Podcasts about pa department

"Aimee Inama, Press Officer with the PA Department of Transportation discusses everything you need to know about getting your REAL ID with emphasis on the quick approaching May 7th deadline."  https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dmv/driver-services/real-id.html

We only have 1 more week to raise $15,000. Right now, we're not quite half way through! Every dollar matters. It helps us pay our journalists to travel the region to produce the stories on pressing environmental issues that you come to expect. It helps us pay for the technology to edit and mix our stories and podcast, host our podcast and keep our website updated. Take action today to keep your community informed in 2025. Give now and your donation will be doubled for double the impact.  Donate today.  Or send us a check to: The Allegheny Front, 67 Bedford Square, Pittsburgh, 15203.  And thanks!  This week's episode: The general public's views on climate change in Sweden aren't that different from those in the U.S. So why are Sweden's climate policies so much more advanced? It's the 50th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act, but even today, not everyone benefits equally. Plus, we head out on a winter tree ID walk. Also, heading home for the holidays by plane could mean a lot of climate pollution. Penn State has entered into an agreement with the PA Department of Environmental Protection over the presence of PFAS at the State College Regional Airport, and how to keep your home comfortable as temperatures drop.

Agriculture supports one in ten jobs in Pennsylvania, according to the PA Department of Ag. In Bucks County, Delaware Valley University is training the farmers and ag. Professionals of the future. In this episode, you'll hear about the changes the county has gone through when it comes to agriculture from William Penn to Del Val, and in between we learn about Commissioners Bob Harvie and Diane Ellis-Marseglia's family roots in the county.Special thanks to Pennsbury Manor and Delaware Valley University. Follow us: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram   Check us out online: BucksCounty.gov Music credit: Sunrise Serenade by Umasha Pros from Pixabay Epic background piano by Maksym Dudchyk from PixabaySakura Mediate Beat by Vlad Krotov from Pixabay

The PA Department of Education has added a new requirement for financial literacy curriculum in high schools across the Commonwealth. To talk about the goals and outcomes desired for students was Carey Barzeski of the Millcreek Township School District, and Grant Filbeck of Junior Achievement.

What's the difference between dirty dirt and clean fill? Join us with Kristina Heaney, District Manager at the Monroe County Conservation District, to find out! You can find the Form FP-001 Certification of Clean Fill referenced by Kristina here on the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)'s website. Please note that the maple sugaring program described in the episode has passed for 2024, but stay tuned for next year's program as well as all the upcoming spring and summer events referenced in this episode!

It's the Friday news roundup! One city councilor wants to update the zoning code for some residential properties, a new record number of Pennsylvanians are enrolled in SNAP, and there's a bill in our state legislature that would require kids to learn cursive writing. We're comparing our handwritten notes, plus diving deep into the history and lore of Punxsutawney Phil. We always cite our sources: Pittsburgh City Council person Bobby Wilson introduced legislation that would update the city's zoning code. We've previously chatted on the pod about how the city's zoning rules can sometimes throw a wrench in development.  There's a record number of Pennsylvanians enrolled in SNAP.  In 2022, the SNAP income eligibility requirements were raised, and the PA Department of Human Services lists the maximum gross monthly income by household size. You can apply for SNAP benefits online through COMPASS or find a county assistance office near you.  Organizations like Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and Just Harvest also offer help with filling out SNAP applications and more. There's a bill in the state legislature that would require PA schools to teach cursive writing. Instead of having Phil predict the weather with his shadow, PETA suggested using a coin flip this year. In the past, they've also offered alternatives like an animatronic groundhog or even having someone wear a groundhog costume and live in Phil's enclosure. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club has answers to questions about the Feb. 2 celebration at Gobbler's Knob, and answers to questions you didn't realize you had about Phil himself! Listen to our crossover episode with City Cast Philly about Groundhog Day. Become a member of City Cast Pittsburgh at membership.citycast.fm. Want more Pittsburgh news? Sign up for our daily morning Hey Pittsburgh newsletter. We're also on Instagram @CityCastPgh! Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miguel Armaza sits down with Sarah Hammer, Executive Director and Professor at the Wharton School. Sarah has a long history of leading multiple fintech and financial institutions at Wharton, in the private sector, and also in the public sector.Additionally, Sarah leads the Cypher accelerator, Wharton's fully-remote and non-dilutive accelerator program built to launch the world's leading technology startups. So, if you're starting to build a fintech company anywhere in the world, be sure to apply by December 17th. Some of the program mentors include Mark Cuban, Tim Draper, and Charles Birnbaum.Wharton's Cypher accelerator and the types of companies they are looking to supportLessons from leading the PA Department of Banking and Securities throughout the Silicon Valley banking crisis Potential applications, uses, and impact of GenAI in the financial world … and a lot more!Want more podcast episodes? Join me and follow Fintech Leaders today on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app for weekly conversations with today's global leaders that will dominate the 21st century in fintech, business, and beyond.Do you prefer a written summary, instead? Check out the Fintech Leaders newsletter and join 60,000+ readers and listeners worldwide!Miguel Armaza is Co-Founder and General Partner of Gilgamesh Ventures, a seed-stage investment fund focused on fintech in the Americas. He also hosts and writes the Fintech Leaders podcast and newsletter.Miguel on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nKha4ZMiguel on Twitter: https://bit.ly/2Jb5oBcFintech Leaders Newsletter: bit.ly/3jWIp

Have you ever wrestled with the gravity of youth suicide and bullying? Have you ever wished you could understand it better to make a difference in a young person's life? In this episode, we had a meaningful conversation with the President and CEO of the American Association of Suicidology, Leeann Sherman. The discussion focused on the rising rates of youth suicide, the urgent need for mental health awareness, and the creation of safe, stigma-free spaces for dialogue. We talked about the labyrinth of social and economic factors that impact youth suicide rates. These factors, often intertwined, can create an environment where young people feel increasingly hopeless and isolated. Understanding youth suicide and finding ways to combat it is a pressing issue that requires our attention. We hope that this episode can help shed light on the problem, spread awareness, and promote action towards addressing youth suicide. About Leeann Sherman | President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Leeann Sherman, MPS, CAE, is the Chief Executive Officer of the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). Sherman brings extensive non-profit experience with over 20 years in professional associations and community-driven, mission-based organizations to her tenure with AAS. This national organization provides training, education, research, and awareness programs to promote the understanding and prevention of suicide. Sherman has been a founding member of various industry coalitions to drive mission and advocacy forward, working with stakeholders and volunteers throughout her diverse career. She has worked with federal, state, and local government agencies, including the Centers for Disease Control, the PA Department of Health, the PA Department of Human Services, the PA Department of Transportation, the PA Department of Environmental Protection, the Federal Highway Administration, US Department of Transportation, Pennsylvania's Governor's Office and federal legislators while also working closely on advocacy with the Pennsylvania Legislature. She has a baccalaureate (Hospitality Management and Nutrition) and a master's degree (Community and Economic Development) from Pennsylvania State University. She is an active alum at her alma mater in various activities for the next generation. She has been awarded the Scott Jackson Award for leadership from PASAE, the highest honor for an association executive in Pennsylvania. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential, the marker of a committed association professional who has demonstrated the wide range of knowledge essential to manage an association in today's challenging environment, with less than 4,500 people worldwide holding this certification. Links mentioned:   Website: https://suicidology.org/  Website: https://nicic.gov/weblink/american-association-suicidology  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AASuicidology  Instagram: @aasuicidology Twitter: @AASuicidology LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aasuicidology/  Episode highlights: [0:00] Intro [1:44] Who is Leeann Sherman? [6:22] Look for ways to improve people's lives [8:08] The challenges faced by our youth [16:38] Recognizing signs of suicide and prevention [29:42] Understanding and Supporting Youth Mental Health [40:58] They need someone to talk to [46:59] Outro

Philadelphia Housing Development Corporation (PHDC) is hosting its first housing fair for current homeowners, first time buyers, renters and landlords interested in learning more about homeownership, maintaining the home, development opportunities, and so much more. It takes place October 21, 2023, 10am-3pm at Temple University Aramark Student Training and Recreation (STAR) Complex 1816 N 15th St, Philadelphia, PA 19121. https://phdcphila.org/housingfair/ Body image can be a challenge for women with breast cancer whether its loss of hair during treatment, weight gain from medications or scarring from surgery. I speak to Gina Range, Board Member of Living Beyond Breast Cancer; Vice President of Development of Opera Philadelphia and a breast cancer thriver herself. Gina discusses her own journey addressing the physical and emotional challenges she faced, and the support offered by Living Beyond Breast Cancer. https://www.lbbc.org/ Twitter: @LivingBeyondBC Facebook: LivingBeyondBreastCancer Instagram: @livingbeyondbc A concert featuring the songs of Motown, the Sound of Philadelphia? That's what in store at “Lets Groove Tonight: Motown and the Philly Sound” performed by the newly formed NO NAME POPS, composed of musicians from the Philly Pops. I speak to conductor Herb Smith who has played trumpet with Gladys Knight, The Temptations and so many musical greats. The concert takes place Saturday October 28th at 3:00 and 8:00 pm at the Kimmel Cultural Campus. - a concert featuring both - I'm there and I'll tell you all about it. https://www.kimmelculturalcampus.org/events-and-tickets/2023-24/rentals/no-name-pops/ Learn to do business with the City & State, PA Department of General Services, Philadelphia Office of Economic Opportunity and Temple University On Oct 19th when Senator Sharif Street Hosts The 6th Annual Diverse & Minority Business Forum At Temple University. All details here: https://www.senatorsharifstreet.com/businessforum

It's our 200th podcast episode! We celebrate by recognizing another big milestone: issue #1000 of the PA Environment Digest published by former PA Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David Hess. Dave explains how the Digest grew from an internal newsletter during his days as a legislative staffer into one of the Commonwealth's longest-running and widest-reaching citizen journalism initiatives.

