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PRIMARILY FREE EVENTS AND TRAININGS

IMPACTING AREA INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES

Week of December 13, 2015

Helping to Bridge the Gap Between the Wealth of Available Resources
and the Poverty Associated With People Not Knowing About Them
_________________________________________________________________
In an attempt to aid reader searches, new items added each week are highlighting in
yellow. As always, we are interested in receiving feedback in regard to how we might
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E-Update periodically reports ways in which subscribers use our publications to aid their
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and their uses, we would like to hear about them. Please forward two or three sentences
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-2-

2009-2015 Casey Jones, Transformation Initiative for Building Healthy Communities

Through Healthy Families. Permission is granted to reproduce for personal or noncommercial uses only.
Sections Available in the attached Calendar of Events:
UPDATED THIS WEEK: Special Activities: Upcoming primarily free activities
listed by day over the next several months.
Ongoing Scheduled Activities: Primarily free activities held regularly each week
or month.
Area Ministries for Those Who are Struggling. GriefShare, DivorceCare,
Celebrate Recovery, Mending Hearts.
Day Trip Destination Sites: Free admission sites for individual and family outings.
E-Update ResourcesTM: Accompanying Information About Services, Including
Employment Resources, for Individuals and Families.

UPDATED THIS WEEK: Calendar of Events - Please Submit Additions Today

Upcoming Activities The following items are detailed in the accompanying Calendar of
Events and are in addition to those described within this E-Update. They will be occurring
during the current two-week period or are newly listed as part of the longer term Calendar.
These activities are provided for both personal use and printing out and sharing with others
through suggested posting on public and employee bulletin boards, hard copies or e-mail.

Updated: This Weeks Calendar of Events Activities (Found in Calendar of Events)

Herrs Christmas Lights Display Nottingham.
Victorian Christmas Tours Schwenksville.
Art Ability Exhibition Malvern.
Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Fall Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good Feel Better for Women Multiple Locations.
Parenting in Social Media Age Film Screening Wane and Berwyn.
Caregivers Holiday Celebration New Holland.
Medicare 101 Workshop Exton.
Kids Book Club Chester Springs.
Star Wars Colorama Phoenixville.
Creating Goals for Your Career & Life Job-Seeker Presentation West Chester.
Autism Waivers Chat-n-Chew for Parents West Chester.
MLK Advocates Awareness Forum Kennett Square.
Community Coffee Klatch Holiday Party Kennett Square.
Make Extra Money Following a Job Passion Job-Seeker Workshop Phoenixville.
Celebrate with Music Concert Coatesville.
Teen Book Club Chester Springs.
Wolf Hollow County Park Master Planning Atglen.
Child Birth and Parenting Class Phoenixville.
WIC Walk-in Clinic Coatesville.
Feed the Children Distribution Coatesville.
Kennett Christmas Caroling Kennett Square.
Community Breakfast Parkesburg.
Train Room New Holland.
Holiday Magic Show Phoenixville.

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Family Movie Night Thorndale.

Continental Army March In King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Live Nativity West Grove.
Westminster Ringers Saturday Evening Concert New Holland.

Updated: Next Weeks Calendar of Events Activities (Found in Calendar of Events)

Herrs Christmas Lights Display Nottingham.
Victorian Christmas Tours Schwenksville.
Art Ability Exhibition Malvern.
Children Art Classes Coatesville.
Artist Exhibit Coatesville.
Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Fall Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good Feel Better for Women Multiple Locations.
Advent Lessons and Carols King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Caroling at the Carillon - King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Christmas Cantata New Holland.
Live Nativity Spring City.
Polar Express Movie Phoenixville.
Longest Night Homeless Service Pottstown.
Blue Christmas Service West Grove.
Quiet Christmas Service West Chester.
Winter Begins Region.
Train Room Display New Holland.
New: Future Weeks Events and Activities (View in Calendar of Events)
Acoustic Guitar Concert Phoenixville.
Introduction to Overdrive for Library eBooks and eAudiobooks Demonstrations
Phoenixville.
Legal Clinics Phoenixville.
Medicare Counseling Kennett Square.
A New Year, What is Going to be New? Caregivers Support New Holland.
Blood Pressure Screenings Kennett Square.
Low Vision Resources Support New Holland.
Parkinsons, Anxiety and Depression Forum New Holland.
Activities Submission - Organizations are encouraged to submit information about ongoing services and activities, along with special events, as soon as possible after establishing a
date to maximize publicity and to help individuals and other organizations with planning
processes for their own events.
Formats for submission should be similar to and include all information as that shown on the
current, accompanying Calendar of Events. Further information about submissions appears
at the end of this E-Update and the Calendar. Information should be submitted to
bps461@msn.com. Don't let your important activity be left unknown.

NEW THIS WEEK: Follow Us Daily for Updates on State Budget Impasse Impacts
We are following negotiations on the state budget impasse and its effect in various sectors,
including schools and nonprofits.

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To keep up-to-date with various reports, Like and follow us on our Transformation
Initiative Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TransformationIni. You do not have to be a
Facebook member to access the information, but do if you wish to Like, Comment or
Share it with other Facebook users.
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Calendar of Events or E-Update ResdourcesTM publications due to a different focus or
timeliness.

NEW THIS WEEK: Over a Quarter of States Wine and Spirits Sales Happen in
Chester and Adjoining Counties; Over 20 Percent in Three of Them
Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB)
suggests that area residents are thirsty for
wine and spirits all year around, with over 25
percent of all state store sales occurring in
our five-county area, more than 20 percent in
Montgomery, Chester and Delaware counties.
In its annual 2014-15 annual retail report, it says five counties Allegheny, Philadelphia,
Montgomery, Bucks and Chester accounted for nearly half of all state sales.
Montgomery was third with 10.2 percent, or $206,726,615, Chester fifth at 6.1 percent
($125,969,128) . In addition, Delaware was sixth at 3.93 percent ($81,041,098); Lancaster
at 3.02 percent ($62,222,887); and Berks at 2.65 percent ($54,590,395).
Lancaster County was sixth in the top 20 county sales increases for the year, with a 7.04
percent gain, or more than $4 million, over the preceding year.
A West Chester store at 933 Paoli Pike had the second highest sales record in the state at
$25,019,894.08, based on nearly 300,000 transactions at an average sale total of $83.65.
The first place store was in Philadelphia.
The complete Retail Year in Review, along with other information, is available at
www.lcb.state.pa.us/PLCB/About/pressreleases/index.htm.

