Podcast appearances and mentions of Dan Schwartz

It's teacher appreciation week and along with schools across the country, we here at The Future of Everything want to send out a heartfelt thank you to the teachers who make a difference every day in the lives of our children and in society as a whole. In light of this, we're re-running an education related episode, and more specifically one on the future of educational technology with the Dean of the Stanford School of Education, Dan Schwartz. Dan is exploring effective ways to use AI in the classroom to support teachers–not to replace them–and to enhance student learning. We hope you'll take a moment to tune in again and enjoy.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Daniel SchwartzConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Dan Schwartz, Dean of the School of Education at Stanford University.(00:01:44) The Role of AI in Modern EducationThe widespread reactions and implications of AI in education.(00:02:59) Technology in the ClassroomThe historical and evolving relationship between technology and education.(00:04:51) Engaging Students with AIHow AI can enhance engagement through innovative teaching.(00:07:45) Impact of AI on Student LearningThe balance between AI tools and maintaining educational standards.(00:13:21) Challenges with EdTech CollaborationConcerns about industry prioritizing speed over creativity in learning tools.(00:15:23) Teachers Adapting to AIThe role of teachers in effectively integrating AI into the classroom.(00:18:21) Assessment and Grading with AIThe potential and concerns of using AI for educational assessment(00:22:16) AI and Conceptual UnderstandingHow AI can shift focus from task completion to true understanding.(00:24:49) Physical Activity and LearningThe connection between physical activity and improved learning outcomes.(00:28:59) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, host Dan Schwartz welcomes back Shipman's Claire Pariano for a thoughtful conversation on neurodiversity in the workplace. They explore what neurodiversity means, legal protections under the ADA and FMLA, common employer pitfalls, and practical steps organizations can take to create truly inclusive environments for neurodivergent employees. With insights into reasonable accommodations and inclusive hiring practices, this episode offers both legal guidance and a call for empathy and awareness.

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, host Dan Schwartz welcomes back acclaimed plaintiff-side employment attorney Nina Pirrotti for a frank discussion about where employers often go wrong and how to do better. From inconsistently enforced policies and botched investigations to poorly trained supervisors and missteps in handling accommodations, Nina shares real-life cautionary tales and practical advice. Whether you represent employers or employees, this episode offers invaluable insights into preventing workplace liability before it starts.

Welcome back to From Lawyer to Employer, a Shipman podcast that keeps you informed on the latest developments in labor and employment law. In this episode, Shipman attorneys Dan Schwartz and Keegan Drenosky discuss the complexities of workplace accommodations, including disability, religious, and pregnancy-related requests. Gain practical insights on navigating the interactive process, understanding legal obligations, and fostering an inclusive workplace. Tune in for actionable insights designed to help employers stay compliant and support their workforce.

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, host Dan Schwartz welcomes Erin Choquette, CEO of the Connecticut Paid Leave Authority, to break down the ins and outs of paid leave in Connecticut. They discuss how the program works, employer responsibilities, common misconceptions, and how businesses can use paid leave as a tool for employee retention. Whether you're an employer navigating compliance or an employee curious about your rights, this episode provides valuable insights into Connecticut's paid leave landscape.

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, Shipman attorneys Dan Schwartz and Emily McDonough Souza discuss the first 45 days of the Trump administration and its impact on labor and employment law. They dive into the latest executive orders on DEI programs, the implications of the False Claims Act for federal contractors, and recent legal challenges affecting workplace policies. The conversation also covers immigration enforcement, ICE workplace audits, and the latest developments from the NLRB and EEOC. Tune in for insights into what these changes mean for employers.

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, host Dan Schwartz is joined by immigration attorney Nina Pelc-Faszcza to discuss immigration enforcement under the new presidential administration. With executive orders making headlines and workplace audits on the rise, employers—particularly in education and nonprofit sectors—are wondering about their rights and responsibilities. From I-9 compliance to handling visits from ICE, this episode provides practical guidance to help businesses stay prepared. Tune in for insights and actionable tips on managing immigration-related challenges in the workplace.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the workplace, but with innovation comes new challenges. In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, Shipman attorneys Dan Schwartz and Emily McDonough Souza dive into how employers are using AI—from productivity monitoring to hiring decisions—and the associated legal risks. They break down key regulations, potential pitfalls, and practical steps employers can take to stay compliant while leveraging AI's potential. Whether you're considering AI tools or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this discussion is a must-listen. Tune in now!

In this episode of From Lawyer to Employer, host Dan Schwartz and special guest, Gabe Jiran explore potential shifts in labor and employment law under a new Trump administration. From changes at the National Labor Relations Board to the future of overtime rules, minimum wage, non-competes, and immigration, the conversation offers timely insights for employers. Tune in for practical advice on staying compliant and adaptable in this rapidly evolving legal landscape.

Get ready to dive into the 2025 Connecticut legislative landscape with Season 3, Episode 3 of From Lawyer to Employer! Join host Dan Schwartz and special guest Chris Davis, Vice President of Public Policy with the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA), as they preview key issues for the 2025 Connecticut General Assembly session. This episode highlights what employers need to know about upcoming labor and employment law developments, from proposed changes to non-disclosure and non-compete agreements to predictive scheduling, AI regulations, and workplace conditions. Stay informed, get involved, and discover practical insights for navigating potential legislative changes in the workplace.

Join host Dan Schwartz and Sarah Westby, partners at Shipman & Goodwin, as they delve into the latest wage and hour regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This episode explores the implications of a federal court ruling that struck down recent DOL salary threshold increases, what it means for employers, and how businesses can navigate compliance amidst evolving rules. Discover practical insights and strategies to manage workforce morale, stay aligned with state and federal laws, and anticipate future regulatory changes.

Big changes are coming for Connecticut employers in 2025! In the first episode of: From Lawyer to Employer, Season 3, join host Dan Schwartz and guest Peter Murphy as they dive into the Connecticut Paid Sick Leave law and what it means for employers in our state starting January 1, 2025. Employers of all sizes need to take note—as this law introduces major shifts, including: Lowering the employee threshold from 50 to 25 employees in 2025, and eventually covering all employers by 2027. Broadening coverage to include ALL employees, not just service workers. New accrual rates: 1 hour of paid leave for every 30 hours worked. Mental health days and a wider range of acceptable leave purposes. What does this mean for you? Employers must adapt their policies, notify employees, and implement systems to track leave effectively.