Kimberly A. Smith, Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, on transportation, pedestrian and children's safety when schools out,' some summer safety tips for everyone and workzone safety. We'll talk about these 'Deadliest Days' for teens, how to be a safe traveler, and we'll dig into workzone safety.

In this episode of White Canes Connect, Lisa and David speak with Tom Snedden from PACE, a prescription assistance program in Pennsylvania for those 65 and older. Tom tells us who is eligible for the program and how to sign up. Spoiler alert: it is easy to sign up! Tom also discusses how the program started and how it is funded. Tom has been running the program for 38 years and tells us that even if you are not 65, there may be something for you called PACE Clearinghouse. Show notes at https://www.whitecanesconnect.com/065   PACE Prescription Assistance Program Learn more about PACE at https://pacecares.magellanhealth.com/. To sign up, call (800) 225-7223. Read more from the PA Department of Aging at https://www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/prescriptions/Pages/default.aspx. Learn more about the Clearinghouse at https://pacecares.magellanhealth.com/documents/Clearinghouse_Brochure_2020.pdf.  Parents Of Blind Children Fundraiser Support the Parents Division by purchasing candy! Go to https://www.sarriscandiesfundraising.com/VIEWBYCATEGORY.aspx?id=VA to make your purchase. If you do not see their name on the page, enter their code: 10-0316. Give Us A Call We'd love to hear from you! We've got a phone number for you to call, ask us questions, give us feedback, or say, "hi!" Call us at (267) 338-4495. You have up to three minutes for your message, and we might use it on an upcoming episode. Please leave your name and town as part of your message.  Follow White Canes Connect Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon | IHeartRadio  Connect With Us If you've got questions, comments, or show ideas, reach out on Twitter. We are @PABlindPodcast. You can also email us at WhiteCanesConnect@gmail.com.  

Medicaid is a valuable federal program that primarily applies to nursing home and in-home care. The law is open to some interpretation by individual states, so it's important to consult professionals you can trust to guide you through the legal and financial complexities of the program. Jeffrey R. Bellomo, founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master's degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. Jeff is skilled at explaining legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language, as he does in this discussion of the current state of Medicaid as applied in Pennsylvania.  Key Takeaways    02:17 – Medicaid Basics * Medicaid is a federal program originating with The Deficit Reduction Act (DRA-2005) and The Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA-1996) * The laws apply primarily to nursing home and long-term care (LTC) * Although based in federal legislation, some aspects of the law can vary by state 04:04 – Pennsylvania has state-specific interpretations of the law * Pennsylvania (PA) offers a Long-Term Care Handbook, which is available online  * Interpretations can vary by county and even by caseworker * The PA Department of Human Services has the final say if there is disagreement in how the state and an individual interpret the law   08:38 – Medicare is not Medicaid   * Medicare does not cover nursing home care and LTC * Under Medicare, an individual admitted to the hospital for more than 3 consecutive midnights, can go into an LTC facility for rehab for up to 100 days * Non-compliant or non-participatory rehab patients could lose LTC funding and be forced into private pay 11:31 – PA Community HealthChoices Waiver * This Medicaid program provides in-home care for people with income less than $2,523/month * It can be difficult to qualify for in-home care if a person has income of more $2,523 per month * An excess income trust (see Achieva Family Trust in Pittsburgh) is a possible option for an individual with monthly income of $2,523 plus $500  14:22 – In-home and LTC staffing concerns * During Covid-19 pandemic, agencies had difficulty staffing in-home caregivers  * Staffing shortages have lessened, but it's still difficult in some counties * If staffing is not available for in-home care, a person might need to use an LTC facility 16:34 – Your assets can be protected   * The monetary limits discussed above will change in 2023 * When a person qualifies for Medicaid in PA, the amount of money they can keep depends upon their income * If an individual dies and has assets (in their name alone) of more than $2,400, the state can recover funds from the estate * Hire a professional for guidance if you know someone in a nursing home or someone who might need LTC within 6-12 months   Links and Resources Mentioned Bellomo & Associates workshops, including Medicaid  https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/ Pennsylvania (PA) Long-Term Care Handbook http://services.dpw.state.pa.us/oimpolicymanuals/ltc/Long-Term_Care_Handbook.htm Achieva Family Trust https://www.achieva.info/family-trust For more information, call us at (717) 845-5390. Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates  Ways to work with Jeff Bellomo Contact Us: https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/  Practice areas: https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/

Kimberly A. Smith | Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, Engineering District 3-0, Montoursville www.penndot.pa.gov Angela Bieber, Community Traffic Safety Program, District 3 www.highwaysafetynetwork.org Guests talk about the upcoming holidays, the PennDOT and Highway Safety Network advisories on impaired driving, about drinking and driving, distracted driving, seat belt usage, and Old Driver Safety Awareness Week.

Kristin Bowers, M.A., CCC-SLP is a certified and licensed Speech Language Pathologist with experience in a variety of settings with difference disorders and age groups. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competency issued by the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), is licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and holds a Level II Teaching Certification issued by the PA Department of Education.  Kristin earned both her B.A. in Communication Science and Disorders and her Masters degree in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Pittsburgh. She also holds a certificate in the Conceptual Foundations of Medicine. She has worked in Pittsburgh Public Schools Early Intervention program, providing speech and language therapy to the 3-5 age group. In addition to serving children with articulation, phonological, fluency and language disorders in this position, Kristin worked within the program's autism support and multiple disabilities classrooms. Currently, Kristin works for a local Intermediate Unit providing services to school-age children in the Pittsburgh area.  In addition to her work with children in the Pittsburgh area, Kristin has traveled extensively utilizing her knowledge of speech, language, and teaching. In 2010 she taught English to children in Tanzania, followed by a month in India teaching English to adult Tibetan refugees. In 2012, she worked on a team with the Bosnia Autism Project, where she traveled to Sarajevo to help provide training and skills to professionals working with children with autism, as well as their families. Kristin is committed to providing the best services for each client and is excited about being able to provide private therapy to further meet the needs of children and adults in Pittsburgh. In order to do this, she is regularly involved in trainings and continuing education. She also develops many of her own materials, customized for the goals and needs of her students and clients. Kristin's links: kiwispeech.com/slpbigkidsto get the Fall Freebie https://bit.ly/3DCx3o3 for the Articulation Logic Problems https://bit.ly/3gLqoPk for the Secret Code Boom Cards https://www.kiwispeech.com/blog/dont-schedule-iep-meetings-in-the-mornings for the blog post on productivity.   And the book was When, by Daniel Pink (also mentioned in the blog post).   Kim's YouTube resource: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b--Ndkp9_40   You listen to this and all episodes of the podcast at: www.3cdigitalmedianetwork.com/telepractice-today-podcast  

I'll be speaking with Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia about Mural Arts Month. For more info: www.muralarts.org. Follow along on social media: @muralarts on Twitter and Instagram, @MuralArtsPhiladelphia on Facebook, and phillymuralarts on YouTube.It's that time of year again when those that qualify have options for signing up for Medicare Advantage plans. Michael Sheehan, Chief Clinical Officer for Braven Health, explains Medicare Advantage, changes in healthcare plans, preventative care and more.https://bravenhealth.com/There's an important election coming up and AARP has a great voter education guide for Pennsylvania voters. I speak to Yocasta Lora, State Advocacy and Community Engagement Manager for AARP PA.For more info: www.aarp.org/PAvotes.If you are BIPOC business, you'll want to check out the Diverse and Minority Business Forum Friday October 21st 10 am to 2 pm at Temple University Medical School Student Faculty Center 3340 N. Broad Street. I speak to one of the sponsors, State Senator Sharif Street, about the event which is about learning to do business with the City and State, PA Department of General Services and Philadelphia Office of Economic Opportunity and Temple University. For more info go to www.senatorsharifstreet.com.

