Podcasts about connecticut department

Episode SummaryThe latest episode of the “The Stream by AASHTO” podcast features Garrett Eucalitto, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation and the 2024-2025 president of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, discussing his commitment to “safer communities, safer users, and safer workers” and federal surface transportation reauthorization as part of his emphasis areas for his one-year presidential term.Episode NotesThis podcast series is part of the AASHTO Environmental Management technical service program operated by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and it explores a wide array of environmental topics that affect state departments of transportation and the infrastructure programs they oversee.In this podcast episode, Eucalitto delves into his family's connection to the transportation industry, how his career path shifted from foreign relations to transportation policy, and why he's made “centering safety” a key focal point not only for his AASHTO presidential emphasis areas but as the nucleus of his transportation career. He also discusses the critical importance of ongoing surface transportation funding reauthorization work by Congress and how that legislative effort impacts safety. He explains on the podcast that reauthorization “impacts everything we do” as state DOTs, especially in the safety arena. That's why it is critical to ensure that the current reauthorization package maintains – if not expands – the current level of federal funding to fully support the nation's transportation systems.Eucalitto is also AASHTO's first openly gay president and discusses how this part of his identity has helped make him more empathetic about protecting people physically, mentally, and emotionally – especially in terms of fostering a level of comfort so people can live openly in the workplace. Finally, Eucalitto looks to the future as part of his podcast interview – examining the ways state DOTs are seeking to broaden their “non-traditional” partnerships, along with ways state DOTs are working to improve the exchange of information between one another for disaster response and other needs. 

A Hearst CT investigation which found that the Connecticut Department of Public Health didn't alert the public or health care systems about nurses with fraudulent degrees. We spoke with Doctor-Senator Jeff Gordon about the revelation and also explored whether the abrupt closure of Stone Academy is connected to the national scam. Image Credit: Getty Images

Avian Influenza and what you need to know.  Plus snake bites have been on the rise, what you need to do in case of an emergency and records have been broken in the fishing world. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger' Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News! Season 5, Episode 240 Avian Influenza:  2 Types Of Viruses  There are two types of virus: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI): Virus strains are extremely infectious, often fatal to domestic poultry and can spread rapidly from flock to flock. Low Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (LPAI): Virus strains occur naturally in wild migratory waterfowl and shorebirds without causing illness. LPAI can infect domestic poultry with little or no signs of illness. Avian Influenza: The Signs In Birds & Poultry Sudden, unexplained death Decline in water consumption Decreased egg production and depression in layers Purple or dry combs Quieter than normal Frequently laying down Swelling around eyes Procedures For Wild Birds The primary carriers of avian influenza A are waterfowl, gulls, terns and shorebirds. Avoid direct contact with wild birds and observe them only from a distance. Wild birds can be infected without showing symptoms of the infection. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently believes that the public health risk from the current HPAI outbreak is low. They advise avoiding direct contact with sick or dead wild birds. Individuals should also avoid transporting sick or dead birds. Do not handle dead wild birds. Avian influenza surveillance and testing in wild birds is being done by USDA APHIS Wildlife Services and North Dakota Department of Game and Fish. Please report wild sick and dead birds at https://gf.nd.gov/wildlife/diseases/mortality-report. Wild bird avian influenza questions can be directed to 701-204-2161. Reduce the attractiveness for wild birds to stop at your place by cleaning up litter and spilled feed around your domestic poultry housing. When should you move wild bird carcasses? While handling and transporting carcasses is not advised, there may be some cases where it is required to minimize transmission of HPAI and continue normal activities. This would be especially true to limit contact with domestic poultry, or if fields need to be worked in preparation for planting, etc. Handling According to the CDC: “If you must handle wild birds or sick or dead poultry, minimize direct contact by wearing gloves and wash your hands with soap and water after touching birds. If available, wear respiratory protection such as a medical facemask. Change your clothing before contact with healthy domestic poultry and birds after handling wild birds, and discard the gloves and facemask, disinfect footwear, and then wash your hands with soap and water.” Disposal It is critical that carcasses are disposed of properly to reduce the risk for transmission to domestic flocks and other wildlife. Numerous cases of mortality in eagles, hawks and owls have occurred as a result of scavenging on dead bird carcasses. For this reason, moving carcasses to new areas and discarding them on the landscape should be avoided, as this may unintentionally contribute to more cases. Acceptable disposal options for wild bird carcasses include: Move carcasses to the edge of the field. Burial is acceptable for small numbers of birds. Be sure to bury carcasses four feet above the water table with four feet of cover. If possible bury birds in clay soils. Burn carcasses. Be sure to check if you are under a burn ban prior to burning,  Dispose at an approved municipal solid waste landfill. Please contact the landfill to determine disposal protocols. Carcasses must be double bagged. Bags must be disinfected before transporting to the landfill. Be sure to use a disinfect registered for use against AI, https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/antimicrobial-products-registered-disinfection-use-against-avian-influenza Following disposal be sure to disinfect the vehicle used to transport the carcasses. REFERENCES: https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/extension/publications/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-hpai https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/wild-birds https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/commercial-backyard-flocks Snake Bite Are Becoming More Common Snake season is upon us.  Make sure you know the does and don't of what to do in case of a snake bite Do's for Snake Bites: Call for help: Immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.  Stay calm and still: Minimize movement to slow the spread of venom.  Remove jewelry and tight clothing: Swelling may occur, making it difficult to remove these items later.  Keep the bite area below heart level: This helps slow the venom's circulation.  Wash the wound: Clean the bite with soap and water.  Cover the bite: Apply a clean, dry dressing.  Take a photograph of the snake (if safe): This can help medical personnel identify the snake species and determine the appropriate treatment.  Don'ts for Snake Bites: Don't assume the snake is harmless: Always treat a snakebite as serious.  Don't try to catch or kill the snake: This can lead to further bites.  Don't use a tourniquet: Tourniquets can cause serious complications, including blood clots and potential amputation.  Don't apply ice or cold compresses: This can damage tissue.  Don't cut into the bite or try to suck out the venom: These practices are ineffective and can be harmful.  Don't take pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen: These medications can interfere with the treatment of snake venom.  Don't give the person anything to eat or drink: This can interfere with medical treatment.  Don't try to identify the snake if it's not safe to do so: Safety comes first.  State Record Fish In Connecticut A new state record has been set for the largest freshwater fish ever caught in Connecticut. In May, angler Rafal Wlazlo landed a massive 45-pound, 8-ounce Common Carp at Lake Lillinonah, making it the heaviest freshwater fish recorded in the state. According to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), Wlazlo's catch now holds the official title for the largest freshwater fish in Connecticut history. Wlazlo, owner of Carp Angler, noted that carp fishing is hugely popular in Europe and is gaining traction as a niche yet growing sport in the United States. Prior to this record-breaking carp, the largest freshwater fish on record in Connecticut included a 29-pound Channel Catfish, Lake Trout, and Northern Pike. REFERENCES: https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/common-carp-fish-connecticut-state-record-lake-lillinonah/3577638/ https://www.carpangler.com/ OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don't hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates! https://thebendshow.com/ https://www.facebook.com/thebendshow WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca 'BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation. With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God's Country and life on the land. United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They're here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day. To learn more about Tigger & BEC's journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com. https://tiggerandbec.com/