NEW THIS WEEK: Over $.5M Directed Toward Area Child Sexual Abuse Assistance
More than half a million dollars will be coming to the region as part of the first round of
grants from a $48 million Penn State endowment fund
established as a result of the Jerry Sandusky child
molestation scandal.
Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinuency
(PCCD) has approved $3.4 million in awards to 44 agencies throughout the state that "assist
child victims and adult survivors of sexual abuse, childrens advocacy centers, victim service
organizations that provide direct services, and training to treat victims of child sexual
abuse, officials say.
The January 2015 settlement agreement provided for $48 million in monetary penalties
imposed on Pennsylvania State University (PSU) by the National Collegiate Athletic

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Association (NCAA), to be deposited into a separate account in the State Treasury to be

distributed for benefit of Pennsylvania residents in assisting child sexual abuse victims.
Further information, including a list of awards in programs aiding victims, child advocacy
centers, direct victim services and treatment training categories, is available at
www.pccd.pa.gov/AboutUs/Pages/Press%20Releases/Pennsylvania-Commission-on-Crimeand-Delinquency-Approves-$3-4-Million-in-Grants-from-the-NCAAPSU-Endowment-ActFund.aspx#.Vm6dRL_AD-u.

NEW THIS WEEK: Major Overhaul Changes Federal No Child Left Behind Law
A major overhaul of the No Child Left Behind education law is creating a new approach to
accountability, teacher evaluations and the way most poorly performing schools are pushed
to improve.
President Obama has signed legislation that will shift most of the power back to the state.
An Associated Press report on the legislation is available at
www.lancasteronline.com/news/national/obama-shifts-power-to-states-with-no-child-leftbehind/article_b5738602-9f6d-11e5-bb63-47fa0b260568.html#.Vmod8a_-5tM.facebook.

NEW THIS WEEK: Disabilities Group Calls for Halt to New Sheltered Workshops
and Subminimum Wages
The Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania is calling for elimination of subminimum
wages paid to workers with disabilities and for a ban on creating new sheltered workshops.
The group, in a Community Jobs and a Living Wage: Opportunities for People with
Disabilities in Pennsylvania report, includes the demands as part of a 10-point platform.
It says about one in six Pennsylvanians are people with disabilities, totaling about 1.8
million individuals, about one million of them being adults between 21 and 64-years of age.
A copy of the 20-page document is available at
www.drnpa.org/File/community_jobs_and_living_wage.pdf.

NEW THIS WEEK: U.S. Christian Population Declining

As Christmas approaches, U.S. Christians are finding their numbers declining while the
number of adults not identifying with any organized religion is growing, particularly among
young adults.
An extensive new survey by the Pew Research Center says the largest drops are among
Catholic and mainline churches, but shifts also are occurring among all demographics.
Public Source reports on the issue, with a link to the Center survey, at
www.publicsource.org/investigations/growing-number-of-millennials-shunreligion?utm_source=PublicSource+newsletter&utm_campaign=8c481ae2b2-millennialsreligion&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_b58fd7b533-8c481ae2b2309183425&mc_cid=8c481ae2b2&mc_eid=678ec06245#.Vm4dVr_AD-v.

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NEW THIS WEEK: Pennsylvania Low in Health Ratings of Area States

Wide disparities exist in the health ratings of Pennsylvania and area adjoining states,
according to a new report by 24/7 Wall St., LLC, a Delaware state internet content
organization.
Scoring finds New Jersey the healthiest at 11th place, Maryland at 18th, Pennsylvania at
29th and Delaware at 32nd.
The top states in regard to health were said to be Hawaii, Vermont, Massachusetts,
Minnesota and New Hampshire.
In Pennsylvania, the organization reports 30.2 percent obesity, the 20th highest nationally;
260 deaths per 100,000 people, the 16th highest; 135 primary care physicians per 100,000,
the 13th highest; and 90.9 percent with health insurance, the 10th highest.
Although it cites some good health examples, it says that while the national average state
public health spending is roughly $86 per person, Pennsylvania only spends $48. High
smoking and cancer and drug abuse deaths also are highlighted.
The full report is at www.247wallst.com/special-report/2015/12/10/the-most-and-leasthealthy-states-a-survey-of-all-50.
www.247wallst.com/special-report/2015/12/10/the-most-and-least-healthy-states-asurvey-of-all-50.

NEW THIS WEEK: Children in Foster Care and Persons with Disabilities Benefit
from New Pennsylvania Laws
Children in foster care will have greater ability to take part in extracurricular activities and
persons with disabilities will have broader opportunities to hunt from a
motorized wheelchair under legislation approved by Pennsylvania Gov.
Tom Wolf.
Sponsors of the foster care bill that children and youth in foster care
currently miss out on activities due to caregivers needing to obtain prior
approval for participation from a county child welfare or private placement
agencies or the court.
The Activities and Experiences for Children in Out-of-Home Placements Act, which takes
effect immediately, changes the authority to determine activities participation. Further
information available at
www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2015&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn
=477.
The hunting legislation, to take effect in 60 days, enables persons with disabilities to carry a
loaded gun from a motorized wheelchair.
Details about the legislation, which includes a permit requirement, is available at
www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2015&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn
=698.

-7-

NEW THIS WEEK: New Kids Screening Recommendations for Cholesterol,

Depression and HIV
The American Academy of Pediatrics is updating recommendations for preventive pediatric
health care, now advising that kids should be screened for high cholesterol, depression and
HIV.
The cholesterol recommendation, for children between nine and 11 years old, reflects the
organizations growing concern about childhood obesity.
Health care providers are also being advised to screen for depression every year between
the ages of 11 and 21 to help combat suicide, which is a leading cause of death among
young people.
The HIV screening is recommended for adolescents between 16 and 18 years old to ehlp
address the latest federal statistics that show one in four new HIV infections occur in youth
13 to 24 years of age, with about 60% of all youth with HIV not knowing they are infected.
Further information is available at
www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/videos/news/Preventive_Health_120715.html#.VmcNw6alts.facebook.

NEW THIS WEEK: Pennsylvania and New Jersey Among Top 10 Worst State for
Black Americans
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are among the top 10 worst states for black Americans,
according to a financial news and opinion company that delivers content over the Internet.
The ratings -- New Jersey at seventh worst and Pennsylvania at eighth -- is based on a
study by 24/7 Wall St., LLC, a Delaware state corporation that says it creates more than 30
different cross-sector reports daily.
For Pennsylvania, it says the "poverty rate among whites in Pennsylvania is lower than the
national white poverty rate, while the poverty rate among the black population is higher
than the national black poverty rate," with only four other states in the country have such
disproportionate poverty rates....
"High poverty and poor education in Pennsylvanias black communities likely contributes to
worst social outcomes," it suggests, also citing "the incarceration rate among the states
black population of 3,269 for every 100,000 black residents (being) significantly higher than
the national rate of about 2,306 incarcerations for every 100,000 black Americans."
The full report is at www.247wallst.com/special-report/2015/12/07/worst-states-for-blackamericans-2.