The difference between probate and non-probate assets is one of the most misunderstood areas in estate planning and elder law. Making informed decisions is critical to smart asset handling when planning your estate, so let's clear up any confusion. Jeff defines key terms, outlines the probate process, and explains how it differs from the direct transfer of assets to beneficiaries. You'll learn how to protect assets for survivors, avoid surprise tax bills, and ensure that your assets are distributed and used as intended. Key Takeaways  Takeaway 1: Avoiding probate does not mean avoiding state tax - 01:23 In Pennsylvania (PA), the inheritance tax applies when wealth is transferred. The tax rate varies depending on the recipient's relationship to the decedent. PA inheritance tax rates—spouse: 0%; lineal descendants (i.e., children, grandchildren, etc.): 4.5%; siblings: 12%; and others, including nieces and nephews: 15%. Life insurance is not subject to state inheritance tax and is not available to creditors. All other assets are taxable. Takeaway 2: Most of us don't need to worry about federal estate tax - 03:09 Wealth less than $12.06 million (or $24.12 million for a married couple) is not subject to federal estate tax. For assets greater than $12.06M (or $24.12M), the federal tax is about 40%.  Takeaway 3: Probate applies to assets where the decedent has sole ownership (no joint owners), and no beneficiary is designated - 04:18 Probate is the state's way of ensuring the proper and lawful distribution of assets. Probate assets are taxable (except for life insurance). The probate process tells the executor what needs to be done and provides a timeline for activities (e.g., filing inheritance tax, issuing notices to heirs and creditors, etc.). The Register of Wills office issues “short certificates” that the executor uses to conduct business on behalf of the estate (e.g., closing bank accounts).   Takeaway 4: Non-probate assets are jointly owned or have designated beneficiaries - 08:04 Non-probate assets transfer directly to the joint owner or the beneficiary. Non-probate assets are taxable (except for life insurance). When assets are transferred to a surviving joint owner, the PA Department of Revenue (DoR) is notified. The DoR issues a tax notice. A beneficiary that receives a tax bill should check to make sure that the inheritance rate is correct based on their relationship to the decedent. Provide the correct information to the DoR if an adjustment is needed. Takeaway 5: Probate and revocable trust administration are similar in process – 12:56 Some financial advisors regularly recommend a living trust instead of probate. This makes sense in some states more than others, depending on the fees and complexity of a state's probate rules. Pennsylvania's probate process is similar to the process of administering a revocable trust  Takeaway 6: Know the differences in managing probate and non-probate assets when estate planning – 17:51 Avoiding probate protects assets from the state when the decedent has been under long-term care via Medicaid. The probate process can protect assets in ways that directly transfer to a beneficiary cannot. Probate gives the decedent more control over how the assets are distributed and used after death. Probate can safeguard the beneficiary by ensuring that the tax liability will be managed properly. Links and Resources Mentioned Bellomo & Associates workshops, including Medicaid: https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/  For more information, call us at (717) 845-5390 Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media Twitter: https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates  Ways to work with Jeff Bellomo Contact Us: https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/  Practice areas: https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/

We Have Breaking News             Today:  Non-binary performer Demi Lovato has let the world know she has “re-organized' her pronouns.  She no longer uses just they/them but now includes she/her.  We thought you should know.  First up, Kim Lackner Mauro with the Parent Choice Coalition challenges the PA Department of Education's position that kids as young as 3 can identify as transgender.  Finally, political commentator and author Dick Morris tackles a variety of topics including FoxNews banning Trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guidance updates affecting nursing homes have rolled out in recent weeks from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH).In this week's episode, we'll get up to speed on the latest guidance on COVID-19 boosters, temporary nurse aides (TNAs), and PA DOH's therapeutics form. We're joined by Penny Imes, Quality Improvement Specialist at Quality Insights.If you want to reach out to Penny directly, you can call Quality Insights at 1-800-642-8686 and enter extension 7644. You can also contact her via email at pimes@qualityinsights.org.Links discussed in this episode: - Credentia: http://www.credentia.com/test-takers/pa  - PA Department of Education (search “Temporary Nurse Aide): https://www.education.pa.gov/pages/search.aspx - Updates guidance on 2nd COVID-19 Booster shots: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Nursing-Homes.aspx - COVID-19 Outpatient Therapeutics for LTCFs in PA:  https://mcusercontent.com/3c9fc473fc413830f0c7ccfaf/files/7e121600-c31a-e595-b4b7-b26aa9378285/PA_DOH_Therapeutics_for_LTCFs_0622.pdf Check out our other interviews by visiting qualityinsights.org/qin/multimedia.  This material was prepared by Quality Insights, a Quality Innovation Network - Quality Improvement Organization under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. Publication number 12SOW-QI-GEN-061622-CC-A

Kimberly A. Smith, Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, Engineering District 3-0, and Trooper Andrea Pelachick, Community Service Officer, Public Information Officer, Pennsylvania State Police, Troop F, Milton with a quick primer on summer safety tips you have to know: The 100 deadliest days for teens, distracted driving, workzone safety, road safety and young children, bike helmets, and much, much more. We'll talk about why these reminders are life-savers.

“The Pennsylvania Department of Aging announces, ‘The Medicare Extra Help Program', which assists certain seniors in paying for prescription costs, premiums, and deductibles. Find out if this program can help you.” www.aging.pa.gov

Ted Dorand, PECO External Affairs Manager for Bucks County, was a Special Guest speaker at the April 19, 2022, meeting of the Newtown Economic Development Committee (EDC). In this audio clip, Mr. Dorand speaks about solar power in response to a question from Matt Peters, the Chair of the EDC, about installing solar panels in parking lots and/or other open spaces. Mr. Dorand also explains how PECO works with the PA Department of Environment Protection regarding the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant (AFIG) Program, which provides funding to help municipalities replace older gasoline- or diesel-fueled vehicles with electric fueled vehicles. It also funds installation of electric fueling equipment for these vehicles. PECO has incentive programs around “make ready” costs.

Dolly McCluskey from the Free Medical Clinic of DuBois, Nancy Fassnacht from the DuBois Street Mission, and the PA Department of Human Services all talk about ways of keeping yourself and neighbors warm during these cold temperatures. This includes how to give back to local programs that provide warmth to people experiencing homelessness.

Recently, New York and New Jersey released data on how many patients were hospitalized “with” Covid vs. “for” Covid. But to date, Pennsylvania has not disclosed similar data. Instead, the PA Department of Health continues to release numbers without context. This episode is an audio version of an op-ed on this lack of context from Gov. Tom Wolf's administration.

On the Monday Joel Natalie Show, “work” was our primary focus, as we welcomed Jennifer Berrier, Secretary of the PA Department of Labor and Industry to the program. Secretary Berrier talked to us about jobs in Erie, safe workplaces, and Governor Wolf's recent visit to Erie to meet with union officials and workers.

UPPER MERION TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OCTOBER 14, 2021 MEETING ~ 7:30 PMAGENDA0:00:001. Meeting Called to Order.0:00:172. Pledge of Allegiance.0:00:333. Roll Call.0:00:514. Chairman’s Comments:0:03:045. New Business:A. Presentation from Lower Providence Township to Upper Merion Fire & EMS Personnel for Hurricane Ida assistance.0:09:32B. Proclamation re: Fire Prevention Month – October, 2021.0:16:10C. Presentation re: Upper Merion Fire and Emergency Service Awards.0:24:00D. Presentation of the Bernard S. Gutkowski, Sr. Firefighter of the Year Award and the Mary Bacchi Emergency Medical Services Responder of the Year Award to the Upper Merion Township Fire and EMS Department.0:43:10E. Announcement of Home Town Hero Program.0:48:45F. Consent Agenda re:1. Financial Escrow Security Release No. 4, Craft Custom Homes, LLC, 383 Anderson Road Subdivision – Approve Escrow Release Request No. 4 to Craft Custom Homes, LLC, in the amount of $27,975.00 for the completion of required public improvements to date as part of the 383 Anderson Road Subdivision.2. Accept Resignation of Mahum Mahmood, Student Member of the Park & Recreation Board3. Financial Escrow Security Release No. 9, 900 River Road LLC, 900 River Road – Approval of Escrow Release No. 9 to 900 River Road LLC in the amount of $832,294.00 for the completion of required site improvements to date as part of the warehouse development project as recommended by the Township Engineer.4. Financial Escrow Security Release No. 2, Horizon Drive Group, LP, 3700 Horizon Drive – Approval of Escrow Release No. 2 to Horizon Drive Group, LP in the amount of $496,253.00 for the completion of required site improvements to date as part of the building expansion project as recommended by the Township Engineer.5. Crow Creek Trail Project – Substantial Completion Date Extension. Approval of a contract substantial completion date extension to October 28, 2021 requested by James Kenney Excavating & Paving due to material delivery delays as well as trail damage repairs caused by Hurricane Ida.6. Crow Creek Trail Project Contract Payment No. 11 in the amount of $128,182.50 to Kenney Excavating for work to date on the Crow Creek Trail Project.7. Authorization of 2021 Operating Budget Transfers – Park & Recreation. Authorization of a budget transfer in the amount of $4,550.00 from the Park & Recreation Budget Line 01-450-3730 Building Maintenance to 01-450-3185 Waste Removal.8. Authorization of 2021 Supplemental Budget Appropriations – Park & Recreation. Authorization of the following 2021 Supplemental Budget Appropriations due to unanticipated revenue/expenses as follows:1. 01-367-0420 Day Camp Revenue increased to $207,260.002. 01-450-4592 Day Camp Programs expense increased to $52,775.003. 01-367-0430 Inst Class Revenue increased to $132,712.004. 01-450-4593 Inst Class Program expense increased to $287,000.005. 01-367-0450 Special Events Revenue increased to $9,217.006. 01-450-4595 Special Events Programs expense increased to $14,000.009. Resolution 2021-26 – PA Department of Education eSignature Authorization. Authorization for Laura Arnhold, Township Library Director to sign all contracts with the Department of Education.10. Resolution 2021-27 – Request for a Multimodal Transportation Fund Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation in the amount of $1,000,000.00 to be used for the Brownlie Road Bridge Replacement Project.0:53:41G. Resolution 2021-22 – Preliminary/Final Development Plan – JP Morgan Chase Bank. 677 W. DeKalb. Consideration of a Preliminary/Final Land Development Plan for JM Real Estate Holdings, prepared by the Core States G