Vaccines are considered by more than a few scientific experts to be among the most significant developments in modern medicine. Now, it's hard to know what to believe about vaccinations. The resurgence of measles, effectively eradicated in the U.S. 25 years ago, is one indication that in some pockets of our country, is one indication of doubt in vaccines' effectiveness. Meanwhile, the federal government is pulling back on its recommendations about who should take the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Melissa Held, professor of pediatric infectious diseases and senior associate dean of medical student education at the UConn School of Medicine, and Dr. David Banach, associate professor of medicine, infectious diseases physician and UConn Health's hospital epidemiologist, join us to help separate facts from myths. (Dr. Melissa Held, Dr. David Banach, Carolyn Pennington, Chris DeFrancesco, May 2025, studio and production support by Ethan Giorgetti and Ryan Bernat) Dr. Melissa Held https://facultydirectory.uchc.edu/profile?profileId=Held-Tobin-Melissa Dr. David Banach https://facultydirectory.uchc.edu/profile?profileId=Banach-David UConn Health's Infectious Diseases Division https://health.uconn.edu/infectious-diseases/ American Academy of Pediatrics https://www.aap.org/  Infectious Diseases Society of America https://www.idsociety.org/ Connecticut Department of Public Health https://portal.ct.gov/dph 

Julia McIlroy, Procurement Content Manager for the National Association of State Procurement Officials, discusses administrative preparedness for public health emergencies; Lillian Colasurdo, ASTHO Director of Public Health Law and Data Sharing, tells us about legislative trends regarding mosquito control; an ASTHO webinar on Thursday, May 29th will focus on how defined levels of maternal care can reduce maternal mortality and improve outcomes; and Dr. Manisha Juthani, ASTHO President-Elect and the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, recently delivered a commencement address. ASTHO Webinar: Strengthening Administrative Preparedness in Public Health Agencies ASTHO Blog Article: Legislative Trends for Mosquito Control in the United States ASTHO Webinar: Defining Care, Saving Lives – The Role of Levels of Maternal Care in Mortality Reduction  

Recently, the Connecticut Department of Transportation entered an agreement with the US DOT that will mean a quicker turnaround to complete transportation projects in our state. We got more clarity on how it works and why it's a significant deal, effective immediately, from CT DOT Commissioner, Garrett Eucalitto. IMAGE CREDIT: Eric Urbanowicz

Governor Lamont has signed a declaration enabling the Connecticut General Assembly to adopt legislation appropriating $284-million dollars to Medicaid funding. The Connecticut Department of Social Services estimated that amount needed to ensure that payments continue to be made to health care providers under this program. Not everyone is applauding the decision, including state Republicans. Senator Jason Perillo shared the worries about breaking fiscal guardrails with this decision. Image Credit: Getty Images