NEW LAST WEEK: Oxford Community Health Clinic Now Taking Appointments
A new Oxford Community Health Center is taking appointments for dates starting midmonth.
As we previously reported, La Comunidad Hispana (LCH), a long-time Kennett Square health
and community services organization and federally qualified health center, will open its first
satellite location in the Oxford Professional Center, 301 North Third Street.

-8-

Officials said it will be a full-service health center for primary, acute, and chronic care in
support of low-income, vulnerable families in Southern Chester County.
The center will be open to patients starting mid-December, accepting patients with and
without health insurance, along with public coverage such as Medicaid, Medicare, and CHIP
Appointments are available at (610) 444-5278, with further information at
www.lacomunidadhispana.org/news-events.

NEW LAST WEEK: Chesco Stopping Payments to Human Services Providers Due to
No State Budget Friday, January 1
Chester County will stop payments to human services providers January 1 due to no
Pennsylvania budget and also will withhold several million dollars a
month in fee collections due the state.
As reported last week via our Facebook post, County
Commissioners noted the actions at their regular meeting, reading
a prepared statement during the session in regard to withholding
money from the state and then mentioning the provider payments
stoppage while talking with reporters.
Chester joins Berks and Lancaster counties which stopped
payments when the new state fiscal year went into effect July 1,
Montgomery which stopped provider payments last month and Delaware that ceased them
December 1.
It also joins Bucks County in stopping remittance of Pennsylvania fees collected by county
row offices, amounting to several million dollars a month.
Commissioners said the county is supposed to receive about six million monthly from the
state that then is distributed to human services providers but it has front-ended about $30
million to date and will have expended about $36 million by the end of the year.
They said the county receives 42 percent of its revenue from the state and federal
governments, with the state not only stopping its own aid payments to the county but also
withholding federal funds pass-throughs.
Several unanswered questions accompany the actions including whether the county:
-- Will end up paying penalties for withholding collections going to the state, with some $4
million monthly being remitted by row officers, who are said to support the holding action,
with some three-quarters of that being in real estate transfer fees;
-- Can use the withheld monies to reimburse providers; and
-- Can seek legal recourse against the state for failure to provide required county funding.
Commissioners said these questions are being reviewed as quick as possible by the county
solicitor.
When asked if the provider withholding policy will be dropped if a state budget is passed
before January 1, Commissioners indicated it will continue since it takes several weeks for
payments to be processed by the state.

-9-

When queried as to what will happen if a human services provider doesn't have funds to
continue operations without timely county payments, Board Chair Terence Farrell said those
services will cease.
Commissioners expressed clear frustration with the state budget stalemate, placing blame
on both the Governor and the State Assembly, although it was said that conversations with
members of the legislature indicated they were as frustrated as county officials since
negotiations are primarily between legislative leaders and the governor.
They said it isn't a partisan issue, with Commissioner Farrell saying state officials need to
"step up to the plate .... or get another job".
Commissioner Michelle Kichline said today's action is an attempt to give the county's
vulnerable populations a voice in regard to the lack of state funding and its impact upon
such individuals and families.
She also noted that the lack of a state budget, forcing the county to draw upon its reserves,
also jeopardizes the credit ratings of both.
Commissioner Kathi Cozzone said there has been discussion at the state level in regard to
school districts that have to borrow money being made whole, but this hasn't included
county governments.
The official news release in regard to the county ceasing to remit funds to the state is
available at www.chesco.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=455.

NEW LAST WEEK: Several from Region on State Police Megan Law Absconder List
Pennsylvania State Police is seeking the publics help in locating over 140 absconded, or
wanted, sexual offenders throughout the Commonwealth.
The states Megans Law requires individuals convicted of a sexually violent offense to
register with the Pennsylvania State Police and to update and verify their information
periodically at an approved registration site, authorities say.
They said that offenders who have failed to register, update their information, or verify their
information as required are considered to be non-compliant with the statute, a felony
offense. Once a warrant is issued for their arrest, they are considered absconded.
A list of absconded offenders is available at http://ow.ly/VroNM. Persons with information
can tip the Megans Law Section at (866) 771-3170.

NEW LAST WEEK: Pennsylvania in Bottom Fifth of Worst Run States

Pennsylvania has been rated as the 10th worst run state in the nation by a financial news
and opinion company.
24/7 Wall St., LLC, a State of Delaware corporation delivering content over the Internet,
made the rating in one of its special reports today, specifically citing the current state
budget impasse along with other factors.

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A rundown on the best to worst ratings and why is available at www.247wallst.com/specialreport/2015/12/03/the-best-and-worst-run-states-in-america-a-survey-of-all-50-4/10.

NEW LAST WEEK: Police Department Establishes Safe Trade Location for Online
Site Transactions
Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police Department, in conjunction with the AIM Group, LLC,
has designated its lobby and front parking lot areas at 1041 Wilmington Pike, West Chester,
as Safe Trade locations for persons conducting transactions through online sites such as
Craigslist.
The AIM Group, a consulting company for classified advertising businesses, launched the
Safe Trade initiative as a public service to promote the use of police facilities for members
of the public to meet and conduct transactions with strangers.
The department has designated two parking spaces that are subject to 24-hour video
recording directly in front of our building as Safe Trade locations, with the lobby of the
department, which also is under 24-hour video recording, being open to conduct online
transactions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays.
during weekdays ONLY (Monday thru Friday), excluding observed national holidays, during
Police note that all transactions will be subject to video recording, police officers will not
assist or witness any transactions. Those involving sale of any weapon or illegal item are
prohibited.
Further information is available at www.westtownpolice.org or (610) 692-9600.

NEW LAST WEEK: National Institute on Aging Issues Guidelines for What to Take
to Hospital
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institute on Aging has issued
some safety tips for before, during and after trips to the hospital, including some guidance
for family and caregivers.
The information, which also includes a patients rights, is available at
www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/hospital-hints.

NEW LAST WEEK: Pottstown and Lansdowne Libraries to Host Teen Reading
Lounges
Pennsylvania Humanities Council has selected libraries in Pottstown and Lansdowne as
among 14 across Pennsylvania to host a 2015-16 Teen Reading Lounge program.
This particular round of programming is directed toward better understanding needs of lowincome youth and to explore how Teen Reading Lounges can help them build essential life
skills.
Further information is available www.pahumanities.org/initiatives/essential-education/teenreading-lounge/2015-16-launch.

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NEW LAST WEEK: SCORE Partners with Villanova for Business Mentoring
Chester and Delaware County Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) has partnered
with Villanova University's Idea Innovation, Creativity and Entrepreneurship (ICE) Institute
to provide mentoring, business seminars, and workshops within Delaware, Chester and
Montgomery County as well as to the Villanova academic community.
The initiative is designed to expand the scope of SCORE's mission of fostering vibrant small
business and university communities through the region through its mentoring and
educational programs.
Individual counseling will be available Wednesday and Thursday mornings in the Idea
Accelerator Center located in the Falvey Library on the Villanova campus at 800 Lancaster
Avenue, Villanova.
Further information and scheduling are available at
www.chestercounty.score.org/mentoring/request/0/8955 or (610) 344-6910.