 This summer, the invasive spotted lanternfly (SLF) was in the news multiple times after being found in Indiana, in a new Ohio location, and in a 4-H insect collection from Kansas. So, the Arthro-Pod gang decided to sit down and talk about this beautiful yet devastating insect. Tune in to learn about the biology and development of SLF, how the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has combated it for the last few years, and the damage to crops and property that can be expected from SLF. A beauty and a beast, SLF impacts numerous crops by sucking the life out of them with its piercing-sucking mouthparts. Photo by Lawrence Barringer, Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org. Show notesUSDA Where is the threat and where to report https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/pests-diseases/hungry-pests/slf/spotted-lanternfly Up to date maps of SLF infestation: https://nysipm.cornell.edu/environment/invasive-species-exotic-pests/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly-ipm/introduction-native-range-and-current-range-us/  Map of potential distribution in US: https://entomologytoday.org/2019/10/03/invasive-spotted-lanternfly-large-potential-range-united-states-beyond/. There is also a map of potential worldwide range. ESA collection of research https://www.entsoc.org/spotted-lanternfly-research-accelerates-effort-contain-invasive-pestThe life cycle of SLF, courtesy of the PA Department of Agriculture Questions? Comments? Follow the show on Twitter @Arthro_PodshowFollow the hosts on Twitter @bugmanjon, @JodyBugsmeUNL, and @MSkvarla36Get the show through Apple Podcast, Spotify, or your favorite podcatching app!Subscribe to our feed on Feedburner!  We're also on Stitcher!This episode is freely available on archive.org and is licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Beginning/ending theme: "There It Is" by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0

Diego M Sandino, Community Relations Coordinator, PA Department of Transportation, tells us the state has reached out to 375,000 CDL drivers in the hopes of finding school bus drivers.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On September 9, 2021, Francis Hanney, Senior Manager - Traffic Services Division/ADA Coordinator at PA Department of Transportation (PennDOT) - hosted an online meeting with residents to discuss road improvements to facilitate access and egress to the proposed Arcadia Green development at the intersection of Newtown Bypass and Buck Road. At least 4 options with variations have been proposed by the developer and by residents in the neighboring communities. For an explanation of the options, read "Controversy Regarding Proposed Arcadia Newtown U-Turn Option": https://bit.ly/3CaZju2 In this 21-minute audio snippet from that meeting, Mr. Hanney explains why he is opposed to all the options other than the U-turn option at Mill Pond Road. He also discusses criteria that must be met before the limited access restrictions on the Bypass may be lifted. Mr. Hanney offered a more detailed summary of PennDOT's rationale for the above position in a September 16, 2021, letter - https://bit.ly/PennDOTresponseLtr - sent to the Township and participants. The letter responds to the community's concerns and clarifies why certain alternatives are not acceptable and provides additional information about each alternative and reasons for why it is or is not acceptable. Mr. Hanney hopes this response is understandable by lay-people so that they might better understand and accept PennDOT's position. He also implored the community associations to work with Mr. Duckworth to reach a solution to the access issues, including re-looking at the Millpond connection (which would cut through Eagle Ridge property and which is strictly prohibited by the settlement agreement) and what could be done by Arcadia to mitigate the communities' "various concerns."

April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day. It's a day to focus on legal and medical directives in case of emergency. To no surprise lots of us don't want to think about death and dying. But guess what? If you ignore it, it won't simply go away. Learn about of some the different documents and directives and the importance they play in life and death for you and a loved one. For more information and to access downloadable living wills/advance directives or a healthcare power of attorney, check out the following websites: -National Healthcare Decisions Day website- nhdd.org/ -Caring Connections PA Advance Directive- caringinfo.org/files/public/ad/Pennsylvania.pdf -PA Department of Health website sample advance directive and durable healthcare power of attorney - dsf.health.state.pa.us/health/lib/he…irectives.pdf -Medicare.gov website- medicare.gov/manage-your-health…ong-term-care.html www.legalzoom.com www.rocketlawyer.com www.upmc.com (free advance directive form) www.polst.org www.funeralwise.com For the most comprehensive and crucial decision making I would recommend consulting with an attorney, particularly an eldercare attorney.

Mike Diehl, Community Traffic Safety Coordinator, Highway Safety Network, and Kimberly A. Smith, Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, Engineering District 3-0. On back to school safety for returning students, and motorists. We'll discuss safety for kids walking to school, safety for parents driving kids to school, safety at the school, school bus safety for kids riding on the bus, and safety for people driving near the bus. Also, teen drivers, bike riders and how to get five points added to your driving record.

Mike Diehl, Community Traffic Safety Coordinator, Highway Safety Network, and Kimberly A. Smith, Safety Press Officer, PA Department of Transportation, Engineering District 3-0. On back to school safety for returning students, and motorists. We'll discuss safety for kids walking to school, safety for parents driving kids to school, safety at the school, school bus safety for kids riding on the bus, and safety for people driving near the bus. Also, teen drivers, bike riders and how to get five points added to your driving record.

On this week's show, Eric invites listeners to the Hemp Tour Kick Off taking place on Monday, June 28, 2021, 3:30 to 5 p.m., at the Penn State Research Farm in Manheim, Lancaster County. Speakers to include PA Ag Secretary Russell Redding, folks from the National Hemp Association, New Holland Ag, and more. Preregister for the event here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lancaster-farming-national-hemp-tour-kick-off-tickets-158119962063 Eric also gives a big shout out to the sponsors of the tour and people who are supporting the tour through IndieGoGo: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-us-educate-the-world-about-the-uses-of-hemp#/ Plus, why is the PA Department of Ag sending cease & desist letters to hemp producers? Special Thanks to: IND HEMP https://www.indhemp.com/ New Holland Ag https://agriculture.newholland.com/nar/en-us National Hemp Association https://nationalhempassociation.org/ Desmet Ballestra https://www.desmetballestra.com/ Americhanvre Cast-Hemp https://americhanvre.com/ Terradon Hemp https://www.terradonhemp.com/

Do you ever wonder why it’s so difficult to hit your goals? Whether that’s losing weight, saving money, or whatever it is you want to achieve – why does it seem like it’s such a constant struggle? Today, I’m bringing in Stephanie Wirth who works for the PA Department of Revenue as an internal control analyst, and one of her main functions is focused around leadership development.  We talk about the power of working within your strengths to help you align with your values and your purpose. Once you honor your values and strengths, everything just becomes clear to you. And when you have clarity, your goals become attainable.  From a leadership perspective, identifying your individual strengths makes you more productive. And when you know each other’s strengths, the team becomes more effective, creating this beautiful synergy. We also talk about the value of mentorship and how tapping into the right tools can harness self-awareness and foster growth. Sometimes, it takes someone to see something in you (that you probably don't realize you have it in you) for you to come forward. And it takes awareness for you to realize they’re actually leaving you a breadcrumb trail that leads to finding yourself and finding your purpose.  In this episode, you will hear : How working on yourself as an individual strengthens the team as a whole Creating a strength map The benefits of working within your strengths Why many people struggle to identify their unique strengths How to identify your unique strengths  How your values can change over time How when you’re aligned with your values brings alignment within the team Supporting Resources: If you’re interested in joining a workshop with Stephanie and me, please send an email to info@hopetaylormedium.com.  Upcoming Mentorship offerings with Hope: Uplevel your Spiritual Business 6/10/21 Start Your Spiritual Business Available Now 8 Week Beginner and Intermediate Development Enrollment Open Now  https://hopetaylormedium.mykajabi.com/ Subscribe and Review Have you subscribed to our podcast? We’d love for you to subscribe if you haven’t yet.  We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. *** EPISODE CREDITS: If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Danny Ozment. He helps thought leaders, influencers, executives, HR professionals, recruiters, lawyers, realtors, bloggers, coaches, and authors create, launch, and produce podcasts that grow their business and impact the world. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com

In this episode your host, Alix Cohler interviews Deputy Secretary for Higher Education, Dr. Tanya Garcia, and Policy Director, Ms. Julie Kane, from the PA Department of Education about their amazing work with the "It's On Us" grant.