In this episode, we're joined by Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons to discuss exciting transportation improvements coming to Connecticut's second-largest city, including enhancing the Stewart B. McKinney Transportation Center, as well as initiatives to boost mobility, sustainability, and economic growth. Discover how Stamford and the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) work together to build a stronger future.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently stated that the Trump administration will be prioritizing transportation funding to states that require “local compliance or cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.” In April, the Connecticut Department of Transportation held it’s 2025 Transportation Showcase. Today, we listen back to the panel discussion, where we explored how public transit could impact small business growth and the future of federal infrastructure funding in Connecticut. We also touched on the transition to an electric bus service and efforts to reduce Connecticut’s carbon footprint through green solutions. GUESTS: Benjamin Limmer: Connecticut Department of Transportation, Bureau Chief of Public Transportation, Marian Andoh-Clarke: Director of Small Business Development, Hartford Chamber of Commerce, Matt Hart: Executive Director, Capital Region Council of Governments John Truscinski: Director of Resilience Planning, The Connecticut Institute for Resilience & Climate. Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In February's expert discussion episode of Super Adaptables, hosts Corey "Pheez" Lee and Jonathan Sigworth are joined by Kathy Marchione, Bureau Chief at the state of Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services (ADS), Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), to discuss vocational rehabilitation services available to veterans without service-connected disabilities and the general public.This year on Super Adaptables, we're diving deep into social safety net programs - a new topic each month with weekly episodes - exploring how they function, their challenges, and their impact on all our lives.

About this episode: The Department of Health and Human Services's abrupt termination of $11 billion in health funding to states has interrupted projects across the country. In this episode, a look at one state—Connecticut—where the state with federal approval had been using the funding to upgrade aging technology and respond to urgent threats like measles. Note: This conversation was recorded prior to a federal judge's issuing of a temporary restraining order blocking the cuts—for now. Guest: Dr. Manisha Juthani is the Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Host: Dr. Josh Sharfstein is vice dean for public health practice and community engagement at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, a faculty member in health policy, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department. Show links and related content: U.S. Judge blocks $11 billion Trump administration health funding cut for now—Reuters CT has 69 public health contracts canceled after Trump funding cuts, issues stop work orders—CT Insider Transcript information: Looking for episode transcripts? Open our podcast on the Apple Podcasts app (desktop or mobile) or the Spotify mobile app to access an auto-generated transcript of any episode. Closed captioning is also available for every episode on our YouTube channel. Contact us: Have a question about something you heard? Looking for a transcript? Want to suggest a topic or guest? Contact us via email or visit our website. Follow us: @‌PublicHealthPod on Bluesky @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Instagram @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Facebook @‌PublicHealthOnCall on YouTube Here's our RSS feed Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.

From home improvement projects to filing your taxes and finding a job, ‘tis the season for springtime scams. Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection shared some tips to avoid fraudsters and getting duped this season. IMAGE CREDIT: Eric Urbanowicz

Director of Research Patrick Flaherty. Connecticut Department of Labor . " annual benchmark report for 2024 and the January 2025 monthly labor data. Revised 2024 data largely mirrored the job numbers and unemployment rates reported in the monthly labor situation releases. Employers showed continued growth in January 2025 adding 2,300 jobs. The state's unemployment rate rose 0.1% to 3.3%."

Welcome to a new episode of Engineering Influence, a podcast by the American Council of Engineering Companies. In this episode, we explore the dynamic partnership between UConn School of Civil and Environmental Engineering and the Connecticut Department of Transportation, aiming to tackle workforce development challenges. Join us as we discuss with Eric Jackson, research professor and executive director of the Connecticut Transportation Institute, and Carlo Leone, Director of Workforce Development at the Connecticut DOT. Discover how collaborative efforts are reshaping engineering education to meet the real-world demands of infrastructure development. From curriculum adjustments to technology integration, learn about the strategies being implemented to prepare the next generation of engineers, and the long-term impacts these changes promise for Connecticut and beyond.

This season alone, there have been over 30,000 COVID-19 cases in Connecticut. That’s according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health. Measles is on the rise across the United States, and the CDC is monitoring H5 bird flu activity as well. Is it time to start preparing for the next global pandemic? Last year, the World Health Organization published a checklist to help nations update their pandemic preparedness plans. Today, physicians across our state join us to talk about what we learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, and how to prepare for the next one. GUESTS: Dr. Ulysses Wu: Chief Epidemiologist at Hartford Healthcare Dr. Megan Ranney: Dean of Yale School of Public Health and Professor of Emergency Medicine Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The National Park Service is gearing up for its busiest season of the year, with a smaller staff to assist visitors. The National Park Service has laid off over 1000 employees. Here in Connecticut demand for outdoor recreation has grown exponentially. There was a 75% increase in state park visitors in 2022. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) is working to make parks accessible to everyone. Last year, they launched all-terrain wheelchairs at five Connecticut State Parks and Forests. We’ll hear more about that later. Today we hear about this effort and others making the outdoors more accessible for people with disabilities. GUESTS: Kevin Harkins: Vice President of the Southeast Community Center of the Blind Lisa Friedman: reporter covering climate policy and politics for the New York Times Mason Trumble: Deputy Commissioner at Connecticut Department of Energy and Environment Protection (CT DEEP) Akiebia Hicks: Project Manager for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making our roads safer and combatting bad driver behavior in the state are big priorities for the Connecticut Department of Transportation. We spoke with DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto about the multiple bills this session addressing driver etiquette, construction zone safety and DUI cases. IMAGE CREDIT: Melissa Sheketoff

Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health and the ASTHO President-Elect, tells us how the Public Health Infrastructure Grant has allowed her team to invest in her workforce's well-being.  PHIG Partners Web Page PHIG Newsletter  