Law Enforcement Starts Operation Safe Holiday of Seat Belt and Stop DUI
Enforcement
Law enforcement agencies have started a statewide Click It or Ticket seat-belt enforcement
campaign tomorrow, followed by expanded alcohol and drug impairment actions from
Thanksgiving Eve through the New Year's holiday.
Pennsylvania State Police, Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Liquor Control Board
(PLCB) are combining enforcement, education and smartphone technology through
Operation Safe Holiday and the SaferRide cellphone app.
During Operation Safe Holiday, law enforcement agencies statewide will focus on
nighttime seat-belt use and impaired driving.
The SaferRide app, developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation and National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, helps individuals arrange a taxi or contact a friend to
obtain a safe ride home after drinking.
PennDOT reports the holiday season last year found 1,039 of statewide crashes involving a
driver impaired by drugs or alcohol, with 35 fatalities in those crashes.
During the same period, 937 crashes with 32 fatalities involved unbuckled occupants, it
says.
Further information is available at www.penndot.gov/Pages/all-newsdetails.aspx?newsid=171#.VlL097-9ASI.

FEMA Issues Holiday Safety Reminders

Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued a series of tips for the holidays,
including cooking and travel safety.
Cooking is the biggest cause of home fires and fire injuries, the agency reports, noting that
(w)hether you are cooking your holiday dinner or just making a snack, practicing safe
cooking behaviors will help keep you and your family safe.

- 12 -

Information on outdoor grill, turkey fryer, and around the kitchen safety are available at
www.ready.gov/home-fires.
Winter driving safety tips, keeping abreast of weather conditions while traveling, having
your car checked before winter and travel by a professional, communicating your travel
plans and updating family and friends while traveling, and having an emergency supply kit
are discussed at www.ready.gov/car.
Be Aware. Be Prepared. Stay Safe.TM

Health Insurance Marketplace Health Insurance Enrollment is Underway

Through Tuesday, December 15
The Health Insurance Marketplace has re-opened for new individuals and families without
insurance and for those wanting to review or change plans.
Those without health insurance, without falling under an exemption, will face a tax penalty
of 2.5 percent of yearly household income, up to $695 per person or $347.50 per child
under age 18, with a maximum of $2,985 per family, in 2016 .
Over 85 percent of insured are receiving federal subsidies to help pay the cost of their
health insurance under the Affordable Care Act.
All existing policy holders are encouraged to check coverages and rates due to possible
changes that could lessen coverage or increase premiums which have been approved to rise
between 1.4 to 26.2 percent in this area, depending on the plan.
Tuesday, December 15, is the last day to enroll in or change plans for new coverage to start
January 1.
Further information and enrollment are available at www.healthcare.gov. Local
organizations providing free assistance in helping to compare plans and costs are available
through the searchable database at https://localhelp.healthcare.gov. Telephone assistance
is available at (800) 318-2596, TTY (855) 889-4325.

Thousands to be hit with ACA Health Insurance Increases Up to 26.2 Percent

Thousands of individuals within our reporting area will be hit next year with Affordable Care
Act (ACA, also known as Obamacare or the Health Insurance Marketplace) insurance
premium increases totaling 1.4 percent to 26.2 percent, depending on location.
A few individuals in some locations will experience no increase. The rate of change doesn't
reflect the net cost of the premium, including any federal subsidies, or varying benefits of
individual plans.
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department has released its 2016 premium approvals list, with
open enrollment starting Sunday, November 1, for initial signups or to change plans,
effective January 1.
More than 80 percent of Pennsylvanians buying individual health insurance through plans
offered on the federal governments Marketplace receive subsidies to help pay their
premiums, the Department says. Individual health plans are offered both through this

- 13 -

federal Marketplace and directly from private insurers, but consumers are eligible for
subsidies only for plans bought through the federal Marketplace.
Further information on the impact is available in our last weeks Facebook page report at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/posts/937811516284100:0. You do not have to be a
Facebook user to access the story, but do need to be if you wish to forward it to Facebook
users. Additional information on policies review and assistance appears below.

NEW THIS WEEK: Numerous Changes Take Effect for CDL Licenses Monday,
December 21
Numerous changes are taking effect next week to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code regarding
Commercial Drivers Licenses (CDL), affecting both
license and permit holders.
Many of the changes reflect the Federal Motor
Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules and
include new provisions for annual physical and vision examination requirements for school
drivers, personal appearances for both new and current license applicants, proof of
residency and more.

bus

Further information is available at www.dmv.pa.gov/Driver-Services/CommercialDriver/Pages/New-CDL-Skills-Test.aspx#.Vm8Hi7_AD-s.

NEW LAST WEEK: State Waives 529 College Savings Plan Enrollment Fee
Through Thursday, December 31
The Pennsylvania State Treasury is waiving enrollment fees for PA 529 college savings plans
through December 31.
The program name originates from Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax
code, which provides special tax breaks to encourage college saving.
Contributions to the plans are deductible from Pennsylvania state income tax, with the
entire value of an account e exempt from Pennsylvania inheritance tax. Assets held in a
PA 529 plan arent counted when determining state financial aid for college and tuition
discounts are provided at over 300 private colleges nationwide, including more than 50 in
Pennsylvania.
Further information is available at www.pa529.com.

State Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Deadline Extended Through

Thursday, December 31
The deadline for eligible seniors and the disabled
to apply for up to $650 in Pennsylvania Property
Tax/Rent Rebates, which may be increased to
$975, again has been extended from June 30 to
December 31, with some 450,000 individuals
already having applied.
Rebate distribution will start Wednesday, July 1, for those who already have applied, with
applications after that date being processed as they are received.

- 14 -

The program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and widowers age
50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
The income limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, with
half of Social Security income being excluded from the limit. In addition, due to program
changes last year to ensure claimants arent disqualified from rebates solely because of
Social Security cost-of-living-adjustments, homeowners and renters may be eligible for
rebates even if their eligibility income is greater than these limits.
Therefore, any homeowner who collected Social Security, received a property tax rebate in
2013 for claim year 2012 and had annual income last year discounting half of Social
Security up to $36,129 ($15,484 for renters), is encouraged to apply for a rebate for
claim year 2014. The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for
certain qualifying homeowners can boost rebates to $975, with the Pennsylvania
Department of Revenue automatically calculating supplemental rebates for qualifying
homeowners.
Further information and applications are available at
www.revenue.pa.gov/GeneralTaxInformation/PropertyTaxRentRebateProgram/Pages/default
.aspx#.VX_2pka9BP1, county Department of Aging and senior centers, and state legislator
offices. Application deadline and income limit information hadnt been updated on some
Department of Revenue web pages as of this writing but appears at
www.media.pa.gov/Pages/Revenue-Details.aspx?newsid=139.