The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement is out of money and Shannon weighs in on how the problem will be solved. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) and the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) announced today that a new Pennsylvania law waives the requirement for Pennsylvania residents who are current and former military members and who operated a commercial vehicle as part of their duties, to take a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Knowledge Test when applying for a CDL. Previous legislation – Act 133 of 2008 – established a waiver of the CDL skills test for these individuals. “We are pleased to announce this important change and hope that it helps military members in their transition to civilian life find good-paying, sustainable employment to begin their new lives,” said PennDOT Secretary Yassmin Gramian. Act 131 of 2020 allows the PennDOT to waive the CDL Knowledge Test for Pennsylvania residents on active or reserve military duty or recently honorably discharged veterans, provided those service members have at least two years of experience operating a commercial motor vehicle as part of their military job requirements. The waiver applies to CDL applicants who wish to operate vehicles similar to those they operated in the military. For example, those who drove combination type commercial (Class A) motor vehicles in the military will be eligible in Pennsylvania for a waiver to drive a combination type vehicle and those who drove a single motor vehicle of commercial type (Class B) in the military will be eligible in Pennsylvania for the waiver to drive that type of vehicle. Applicants must complete form DL-398, “Application for Military CDL Test Waiver,” to request the waiver. Doubles, triples and school bus endorsements cannot be waived under this program. PennDOT will waive the knowledge test specified, subject to the limitations in the 49 Code of Federal Regulation Section 383.77, to an applicant who meets all the requirements for a waiver. “Service members gain many valuable skills in the military that translate well into the civilian job sector,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania's acting adjutant general and acting head of the DMVA. “This program is a huge opportunity to assist our veterans and service members with these skills to get good jobs as Pennsylvania is critically short in CDL drivers.” Military personnel and veterans interested in taking advantage of the CDL skills and knowledge test waivers can find further information by visiting www.dmv.pa.gov, click on Driver Services and choose Military Personnel Veterans from the dropdown. Form DL-398 can be found under Forms and Publications on the homepage. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/paheroes/support

University of Pittsburgh develops a ‘transformative technology for drug discovery," PA Department of Health expects over 200,000 Covid-19 vaccine doses this week and more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Resource Enhancement and Protection program (REAP) allows farmers, landowners and businesses to earn tax credits for implementing Best Management Practices to enhance farm production and protect natural resources. Last year, Joel Semke, REAP Coordinator for the PA Department of Agriculture and State Conservation Commission, joined us last year for a full episode on the basics of REAP. Today, Joel joins us to discuss common questions about the program.

Delaware Valley Journal broke the story of desperate county officials pleading for more help from the PA Department of Health, describing the COVID situation in their longterm care facilities as "a fire in dry grass."And DVJ editor Todd Shepherd talks about the COVID-19 nursing home crisis and the vaccine rollout with Zach Shamberg, president of the PA Health Care Association.Hosted by Michael Graham of InsideSources.

On our Wednesday program, Rick Scaletta, superintendent of General McLane School District, joined us for an update on how their students and staff are doing at this point in the pandemic. Rick weighs in on the PA Department of Education's new guidance, the need for teachers and staff to be vaccinated, transportation challenges and other important issues.

Pennsylvania's Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) has a dual mission: to provide quality service to the commonwealth's veterans and their families, and to oversee and support the members of the Pennsylvania National Guard (PNG). We fulfill our dual mission by: Providing resources and assistance to Pennsylvania's nearly 800,000 veterans and their families, and providing quality care for aging and disabled veterans. Preparing the PNG for combat, performing worldwide combat and combat support operations, providing global reach and the projection of U.S. military power in support of national objectives; and, at the command of the governor, providing trained personnel to support state and local authorities in times of natural disaster or civil strife. Created by the Act of April 11, 1793, the Adjutant General Department was later renamed the Department of Military Affairs by the Administrative Code of 1923. The Act of March 21, 1996 changed the name, once again, to what it is known by today – the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). DMVA is one of Pennsylvania's largest employers, with approximately 22,000 military and civilian personnel in some 90 communities statewide. It is overseen by the adjutant general, a governor appointed cabinet-level position. The DMVA and PNG are headquartered at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. Fort Indiantown Gap features more than 17,000 acres and 140 training areas and facilities for year-round training for military forces, law enforcement agents and civilians from across the nation and is one of the busiest National Guard Training Centers in the country. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/paheroes/support

“The Riches of Kindness”Doris Lessing in her novel, The Golden Notebook, writes,“Do you know what people really want? Everyone, I mean. Everybody in the world is thinking: I wish there was just one other person I could really talk to, who could really understand me, who'd be kind to me. That's what people really want, if they're telling the truth.”Kindness. It doesn’t have the pizazz that comes from fame and fortune. There is something gentle and unassuming about it. Still in small and large ways it is often life changing.Erica Shames, founder and publisher of Susquehanna Life Magazine speaks with her podcast co-host, Peterson Toscano, about the contents of the Winter 2020 issue of the magazine. In preparing the issue, kindness emerged as a strong theme. It is so strong that Erica plans on weaving the theme of kindness into the magazine and podcast throughout 2021. So in a time when there is a lot of strife in the world, how do we promote more kindness?To find out Susquehanna Life Out Loud co-host, Peterson Toscano, chats with Joanne Troutman, the President and CEO of the Greater Susquehanna Valley United Way. She tells us about wildly successful Kindness Campaign that United Way helped organized earlier this year. She also reveals bigger plans for the 2021 Kindness Campaign. Follow them on Facebook.Dr. Mel Zimmerman from the Lycoming College Clean Water Institute, updates us about the Susquehanna River and the many creeks and streams in the region. Dr. Zimmerman is featured in Darrin Youker’s article in the 2020 issue of Susquehanna Life Magazine. Dr. Zimmerman also shares ways you can show some kindness to the Susquehanna River and area water ways. You can follow the Clean Water Institute on their Facebook PageIn anticipation of her 50th birthday Karen Hendricks decided to try something completely different. An avid runner, she signed up to run 50 races for 50 different causes. Susan Ryder writes about Karen’s year-long celebration in the Winter 2020 issue of Susquehanna Life Magazine. Peterson Toscano chats with Karen to find out more about her adventure, what she learned, where she ran, and how the Covid-19 Global Pandemic interrupted but did not deter her plans.Karen blogs about each of the 50 races and each charity they races benefited. She is also the host of The Burg podcast.Dig DeeperThe official Kindness Campaign websiteVideo of Hellbender Salamander research with Dr Peter Petokas from the Clean Water Institute Integrated water quality report 2020 from PA Department of Environmental ProtectionChesapeake Bay report cardAUG 2020 WNEP Outdoor Life program featuring Dr Peter Petokas and CWI interns Hellbender researchCreate a Riperian Buffer to protect river and streamsPA Bureau of Watershed Management’s Riparian Forest Buffer GuidancePA Fish and Boat CommissionSusquehanna River Basin CommissionRoad Runners Club of AmericaSusquehanna Ridge Runners ClubThis episode of Susquehanna Life Out Loud is sponsored by Elizabeth’s An American Bistro, a true neighborhood bistro, and by the Lewisburg Downtown Partnership, sponsor of “Lewisburg in Lights” and “Late Nights in Lewisburg.” Susquehanna Life Out Loud is the companion podcast to Susquehanna Life Magazine. You will find a full transcript of this episode and listings of previous episodes on our show notes page. You can hear our podcast on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, and Stitcher Radio. Let us know where you hear podcasts, and we will submit our show to that platform.See a listing of where you can buy our magazine and find out about subscription options. Do you want to be a sponsor of Susquehanna Life Magazine? Find out about advertising options.Do you want to be a sponsor of Susquehanna Life Magazine? Find out about advertising options. For questions, comments, suggestions, and recommendations, you can reach us at SusquehannaLife@gmail.comIn this show you heard the songs “Weather Every Storm” by Cody Francis and “We’re All Runners,” by Nadja Alsén and Craig Reever. They are available at Epidemic Sound.This episode of Susquehanna Life Out Loud is sponsored by Elizabeth’s An American Bistro, a true neighborhood bistro, and by the Lewisburg Downtown Partnership, sponsor of “Lewisburg in Lights” and “Late Nights in Lewisburg.” Susquehanna Life Out Loud is the companion podcast to Susquehanna Life Magazine. You will find a full transcript of this episode and listings of previous episodes on our show notes page. You can hear our podcast on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, and Stitcher Radio. Let us know where you hear podcasts, and we will submit our show to that platform.See a listing of where you can buy our magazine and find out about subscription options. Do you want to be a sponsor of Susquehanna Life Magazine? Find out about advertising options.Do you want to be a sponsor of Susquehanna Life Magazine? Find out about advertising options.For questions, comments, suggestions, and recommendations, you can reach us at SusquehannaLife@gmail.com