Dan Schwartz is a cognitive psychologist and dean of the Stanford Graduate School of Education. He says that artificial intelligence is a different beast, but he is optimistic about its future in education. “It's going to change stuff. It's really an exciting time,” he says. Schwartz imagines a world not where AI is the teacher, but where human students learn by teaching AI chatbots key concepts. It's called the Protégé Effect, Schwartz says, providing host Russ Altman a glimpse of the future of education on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Daniel SchwartzConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/XChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Russ Altman introduces guest Dan Schwartz, a professor of education and a dean of the School of Education at Stanford University.(00:02:06) The Role of AI in Modern EducationThe widespread reactions and implications of AI, particularly ChatGPT, in education.(00:03:22) The Role of Technology in the ClassroomThe historical and evolving relationship between technology and education.(00:05:14) Engaging Students with AIHow AI can enhance student engagement through innovative teaching methods.(00:08:08) Impact of AI on Student LearningThe balance between AI tools and maintaining educational standards.(00:13:42) Industry's Role in Educational TechnologyChallenges and opportunities in collaborating with educational technology companies.(00:15:44) Teacher's Role in Adapting to AIThe critical role of teachers in effectively integrating AI into the classroom.(00:18:39) Assessment and Grading with AIThe potential and concerns of using AI for educational assessment.(00:22:34) Learning Strategies and Conceptual UnderstandingThe importance of understanding the underlying concepts rather than just using AI tools.(00:25:08) Physical Activity and LearningThe connection between physical activity and improved learning outcomes.(00:29:17) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/XConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Rogier van Bemmel, Leon de Winter en Jasper van Dijk bespreken het nieuws van de week, waaronder de openingsceremonie van de Olympische Spelen, het conflict in het Midden-Oosten, de Amerikaanse verkiezingen en meer. Bronnen en links bij deze uitzending: - Columns en artikelen van Leon de Winter op De Telegraaf: https://www.telegraaf.nl/tag/Leon_de_Winter - Compilatie van Democratische politici die Trump en J.D. Vance 'weird' noemen: https://x.com/Dan_Schwartz/status/1818141909132378466

In this podcast episode of "From Lawyer to Employer," host Dan Schwartz and guest Rauchell Beckford Anderson discuss workplace investigations and the ethical issues that may arise. Rauchell, who recently became certified by the Association of Workplace Investigators, shares insights from her training and emphasizes the importance of conducting investigations impartially. They cover topics such as the necessity of determining the need for an investigation, selecting an appropriate investigator, and maintaining objectivity. They also discuss the pros and cons of remote interviews, the significance of timeliness and thoroughness, and the use of AI in transcribing interviews. The episode underscores the need for careful planning and ethical considerations to ensure the integrity of workplace investigations.

 LISTENDon't panic! The OGs (and one young guy - Dan Schwartz) fulfill a promise made years ago when they realized they didn't do this topic for episode 42. They dive into the multimedia cult phenomenon from the late, great Douglas Adams. Also mystery bone broth, cicada pee, at bears, dirt water, the Bible should lighten up, and our new "guy in the booth", David. Pour yourself a Pan Galactic Gargleblaster, the effects of which are like having your brains smashed out by a slice of lemon wrapped around a large gold brick, and enjoy! Don't forget your towel.  All Things OLD GUYS: https://linktr.ee/ogwltJoin the conversation (and see our artifact album) on our Facebook: facebook.com/oldguyswholovethings and talk to us via email: oldguyswholovethings@gmail.comFind Shawn online: https://linktr.ee/Grue_GalleryFind Eric online:  https://beacons.page/ericpschwartz (all music by Eric)Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.com

In this episode Jennifer talks with her colleague Dan Schwartz about his time as a leader in the fire service and the concept of servant leadership.

The Galileo Affair is widely viewed as the classic example of a scientific genius being persecuted by religious dogmatists. Yet, in recent decades, some philosophers and historians of science have put forward a new interpretation that defends the Church's position philosophically and puts (at least some of) the blame for the conflict on Galileo. Is there any merit to this view? What actually led to Galileo's persecution, censorship, trial, and house arrest? To address these questions, this talk examines the Galileo Affair in detail.Recorded live on July 3 at OCON 2023

This time, it's Dan Schwartz and Steve Roehm, one half of The Neighborhood Quartet. The have a great new self-titled album coming out on Record Store Day (4/20) and a big album release show happening at The Parkway on 4/28. They both bring a wealth of talent and experience to the music and this interview. Enjoy! #feeltheprairieSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/brian-oake-show/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Today's podcast looks at some of the newest issues to populate the employment law arena - including the use of AI and DEI initiatives. Join host Dan Schwartz as he chats with guests Gabe Jiran and Sarah Niemiroski about these topics and more.

Join host Dan Schwartz and special guest Nina Pirrotti, a partner with Garrison, Levin-Epstein, Fitzgerald & Pirrotti for our most recent episode of "From Lawyer to Employer”. Together, Dan and Nina engage in a dynamic conversation about employment law. This episode explores recent developments in the law, dissecting the current state of non-disclosure agreements, non-competes, and offering a glimpse into the potential hot topics of the new year, including the ever-evolving realm of Artificial Intelligence. Don't miss this vibrant discussion, filled with insightful reflections and a preview of what's to come in the world of employment.

Scenarios that arise for employers under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Family Medical Leave Act are often complex and without simple solutions. Oftentimes, these situations hinge on a particular fact that might be unusual or unique. In this podcast, we will present a brief overview of the ADA and FMLA, look at some of these scenarios, and answer some frequently asked questions such as:  Do the federal FMLA qualifying guidelines trump state law?  Who is considered a “healthcare provider” under these laws? What are the notification requirements under the FMLA?   Listen as guest speakers, Keegan Drenosky and Claire Pariano, chat with our host, Dan Schwartz and tackle difficult fact patterns under the ADA and FMLA.

UAW Rep Dan Schwartz from Local 1005 joins the show.  Bob and Dan have a spirited discussion about the continuing strike and the UAW's demands.  What doo the CEO's deserve and what do the workers deserve?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We asked for your questions about Ayn Rand's ethics and you submitted them. Join Ziemowit Gowin and Dan Schwartz as they discuss Objectivism's answers to your questions about ambition, rationality, the virtues, and the foundations of morality.

Discover the fascinating mindset of billionaires when it comes to business and real estate in this episode featuring Dan Schwartz. Join us as we delve into invaluable insights that can enhance your business management skills, streamline deal acquisitions, and much more! If you're looking to escape the daily grind, and achieve financial success, then this is for you.     Key takeaways to listen for 3 vital steps to make the most of CRM in your business The 80/20 Principle and how it can help you achieve your goals efficiently What you need to do to boost your sales How to effectively set up teams and systems for smooth deal acquisitions Unique possibilities of utilizing AI in the real estate space     Resources InvestorFuse Podio YouTube Link: Podio  What Is the Pareto Principle YouTube Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy | Kindle and Paperback The Meaning of Life by E.D. Klemke and Steven M. Cahn | Paperback ChatGPT Business Lunch Podcast Multipliers by Liz Wiseman | Paperback and Hardcover     About Dan Schwartz Dan Schwartz was previously the CEO and Founder of InvestorFuse, a lead management CRM designed to help investors scale their businesses and find freedom through automation and time-saving technology. His mission is to help entrepreneurs separate their time from their income through their system.     Connect with Dan Facebook Group: Scaling Real Estate Investors   Connect with Us Ready to level up your real estate game? Take action now to access exclusive resources, live events, and valuable insights from our experts:   1. BOOK A CALL: Visit our website at www.sendmoreoffers.com to book a call today. Our team of real estate professionals is ready to provide personalized guidance and help you achieve your investment goals.   2. JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Don't miss out on exclusive live events, networking opportunities, and valuable discussions. Simply search for "Send More Offers" on Facebook and hit the "Join" button. www.facebook.com/groups/sendmoreoffers   3. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL: Gain access to full video interviews, expert tips, and in-depth analyses by subscribing to our dynamic YouTube channel. Stay up to date with the latest trends and strategies in real estate investing. Subscribe now at https://www.youtube.com/@sendmoreoffers   4. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & TIKTOK: Stay connected and motivated by following us Socially! Get daily doses of inspiration, success stories, and valuable insights by following @sendmoreoffers. Join our community and be part of the conversation!   Remember, success in real estate investing starts with taking action. Visit our website, join our Facebook group, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and follow us on Instagram today. Let's achieve your real estate goals together!