Pottstown Rotating Shelter is Open Through April

Ministries at Main Street Pottstown shelter for the homeless is open at different community
churches for the winter.
Intakes will be processed, starting at noon weekdays, at Trinity Reformed United Church of
Christ (UCC) at 60 North Hanover Street. Sheltered individuals then will be transported to
St. James Lutheran Church, 1101 East High Street, during November; Christ Episcopal
Church, 316 East High Street, in December; St. Johns UCC in January; remain at Trinity
Reformed in February; St. Pauls UCC, 927 North Franklin Street in March; and First United
Methodist Church, 414 East High Street, in April.
Further information is available at www.ministriesatmainstreet.org/calendar.html or (610)
970-2444.

LIHEAP Heating Assistance Re-Opens Through Spring

Pennsylvania Low Income Home Energy Assistance
Program (LIHEAP) has re-opened for the winter season.
Eligible individuals, both renters and homeowners, can
receive funds paid directly to home energy providers to
assist with winter fuel costs.
In addition, a crisis program provides funds for broken
heating equipment, lack of fuel or in danger of being without fuel or utilities, or repair of a
primary or secondary heating source.

- 15 -

Being on public assistance or having an unpaid bill arent requirements of the program.
Further information on LIHEAP and other assistance programs and application methods are
available at www.dhs.state.pa.us/foradults/heatingassistanceliheap or County Human
Services offices.

Chesco Adopts Code Blue Winter Policy to Open Additional Shelter Beds
Chester County will be declaring a Code Blue this year when temperatures are forecast to
35 degrees or below, (considering the wind chill factor, and a situation exists in which
someone would be at risk of hypothermia, frost bite, or other cold-related injuries if forced
to sleep outside.
Additional shelter space will be made available at different locations on a night-to-night
basis, referred through ConnectPoints, the countys contractor for homelessness assistance.
Further information is available from Gene Suski, community cervices manager, Chester
County Department of Community Development, at gsuski@chesco.org or (610) 344-6900
or ConnectPoints at (800) 935-3181.

UPDATED THIS WEEK: Community Organization Networking Connection Meetings

(Regular Meeting Dates are Subject to Change)
Berks-Lancaster-Lebanon Counties LINK to Aging and Disability Resources meets
from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month at various Lancaster area
locations, and from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on the third Tuesdays of the month at various
locations in Berks County for services cross-trainings and exchange of information on
creating a one-stop, no-wrong-door resources for older adults and adults with disabilities,
including consumers, family members and others, seeking information about local
resources. On December 17, Social Media and the APPRISE volunteer Medicare counseling
services will be presented at Long Community at Highlands, 600 East Roseville Road,
Lancaster.
Specific topic workshops also are scheduled in the counties. Further information is available
at http://berkslancasterlebanonlink.org, or from Brian Long, coordinator, at
blllink@mail.com or (717) 380-9714.
Chester County Faith Community Health Ministry Network meets from 4 p.m. to
5:15 p.m., on the first Thursday of each month, from September through June to exchange
information on promotion of holistic health within faith congregations and communities and
to develop additional faith community nurses, also known as parish nurses. Further
information is available from Joan Holliday at dochollisv@aol.com or (610) 717-2180.
Coatesville Area Resource Network (CARN) meets from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on the third
Wednesday of the month, except August and December, in the fourth floor conference room
at Brandywine Health Center at 744 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville. Representatives of
community organizations hear presentations from various services providers, discuss ways
to develop effective systems of care, help identify solutions to specific issues, and exchange
information about current and upcoming activities. Further information is available from
Kathryn Spurlock at ccch@comcast.net or at (610) 380-7111 x16.
Phoenixville Area Resource Network (PARN) meets from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on the
fourth Tuesday of the month, except December, at the First United Methodist Church (north

- 16 -

entrance), 865 South Main Street, Phoenixville. Representatives of community

organizations exchange information about current and upcoming activities and hear
presentations from various services providers. Additional information about the group is
available from Debbie Dundon at Open Hearth, Spring City, at
debbie.openhearth@verizon.net or (610) 792-9282 x201.
Kennett Area Bridging the Community meets at 7 p.m. on the second Wednesdays of
January, March, May, July, September and November at various community locations with
any interested individual or organization welcome to attend and share information on
resources and needs that can build "bridges" toward a more integrated Kennett
areacommunity. On January 13, the meeting will be at The Market at Liberty Place,
148 West State Street, Kennett Square. Additional information is available from Joan
Holliday at dochollisv@aol.com or (610) 717-2180. Minutes from prior meetings are
available at www.bridgingcommunity.com/bridging.php.
Chester County Family and Community Partnership meets from 10 a.m. to noon on
the first Friday of February, April, June, August, October and December at various locations.
The group is a diverse partnership of individuals, families, community organizations, service
agencies, businesses and funders committed to empowering individuals and families in
living self-sufficient, productive and fulfilling lives. On February 5, the group will hear
presentations on legal aid and immigration. Additional information is available from Kathy
Brauner at kbrauner@chesco.org or (610) 344-5262.
Communities That Care (CTC) groups in several Chester County school districts provide
networking opportunities for community organizations and individuals that use a planning
and mobilization model to promote healthy youth development and prevent and reduce
negative youth health and behavior issues that may include substance abuse, delinquency,
teen pregnancy, school drop-out, and violence.
West Chester CTC meets from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the second Thursday of each
month of the school year at the West Chester Area School District Spellman
Administrative Building, 829 Paoli Pike, West Chester. Lunch is provided by
reserving at rsvp@wcctc.org or (610) 359-5817.
Downingtown Area CTC meets from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. the third Tuesday of the
month from September through May at the Lionville Community YMCA, 100 Devon
Drive, Exton (Lionville). Further information and registration available at
dtownctc@umly.org or (610) 458-9090 x2827.
Coatesville CTC Community Prevention Board, a body coterminous with the
Coatesville Youth Initiative Steering Committee, meets periodically in the fourth floor
Community Room, Brandywine Health Foundation, 744 East Lincoln Highway,
Coatesville. Further information and requested lunch reservations are available from
Jarvis Berry, CTC community mobilizer, at Jarvis@coatesvilleyouthinitiative.org or
(610) 380-0200.