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), and has started putting restrictions on the National Institute of Health (NIH). Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us to talk about the impact these changes might have on public health locally. We’ll also hear from Dr. Albert Ko, Professor of Epidemiology at Yale University, and member of research and development task forces at the WHO. Do you have a question about healthcare and public health in our state? GUESTS: Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani Dr. Albert Ko: A physician and Epidemiologist at the Yale School of Public Health, and a a member of the WHO R&D Taskforce for Zika Virus and R&D Blueprint Working Group Sujata Srinivasan: Senior Health Reporter for Connecticut Public Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Speeders and wrong-way driving are among the top problems we see on Connecticut highways. What was accomplished to curb the issue last year and what are goals for 2025? We spoke with Josh Morgan from the Connecticut Department of Transportation. To vote in the Snow Plow Naming Contest: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-nyLEd2juUiwJjH_abtziwwsSPGQLy1EiXUlyKOrSGxUMk01UTZXMjExT1JBWktPVU5EUUY2RjVCNy4u&route=shorturl Image Credit: Getty Images

Students with disabilities can experience many challenges in the classroom, from discrimination to a lack of accommodations. So, how can schools help these students feel like they belong? That question was the focus of a special summit hosted by the state’s Department of Education in November. The event brought together students, educators, parents, and more to highlight the experiences of students with disabilities and how we can better support them. Watch the full panel discussion on CT-N. Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Transit Unplugged, host Paul Comfort sits down with Ben Limmer, Chief of Public Transportation for the Connecticut Department of Transportation. They talk about what it takes to run a massive statewide transit agency with a billion-dollar budget that is a critical part of the Northeast Corridor from Boston to Washington D.C. Paul and Ben talk about Ben's career journey--like many of us, he fell into transit accidentally--and how several important mentors shaped his career. Ben talks about Connecticut's major transportation projects, including investments in infrastructure, electrification programs, and bus network revamps.Ben and Paul wrap the conversation with a discussion about what's going to be important to transit in the next few years. Tune in for this insightful chat about the present and future of transit in Connecticut.Coming up next week on the show we have Matt Booterbaugh, CEO of transit contractor RAPT Dev USA. Talking about the role of contracting in transit and his secret to fill the bench with future transit leaders.00:00 Introduction from host Paul Comfort00:17 Meet Ben Limmer: Chief of Public Transportation02:13 Big Projects and Responsibilities at CTDOT06:38 Career Journey and Mentorship14:56 Referendums and Public Support16:35 Future of Public Transportation18:52 Conclusion and Future Plans19:15 Coming up next week on Transit UnpluggedTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.comHost: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie GatesSpecial thanks to:Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris HusseyIf you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - FacebookSign up for the Transit Unplugged NewsletterDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it, or from any action or decision taken in response to it.

Paratransit is the most expensive mode transit agencies in North America provide, so finding ways to save money and better serve the community is paramount. One way to do that is offer a bare-bones, only-what's-mandated service; which saves money, but underserves a vulnerable population. The other way is to get smart, to get innovative.And that's exactly what Eileen Collins Turvey of Portland's TriMet did, and it paid off because she won the 2024 APTA Innovation Award for her pilot program giving paratransit customers Instacart Plus memberships.It costs about $150 round trip for someone to use paratransit to go to the store. And they have to book ahead of time and can only bring two bags back from the store. But what if people could just have their groceries delivered instead? In her pilot, Eileen gave $10/mo Instacart Plus memberships to paratransit customers to let them buy groceries and have them delivered whenever they need from over 55 stores.How's it working?TriMet is saving $1500 per month per person and if the program is expanded to just half of their paratransit customers they could save $9 million per year.In her conversation with host Paul Comfort, Eileen also talks about her personal connection to paratransit and her vision for what paratransit could and should be. Tune in for this awesome interview with a true trailblazer.And if you'd like to learn more about it, Eileen provided us with a link to all her information and materials about the program. (text link: https://nextcloud.trimet.org/index.php/s/nyTqwgzefiGbNTB)Coming up next week we head to Connecticut and hear from Ben Limmer, Chief of Public Transportation at Connecticut Department of Transportation and learn about their revitalization programs.00:00 Introduction00:59 Our guest: Eileen Collins Turvey02:35 Winning the APTA Innovation Award04:39 The Instacart Program: Concept and Implementation05:59 Challenges and Solutions10:47 Program Impact and Future Prospects13:18 The Broader Vision for Paratransit18:26 Final Thoughts19:44 Coming up next week on Transit UnpluggedTransit Unplugged is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.comHost: Paul ComfortProducer: Paul ComfortEditor and Writer: Tris HusseyExecutive Producer: Julie GatesSpecial thanks to:Brand design: Tina OlagundoyeSocial Media: Tatyana MechkarovaMarketing content, Transit Unplugged Newsletter, & transit puns: Tris HusseyIf you have a question or comment, email us at info@transitunplugged.com.Follow us on social media: LinkedIn - Twitter - Threads- Instagram - FacebookSign up for the Transit Unplugged NewsletterDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This...