Self-love is a continuous practice that requires patience and commitment. So in today's episode, we embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment with Dan Schwartz. Join us as we delve into the steps and strategies to shift our mindset, embrace our uniqueness, and foster a deep sense of self-acceptance.   Key takeaways to listen for: How to tap into your inner energy and overcome limitations The power of self-reflection and guidance from a mentor  What is hypnosis? Profound impact of self-love on relationships and career decisions Advice for people dealing with struggles and finding abundance   Resources: The Gap and The Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté MD and Daniel Maté | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover Self-Love Quiz How to process emotions so you can live in joy, reduce arguments and grow closer to your spouse I walked out to my car this morning to find this❤️❤️❤️    About Dan Schwartz Dan Schwartz co-founded InvestorFuse, a lead management CRM designed to help investors close more deals through automation and time-saving technology. Dan helps real estate entrepreneurs scale their businesses and create time freedom.   Connect with Dan Website: InvestorFuse  LinkedIn: Dan Schwartz  Facebook: Dan Schwartz    Connect With Us Schedule a call and find your level of happiness by taking your self-love quiz at www.BradChandler.com/contact.   Join How to be Happier - For Entrepreneurs | Private Facebook Group https://mc.bradchandler.com/grouppc_bradc.   Follow Brad on Social Media! Facebook Page: Brad Chandler Coaching Instagram: @bradchandlercoaching Twitter: @lbchandler1 TikTok: bradchandler6 YouTube Channel: Brad Chandler  

In this episode of New Ideal Live, Dan Schwartz and Nikos Sotirakopoulos discuss the significance of Dr. Peter Attia's new book Outlive and challenge some common arguments against life extension. Among the topics covered: Why we should care about extending our lives and our health; How Peter Attia's book fits into and changes the debate on life extension; Why the egalitarian argument against life extension is wrong; Why the “limited natural resources” argument against life extension is wrong; Why the “boredom,” “urgency” and “quality of life” arguments against life extension are wrong; Why the “glut of the able” argument against life extension is wrong; Why the “case against perfection” argument against life extension is wrong; How arguments against life extension are motivated by fear and not valuing life; What would James Taggart's response be to life extension? Mentioned in this podcast and relevant to the discussion is Peter Attia's book Outlive and the 2003 report of the President's Council on Bioethics.  The podcast was recorded on July 27, 2023. Listen to the discussion below. Listen and subscribe from your mobile device on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or Stitcher. Watch archived podcasts here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcKtVvb4moI Podcast audio:

Join us in this episode of 3 Degrees of Freedom as we delve into the world of real estate investing and lifestyle design with the brilliant Dan Schwartz, founder of the 80/20 Investor Academy. With over a decade of experience, Dan has honed his superpower - diagnosing root cause issues in businesses and solving them through efficient systems.We explore Dan's journey of the 3 degrees of freedom, witnessing how he achieved remarkable success by embracing location and time independence while scaling his ventures. Discover the intriguing story behind "The 80/20 Investor Academy" and how it embodies his vision of empowering entrepreneurs through education and community.With a focus on building sustainable, scalable systems, Dan shares invaluable advice on leveraging resources, creating standard operating procedures, and the delicate balance between systems and hiring the right people. Tune in for a captivating conversation that uncovers the secrets of Using Business Systems and Processes to Unlock Lifestyle Design.Connect with Dan using the social links below and learn more about his business:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danschwartzy/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/scalingreiWebsite: https://www.join8020.com/ EBook: https://www.8020closers.com/Unlock 3+1 degrees of freedom (time, location, financial + health) with our 5-Point Blueprint! https://elevateequity.org/podcastgiftIf you really enjoyed this content and are looking for more, you can continue to learn more about us in several different places for free!on our website for blogs & other podcast interviews! elevateequity.orgour YouTube channel! youtube.com/channel/derekcliffordour book/audiobook! amazon.com/dp/ebookIf you'd like to have a FREE copy of our 7 Ways Commercial Real Estate Syndications Protect and Build Wealth, simply click the link below. We are here and vested in your long-term success! elevateequity.org/7waysEbook

In this episode, we dive deep into the 80/20 Principle and how to maximize it for optimal success. Hop into the conversation with Dan Schwartz as he shares how you can leverage this principle, plus helpful tips on developing the essential traits and characteristics that entrepreneurs need to thrive in the real estate industry.Key Takeaways to Listen forHow to utilize the 80/20 mindset in scaling your RE businessSteps to identifying your tasks and priorities for income generation3 common mistakes business owners make and how to solve themExpert tips for setting realistic goal time framesWhy relatability is a skill set entrepreneurs should possessResources Mentioned in This Episode80/20 Investor AcademyThe 80/20 Principle by Richard Koch | Kindle and Paperback LoopNetChat OpenAI (missed resource)Free Apartment Syndication Due Diligence Checklist for Passive Investor About Dan SchwartzDan is a former drummer turned SaaS owner. Dan helps real estate entrepreneurs scale their businesses and create time freedom. He also founded the REI CRM InvestorFuse, which has helped 1000s real estate investors get a grip on their leads to close more deals.Connect with DanFacebook Group: Scaling Real Estate Investors | FacebookTo Connect With UsPlease visit our website: www.bonavestcapital.com, and please click here, to leave a rating and review!SponsorsGrow Your Show, LLCThinking About Creating and Growing Your Own Podcast But Not Sure Where To Start?Visit GrowYourShow.com and Schedule a call with Adam A. Adams

In this episode of New Ideal Live, Elan Journo is joined by four of the Ayn Rand Institute's fellows to preview talks they will be giving at our upcoming Objectivist Summer Conference 2023. Among the topics covered: Sam Weaver previews his talk, “The Reading Wars Today,” which addresses the destructive opposition to teaching children to read using phonics, and explains why Ayn Rand described phonics as the ‘conceptual' method of learning to read; Dan Schwartz previews his talk, “The Galileo Affair,” which will fight back against a recent trend in academia that blames Galileo for his famous clash with the Church; Nikos Sotirakopoulos previews his talk, “The Left's Long War on Israel,” which will explain the Left's longstanding opposition to Israel, and why this opposition follows from their collectivistic, anti-achievement ideology; Agustina Vergara Cid previews her talk, “The Immorality of the U.S. Immigration System.” Agustina will share real-life stories of hardworking immigrants trying to work in the US, revealing that the US immigration system is much more unjust than most of us think; Question period. Virtual passes to OCON 2023 can be purchased here until July 1. This episode was recorded on June 21, 2023. Listen to the discussion below. Listen and subscribe from your mobile device on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or Stitcher. Watch archived podcasts here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMy274gjH1k Podcast audio:

On February 3rd, a train carrying 20 cars with poisonous, flammable chemicals derailed in East Palestine, OH. In this episode, we're going to get some answers. Using testimony from four Congressional hearings, community meeting footage, National Transportation Safety Board preliminary reports, and lots of articles from local and mainstream press, you will learn what Congress is being told as they write the Rail Safety Act, which both parts of Congress are working on in response to the East Palestine train derailment. Please Support Congressional Dish – Quick Links Contribute monthly or a lump sum via PayPal Support Congressional Dish via Patreon (donations per episode) Send Zelle payments to: Donation@congressionaldish.com Send Venmo payments to: @Jennifer-Briney Send Cash App payments to: $CongressionalDish or Donation@congressionaldish.com Use your bank's online bill pay function to mail contributions to: 5753 Hwy 85 North, Number 4576, Crestview, FL 32536. Please make checks payable to Congressional Dish Thank you for supporting truly independent media! View the show notes on our website at https://congressionaldish.com/cd274-norfolk-southern-train-derailment-in-east-palestine Background Sources Recommended Congressional Dish Episodes CD247: BIF: The Growth of US Railroads East Palestine Derailment Overview “It's been more than a month since a freight train carrying hazardous chemicals derailed in Ohio. Here's what's happened since.” Alisha Ebrahimji and Holly Yan. Mar 23, 2023. CNN. “Residents can return home after crews burned chemicals in derailed tanker cars.” Associated Press. Feb 8, 2023. NPR. “WATCH: Smoke billows over East Palestine after controlled burn at train derailment site.” Feb 8, 2023. Cleveland 19 News. Vinyl Chloride and Dioxins “East Palestine Train Derailment: What is vinyl chloride and what happens when it burns?” Associated Press. Feb 8, 2023. CBS News Pittsburgh. “Dioxins and their effects on human health.” Oct 4, 2016. World Health Organization. “Medical Management Guidelines for Vinyl Chloride.” Last reviewed Oct 21, 2014. Centers for Disease Control Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. National Transportation Safety Board Findings “Norfolk Southern Railway Train Derailment with Subsequent Hazardous Material Release and Fires: Investigation Details.” Last updated Mar 21, 2023. National Transportation Safety Board. “What appears to be an overheated wheel bearing seen moments before East Palestine train derailment, NTSB says.” Ian Cross. Feb 14, 2023. ABC News 5 Cleveland. “Vent and Burn” Decision “Ex-EPA Administrator Doubts Agency's East Palestine Claims: 'Hard to Believe They Were Silent' Before Norfolk Southern Detonated Toxic Vinyl Chloride Cars.” Jordan Chariton. May 25, 2023. Status Coup News. “East Palestine emails reveal insight into decision to vent and burn toxic rail cars.” Tara Morgan. May 15, 2023. ABC News 5 Cleveland. “EXCLUSIVE: 'I truly feel defeated and useless.' Emails and texts reveal anguish of East Palestine fire chief over lack of adequate health advice after he was told to treat chemical disaster 'like a normal house fire.'” Daniel Bates. May 15, 2023. The Daily Mail. EPA failures “East Palestine Bombshell: EPA Official Admits It May Be Missing Toxic Chemicals in Air Testing, Admits Some of Its Decision Making Has Been to Prevent Lawsuits.” Louis DeAngelis. Mar 29, 2023. Status Coup News. East Palestine Resident Health Problems “No one has accepted real responsibility for the East Palestine disaster.” Zsuzsa Gyenes. May 16, 2023. The Guardian. “East Palestine survey reveals residents experienced headaches and anxiety after train derailment.” Nicki Brown, Artemis Moshtaghian and Travis Caldwell. Mar 4, 2023. CNN. “People in East Palestine showing breakdown product of vinyl chloride in urine tests.” Tara Morgan. Apr 28, 2023. ABC News 5 Cleveland. Norfolk Southern “Making it Right.” Norfolk Southern. “Norfolk Southern unveils compensation plans for homeowners near derailment site.” Andrea Cambron, Jason Carroll and Chris Isidore. May 11, 2023. CNN Business. “‘32 Nasty:' Rail Workers Say They Knew the Train That Derailed in East Palestine Was Dangerous.” Aaron Gordon. Feb 15, 2023. Vice. “Wall Street says Norfolk Southern profits won't suffer from derailment.” Rachel Premack. Feb 14, 2023. Freight Waves. “US rail industry defends safety record amid staffing cuts.” Josh Funk. May 16, 2021. AP News. Lobbying Against Regulations “Rail Companies Blocked Safety Rules Before Ohio Derailment.” David Sirota et al. Feb 8, 2023. The Lever. ECP Brake Deregulation “USDOT repeals ECP brake rule.” William C. Vantuono. Dec 5, 2017. Railway Age. Railway Safety Act “Railway Safety Act passes committee, moves to Senate floor for full vote.” Abigail Bottar. May 10, 2023. Ideastream Public Media. Staffing Cuts “Railroads are slashing workers, cheered on by Wall Street to stay profitable amid Trump's trade war.” Heather Long. Jan 3, 2020. The Washington Post. Long Trains “The True Dangers of Long Trains.” Dan Schwartz and Topher Sanders. Apr 3, 2023. Propublica. Bills S.576: Railway Safety Act of 2023 Audio Sources Senate Executive Session May 10, 2023 Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation Clips 36:30 Sen. JD Vance (R-OH): This bill has changed a lot from what I introduced just a few short months ago. We've made a number of concessions to industry; a number of concessions to the rail industry, a number of concessions to various interest groups, which is why we have so much bipartisan support in this body but also why we have a lot of support from industry. East Palestine Community Meeting March 28, 2023 Status Coup News Government Response to East Palestine: Ensuring Safety and Transparency for the Community March 28, 2023 House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment, Manufacturing, & Critical Materials Watch on YouTube Witnesses: Debra Shore, Regional Administrator, U.S Environmental Protection Agency, Region 5 Wesley Vins, Health Commissioner, Columbiana County General Health District Anne M. Vogel, Director, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Clips 30:40 Debra Shore: Since the derailment, EPA has been leading robust, multi-layered air quality testing, using state of the art technology in and around East Palestine, and that extensive monitoring has continued daily at 23 stations throughout the community. Since the fire was extinguished on February 8, EPA monitors have not detected any volatile organic compounds above established levels of health concerns. EPA has also been assisting with indoor air screenings in homes through a voluntary program to keep residents informed. As of March 21, more than 600 homes have been screened, and no sustained or elevated detections of chemicals have been identified. 33:00 Debra Shore: Here's how EPA is holding Norfolk Southern accountable. On February 21, EPA issued a Unilateral Administrative Order to Norfolk Southern, including a number of directives to identify and clean up contaminated soil and water resources, to attend and participate in public meetings at EPA's request, and to post information online, and ordering the company to pay EPA's costs for work performed under the order. All Norfolk Southern work plans must be reviewed and approved by EPA. It must outline all steps necessary to address the environmental damage caused by the derailment. If the company fails to complete any of the EPAs ordered actions, the agency will immediately step in, conduct the necessary work, and then seek punitive damages at up to three times the cost. 46:30 Rep. Bill Johnson (R-OH): In one case, trucks were actually turned around at the gate of a proper, certified disposal facility and sent back to East Palestine to sit practically in my constituents backyard. Why did the EPA believe that it needed to send those letters? Debra Shore: Chairman Johnson, the instance you cite occurred before EPA assumed responsibility under the Unilateral Administrative Order for the cleanup. We don't know who told those trucks to turn around, whether it was the disposal facility itself or someone else. 48:50 Rep. Bill Johnson (R-OH): Why were they turned around? Debra Shore: This occurred during the transition period between Ohio EPA and US EPA assuming the lead for the emergency response. As such, under the Unilateral Administrative Order, all disposal facilities are required to be on the CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act) approved off-site disposal list. So, we needed a few days to review what had occurred and ensure that those facilities that Norfolk Southern had contracts with were on that approved list. Once we determined which ones were on the approved list, it's up to Norfolk Southern to ship waste off the site. 1:03:30 Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO): Is the EPA intending to use the Unilateral Administrative Order to ensure that Norfolk Southern establishes a health and environmental screening program beyond this initial cleanup period? Debra Shore: Right now, the focus of the Unilateral Order and our work with Norfolk Southern is to make sure the site is cleaned up. I think the responsibility for that longer term health effort, I support what Dr. Vins recommended, and that may have to be negotiat[ed] with Norfolk Southern going forward. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO): Obviously, that hasn't started yet. Debra Shore: Not to my knowledge. 1:09:05 Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA): What will take place in the remediation phase, what happens then? Debra Shore: Then there'll be restoration of stream banks and the places where the soil was removed from along the railroad sites and I think a larger vision for the community that they're already beginning to work on, such as parks and streetscapes. Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA): Right. Any idea of what kind of timeframe we're talking about here? I mean, are we talking like in my district, decades? Debra Shore: No. We believe the core of the removal of the contaminated site and the restoration of the tracks will be several months. 1:11:35 Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ): When did clean up responsibility shift from EPA to Norfolk Southern, and what protections were put in place to ensure the health and safety of the community during that shift? Debra Shore: Thank you, Congressman Pallone. The transition from the State agency, which has the delegated authority in every state, has an emergency response capability, and so Ohio was on the ground working with the local firemen and other agencies as EPA arrived shortly after the derailment. It is typical in these kinds of emergency responses for the state agency to take the lead in the early days and Norfolk Southern was complying with the directives from the state. They continued to comply, but we've found over time that it's important to have all the authority to hold the principal responsible party in this case Norfolk Southern accountable, which is why on February 21, several weeks after the derailment, EPA issued its Unilateral Administrative Order. 1:19:55 Debra Shore: In the subsequent soil sampling that's been conducted, we looked at the information about the direction of the plume from the vent and burn event and focused that primarily where there might have been aerial deposition of soot or particulate matter, and that those soil samples have been collected in Pennsylvania. Rep. John Joyce (R-PA): And today, what soil, air, and water tests are continuing to occur in Pennsylvania? Debra Shore: Additional soil samples will be collected in collaboration, principally, with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the local Farm Bureau, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. 1:28:36 Anne M. Vogel: The reason that we have been able to say that the municipal drinking water is safe is based on an Ohio EPA map that pre-exists the derailment. This is the source water protection map. So the municipal wellfield is right here, if folks can see that, that big well in the blue. So the derailment happened way over here, a mile and a half away from the wellfield. And we know how the water flows, down this way, down this way, down the creeks. So the derailment would not have affected the municipal water source and we knew that very quickly after the derailment. 1:49:05 Debra Shore: Norfolk Southern has encountered some difficulties in finding and establishing contracts with sites to accept both liquid and solid waste. And I think we could accelerate the cleanup if they were able to fulfill that obligation more expeditiously. 1:51:20 Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA): What are some of the long term health concerns that residents and your providers have? Wesley Vins: We've heard a whole wide range of concerns long term. Certainly, cancer is first and foremost, because of much of the information that the residents see online and here, as well as reproductive concerns, growth concerns, hormonal concerns Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA): Do you think there's a potential with the carcinogens or any of the toxins that it could lead to ailments for five years from now? Wesley Vins: Yeah, I understand your question. So the some of the constituents that we have related to this response, obviously are carcinogenic, however, we're seeing low levels, is really the initial response. So I think the long question is, we don't know. Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-CA): We don't know. 2:04:50 Rep. Nanette Barragán (D-CA): Administrator Shore, one concern my office has heard is that relocation costs are not being covered by Norfolk Southern for everyone in East Palestine. How is it determined whether a resident is eligible to have their relocation costs paid for? Debra Shore: I'm sorry to hear that. My understanding was that Norfolk Southern was covering temporary relocation costs for any resident who sought that, and I would direct you to Norfolk Southern to ask why they are being turned down. Rep. Nanette Barragán (D-CA): Can the EPA require that Norfolk Southern cover relocation costs for anyone in East Palestine? Debra Shore: I'll find out. 2:11:45 Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA): I guess my concern is, if the EPA is website says that the sampling data hasn't been quality assured, how did the EPA make the determination that the air is safe to breathe when it appears that the sampling data has not been quality assured? Debra Shore: Congresswoman, I'm going to ask our staff to get back to you with an answer for that. Executive Session and Improving Rail Safety in Response to the East Palestine Derailment March 22, 2023 Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation View on Senate website Introduction Panel: U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown U.S. Senator J.D. Vance Mike DeWine, Governor of Ohio Misti Allison, Resident of East Palestine Witnesses: Jennifer Homendy, Chair, National Transportation Safety Board David Comstock, Chief, Ohio Western Reserve Joint Fire District Clyde Whitaker, Legislative Director, Ohio State SMART-TD Alan Shaw, CEO, Norfolk Southern Ian Jefferies, CEO, Association of American Railroads Clips 1:35:00 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Is there any relief being offered now to say, if you make the decision to move your home and move your family somewhere else, there is an avenue for you to sell your home and get a fair market price for it? Misti Allison: The short answer is, as of today, no. There is not a clear cut explanation or parameters of how you would do that. We've heard time and time again from Norfolk Southern that they're going to make it right and that they're looking into some long term health care monitoring and assistance and home value protection, but details of that plan have not been disclosed to residents as of today. 1:42:05 Jennifer Homendy: This derailment, as all accidents we investigate, was 100% preventable. 1:43:20 Jennifer Homendy: First, the definition of high hazard flammable train should be expanded to a broader array of hazmats and the definition's threshold of 20 loaded tank cars in a continuous block or 35 tank cars dispersed throughout a train should be eliminated. Second, DOT 111 should be phased out of all hazmat service. They're not as protected as DOT 117 tank cars. Third, people deserve to know what chemicals are moving through their communities and how to stay safe in an emergency. That includes responders who risk their lives for each of us every single day. They deserve to be prepared. That means access to real time information, obtaining the right training and gear, and having the right communications and planning tools. Fourth, light cockpit voice recorders in the aviation, audio and video recorders in the locomotive cab are essential for helping investigators determine the cause of an accident and make more precise safety recommendations. Recorders also help operators proactively improve their safety policies and practices. In the East Palestine derailment, the locomotive was equipped with an inward facing camera. However, since the locomotive was put immediately back into service following the accident, the data was overwritten. That means the recorder only provided about 15 minutes of data before the derailment, and five minutes after. The FAST Act, following terrible tragedies in Chatsworth and in Philadelphia, required Amtrak and commuter railroads to maintain crash and fire hardened inward and outward facing image recorders in all controlling locomotives that have a minimum of a 12 hour continuous recording capability. This was extremely helpful in our DuPont Washington investigation. Now is the time to expand that requirement to audio, and include the Class One freight railroads in that mandate. In fact, now is the time to address all of the NTSB's open rail safety recommendations, many of which are on our most wanted list. Fifth and finally, as the committee works on enhancing rail safety, I trust that you'll consider the resources that we desperately need to carry out our critical safety mission. Investments in the NTSB are investments in safety across all modes of transportation. 1:52:05 Clyde Whitaker: This derailment did not have to happen. And it makes it so much more frustrating for us to know that it was very predictable. And yet our warnings and cries for help over the last seven years have fallen on deaf ears and the outcome was exactly as we feared. Now the result is a town that doesn't feel safe in their own homes, businesses failing to survive and a railroad that prioritized its own movement of trains, before the people in the community, as well as its workers. It truly is a shame that operational changes in place prior to that incident are still in place today and the possibility for a similar disaster is just as possible. My entire railroad career I've listened to the railroads portray a message and image of safety first, but I have never witnessed or experienced that truth, one single day on the property. For years I've handled complaint after complaint regarding unsafe practices and unsafe environments, and for almost every single one I've been fought every step of the way. The truth is, ask any railroad worker and they will tell you, that their carriers are masters of checking the boxes and saying the right things, without ever doing anything meaningful toward improving safety. They're only focus is on the operating ratios and bottom lines, which is evidenced by the fact that their bonus structures are set up to reward timely movements of freight rather than reaching destinations safely, as they once were. Actions do speak louder than words. And I assure you that what you have heard, and will hear, from the railroads today are nothing more than words. Their actions are what's experienced by men and women I represent as well as what the people of East Palestine have been through. This is the reality of what happens when railroads are primarily left to govern and regulate themselves. 1:54:05 Clyde Whitaker: On July 11, 2022, I filed a complaint with the FRA (Freight Railroad Administration) regarding an unsafe practice that was occurring on Norfolk Southern (NS), despite existing operating rules to the contrary. NS was giving instructions to crews to disregard wayside detector failures and to keep the trains moving. This meant the trains were not being inspected as intended, and that the crews were not able to ascertain the integrity of such trains. This practice remained in place even after East Palestine. 1:54:40 Clyde Whitaker: It is a virus that has plagued the industry for some time, with the exception of precision scheduled railroading. Across America, inspections and maintenance is being deferred to expedite the movement of trains. No longer is identifying defects and unsafe conditions the goal of inspections, but rather minimiz[ing] the time it takes to perform them, or the elimination of them all together. 2:17:40 Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): Why did Norfolk Southern not stop the train then and examine the bearing to make sure that it didn't melt the axle and that you didn't have a derailment? If you'd stop then it would have prevented the derailment. So my question is, why did the second hotbox reading not trigger action? Alan Shaw: Senator, my understanding is that that second reading was still below our alarm threshold, which is amongst the lowest in the industry. In response to this, the industry has agreed to work together to share best practices with respect to hotbox detectors, trending technology, and thresholds. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX): So when you and I visited my office yesterday, you said your threshold is now 170 degrees above ambient temperature. As I understand it, at the time of the derailment, your threshold was 200 degrees above ambient temperature. 2:20:15 Clyde Whitaker: Make note that trending defect detector technology from being in the cab of a locomotive, when we pass a defect detector, it trends to an office like Norfolk Southern in Atlanta, Georgia. It doesn't convey to the railroad crews, which is a problem in this incident as well as many others that still continue to this day. What we need as a train crew -- which they say they listen, they haven't been listening for quite a while -- we need to be notified whenever these trending detectors are seeing this car trend hotter. That way we can keep a better eye on it. 2:22:35 Clyde Whitaker: It is feasible. The technology is there. Several days after East Palestine, we almost had a similar incident in the Cleveland area on Norfolk Southern. The defect detector said no defects to the crew. The train dispatcher came on and said, "Hey, we have a report of a trending defect detector on the train. We need you to stop and inspect it." Immediately after that the chief dispatcher, which is the person that controls the whole railroad, told them to keep going. If it were not for an eastbound train passing them and instructing them, "Hey, your train is on fire, stop your train." And we set that car out. They had to walking speed this car five miles. So the technology is there. They're just raising and lowering their thresholds to move freight. 2:25:15 Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): His testimony is loud and clear: it would have been worse if there was only one person as a crew on that train. Do you disagree with him? Alan Shaw: Senator, I believe that we have operations infrastructure on the ground to respond to derailments. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): I think you're not answering the question, okay? It's almost like the last hearing all over again. Because I think the evidence is very clear that these trains can be absolutely safer, but that technology is no replacement for human beings. For example, it can't provide the cognitive functions of a conductor and can't collect visual cues during an emergency. Two-person crews make our trains safer and I wish that you would commit to that today, because I think it's pretty obvious that is the correct answer. I just get sick of industry executives talking about supporting the principles of regulation, while they lobby against common sense regulations like this one behind the scenes. 2:38:50 Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT): I understand that the business plan of Norfolk Southern includes a $7.5 billion stock buyback that is ongoing. Do you believe it would be appropriate to suspend that buyback program until all of the assurances that you are making to this committee and also to the people of East Palestine, about "making this right," that that stock back buyback program should be suspended until you have accomplished what you've assured us and what you've assured that people of East Palestine that you would do? Alan Shaw: Senator, we think about safety every day. We spend a billion dollars a year in capital on safety. And we have ongoing expenses of about a billion dollars a year in safety and as a result over time, derailments are down, hazardous material releases are down and injuries are down. We can always get better. Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT): Right, so you won't answer my question about suspending the buyback program. Alan Shaw: Senator, stock buybacks never come at the expense of safety Sen. Peter Welch (D-VT): I take that is that you will continue with your plan on the buyback. 2:51:30 Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV): I know that high hazardous flammable trains have more safety regulations. Why would this not have been characterized as a high hazard flammable train if it had th ese hazardous materials on it as part of the 149 car train? Alan Shaw: Senator, thank you for your question. I'm not familiar with the entire makeup of the train. I know that a highly hazardous train is defined by a certain number of highly hazardous cars in it or a certain number of cars in a block. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV): Miss Homendy, maybe you can help me with that question. Jennifer Homendy: Yes, the definition of a high hazard flammable train involves class three flammable liquids only, 20 car loads in a continuous block, which would be a unit train, or 35 car loads of class three flammable liquids in a mixed freight train. That was not what was on this train. There were some that were class three defined flammable liquids, but this train was not a high hazard flammable train. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV): Right. It wasn't a high hazard train, but it had high hazardous materials that are very flammable that just lit up the sky. So is that something that you would consider that should be looked at as a safety improvement? Jennifer Homendy: Yes, Senator. We think that the thresholds of the 20 and 35 should be eliminated and we think a broader array of hazmat should be in the definition of high hazard flammable train. Protecting Public Health and the Environment in the Wake of the Norfolk Southern Train Derailment and Chemical Release in East Palestine, Ohio March 9, 2023 Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works View on Senate website Witnesses: Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) Alan Shaw, President and CEO, Norfolk Southern Corporation Debra Shore, Regional Administrator, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region V Anne Vogel, Director, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency Richard Harrison, Executive Director and Chief Engineer, Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission Eric Brewer, Director and Chief of Hazardous Materials Response, Beaver County Department of Emergency Services Clips 26:50 Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH): The company followed the Wall Street business model: boost profits by cutting costs at all costs, the consequences for places like East Palestine be damned. In 10 years, Norfolk Southern eliminated 38% of its workforce. Think of that. In a decade they cut more than a third of their jobs. We see what the company did with their massive profits. Norfolk Southern spent $3.4 billion on stock buybacks last year and were planning to do even more this year. That's money that could have gone to hiring inspectors, to putting more hotbox detectors along its rail lines, to having more workers available to repair cars and repair tracks. Norfolk Southern's profits have gone up and up and up and look what happened. 