UPDATED THIS WEEK: Support Groups for Unemployed and Underemployed Ongoing
Several networking/support groups (open to everyone) are available at area churches for
persons who are unemployed or unemployed, with each providing its own variety of specific
services in support of those who attend:

- 17 -

Downingtown (Lionville/Exton) -- Barnabas Group, at Calvary Fellowship Church,

95 West Devon Drive (rear entrance) at Route 113 in Exton (Lionville) is named after
the Biblical disciple known as the Son of Encouragement. Weekly sessions are part
of the churchs Care Monday, that includes a prayer group that meets at the same
time in the Prayer Lobby (Portico Entrance), with intercession for those attending the
Barnabas Group and the churchs other Care Ministries, including DivorceCare for
those coping with separation or divorce, even years later; Mending Hearts for those
with prodigal children and other family members; and various offerings focused on
assistance in healing and coping. Further information for Barnabas Group activities
is available at barnabasgroup@cfdownington.com or (610) 363-7171

Malvern Penn State Great Valleys Alumni Association and My Career Transitions
(MCT), an all-volunteer job counseling group, meets from 9:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
the second Saturday of the month, except August and December, in 130 Main
Building, Penn State Great Valley, 30 East Swedesford Road, Malvern, preceded by a
new member orientation at 8:30 a.m. Further information and required registration
are available at http://mycareertransitions.com/new/?q=upcoming-meetings.
Further information and required registration are available at
http://mycareertransitions.com/new/?q=upcoming-meetings.

Wayne A one-on-one Employment Guidance Ministry, along with periodic special

employment related events to aid jobseekers is available at St. Davids Episcopal
Church, 763 South Valley Forge Road, Malvern. Further information is available from
George Vosburgh at gbvosburgh@aol.com or (610) 688-7947.

West Chester Unemployment support group meets bi-weekly from 5:45 p.m. to
7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 130 West Miner Street, West Chester, to
learn tips and techniques related to job searches. Further information is available
from Elisabeth Hartwell at ehartwell@firstpreswc.com, at (610) 696-0554.

West Chester BarnabasWC group meets from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. Mondays,
except holidays, in the Community Room, Providence Church, 430 Hannum Avenue,
West Chester. Further information is available at www.barnabaswc.org or
info@barnabaswc.org.

Six Area Affiliates of Joseph's People meet during the month:

Berwyn/Main Line - 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays at the
Hagenbach Room, St. Monicas Church, 635 First Avenue. Further information is
available from Bob Schubert at bobschubertjr@aim.com or (610) 755-2398.
Central Delco Groups at three locations in Central Delaware County now
coordinate meetings in Media and Upper Darby at 7 p.m. on the first three Tuesdays
of the month. First Tuesday: St. Francis Room at St. Mary Magdalen Church,
2400 North Providence Road, Media, with further information at
smmemploy@gmail.com or (610) 873-7117. Second Tuesday: St. Laurence
Church, 8245 West Chester Pike-St. Laurence Road Entrance, Upper Darby, with
further information at smmemploy@gmail.com or (610) 873-7117. Third Tuesday:
Hassler Chapel, Media Presbyterian Church, 30 East Baltimore Pike, Media, with
further information at robinst37@gmail.com. On December 15, Tyrone Robinson, a
business development specialist, will conduct a speed networking activity.
Downingtown -- 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays, in the
Parish Meeting Room Rear of the School Property, St. Joseph's Parish, 338 Manor

- 18 -

Avenue (Route 322). Information about the affiliate is available by leaving a

message at (610) 873-7117.
Upper Uwchlan Township 7 p.m. on the first and third Mondays at the School
Education Center, St. Elizabeths Catholic Church, 100 Fellowship Road, Chester
Springs. Further information is available at (610) 321-1200 or at
david.bolz@verizon.net.
Reading 7 p.m. to 8:30 pm. on the first and third Wednesdays at St Catharine's of
Siena Parish Center. 2427 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading. Further information is
available from John Senick, facilitator, at (610) 779-4005.
West Grove 6:45 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month in the new Parish
Life Center, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 300 State Road, West
Grove. On December 16, church Deacon Jeff Hanna will discuss Interview
Preparation and the Interview. Further information is available from John Colgan at
johnfcolgan@gmail.com.
Additional information on all St. Josephs People chapters is available at
www.josephspeople.org.

UPDATED LAST WEEK: Free Job Assistance Workshops, Job Fairs and Job
Openings Report December
Unemployed and underemployed persons seeking education and training in career planning,
along with employment assistance for veterans, ex-offenders and persons with disabilities,
can take advantage of a broad series of services and monthly workshops offered by the
Pennsylvania Department of Labor CareerLink at its Exton offices in Suite 500, 479 Thomas
Jones Way in the Oaklands Corporate Center.
These trainings include an orientation presentation as to services PA CareerLink has to offer.
A calendar of PA CareerLink-Chester County workshops for the current month is available at
www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/31586.
Monthly job openings list that provides several pages for the Chester County area is
available at
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?ChesterCountyDepartm/80b0df4900/432f3381ef/8a41433e69.
Daily position openings updates are available through www.cwds.state.pa.us.
Websites for additional county PA CareerLink offices in the area, at which many services are
available to out-of-county residents, include:
Berks: www.co.berks.pa.us/Dept/CareerLink/Pages/default.aspx
Delaware: www.delcoworks.org
Lancaster: www.jobs4lancaster.com
Montgomery: www.montcopa.org/index.aspx?NID=1024

Free Online Training Available for Health Care Professionals Aiding Veterans
Health care professionals now have a free online course developed by the federal
Departments of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Defense (DoD) to help serve veterans and service
members.

- 19 -

The eight-hour Military Culture: Core Competencies for Health Care Professionals training
covers a variety of topics through interactive features, video vignettes, case examples and
treatment planning scenarios.
Each of the four modules within the course was developed using research, surveys and
extensive interviews with service members and veterans.
Information and registration for the training, along with other military culture-related
materials, are available at www.deploymentpsych.org/Military-Culture.

Over 500 Continuing Education Courses Now Available Online

Pottstown Regional Public Library now is offering over 500 online continuing education
courses for the price of a free library card.
A wide variety of offerings for professionals and others, including job-seekers, business
owners and housewives, including topics such as business, office skills, web development,
arts and photography, alternative medicine, crafts, pet and animal care, home and garden,
teacher tools, writing help, self-help, and homeschooling, according to reports.
Further information is available at www.sanatogapost.com/2015/11/21/library-offerscontinuing-education-courses or the library at 500 East High Street, Pottstown, or (610)
970-6551.

Hunters Join in Donating Harvested Deer to the Hungry

Over a dozen area meat processors are hoping to help push an annual drive to donate deer
to the poor to more than 100,000 pounds this season.
Hunters can donate all or part of a harvested deer by taking it to a participating processor
which then will distribute ground venison to food banks and pantries.
More than 2,400 deer were donated through Hunters Sharing the Harvest last year,
resulting in 97,000 pounds of ground venison that went to some 20 regional food banks
which, in turn, redistribute it to more than 5,000 local provider charities such as food
pantries, homeless shelters, churches and missions, along with individual families.
An average deer is said to provide enough highly-nutritious, low-cholesterol meat for 200
meals.
More information on the initiative, in existence since 1999, is available at ShareDeer.org or
(866) 474-2141.