The first episode of season two of Healthcare Reimagined was recorded on October 5th, 2020. I had a chance to speak with Meghna Patel, who is the Deputy Secretary for Health Innovation at the Pennsylvania Department of Health. We began with a discussion on Pennsylvania's prescription drug monitoring program, which Meghna and her team launched in a five month time-frame as a means of addressing the growing opioid crisis. The database is available to all licensed prescribers in the state, and in less than four years has grown to serve 110,000 active users on the system. Since the launch of the program, there has been a 35% reduction in opioid prescriptions in the state of Pennsylvania, which is remarkable progress in such a short time.In the second-half of the interview, we discussed COVID Alert PA, which is a contact tracing app released by the state of PA to help support the test-trace-isolate model. The app, created in collaboration with 26 other states and international governments, uses bluetooth technology to create a digital key that allows for anonymous contact tracing. In earlier efforts to contact trace, most people could only identify immediate family members when asked to recall with whom they had been in close contact.  COVID Alert PA uses bluetooth to remove the guesswork, prevent false positives, and has been downloaded  by close to 200,000 people in the first month since it was released. A joint study done by Oxford and Stanford Universities found that if 15% of people in the U.S. downloaded  their state's contact tracing app, we could reduce the spread of the virus by as much as 15%. The Society for HealthCare Innovation is a community of professionals dedicated to improving healthcare through innovation. We are comprised of physicians, nurses, healthcare executives, tech and industry leaders, and many more with a unifying ethos and mission- improving healthcare through innovation.  SHCI Website:  https://www.shci.org/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/theshci/Spotify:   http://bit.ly/healthcarereimaginedTime Stamps:0:00 -  Introduction 1:18 -  Introduction to PDMP - the PA DOH's prescription drug monitoring program 3:50 -   PDMP's origins span back to the 1970's. It was previously use for law enforcement and investigations, and was never used as clinical tool until it was relaunched in 20164:55 -  How the PA DOH gathers data to measure the impact of the program7:00 -  Outcome improvements that have resulted from the program  8:55 -  PDMP integration into provider EMR's10:25 -  Introduction to COVID Alert PA11:14 -  Apple/Google joint efforts to facilitate contact tracing 11:40 -  The traditional contact tracing strategy and its shortcomings15:00 -  How COVID Alert PA works 18:25 -  It turns out it cannot be used like a dating app (I know, I was also disappointed) 19:08 - How COVID Alert PA is different from traditional contract tracing 20:00 - Adoption rate - 185,000 downloads in the first 30 days since it launched20:50 - International collaboration 24:00 - Important public information about contract tracing apps25:20 - Interoperability and final comments

Interested in broadening relationships with international partners? Join us today on Business as Usual as we welcome Kate Skopp from PA Department of Community and Economic Development as she discusses the state’s network of authorized trade represents who work to help companies penetrate international market. Plus, we will also hear from Kathy Risko about the work of the Sisters Cities Association of Pittsburgh to strengthen relationships with and share knowledge with our sister cities from across the globe. Now is the time to be thinking of growing globally. Learn more from these awesome resources.

In this podcast Joel Semke, REAP coordinator for PA Department of Agriculture and State Conservation Commission, joins us. He discusses details and changes on the 2020-2021 Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP).

The MI Dept. of Health and Human Services issued an Emergency Order requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural employees and USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service proposed a new rule to expand and enforce organic regulations.  Also, PA’s Dairy Future Commission released its final report with recommendations and the PA Department of Environmental Protection extended its Milk Disposal Guidance until September 21, 2020. Material from the Agricultural Law Weekly Review—week ending August 7, 2020 Hosted by Audry Thompson, Research Assistant—With Brook Duer, Staff Attorney—Produced & Written by Audry Thompson Follow us on Twitter @AgShaleLaw  Like us on Facebook Penn State Center for Agricultural and Shale Law This material is based upon work supported by the National Agricultural Library, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Music is “Caazapá (Aire Popular Paraguayo)” by Edson Lopes is licensed under CC BY 3.0.

** Apologies in advance for the bad sound at the beginning. Looks like my new soundboard set up is not going to cut it **   Republican Senate Majority Leader, Mitch McConnell has held up an agreement on a new COVID-19 relief package saying that he will not pass a bill without a “liability shield” for employers. However, Republicans can’t agree with themselves and have failed to reach an agreement as expanded unemployment benefits expire today and the moratorium on evictions expired last weekend.  The Democratic National Committee passed a platform this week that they are touting as the “boldest Democratic platform in American history.” Scratch the surface of that talking point, though, and you learn that they refused to back Medicare for All; would not back marijuana legalization; refused to call for the end of qualified immunity for police officers; poo-pooed a federal jobs guarantee; passed on a comprehensive plant for implementing a Green New Deal; and, scoffed at placing conditions on aid to Israel.    Following Attorney General Barr’s House testimony, Federal troops are being withdrawn from Portland after they brutally suppressed protests since the beginning of July.The Washington Post reported yesterday that the Department of Homeland Security compiled “intelligence reports” on American journalists covering the Portland protests.    Frustrated? Want to get back to “normal” news stories? Ok, try these on for size: Baghdad Iraq hit a record-shattering 125 degrees on Tuesday. On Monday the temperature was 123 and on Wednesday it was 124. The electricity grid began to fail and two protesters were shot dead by security forces during protests over a lack of electricity and basic municipal services.    Can’t stand the heat? Well, about a quarter of Bangladesh is flooded after torrential rains have wreaked havoc on the nation that was pummeled by a cyclone just two months ago. More than a million homes are underwater, 4.7 million people are affected, and at least 54 people - mostly children - lost their lives.    One more? According to a new study published Thursday in the journal Scientific Reports, up to 171 million people today face the risk of coastal flooding from extreme high tides and storm surges.    Pennsylvania saw an additional 860 new positive coronavirus cases, bringing the slow, but steady increase in cases to 111,078. The PA Department of Health reports a significant increase in cases among younger people, especially those between 19 and 24.    Pro-COVID-19 Republican state legislator, Russ Diamond shows his colors again by mocking Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine’s call for tolerance and acceptance of LGBTQ people. Levine spoke out after dealing with escalating and harassment by Pro-COVID-19 brown shirts. Governor Wolf calls on the state legislature to censure Diamond.    Half of the universities that make up the PA State System of Higher education have reversed course, moving most classes online. Kutztown University is one of the holdouts. Students, faculty, and staff working under the banner of the Healthy Campus Bill of Rights, will be holding a town hall on Wednesday, August 5th.   In related news, KU’s president Hawkinson is planning a town hall of his own next Tuesday. It is an invite-only to select VIPs, donors, and alumni. The event is being billed as “a unique opportunity to learn about KU’s vision for the fall 2020 semester directly from university leadership,” and is being sponsored by the KU Foundation.   Now is a perfect time to request your Vote by Mail ballot. If you are PA voter go to https://www.pavoterservices.pa.gov/ and click “Mail-in Ballot Application” to get the process moving.    Mike Pence was in Western, PA campaigning for Trump yesterday. His campaign bus crashed into a dump truck. There’s a joke in there somewhere. Maybe...something with #dumptrump?    It was a big week in space news...like really big. NASA successfully launched the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover Thursday morning.    Perseverance will also land with a little friend. For the first time NASA will attempt to fly Ingenuity, a four pound helicopter built for the Martian atmosphere.   The two astronauts who flew the first successful Crew Dragon mission to the International Space Station are expected to return to Earth on Sunday..  On Tuesday, NASA announced the crew for SpaceX’s Crew-2 mission to the ISS in Spring 2021.    And, finally, Virgin Galactic unveiled the cabin for its SpaceShipTwo, a swanky space liner that is designed to carry six space tourists to suborbital heights for the cost of a $250,000 ticket. About 600 people have already booked a seat.    Free Will Brewing releases (this and this); awesome collaboration from Levante Brewing; and, a back-to-campus in the pandemic pic from New Trail Brewing. 

Wednesday 7/22/20 Hour 1 – Topics: Baseball Opening Day tomorrow, Mookie Betts mega extension, and PA Department of Health denies Blue Jays to play at PNC Park.

Wednesday 7/22/20 Hour 1 – Topics: Baseball Opening Day tomorrow, Mookie Betts mega extension, and PA Department of Health denies Blue Jays to play at PNC Park.

