazz infused her childhood. Inspired by her father, jazz trumpeter Stephen Fulton, Champian's passion for music ignited at a young age. Surrounded by the vibrant jazz scene of Oklahoma, she found herself immersed in a world where melodies danced through the air and improvisation was second nature.
On a recent episode of The Spark, Champian delved into her upcoming endeavors with Marquis Lupton. The conversation centered around her highly anticipated tour and her 18th studio album, offering fans a glimpse into her artistic process and the inspiration drawn from her Oklahoma roots. Champian's journey into the realm of jazz was not solitary. Alongside her father's guidance, she found mentorship from luminaries such as Clark Terry and Major Holley, whose influence sculpted her musical identity. Their wisdom and expertise provided the foundation upon which Champian built her career, earning her acclaim as one of the most gifted jazz musicians of her generation.
During her interview with Lupton, Champian reflected on the significance of her upbringing in the Oklahoma jazz scene. She spoke fondly of the supportive community that nurtured her talent and the countless hours spent honing her craft in local clubs and venues. And, as she gears up for her upcoming tour, Champian remains steadfast in her commitment to honoring the traditions of jazz while infusing her own unique voice into the genre. Her 18th studio album promises to be a testament to her evolution as an artist, showcasing her mastery of the craft and her deep connection to her musical heritage.
With each note she plays, Champian Fulton pays homage to the jazz legends who came before her, carrying forward their legacy while forging a path of her own. As she continues to captivate audiences around the world with her unparalleled talent, her Oklahoma roots remain at the core of her identity, serving as a constant source of inspiration and strength.

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, hosts Scott LaMar and Aniya Faulcon start the conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at https://witf.org/programs/the-spark.

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 <a href="https://www.witf.org">WITF</a>, hosts Scott LaMar and Aniya Faulcon start the conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at <a href="https://witf.org/programs/the-spark">https://witf.org/programs/the-spark</a>.

The Spark

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, hosts Scott LaMar and Aniya Faulcon start the conversations about what’s happening in the world and at home. Share your ideas at <a href="https://witf.org/programs/the-spark">https://witf.org/programs/the-spark</a>.

Champian Fulton: A Jazz Prodigy with Oklahoma Roots

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

The number of people who are food insecure is increasing and Penn State Health has a program to help. 

Also on the program, mental health professionals will join us to discuss advances in mental health services.

Coming up on this week's edition of The Spark Weekly,
The number of people who are food insecure is increasing and Penn State Health has a program to help. 
Also on the program, mental health professionals will join us to discuss advances in mental health services.

The Spark Weekly 5.19.2024: Ashley Visco and Zachary Zook, and Dr. Matthew Hurford and Professor Jihan Owens-Tyler

National Prevention Week, observed from May 12-18, 2024, serves as a vital public education platform dedicated to preventing substance use and promoting positive mental health. This annual event engages communities across the country in raising awareness about substance misuse and mental health issues, showcasing the effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programs. By involving communities, National Prevention Week highlights the importance of implementing strategies that address these critical public health concerns.

One of the primary purposes of National Prevention Week is to foster partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies and national organizations committed to improving public health. These collaborations enhance the dissemination of quality prevention resources and publications, ensuring that effective strategies reach those in need. The event underscores the significance of community involvement in addressing substance misuse and promoting mental well-being.

Eric Kennel, the executive director of Compass Mark, has been instrumental in raising awareness and taking action for individuals suffering from substance misuse and other addictions. As National Prevention Week concludes, Kennel emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of substance misuse, providing support to those affected, and accessing available services. His insights highlight the collective effort required to combat addiction and support recovery, reinforcing the crucial role of community and organizational initiatives in fostering a healthier society.

National Prevention Week, observed from May 12-18, 2024, serves as a vital public education platform dedicated to preventing substance use and promoting positive mental health. This annual event engages communities across the country in raising awareness about substance misuse and mental health issues, showcasing the effectiveness of evidence-based prevention programs. By involving communities, National Prevention Week highlights the importance of implementing strategies that address these critical public health concerns.
One of the primary purposes of National Prevention Week is to foster partnerships and collaborations with federal agencies and national organizations committed to improving public health. These collaborations enhance the dissemination of quality prevention resources and publications, ensuring that effective strategies reach those in need. The event underscores the significance of community involvement in addressing substance misuse and promoting mental well-being.
Eric Kennel, the executive director of <a href="https://www.compassmark.org/">Compass Mark</a>, has been instrumental in raising awareness and taking action for individuals suffering from substance misuse and other addictions. As National Prevention Week concludes, Kennel emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of substance misuse, providing support to those affected, and accessing available services. His insights highlight the collective effort required to combat addiction and support recovery, reinforcing the crucial role of community and organizational initiatives in fostering a healthier society.