We met Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection Commissioner, Ronnell Higgins, about the state of our highways and making them safer. We especially did a deep dive about wrong-way drivers. IMAGE CREDIT: Eric Urbanowicz

Send us a textAre you confused about the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP. Have you heard the term, "Free and Appropriate Public Education" and want to know what it means? Do you want to know your legal rights when interacting with your kid's school? Listen to part 2 of this interview with special education attorney Laura Heneghan to learn about all that and more!You can find part 1 here: https://dyslexiajourney.buzzsprout.com/2077817/episodes/16095504-dyslexia-legal-rights-ft-attorney-laura-heneghan-part-1Attorney Laura Heneghan proudly practices solely in the area of special education,representing children and adolescents with disabilities who are not receiving appropriate services from their public school district. She began practicing in this area after experiencing this process as the parent of a child with disabilities, including a son with dyslexia. She brings this experience, her passion, and her unique collaborative abilities to her clients to change their outcomes for the better.In addition to her law degree, Laura holds a Certificate in Special Education Advocacy from the PELE Clinic at William and Mary Law School. In order to better serve her clients with dyslexia, she has completed a 60-hour course in Orton Gillingham Plus, an evidence-based program based on the science of reading and approved by the International Dyslexia Association.She is a Board Member of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. She provides Pro Bono legal services to immigrant children seeking Special Immigrant Juvenile Status in Probate Court through Children's Advocates of Connecticut. Laura previously served on the Board of Directors for the Western Connecticut Center for Human Rights, as a court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem for CASA of SW Connecticut, and as an Educational Surrogate appointed by the Connecticut Department of Education on abuse and neglect cases.You can find Laura online at https://sped.esq/Here are some links that Laura recommends:https://www.smartkidswithld.org/https://www.copaa.org/https://www.wrightslaw.com/Don't wake the baby!Unwind to a wholesome mix of parenting stories, quirky humour, and cosy craftingListen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifyDyslexia Journey has conversations and explorations to help you support the dyslexic child in your life. Content includes approaches, tips, and interviews with a range of guests from psychologists to educators to people with dyslexia. Increase your understanding and connection with your child as you help them embrace their uniqueness and thrive on this challenging journey!Send us your questions, comments, and guest suggestions to parentingdyslexiajourney@gmail.comAlso check out our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingDyslexiaJourney

Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health and ASTHO President-Elect, breaks down some of the recommendations from the most recent ACIP meeting; Kelsey Tillema, ASTHO Senior Analyst, discusses the recent PH-HERO Agency Advocate event; and for all PHIG information, PHIG has its own newsletter now. American Medical Association Web Page: New ACIP recommendations – COVID vaccine frequency for seniors and RSV vaccine safety concerns PHIG Newsletter ASTHO Web Page: Stay Informed  

Send us a textAre you confused about the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP. Have you heard the term, "Free and Appropriate Public Education" and want to know what it means? Do you want to know your legal rights when interacting with your kid's school? Listen to part 1 of this interview with special education attorney Laura Heneghan to learn about all that and more!Attorney Laura Heneghan proudly practices solely in the area of special education,representing children and adolescents with disabilities who are not receiving appropriate services from their public school district. She began practicing in this area after experiencing this process as the parent of a child with disabilities, including a son with dyslexia. She brings this experience, her passion, and her unique collaborative abilities to her clients to change their outcomes for the better.In addition to her law degree, Laura holds a Certificate in Special Education Advocacy from the PELE Clinic at William and Mary Law School. In order to better serve her clients with dyslexia, she has completed a 60-hour course in Orton Gillingham Plus, an evidence-based program based on the science of reading and approved by the International Dyslexia Association.She is a Board Member of Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. She provides Pro Bono legal services to immigrant children seeking Special Immigrant Juvenile Status in Probate Court through Children's Advocates of Connecticut. Laura previously served on the Board of Directors for the Western Connecticut Center for Human Rights, as a court-appointed Guardian Ad Litem for CASA of SW Connecticut, and as an Educational Surrogate appointed by the Connecticut Department of Education on abuse and neglect cases.You can find Laura online at https://sped.esq/Here are some links that Laura recommends:https://www.smartkidswithld.org/https://www.copaa.org/https://www.wrightslaw.com/Don't wake the baby!Unwind to a wholesome mix of parenting stories, quirky humour, and cosy craftingListen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifyDyslexia Journey has conversations and explorations to help you support the dyslexic child in your life. Content includes approaches, tips, and interviews with a range of guests from psychologists to educators to people with dyslexia. Increase your understanding and connection with your child as you help them embrace their uniqueness and thrive on this challenging journey!Send us your questions, comments, and guest suggestions to parentingdyslexiajourney@gmail.comAlso check out our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingDyslexiaJourney

Ep 205: When women at the Yale Fertility Clinic experienced excruciating procedures, no one suspected it was due to one well-loved nurse….. This is the Donna Monticone story. Sources for Today's Episode: The Retrievals podcast Bioethicstoday.org Dea.gov AP news Newhavenindependent.org Prison Policy Initiative State of Connecticut Department of Public Health Sponsors: (thanks for using our promo codes, it really does help the show!) AquaTru - AquaTru purifiers use a 4-stage reverse osmosis purification process, and their countertop purifiers work with NO installation or plumbing. Today our listeners receive 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier! Just go to AquaTru.com - and enter code “WAC “ at checkout. Shopify - If you're into growing your business, your commerce platform better be ready to sell wherever your customers are scrolling or strolling—on the web, in your store, in their feed, and everywhere in between. Businesses that sell more, sell on Shopify. Sign up for your $1-per-month trial period at https://www.shopify.com/crimewomen Credits: Written and Hosted by Amy Shlosberg and Meghan Sacks Produced by James Varga Audio Editor, Jose Alfonzo Script Editor, Abagail Belcastro Music by Dessert Media Show your Support: The easiest way you can support us is by leaving a review, telling your friends, sharing on social media or by sending us a note. We love to hear from our audience! You can also support the show through the following ways: Follow Us on Social: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/womenandcrime Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenandcrimepodcast/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@womenandcrime Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenandcrime Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/womenandcrime Twitter: https://twitter.com/WomenAndCrime Patron - ad-free shows starting at $2 a month, or upgrade to get an extra episode every month, exclusive AMAs with the hosts, lecture series on criminal justice, our true crime book club, and more! Check out our Patreon page for more info: https://www.patreon.com/womenandcrime Apple Subscriptions - Exclusive episodes and ad-free regular stories are now available through Apple's podcast app for only $4.99 a month. Merchandise - For T-shirts, Hoodies, notebooks, stickers and mugs check out: https://www.womenandcrimepodcast.com/merch Help is Available: If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, or a victim of domestic, or other violence, there are many organizations that can offer support or help you in your specific situation. For direct links to these organizations please visit https://womenandcrimepodcast.com/resources/ Keywords: The Retrievals, Substance Abuse, Fentanyl crisis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 2023-24 Next Generation Accountability System Results have been posted by the Connecticut Department of Education. But what is the Next Generation Accountability System and what are key takeaways from the most recent results? We spoke with Ajit Gopalakrishnan, the State Department of Education Chief Performance Officer. For more information: https://public-edsight.ct.gov/overview/next-generation-accountability-dashboard/next-generation-accountability-results?language=en_US IMAGE CREDIT:  iStock / Getty Images Plus

This week, the Connecticut Regulation Review Commission approved the rules to allow Narcan and emergency contraceptives to be accessed through vending machines. We got the details on what happens next from Drug Control Director Roderick Marriott with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. IMAGE CREDIT: iStock / Getty Images Plus

This week we're joined by Gillian Gillett of CalITP and Dan Baker, of the Connecticut Department of Transportation to discuss how agencies can create simpler payment and travel experiences for transit riders.  We chat about the Connecticut Integrated Mobility Project, building payment system capacity and merchant services for smaller transit agencies, and the need for digital customer first thinking in a paper based industry. +++ Follow us on twitter @theoverheadwire Follow us on Mastadon theoverheadwire@sfba.social Follow us on Threads or Instagram @theoverheadwire Support the show on Patreon http://patreon.com/theoverheadwire Buy books on our Bookshop.org Affiliate site!  And get our Cars are Cholesterol shirt at Tee-Public! And everything else at http://theoverheadwire.com  

Suzanne Bornschein, Rhode Island State Epidemiologist, outlines Rhode Island's approach to combating Eastern Equine Encephalitis; Francesca Provenzano, Public Health Section Chief with the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health, tells us about ASTHO's recent Directors of Public Health Preparedness Meeting; ASTHO staff have co-authored a Journal for the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice; and an ASTHO toolkit helps state and territorial health agencies mitigate drug shortages. CDC Web Page: About Eastern Equine Encephalitis ASTHO Web Page: Preparedness Journal of Public Health Management and Practice Article: Approaching Public Health Issues Among People Who Use Drugs Through a Syndemic Lens ASTHO Web Page: Improving Access to Critical Medications: A Policy Toolkit for Health Agency Program Leadership  

In Connecticut, the bear population has boomed. And so have human-bear conflicts. There are somewhere between 1000-1200 black bears in our state alone. You might know what to do if you encounter a black bear in the wild, but bears are not just on trails anymore. In the past year, there were 35 incidents of bears entering homes right here in our state. Although they might look friend-shaped, we wouldn't recommend getting friendly. In fact, intentionally feeding the bears is now against the law. Maybe you've seen a bear where you live. Today, we'll hear from bear experts across the state and learn what to do if you come across one. Did you follow this year's Fat Bear Week? This week-long national tournament by the National Parks Service celebrates bear hibernation and conservation, while also serving as a campaign to make the public bear aware. We learn about it. GUESTS: Jason Hawley: Wildlife Biologist for the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Felicia Ortner: Volunteer Docent at the Connecticut Beardsley Zoo Rachel Maiser: Natural Resource Lead for the Northeast Regional Office of the National Park Service Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Zack Moore, State Epidemiologist with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, explains how his state effectively uses wastewater testing; Truc Taylor, Director of Public Health Informatics at Guidehouse, discusses Guidehouse being one of the Public Health Infrastructure Grant Implementation Centers; Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health and an ASTHO Member, is now also part of the Connecticut Health Foundation's advisory committee; and an ASTHO blog article will help you learn how to create a more equitable public health system through grants; CDC Web Page: Wastewater Surveillance for Influenza A Virus and H5 Subtype Concurrent with the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus Outbreak in Cattle and Poultry and Associated Human Cases CDC Web Page: Notes from the Field – Support for Wastewater Monitoring and Influence on Protective Behavioral Intentions Among Adults — United States, July 2024 CDC Web Page: Infectious Disease Physicians' Knowledge and Practices Regarding Wastewater Surveillance, United States, 2024 PHIG Partners Web Page: Wave 1 (2024) Expression of Interest Yale School of Public Health Web Page: Connecticut Health Foundation launches advisory committee for statewide blueprint on maternal health equity ASTHO Blog Article: Advanced Grant Payments – Creating a More Equitable Public Health System  