We’re back in record territory when it comes to new COVID-19 cases. New cases are rising in 27 states with Texas, California, Arizona, and Florida showing some the most alarming increases. The enormous Texas Medical Center in Houston reached 100% capacity yesterday. The CDC now says that more than 20 million Americans could have contracted the virus - 10 times more than the official counts.  Unlike the initial explosion of COVID-19 cases that saw older Americans accounting for most cases, younger people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s The Voice of America is now Trump Radio.  Jamaal Bowman ousts Warhawk, Eliot Engle, in the Democratic Party Primary in New York’s 16th district which spans parts of the Bronx and Westchester County. Bowman won the nomination by 25 points.  In another huge exclamation point in growing progressive power in the Democratic Party, AOC blew out her corporate-backed challenger in New York’s 14th district by 51 points. 70% v. Michelle Caruso-Cabrera’s 19%. AOC took to Twitter following her victory to say: “Wall Street CEOs, from Goldman Sachs to Blackstone, poured in millions to defeat our grassroots campaign tonight. But their money couldn’t buy a movement. Thank you #NY14, and every person who pitched in for tonight’s victory. Here’s to speaking truth to power.” Charles Booker pulls ahead of Amy McGrath in the fight for the Democratic Party nomination to challenge Mitch McConnell in the Kentucky Senate race.  In New York’s 17th district, Mondaire Jones looks to be heading to Washington after blowing out a three-way race for the Democratic Party nomination. If his twenty-point lead holds, he’ll be one of the first openly gay black men in Congress.  Tik Tok and KPop help sink Trump’s great hope of sell-out crowds in Tulsa.  Bad news for Devin Nunes. A judge rules that he can’t sue Twitter because fake cow hurt his fufus on the platform. That’s a win for Devin Nunes’s Cow and Devin Nunes’s Mom.  There’s a giant dust cloud racing across the Atlantic.  I bet none of you had that on your 2020 bingo card? And...here we go...My Little Pony fans are kicking out the white supremacists from their fan pages. Yes. That My Little Pony.  New York Times releases a damning video that reconstructs the I-676 tear gassing and toruture the Philadelphia Police unleashed on protesters on June 1st.  The Philadelphia Police Department and the City of Philadelphia’s statements on the incident were discredited the day following the event, but the city and the police department drug their feet for 24 days before apologizing and banning the use of tear gas.  Mayor Kenney and Commissioner Outlaw were hoping that an internal investigation would have kept this in the dark.   Move over Bill De Blasio, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney still thinks his political career has any relevance.  He launched a statewide PAC that are leading many to believe that he’s gearing up for a 2022 run at the Governor’s seat.  Christopher Columbus statue in Marconi Plaza in Philly is coming down because the people defending the statue caused so much bullshit attacking black lives matter protesters that the city is removing it.  In a PA Grand Jury report released yesterday slams the PA Department of Environmental Protection for failing to protect people from the effects of fracking. The grand jury said the natural gas industry should bear the expense and risk of fracking, but the DEP “did not take sufficient action in response to the fracking boom.”  PA Stands Up held its 5th The Crisis and The Opportunity Virtual Forum last night featuring Shanna Danielson, Nikil Saval, Summer Lee, Elizabeth Fiedler, and Sara Innamorato. I got to listen in to most of the discussion. It was a great space and you can watch the recording at PA Stands Up Facebook page.   The State Senate passed on Wednesday a major plan that clears the way for the restructuring of the PA State System of Higher Education. The plan will give more power to the Board of Governors and the Chancellor to consolidate schools, eliminate programs, turn existing schools into branch campuses, create new schools, and share administrative services. And speaking of PASSHE, the state-owned universities are rolling out their “return-to-campus plans” this week. Kutztown University’s COVID-19 Public Relations campaign - I mean “Fall 2020 Planning COVID-19 Response” plan - is just loaded with goodies. Students will be required to come up with their own “Safety Plan;” students working in dorms as Community Assistants will now be responsible for the “emotional wellbeing, physical health, and social support,” of students living in their newly establish “KU Family Pod Area” (can’t make this shit up); students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to report suspicious COVID-like behavior to the administration; and, the university will use the pandemic as cover to increase the use of online teaching “even after the current COVID-19 crisis has abated.”  NASA names its headquarters after Mary Jackson, the first black woman engineer. You might remember her as one the three leads in the film Hidden Figures.  I’m on to the second book in Octavia Butler’s Earthseed series: The Parable of the Talents, published in 1998. It was more than freaky that Parable of the Talents takes place during the rise of a right-wing zealot - Senator Jarret from Texas - who whips up racism and promise to “make America great again.” I mean...those exact words.  It was Father’s Day this past weekend which means I got a chance to sample some awesome beer. The highlights from Free Will included the AMAZING Wild Blueberry Cobbler Mash and of course one of my favorites, Safeword.  Free Will also came out with a new release this week: Walk Awhile With Me - English style Pub Ale brewed with a base of Maris Otter and a bit of Crystal malt, hopped with Golding and Chinook. Notes of crispy toffee, biscuit, and herbs of the earth. 4.2% ABV I was also gifted two crowler’s from McAllister Brewing Company based in North Wales - Mandated Introvert, an “IPA Sour” and Shovel Buddy, a really nice New England IPA.

5/29/20 PA Governor Tom Wolf and PA Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine held their daily media briefing in front of a socially distanced group of reporters. They did not take questions sent electronically by WKOK. They announce that Northumberland and Union County are not going ‘green’ and that students will have school this fall–in school buildings. Many other announcements and clarifications are offered.

5/29/20 PA Governor Tom Wolf and PA Department of Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine held their daily media briefing in front of a socially distanced group of reporters. They did not take questions sent electronically by WKOK. They announce that Northumberland and Union County are not going 'green' and that students will have school this fall--in school buildings. Many other announcements and clarifications are offered.

The novel coronavirus disrupted college life in a big way. Amid the chaos of moving out of dorms and transitioning to online learning, college students were uncertain about how and where to vote. In light of the many questions we received, we decided to call in the experts: the PA Department of State's Tiffany Chang Lawson and All In Challenge Executive Director Jennifer Domagal-Goldman. They join C70 CEO David Thornburgh to discuss the All In Campus Democracy Challenge through Civic Nation and the DoS, and the challenges facing college students who want to vote amid the COVID-19 pandemic. votespa.com allinchallenge.org wevote.seventy.org Thanks to Tiffany Chang Lawson, Director of the Bureau of Campaign Finance & Civic Engagement in the PA Dept of State and Jennifer Domagal-Goldman, Executive Director, ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge votespa.com allinchallenge.org wevote.seventy.org

From Philadelphia Works Podcast: Ellen Metro, the business engagement representative for hospitality & entertainment at Philadelphia Works, joins the program to discuss the benefits of joining an Industry Partnership (IP). Industry Partnerships connect employers, workers, and job training providers from a single industry to collaborate on improving the industry’s competitiveness and to address common workforce challenges.   The Hospitality and Entertainment IP at Philadelphia Works is in its convening phase, but already has garnered the attention of over 100 industry professionals. Focusing on restaurants, hotels, leisure and entertainment businesses, it will support workforce initiatives by offering training solutions, employee development, networking opportunities, and recruitment strategies. Through the collaboration of industry experts, it seeks to raise career industry interest and awareness by creating sustainable career pathways for the residents of Philadelphia and its surrounding region.   This IP is a Greater Philadelphia Hospitality and Entertainment NextGen Partnership, supported by a grant from the PA Department of Labor’s PAsmart Next Generation Industry Partnership Initiative under Governor Tom Wolf.

Ellen Metro, the business engagement representative for hospitality & entertainment at Philadelphia Works, joins the program to discuss the benefits of joining an Industry Partnership (IP). Industry Partnerships connect employers, workers, and job training providers from a single industry to collaborate on improving the industry’s competitiveness and to address common workforce challenges.   The Hospitality and Entertainment IP at Philadelphia Works is in its convening phase, but already has garnered the attention of over 100 industry professionals. Focusing on restaurants, hotels, leisure and entertainment businesses, it will support workforce initiatives by offering training solutions, employee development, networking opportunities, and recruitment strategies. Through the collaboration of industry experts, it seeks to raise career industry interest and awareness by creating sustainable career pathways for the residents of Philadelphia and its surrounding region.   This IP is a Greater Philadelphia Hospitality and Entertainment NextGen Partnership, supported by a grant from the PA Department of Labor’s PAsmart Next Generation Industry Partnership Initiative under Governor Tom Wolf.

In this episode, we will be discussing an expansion of U.S. Customs, the indefinite reopening of the 2019 Cannabidiol comment period, the EPA getting an extension on an adverse renewable fuel ruling, final rule changes to the Honeybee Loss compensation program, and the PA Department of Agriculture seeking input on a potential Chlorpyrifos ban.  Hosted by Audry Thompson with Brook Duer Edited by Erin Lieberman This material is based upon work supported by the National Agricultural Library, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Music is “Caazapá (Aire Popular Paraguayo)” by Edson Lopes is licensed under CC BY 3.0.