33:35 Sen. JD Vance (R-OH): It is ridiculous that firefighters and local officials don't know that hazardous chemicals are in their community, coming through their community. In East Palestine you had a community of largely volunteer firefighters responding to a terrible crisis, toxic burning chemicals, without knowing what was on them. 34:50 Sen. JD Vance (R-OH): I've talked to a number of my Republican colleagues and nearly everybody has dealt in complete good faith, whether they like the bill or have some concerns about it, and these comments are not directed at them. Who they are directed at is a particular slice of people who seem to think that any public safety enhancements for the rail industry is somehow a violation of the free market. Well, if you look at this industry and what's happened in the last 30 years, that argument is a farce. This is an industry that enjoys special subsidies that almost no industry enjoys. This is an industry that is enjoys special legal carve outs that almost no industry enjoys. This is an industry that just three months ago had the federal government come in and save them from a labor dispute. It was effectively a bailout. And now they're claiming before the Senate and the House that our reasonable legislation is somehow a violation of the free market. Well, pot, meet the kettle, because that doesn't make an ounce of sense. You cannot claim special government privileges, you cannot ask the government to bail you out, and then resist basic public safety. 40:10 Alan Shaw: Air and water monitoring have been in place continuously since the accident and to date it consistently indicated that the air is safe to breathe and the water is safe to drink. 47:20 Debra Shore: Since the fire was extinguished on February 8, EPA monitors have not detected any volatile organic compounds above levels of health concerns. 47:45 Debra Shore: EPA has been assisting with indoor air screenings for homes through a voluntary program offered to residents to provide them with information and help restore their peace of mind. As of March 4, approximately 600 homes had been screened through this program and no detections of vinyl chloride or hydrogen chloride have been identified. 48:40 Debra Shore: On February 21, we issued a unilateral administrative order to Norfolk Southern which includes a number of directives to identify and clean up contaminated soil and water resources, to attend and participate in public meetings at EPA's request, and to post information online, to pay for EPA's costs for work performed under this order. EPA is overseeing Norfolk Southern's cleanup work to ensure it's done to EPA specifications. The work plans will outline all steps necessary to clean up the environmental damage caused by the derailment. And most importantly, if the company fails to complete any of the EPA ordered actions, the agency will immediately step in, conduct the necessary work, and then force Norfolk Southern to pay triple the cost. 1:04:30 Eric Brewer: Norfolk Southern hazmat personnel and contractors arrived on scene shortly after 11pm. At around midnight, after research of the contents, it was decided to shut down fire operations and move firefighters out of the immediate area and to let the tank cars burn. This is not an unusual decision. This decision was made primarily by Norfolk Southern's hazmat coordinator, as well as their contractor. 1:05:15 Eric Brewer: There was a possibility of explosion and we should consider a one mile evacuation. Ohio officials notified us that the one mile radius would now be from the leaked oil address. This would add additional residents from Beaver County in the one mile evacuation zone. Donington township officials went door to door, as well as using a mass notification system to advise the residents of the one mile recommended evacuation. It was stressed that this was a recommendation as we cannot force residents from their homes. Social media posts began to circulate stating that arrest would be made if people refused to leave during the evacuation. Let me be clear that was not the case in Pennsylvania, as this was not a mandatory evacuation. Monday morning, we assembled at the Emergency Operations Center in East Palestine. We learned Norfolk Southern wanted to do a controlled detonation of the tank car in question. We were assured this was the safest way to mitigate the problem. During one of those planning meetings, we learned from Norfolk Southern that they now wanted to do the controlled detonation on five of the tank cars rather than just the one. This changed the entire plan, as it would now impact a much larger area. 1:21:25 Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV): Why did you wait a month before you started to order the dioxin testing when the community was asking for this? Was that a decision that you made early on that it wasn't critical? Or how was this decision made? Debra Shore: Senator Capito, our air monitoring was searching for primary indicators, such as phosgene and hydrogen chloride, immediately during and after the burn. We detected very low levels which very quickly went even down to non detectable. Without those primary indicators, it was a very low probability that dioxins would have been created. They are secondary byproducts of the burning of vinyl chloride. 1:25:40 Alan Shaw: As you saw just this week, a six point safety plan that included a number of issues which we're implementing immediately to improve safety, including installing more wayside detectors. The first one was installed yesterday outside of East Palestine. 1:30:20 Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK): Mr. Shaw, when the vent and burn process was being made, who who made those decisions? And what was other considerations other than just burning it and letting the material burn off? Alan Shaw: Thank you for that question. The only consideration, Senator, was the safety and health of the community. And that decision was made by Unified Command under the direction of the Incident Commander? Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK): Who's that? Alan Shaw: The Incident Commander was Fire Chief Drabick. Norfolk Southern was a part of Unified Command. 2:07:25 Alan Shaw: Senator, the NTSB report indicated that all of the hotbox detectors were working as designed. And earlier this week, we announced that we are adding approximately 200 hotbox detectors to our network. We already have amongst the lowest spacing between hotbox detectors in the industry. And we already have amongst the lowest thresholds. 2:15:35 Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): Will you commit to compensating affected homeowners for their diminished property values? Alan Shaw: Senator, I'm committing to do what's right. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): Well, what's right is a family that had a home worth $100,000 that is now worth $50,000 will probably never be able to sell that home for 100,000 again. Will you compensate that family for that loss? Alan Shaw: Senator, I'm committed to do what's right. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): That is the right thing to do. These are the people who are innocent victims, Mr. Shaw. These people were just there at home and all of a sudden their small businesses, their homes are forever going to have been diminished in value. Norfolk Southern owes these people. It's an accident that is basically under the responsibility of Norfolk Southern, not these families. When you say do the right thing, will you again, compensate these families for their diminished lost property value for homes and small businesses? Alan Shaw: Senator, we've already committed $21 million and that's a downpayment Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): That is a down payment. Will you commit to ensuring that these families, these innocent families, do not lose their life savings in their homes and small businesses? The right thing to do is to say, "Yes, we will." Alan Shaw: Senator, I'm committed to doing what's right for the community and we're going to be there as long -- Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA): What's right for the community will then be balanced -- which is what we can see from your stock buybacks -- by what's right for Norfolk Southern. C-SPAN: Washington Post Live March 6, 2023 Speakers: Heather Long, Columnist and Editorial Writer, Washington Post Jennifer Homendy, Chair, National Transportation Safety Board Clips 5:14 Jennifer Homendy: Hazardous materials are transported on all modes of transportation. Our aviation system is the safest, but they're limited in what they can transport for dangerous materials. Pipelines can also be safe as well. They have a generally good safety record until one big rupture occurs. But then our railroads also have a good safety record. Train accidents in general, per million trains miles, are going up. So it's trending upwards, accidents. With that said, going on our nation's roads with these materials is not something we want to see. You know, we have 43,000 people that are dying on our nation's roads annually. We have a public health crisis on our roads. Millions of crashes are occurring, so transporting hazmat on our roads would be more dangerous than on our railways. 6:50 Jennifer Homendy: The numbers are trending upward on accidents overall and also for Norfolk Southern 8:20 Jennifer Homendy: That is a role that's very important for the NTSB and why we are independent of the Department of Transportation. We are not part of the Department of Transportation because we do conduct federal oversight to see if DoT's oversight of the freight railroads is adequate or inadequate and we may make recommendations on that. 10:20 Jennifer Homendy: Once it hit well over 250 degrees, it was time for the train crew to stop to inspect the axle, to inspect the wheel bearing and to possibly, in this case, set out the car. But it was too late because as they were slowing and stopping, the train derailed, the wheel bearing failed. And so there might need to be more conservative temperature thresholdss o that started earlier. Also, something the Transportation Safety Board of Canada has looked at is real time monitoring of temperatures and data trending from the control center so that they can see the temperatures increase over a period of time. In this derailment, or what we saw of this train and its operations, is the temperature of that wheel bearing was going up pretty significantly over the course of the three different wayside detectors, but you know, the crew doesn't see that. So that real time monitoring and data trending so that there's some communication with the crew to stop the train and take immediate action is definitely needed. We'll look at that as part of our investigation as well. 12:30 Jennifer Homendy: One thing I will mention is that these decisions about the placement of these hot bearing detectors and the thresholds really vary railroad by railroad and so there needs to be good decision making, some policies and practices put in place. 18:00 Jennifer Homendy: Electronically controlled pneumatic (ECP) brakes don't prevent a derailment. It could lessen damage. So let me explain that. So in this one, car 23 still would have derailed because a wheel bearing failed. So car 23 still would have derailed. Still would have been a derailment, still would have been a fire, and the responders, and Norfolk Southern, and the state and locals would have had to still make a decision on whether to vent and burn the five vinyl chloride tank cars. There could have been a possibility of less damage, meaning a few cars could have remained on the track later in the train. But as for most of the damage, that still would have occurred whether we had ECP brakes on this train or not. 19:50 Heather Long: There's a lot fewer people working on rail, especially freight rail. Does the number of people make any difference here? Jennifer Homendy: Well for this one, as you said, we had two crew members and a trainee. They all stay, as with every train, in the cab of the head locomotive. So I do not see where that would have made a difference in this particular train and this derailment. One thing we are going to look at is whether any changes in staffing lead to any differences in how these cars are maintained or how they're inspected. That is something we will look at. 21:05 Jennifer Homendy: Yeah, so the fire chief, upon arrival at the command center following the derailment, had electronic access to the train consist, which is the list of cars and the materials or liquids that the train is carrying, but none of the responders had the Ask Rail app. You could look up a UN number for a particular car and get the whole consist of the train. It's in an app that the railroads developed for helping emergency responders to get information following an accident. 25:05 Jennifer Homendy: And we have over 250 recommendations that we've issued on rail safety generally that have not been acted upon yet. Music Tired of Being Lied To by David Ippolito (found on Music Alley by mevio) Editing Pro Podcast Solutions Production Assistance Clare Kuntz Balcer