May 12th-18th is National Prevention Week: Here's what you need to know!

Fresh from competing in the 2024 Senior Games at Spooky Nook Sports Complex, Sally Winchell and her group of Iron Mustangs returned home with a collection of well-deserved hardware. The team, composed of women aged 55 and older, made a significant impact not only through their victories but also by inspiring their fellow competitors with their dedication and strength. Today, on WITF's The Spark, Sally Winchell and the Iron Mustangs joined Marquis Lupton to discuss their journey, preparation, and motivations behind embracing powerlifting later in life. The Iron Mustangs, a formidable team of senior powerlifters, showcased their remarkable abilities at the Senior Games, held at the sprawling Spooky Nook Sports Complex. Their success is not merely measured by the medals they won, but by the barriers they broke and the stereotypes they shattered about aging and athleticism.

Sally Winchell, the spirited leader of the Iron Mustangs, spearheaded the team’s efforts. Among the many highlights, perhaps the most impressive was 70-year-old team member Jane Thompson’s stunning performance, where she deadlifted over 200 pounds. Thompson’s feat exemplifies the extraordinary capabilities of senior athletes when given the opportunity and support to thrive. Winchell, reflecting on their achievements, noted, "Our team is about more than just lifting weights. It's about lifting each other up and proving that age is just a number." Her words resonate deeply with many, as the Iron Mustangs’ story is one of perseverance, community, and the relentless pursuit of personal bests.

The journey of these women into powerlifting is as inspiring as their performances. Many of them took up the sport after the age of 60, driven by a desire to stay active, healthy, and strong. Their training regimen is rigorous, involving not only physical preparation but also mental fortitude. The Iron Mustangs train diligently, balancing workouts with proper nutrition and recovery, ensuring they are always at their peak. Their preparation for the Senior Games was intensive, marked by months of disciplined training and a strong support network. The camaraderie among the team members plays a crucial role in their success, providing motivation and encouragement to push through the toughest challenges.

On The Spark, the Iron Mustangs shared their individual stories and collective experiences. They hope to inspire other seniors to embrace physical activity and perhaps even powerlifting, demonstrating that it’s never too late to start something new. And, as the Iron Mustangs continue to celebrate their achievements, their influence extends beyond the competition. They are redefining what it means to age, one lift at a time, showing that strength, resilience, and determination have no age limit.

Fresh from competing in the 2024 Senior Games at Spooky Nook Sports Complex, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2132037717029591">Sally Winchell</a> and her group of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2132037717029591">Iron Mustangs</a> returned home with a collection of well-deserved hardware. The team, composed of women aged 55 and older, made a significant impact not only through their victories but also by inspiring their fellow competitors with their dedication and strength. Today, on WITF's The Spark, Sally Winchell and the Iron Mustangs joined <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094196630513">Marquis Lupton</a> to discuss their journey, preparation, and motivations behind embracing powerlifting later in life. The Iron Mustangs, a formidable team of senior powerlifters, showcased their remarkable abilities at the Senior Games, held at the sprawling Spooky Nook Sports Complex. Their success is not merely measured by the medals they won, but by the barriers they broke and the stereotypes they shattered about aging and athleticism.
Sally Winchell, the spirited leader of the Iron Mustangs, spearheaded the team’s efforts. Among the many highlights, perhaps the most impressive was 70-year-old team member Jane Thompson’s stunning performance, where she deadlifted over 200 pounds. Thompson’s feat exemplifies the extraordinary capabilities of senior athletes when given the opportunity and support to thrive. Winchell, reflecting on their achievements, noted, "Our team is about more than just lifting weights. It's about lifting each other up and proving that age is just a number." Her words resonate deeply with many, as the Iron Mustangs’ story is one of perseverance, community, and the relentless pursuit of personal bests.
The journey of these women into powerlifting is as inspiring as their performances. Many of them took up the sport after the age of 60, driven by a desire to stay active, healthy, and strong. Their training regimen is rigorous, involving not only physical preparation but also mental fortitude. The Iron Mustangs train diligently, balancing workouts with proper nutrition and recovery, ensuring they are always at their peak. Their preparation for the Senior Games was intensive, marked by months of disciplined training and a strong support network. The camaraderie among the team members plays a crucial role in their success, providing motivation and encouragement to push through the toughest challenges.
On The Spark, the Iron Mustangs shared their individual stories and collective experiences. They hope to inspire other seniors to embrace physical activity and perhaps even powerlifting, demonstrating that it’s never too late to start something new. And, as the Iron Mustangs continue to celebrate their achievements, their influence extends beyond the competition. They are redefining what it means to age, one lift at a time, showing that strength, resilience, and determination have no age limit.

Champian Fulton: A Jazz Prodigy with Oklahoma Roots

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