Mark Lawrence and Joe McGranaghan host PA Department of State, Dep. Secretary Jonathan Marks on PA's new mail in ballot system. Then we enjoy a vibrant reading of the AP Fact Checking report on last night's Democratic Presidential candidates debate.

Chris Kocher, president of Wildlands Conservancy, has been recognized statewide by the PA Department of Environmental Protection and the PA Environmental Council, for his devotion to the environment. Listen as Ashley and Chris discuss the importance of protecting what you love, and why the work of Wildlands Conservancy has never been more important.

Our Wednesday program focused on the Erie County Community College application to the PA Department of Education, and the meeting of the subcommittee to the state Board of Education. Joining Joel to explain the situation was County Director of Administration Gary Lee. Gary and Joel had a lively discussion about the realities of the Community College application, and the mixed support for the stand-alone school locally. Finally, Joel had a shortened segment of his regular feature An Hour with My Pastor, as Rev. Brian Kelly returned to the show.

Click to read the show notes. On episode 45, we dig in a little deeper on the PA Department of Agriculture’s THC testing protocols by talking to Corey Fitze, COO of Pennsylvania Hemp Research, a private cannabis testing company in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Then we review PDA’s latest letter to hemp permit holders which is intended to clarify their last letter, which really confused some CBD growers. And finally we recap the very well-attended hemp field day at the Penn State research farm near Landisville. Helpful Links Pennsylvania Hemp Research www.phrlabs.com Steve Groff’s Hemp Innovators https://www.hempinnovators.com/ 2019 Hemp Summit https://teampa.com/pahempsummit/

The weekly Legislative Report Program/Podcast with Representative Frank Ryan (R-Lebanon) is now available.Topics discussed in this week’s program include: Rep. Ryan outlines a package of legislation aimed at protecting PA taxpayers through a reform of the delinquent tax revenue collection process now used by the PA Department of Revenue, instituting a 10 year statute of limitations on collection of back taxes, and the creation of a Taxpayer Bill of Rights. RT 4:10

The weekly Legislative Podcast with Rep. Martin Causer (R-McKean, Potter & Cameron) is now available. Topics discussed in this week’s program include: Rep. Causer offers a run-down on the final version of the state budget; Agriculture was a big winner in this year’s budget and several new bills were sent to the Governor to help PA Farmers; PA Department of Revenue warns of a Property Tax Rent Rebate Program phone scam; Fish for Free Day on July 4th. RT 5:00

Bonnie Sussman-Versace grew up in her parent's retail clothing business, and founded FOCUSED, LLC, a consultancy focused on developing leaders, enhancing cultures and improving performance in businesses. Bonnie’s business and community leadership earned her many prestigious honors, including the PA Department of Economic Development “PA Best 50 Women in Business;”the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce “Small Business of the Year” and Lehigh Valley Business “Women of Influence.” https://focusedllc.net/recipe-book/

The session in which we interview Rebecca Bonner, MEd, Head of School at the Bridge Way High School. Rebecca knows first-hand about the impact addiction can have on students and their families. The Bridge Way School is Philadelphia's first recovery high school and the only one in  Pennsylvania that is licensed and accredited by the PA Department of Education. The school's mission is to offer a strong academic program to students in recovery from substance abuse and/or addiction.  In addition to information about the school, check out their wishlist on the site menu: www.thebridgewayschool.org The Bridge Way School was founded by The Greater Philadelphia Association of Recovery Education (GPARE) a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing recovery education to secondary and post-secondary students in the Philadelphia area.  www.recoveryschools.org

The opioid epidemic is the biggest public health crisis we currently face, with an average of 130 Americans dying every day from an opioid overdose. Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based treatment for substance use disorder that combines FDA-approved medication with counseling and behavioral health therapy but is often associated with stigma therefore limiting access and availability. In this episode, we explore Pennsylvania’s multi-pronged approach to addressing the opioid epidemic in the state and efforts to expand access to MAT. Dr. Rachel Levine, current Secretary of Health in Pennsylvania, has made opioid use a key focus of her work and will discuss how state health leadership is critical to advancing policy. Steve Seitchik, MAT Coordinator for the PA Department of Corrections, will provide a unique perspective on the importance of MAT access and provision for incarcerated populations.    Guests: Rachel Levine, MD; Secretary of Health for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Steven Seitchik, MA; MAT Statewide Coordinator, PA Department of Corrections

Andrew Sheaf, Local Government Policy Manager at the PA Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), answers Newtown Township Board of Supervisors' questions about the Early Intervention Program (EIP) at the November 19, 2018 Work Session meeting. The EIP helps municipalities develop a long-term strategic plan. To participate in the program, municipalities must apply for a 50% matching grant to cover the costs of consultants who develop the plan. Consultant fees could be as high as $80,000 requiring the Township to set aside $40,000 if it decides to apply for a grant.

Dr. Darryl Jackson MD  Chief Medical Officer for PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joanne (Jo) Rupp (in her own words): Newly minted Exercise Science/Sports Psychology graduate of CalU (California University of Pennsylvania), 13 yr veteran examiner for the PA Department of Banking & Securities.

Pennsylvania Ombudsman for the Department of aging addresses issues presented by residents of long term care facilities, and educates them about their rights. Margaret Barajas is my guest.www.aging.pa.gov/aging-services/Pages/Ombudsman.aspx

The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has received national recognition for the work of its Trails Advisory Committee. A conversation with committee chair Andy Hamilton, and news about DCNR's plans for confronting climate change, on this episode.

Concussion Corner is your trusted resource for interdisciplinary conversations related to all things concussion-related in healthcare, advocacy, and sport. *This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be confused for medical advice. Please reach out to your medical team or call 911 if this is an emergency*Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, & YouTube

Concussion Corner is your trusted resource for interdisciplinary conversations related to all things concussion-related in healthcare, advocacy, and sport. *This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and should not be confused for medical advice. Please reach out to your medical team or call 911 if this is an emergency*Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, & YouTube

John Wetzel spends a lot of time in prison, but it’s by choice and for a good cause. Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Corrections talks with Commonwealth Partners President & CEO Matt Brouillette about his upbringing, his professional rise to become the state’s top corrections official, and his passion for good policy regardless of which party label is attached to it.

PA Tourism.Michael Chapaloney, Executive Director of the PA Tourism Office and Carrie Fischer Lepore, Deputy Secretary of Marketing, Tourism and Film for the PA Department of Community and Economic Development. We'll talk about the economic impact that tourism has in PA; affordable ways to vacation; new family friendly vacation sites that PA has to offer and more.

Pennsylvania Deputy Secretary for Elections and Administration, Marian Schneider, joins us to talk about the upcoming voter registration deadline, the new ways that Pennsylvanians can register and update their voter information, and other important information available from the PA Department of State. For more info, visit: everyone.votespa.com Or call: 1-877-868-3772

Action Alert: Demand that Mumia see a diabetes specialist On Monday, March 30, Mumia Abu-Jamal lost consciousness at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) Mahanoy and had to be rushed to the hospital. He was admitted with a blood sugar level of 779, suffering from diabetic shock, and a dangerously high sodium level of 160.  Mumia must see a diabetes specialist (endocrinologist) in order to be properly diagnosed and provided with an individual treatment plan specific to him. Prison officials have a constitutional obligation to treat serious medical needs, and that includes providing specialist care when it is medically indicated. Newly onset diabetes with fluctuating blood sugar levels and a range of potentially related health problems requires specialist care. Inadequate treatment of diabetes is deadly and can lead to loss of kidney function, nerve neuropathy and amputation of feet and hands. Take action now – demand that the Department of Corrections permit Mumia to have a diabetes specialist of his choosing: Call: SCI MahanoySuperintendent John Kerestes(570) 773-2158  SCI MahanoyChief Health Care Administrator Steinhardt(570) 773-2158  Christopher OpppmanDirector, PA Department of Corrections Health Care Services(717) 728-5309John WetzelSecretary, PA Department of Corrections(717) 728-4109

In this continuing education program, John and Sam Knapp discuss the critical elements of the new Child Protective Service law.  Act 31 of 2014 requires all mandated reporters who hold licenses to receive at least two hours of approved continuing education in the signs of child abuse and the reporting requirements for child abuse in Pennsylvania.   Episode 19 is the first hour of that training.  In hour one, Drs. Gavazzi and Knapp discuss the definitions of a child and perpetrator as these pertain to the new mandated reporting law.  John and Sam highlight the legal definitions of physical abuse, emotional abuse, and begin to discuss the definition of sexual abuse in the new Pennsylvania law.   Click here to find the PowerPoint presentation associated with this podcast.     Please go to Part 2.  Once you listen to parts 1 and 2, a link will be provided for Continuing Education credit.   This podcast is not yet approved by the PA Department of Human Services or the PA Department of State.   My estimate is that it will be approved in early March 2015