Lancaster County is Second in State for Refugee Resettlement

Lancaster County took in over refugees during the last federal fiscal year, ending in
September, moving from third to second place in actual numbers received and in far greater
proportion to overall populations in first place Philadelphia or third place Erie counties.
The Pennsylvania Refugee Resettlement Program reports monthly state intakes, with the
past year showing 696 total for first place Philadelphia, 643 in Lancaster and 632 for third

- 20 -

place Erie counties, with 25 in Bucks, 17 in Montgomery, six in Chester, four in Delaware
and none in Berks.
An earlier LancasterOnline report for 2013 through July 2015 had found Lancaster third
overall in actual numbers, with Montgomery eighth and Chester 11th state-wide.
Multi-year statistics of refugees and originating countries, as reported by the Program, are
available at www.refugeesinpa.org/aboutus/demoandarrivalstats/index.htm.
LancasterOnline stories that discuss impacts related to the Syrian refugee debate are
available at:

Area statistics: www.lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-county-ranks-rd-inpennsylvania-for-refugee-resettlement-in/article_22003e76-5bbe-11e5-8c930bdbca2e5b6c.html#.Vk-aFW-taTY.facebook.

The refugee-vetting process:

www.lancasteronline.com/opinion/columnists/explaining-the-strict-refugee-vettingprocess/article_e87e362c-8ef7-11e5-bfe7-cb7a49c0fd36.html.

AMA Seeks Ban on Direct-to-Consumer Prescription Drug Advertising

The American Medical Association (AMA) is calling for a ban
on direct-to consumer advertising of prescription drugs,
alleging that such promotion "inflates demand for new and
more expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be
appropriate.
The organization reports that the United States and New
Zealand are the only two countries in the world that allow direct-to-consumer advertising of
prescription drugs and cites market research firm Kantar Media that advertising dollars
spent by drug makers have increased by 30 percent in the last two years to $4.5 billion.
A new AMA policy, announced yesterday, also calls for convening a physician task force and
launching an advocacy campaign to promote prescription drug affordability by demanding
choice and competition in the pharmaceutical industry, and greater transparency in
prescription drug prices and costs.
Further information is available at www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/news/news/2015/2015-1117-ban-consumer-prescription-drug-advertising.page.
The World Health Organization (WHO) previously had weighed in, reporting that "(d)irectto-consumer advertising of drugs has been legal in the USA since 1985, but only really took
off in 1997 when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) eased up on a rule obliging
companies to offer a detailed list of side-effects in their infomercials".
Further information from the WHO is available at www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/87/8/09040809/en.

- 21 -

State Township Supervisors Raise Alarm About Heroin and Prescription Drugs
Mitigation Termed Fragmented
Heroin Hits Home, a 19-minute video report from the Pennsylvania State Association of
Township Supervisors is raising a state-wide alarm as to heroin and prescription drug use
throughout the Commonwealth.
Barbara Lyons, chair of the Doylestown Township Board of Supervisors in Bucks County;
State Sen. Eugene Yaw, board chair of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania which has held
hearings and developed a comprehensive report on heroin use and addiction in the state;
and Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Adam Reed provide a wake up call as to what is
happening in the drug world across the state.
The system is very fragmented, according to the report, with Sen. Yaw also saying it
takes a faith-based element to battle this issue.
The video is available at www.vimeo.com/145141288.
The Coatesville Area Resource Network (CARN) of area services providers and other
interested persons also will be discussing the Community Impact of Drug Abuse at its
monthly meeting Wednesday.
The group meets from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. November 18 in the 4th Floor Conference Room
at the Brandywine Center, 744 East Lincoln Highway, Coatesville.
Dr. Kimberly Stone, Public Health Department physician and co-chair of the Chester County
Drug Overdose Task Force, and Jamie Johnson, deputy director of County Drug and Alcohol
Services, will provide an overview of the current drug abuse situation, particularly
prescription drugs and heroin, and new public availability of Naloxone that can be
administered by any citizen to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
Providers also are able to exchange information about unresolved issues they may need
assistance with finding answers to during Problem Corner, along with organization
announcements, fliers and other items during Community Happenings.
Further information is available from Kathryn Spurlock at ccch@comcast.net or (610) 3834612.

Naloxone Drug Overdose Reversal Medicine Now Available to Public Under

Universal Prescription
Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Rachel Levine has
issued a state-wide standing order, or prescription, to
obtain the medication to enable family members and
others to administer it if someone they know
overdoses.
The state Health Department says "the rise in heroin addiction and prescription drug abuse
has quickly led to a public health crisis in Pennsylvania, where 1 in 4 families suffer from the
effects of substance abuse addiction.
"Heroin and opioid overdose are now the leading cause of accidental death in Pennsylvania,
killing more individuals than those involved in fatal motor vehicle accidents," it reports, with
2,400 Pennsylvanians dying from drug overdoses last year.

- 22 -

Further information on the Order is available at www.media.pa.gov/Pages/HealthDetails.aspx?newsid=255. Additional information on "Naloxone and Reverse Overdose
Toolkit" of information is at
htwww.ddap.pa.gov/overdose/Pages/Naloxone_Reversal.aspx#.VjH2MCu9ASJ.

Consider It is Theme in Berks County

Berks County Community Foundation has unveiled a new initiative designed to promote
intelligent and thorough discussion of divisive local and national issues while maintaining a
level of civility among participants.
The Consider It focus is based on the American Public Square in Kansas City, with the
Foundation working in the nonpartisan initiative with Allan Katz, founder of American Public
Square and former U.S. Ambassador to Portugal. State Sen. Judy Schwank and Berks
County Commissioners Chairman Christian Leinbach are co-chairing the effort.
Community forums will tackle local issues in a thoughtful, meaningful way, according to
Kevin K. Murphy, Community Foundation president, without the sessions being
conversations versus debates.
He said the goal is to facilitate conversation and allow people to consider points of view
that they might not have previously contemplated and to understand how people with that
viewpoint see an issue.
Further information is available at
www.bccf.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=998:new-program-to-bringcivil-discourse-to-divisive-local-and-national-issues&catid=89:news.

Adult White Males at Highest Risk for Heroin Overdose Deaths

Drug overdose deaths
throughout the state, including
our reporting area, primarily
involve white males from 18 to
60 years of age, according to
the Philadelphia Field Division of
the U.S. Drug Enforcement
Administration (DEA)
In its first Analysis of DrugRelated Overdose Deaths in
Pennsylvania Intelligence
Report, the agency also says
that heroin was the most
identified drug in 48 of 58
reporting counties in 2014,
including all of our reporting
area.
Rural counties aren't escaping
the heroin epidemic either, with 12 being among the 20 highest rates of drug-related deaths
per 100,000 people.