The most recent state audit looking at procedures at the Connecticut Department of Correction had some alarming takeaways that taxpayers should know about. Investigative reporter, Jeff Derderian, did a deep dive into this report and shared key takeaways you should know about. Image Courtesy of Jeff Derderian

Dr. Diane Hall, Director of the CDC Office of Rural Health, dives into the CDC's new Rural Public Health Strategic Plan; Carolyn Mullen, ASTHO Senior Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Relations, tells us how Congress avoided a government shutdown this week; and Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health and an ASTHO Member, announces the launch of the new Lead-Free CT Campaign. CDC Web Page: Rural Public Health Strategic Plan ASTHO Web Page: Summary of FY25 Continuing Resolution Connecticut Network Web Page: Capitol News Briefing  

Connecticut's annual Stand Down event, happening Sept. 20th, provides essential services for veterans, National Guard members, Reserve members, and their families. This one-stop resource event offers support from state and federal agencies, nonprofits, and veteran organizations. Retired Brigadier General Ron Welch, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs, and Blake Roberts, CTDOT Transportation Planner, join us to discuss how Stand Down supports those who have served our nation.

We spoke with Josh Morgan from the Connecticut Department of Transportation for the latest on the historic flooding aftermath impacting local and state roads. We also got an update on major transportation projects in Fairfield County and the impact of new wrong way detection systems on our highway ramps. For more information: https://portal.ct.gov/dot?language=en_US Image Credit: Getty Images

Last week, floodwaters devastated several communities in Connecticut washing out over two dozen state roads. There have been nearly 200 people killed on Connecticut roads this year alone. Labor Day weekend is coming up. According to the National Safety Council, there were 455 traffic fatalities nationally over the holiday weekend in 2023. Today, we're talking about all things roads, highway and transit, and how you can stay safe when driving throughout our state. Joining us this morning is Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. And if you have a question or comment about highways, buses and all things transit, we want to hear from you! What the roads look like where you live? GUESTS: Garrett Eucalitto: Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Jim Cameron: commuter advocate and author of the weekly opinion column "Talking Transportation" in the Connecticut Mirror Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, we examine the Connecticut Department of Transportation's final report of the Greater Hartford Mobility Study. This community-driven initiative was developed to reimagine and reconnect neighborhoods for enhanced mobility throughout Greater Hartford.  Join us as we speak with Kim Lesay, Bureau Chief of Policy and Planning, and Kevin Burnham, Transportation Supervising Engineer at CTDOT, to explore this visionary plan for creating a vibrant, sustainable, and multimodal transportation network.  

Mark Boughton, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services. Talks Stock market impact on CT revenues. Sales Tax free week

Maggie Davis, ASTHO Director of State Health Policy, explains why some states had difficulty getting access to new immunization products; the newly announced implementation centers wouldn't be possible without key partners; Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, tells us about Connecticut's recent adoption of the FDA Food Code; an ASTHO webinar allows you to hear from leaders at ASTHO and the CDC about how to properly communicate with policymakers; and an ASTHO brief examines how Puerto Rico strengthened its grant management functions. ASTHO Blog Article: State Policies Impact Access to New Immunization Products ASTHO News Release: Public Health Infrastructure Partners Launch National Implementation Center Program to Support Data Modernization  Public Health Review Podcast: Improving Retail Food Safety with the FDA Food Code ASTHO Webinar: Disease Forecasting Learning Series - Communicating with Policymakers ASTHO Report: A Framework for Linking PRAMS with Administrative Data  

The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicals known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water. This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown. Plus, Attorney General William Tong gives an update on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS. GUESTS: William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Cat Pastor contributed to this episode which originally aired April 22.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We had our monthly check-in with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli gave us some legislative updates impacting businesses and consumers in the state following the 2024 legislative session. He spoke about THC-infused beverages, House Bill 5236 concerning professional licensing, and improvements on the “pharmacy experience.” PHOTO CREDIT: Kaitlyn Krasselt / CT Department of Consumer Protection