Tune in as veteran Labor and Employment lawyer Dan Schwartz discusses separation agreements with podcast host, Gabe Jiran. During this episode of ‘Lawyer to Employer', Dan explains what employers need to know when using separation agreements as part of terminations, resignations, layoffs or reductions in force (RIF). He explores various applications for separation agreements when employers should use them, what employers need to include by law and what they may consider including (or not including). Dan offers suggestions on non-economic and economic incentives for employers to achieve the ultimate goal—the employee's signature on the separation agreement.

In this episode of New Ideal Live, Ben Bayer, Dan Schwartz and Agustina Vergara Cid address questions on Objectivism submitted by the podcast's audience about the meaning of the term “objectivity,” the difference between evasion and selective focus, and the strongest objections to Objectivism. Among the topics covered: If objectivity designates a certain relationship between consciousness and existence, how can reality itself be objective?The two meanings of “objectivity”: one epistemological, one metaphysical;Whether Objectivism's use of the term “objective” to refer to a relationship between mind and reality is idiosyncratic;Can you reach a false conclusion while being objective?Is it evasion to narrow your focus to the good or positive things within a certain context?When and how it's appropriate to focus on the benefits rather than the downsides of a particular situation;Focus as paying attention to something versus the specifically Objectivist meaning of focus as a state of “purposeful alertness;”How to prioritize one's attention in light of Objectivism's view that one should be motivated primarily by values rather than fear.What are the strongest objections to Objectivism?The difference between plausible objections and those that are common or valid;The objection that Ayn Rand's argument for her ethics justifies maintaining physical survival, but does not justify fulfilling and enjoying one's life;What this objection misses about the distinctive nature of life as a human being, such as the importance of mental well-being;Whether survival and flourishing are separate goals in cases like choosing to live a longer but less enjoyable life by adopting a healthier diet;The objection raised by many scientifically minded people that Objectivism is wrong to think human beings have free will;The failure of free-will skeptics to take seriously the introspective evidence for free will or to fully recognize the implications of determinism;The objection that claims Rand is a materialist. Mentioned in this podcast are Leonard Peikoff's book Objectivism: The Philosophy of Ayn Rand, the Ayn Rand Lexicon entry on “Objectivity,” Bayer's blog post “The History of Objectivity in Light of Rand's Epistemology and Ethics,” Rand's novel Atlas Shrugged, Lecture 2 of Peikoff's course Understanding Objectivism, and Harry Binswanger's course Free Will. The podcast was recorded on July 27, 2022. Listen to the discussion below. Listen and subscribe from your mobile device on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or Stitcher. Watch archived podcasts here. https://youtu.be/kihr3tvoq8Q Podcast audio:

We're told by a growing chorus of people on the left that gender is a fact determined entirely by an individual's private feelings and choices, and that government must protect and other institutions must recognize whichever gender one chooses. Defying many in her own feminist intellectual circles, British philosopher Kathleen Stock has bravely and vocally challenged this "gender identity theory," arguing that sex is a biologically immutable fact and that gender cannot be understood independently of that fact. In this episode of New Ideal Live, Onkar Ghate, Ben Bayer, and Dan Schwartz discuss what's impressive about Stock's philosophical analysis of sex and gender, but also examine some of the shortcomings in her analysis. Podcast audio:

The devotion for Sunday, April 17th was written and read by Heath Queen. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz. Happy Easter, friends!

The devotion for Saturday, April 16th was written by Janis and Art Seplak. It was read by Art Seplak. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Friday, April 15th was written by Heath Queen and read by Lynn Boldt. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Thursday, April 14th was written and read by Kate Ford. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Wednesday, April 13th was written and read by Rich Olson. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Tuesday, April 12th was written and read by Heath Queen. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Monday, April 12th was written by Pastor Dave Grant and read by Mary Bates. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Sunday, April 10th was written by Pastor Philip Formo and read by Mary Rice. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Saturday, April 9th was written and read by Courtney Queen. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Friday, April 8th was written by Christine Lunz and read by Carlie Sevcik. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Thursday, April 7th was written and recorded by Kris Leudesdorf. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Wednesday, April 6th was written by Heath Queen and read by Paul Brandt. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Tuesday, April 5th was written by Heath Queen and read by Mike Magnus. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Monday, April 4th was written and read by Karen Nordstrom. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

The devotion for Sunday, April 3rd was written and read by Pastor Kathie Nycklemoe. Music for the Lenten Daily Devotional Podcast was written and recorded by Dan Schwartz.

Dan Schwartz (@danjschwartz) is a freelance investigative journalist based out of Colorado. He's got a new piece in the Atlantic about climate change and how local weathermen are the most trusted people to sound the alarm about it. Social: @CNFPod Support: patreon.com/cnfpod Show notes and newsletter: brendanomeara.com