Connecticut's Department of Motor Vehicles began phasing out permanent or "lifetime" disability parking placards in 2010, to help curb misuse. Some advocates and lawmakers are hoping more can be done to regulate how these passes are issued, and how misuse might be enforced. This hour, we hear from Alexandria Bode, who is behind the accessible parking-focused non-profit, Peace Love & ACCESSibility, along with her family members and fellow advocates, Sam Bode and Mary Caruso. House Republican Leader Vincent Candelora and Transportation Committee Co-Chair Senator Christine Cohen are their legislators, and both testified for SB 279 this session. The bill, which passed under a different name, requires that a person's treating physician, PA or APRN certify the need for a pass, versus an online provider, for example. They also join us. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles formed the Accessible Parking Advisory Council last year. DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera discusses the latest after the council's second meeting. East Haven Police Officer Joseph Murgo recently contributed to a PSA the Bodes' non-profit is producing. He also joins the conversation. GUESTS: Alexandra Bode: Executive Director, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility Sam Bode: Volunteer, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility Mary Caruso: Founder, Peace, Love & ACCESSibility Joseph Murgo: Captain; Public Information Officer, East Haven Police Department Vincent Candelora: Connecticut State Representation; House Majority Leader Christine Cohen: Connecticut State Senator; Transportation Committee Co-Chair Tony Guerrera: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles Where We Live is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode.Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Environmental Protection Agency has finalized the first-ever federal limits on a class of chemicalled known as PFAS, or "forever chemicals," in drinking water. This hour, we discuss what these enforceable limits mean for how Connecticut monitors and regulates PFAS. Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani joins us, plus Connecticut Mirror investigative reporter Andrew Brown. Plus, Attorney General William Tong touches on the lawsuits he filed against chemical manufacturers of PFAS. GUESTS: William Tong: Connecticut Attorney General Dr. Manisha Juthani: Commissioner, Connecticut Department of Public Health Andrew Brown: Investigative Reporter, Connecticut Mirror Support the show: http://wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Embark on a trip into the future of public transportation with Along the Lines! Host Ben Limmer takes you on a captivating journey into the world of microtransit, joined by special guests Mark Goodale from the Connecticut Department of Transportation and Matt Pentz from Norwalk Transit District. Tune in to hear about Connecticut's pioneering pilot project and discover the benefits of microtransit and its transformative potential in shaping the future of public transportation.

Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Public Health, spent her week in Washington D.C. discussing the importance of the Public Health Infrastructure Grant to her state; Arthur San Agustin, Special Assistant for Health to the Governor of Guam, shared an important island perspective with legislators; Moses Pretrick, Assistant Secretary for Health at the FSM Ministry of Health and Social Affairs, says health equity was at the top of his list of priorities in meetings; and an ASTHO blog article outlines the need for federal support to combat the fentanyl crisis. ASTHO Webpage: Territories and Freely Associated States ASTHO Blog Article: The Fentanyl Crisis Requires Ongoing and Strategic Federal Action ASTHO Webpage: Stay Informed

Dr. Bryan Connolly is a botanist, horticulturalist, and professor of Biology at Eastern Connecticut University in Willimantic, CT, my (Owen's) hometown. His research interests include rare plants of New England, the nightshade family, the rose family, and cannabis. Before Eastern, Professor Connolly was a faculty member at Framingham State University in Massachusetts and also worked for the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, University of Mississippi's Medicinal Plant Garden, New England Wild Flower Society, and the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection. He is also involved in his family farm: Cobblestone Farm CSA in Mansfield Center, CT. In this interview we hear about Bryan's 33 year journey with seed saving, seed production, and plant breeding; his work with giving a boost and sometimes reintroducing native plants from New England to Puerto Rico; his work with students around growing cannabis for medicinal uses; and his trials and initial breeding work with some crops we shared with him, including pigeon peas, field peas, and roselle.    SEED AND PLANT STORIES TOLD IN THIS EPISODE: Chenopodium formosanum (Taiwan) Grass Jelly (Taiwan, Indonesia) Erubia (Puerto Rico) Corpse Flower (Indonesia) Easter in August Cherry Tomato Minnesota 13 Field Pea Bo (Black-Eyed Pea Leaves) Mississippi Purple Hull Pea Northern Adapted Pigeon Peas Solanum chacoense (South America) Cannabis (specifically the beverage, Bhang from India) Chin Baung (Burmese Roselle Leaf)   MORE INFO FROM THIS EPISODE: Bryan's ECSU professor bio Bryan's instagram: Northeastern Connecticut Botany Breeding Organic Vegatables, NOFA publication, by Rowen White and Bryan Connolly Organic Seed Production and Saving, NOFA publication, by Bryan Connolly Stewarding Indigenous Seeds and Planting by the Moon with Stephen Silverbear McComber, Seed Savers Exchange Ploidy (number of chromosomes in a cell) Ploidy, genetic diversity and speciation of the genus Aronia ABOUT: Seeds And Their People is a radio show where we feature seed stories told by the people who truly love them. Hosted by Owen Taylor of Truelove Seeds and Chris Bolden-Newsome of Sankofa Community Farm at Bartram's Garden. trueloveseeds.com/blogs/satpradio   FIND OWEN HERE: Truelove Seeds Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter   FIND CHRIS HERE: Sankofa Community Farm at Bartram's Garden

Dr. Manisha Juthani, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Health, outlines the continued challenges to public health legal authority; Maggie Davis, ASTHO Director of State Health Policy, discusses a big win for Indiana as funding for public health will jump by 1500 percent; and learn how to protect your agency from a cyber-attack in an ASTHO video discussion. ASTHO Webpage: Containing and Preventing the Spread of Infectious Disease: A Cornerstone of Public Health ASTHO Report: Investing in Indiana's Public Health Infrastructure Through Community-Driven Policy Change Politico News Article: A red state boosted public health funding by 1,500 percent. This is how they did it. ASTHO Blog Article: Public Health's Silent Defender – Cybersecurity