- 23 -

Philadelphia had the highest drug-related deaths per 100,000 people in the state at 41.98,
or 655 total for the year.
Delaware was 11th at 22.03 per 100,000 or 118 actual; Montgomery 17th at 19.71 (158);
Berks 31st at 15.23 (62); Lancaster 42nd at 11.25 (60); and Chester 52nd at 7.02 (36).
The Chester County District Attorney's Office has reported the county already has surpassed
the 2014 number this year.
Demographics of drug overdose deaths in area counties last year, provided by county
coroner offices, include:

Berks: 44 male, 18 female; 52 white, two African American and eight Hispanic; 15
ages 18 to 30, 18 ages 31-45, 26 ages 46-60 and three age 61 and over.

Chester: 29M, 7F; 34W and one each AA and H; 9 (18-30), 12 (31-45), and 15 (4660).

Delaware: 74M, 44F; 106W and 12AA; 24 (18-30), 32 (31-45), 47 (46-60) and 17
(61+).

Lancaster: 33M, 27F; 55W, 4H and one unknown; 14 (18-30), 20 (31-45); 20 (4060) and six (61+).

Montgomery: 90M, 68F; 131W, 20AA, four H, two Asian and one unknown; one
under 18, 43 (18-30), 40 (31-45), 54 (46-60) and 21 (61+).

The full 89-page report is available at

www.dea.gov/divisions/phi/2015/phi111715_attach.pdf.

Adult Obesity Now More than One-Third of Adult Population

Adult obesity is continuing to rise,
with more than one-third of all
American adults fitting that category.
According to a new report from the
National Center for Health Statistics
(NCHS) at the federal Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC), non-Hispanic and Hispanic
women lead the category, although
men aren't far behind.
Youth obesity has level off over the
past four years, according to the
NCHS, but still is over 17 percent.
In addition to the obesity report, the Center took a look at prevalence of hypertension at
www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db220.htm and the life expectancy gap between black
and white populations at www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db218.htm.

- 24 -

Lancaster County Court Moving from Constables to Deputies

Lancaster County President Judge Dennis Reinaker is stripping arrest warrant duties from
elected constables, effective June 1, and transferring them to sheriffs deputies, according
to Lancaster Online.
The move is expected to save taxpayer money and improve services, according to the
report, saying that six new deputies will be hired for approximately $300,000 while a few of
the more than 100 constables were making over $100,000 annually in fees.
Further information is available at www.lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-countyjudge-removes-constables-from-arrest-warrant-duties-to/article_cb0c052a-937e-11e59815-6f80f8edf073.html.

Homeless Families Faith-Based Initiative Starts in Southern Chester County

A Southern Chester County faith-based initiative has received its first families in an effort to
help assist the homeless to achieve sustainability.
Family Promise, with 11 churches providing overnight lodging and meals on a one week per
calendar quarter basis and 15 others assisting in the effort, started operations this month.
Families travel daily from the churches to a Resource Center at 105 West Evergreen Street
in West Grove, with children going to schools. Adults are assisted in identifying housing,
jobs and other applicable resources to help them out of homeless situations.
Up to 14 family members can be served at any one time.
Further information is available at www.familypromisescc.org, familypromisescc@gmail.com
or (610) 345-1100.

Study Says Learning Declines When Four-Year-Olds Mixed with Three-Year-Olds

The University of Texas at Austin researches have found that four-year-olds mixed in with
three-year-olds in Head Start classrooms lose nearly five months average of academic
development.
Nearly 75 percent of Head Start classes teach the two ages together, according to
researchers, saying that based on the new findings the effect is strong enough to suggest
that mixed-age classrooms are preventing some children from starting kindergarten ready
to learn math and reading.
The report, funded in part by the National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development, is due for publication in the journal Psychological Science.

Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine Expanded in Four-County Area

Sightings of spotted lanternflies in a four-county area
have resulted in a general Pennsylvania Department of
Agriculture quarantine that restricts movement of
firewood, yard waste and other materials, including
outdoor household items, in parts of Berks, Bucks,
Chester and Montgomery counties.

- 25 -

The order includes any material or object that can spread the pest, including firewood or
wood products, brush or yard waste, remodeling or construction materials and waste,
packing material such as boxes, grapevines for decorative purposes or as nursery stock, and
any outdoor household articles like lawnmowers, grills, tarps and other equipment, trucks or
vehicles typically not stored indoors. Violators face prison time and up to $20,000 in fines
per incident.
The insect, which has no known impacts to human health, is an inch-long black, red and
white spotted pest and is native to China, India, Japan and Vietnam, officials said. It is an
invasive species in Korea, where it has attacked 25 plant species which also grow in
Pennsylvania. It was first detected last year in Berks County.
Quarantine-impacted areas currently include:
Berks County: Colebrookdale, District, Earl, Hereford, Longswamp, Oley, Pike,
Rockland and Washington townships and the boroughs of Bally, Bechtelsville,
Boyertown and Topton.
Bucks County: Milford Township and Trumbauersville Borough.
Chester County: South Coventry Township.
Montgomery County: Douglass and Upper Hanover townships and the boroughs of
East Greenville, Pennsburg and Red Hill.
Further information is available at
www.media.pa.gov/pages/Agriculture_details.aspx?newsid=364 or (866) 253-7189.

Caution Urged Before Filling Home Heating Oil Tanks

Pennsylvania residents are being
encouraged to take precautions before
filling home heating oil tanks for winter to
avoid spills that could cost them up to
$50,000.
State Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) says that poorly maintained or leaking
home heating oil tanks can pose a fire risk, diminish indoor air quality and contaminate
groundwater.
It reports that one in five Pennsylvania homes use heating oil to stay warm in the winter,
and encourages owners to consider inspecting indoor and outdoor home tanks for potential
problems prior to refilling them.
Preventing leaks will save owners both energy and money, in addition to protecting their
health, DEP says, noting that cleaning up a spill caused by a heating oil tank can cost up to
$50,000 and may not be covered by homeowners insurance. Homeowners can check with
their insurance providers to determine whether coverage is available.
DEP encourages homeowners to consider the following:
For safety reasons, always assume the tank contains at least some oil;
Routinely inspect the exterior of the tank and all attached equipment;
Check for signs of rusting on the tank and its structural supports;
Examine the tanks fill line and feed line to the furnace for leaks;
Never tip over or empty a tank onto the ground;

- 26 -

Enlist a professional to perform maintenance or alterations to a heating oil tank

system; and
Recognize that wet spots or odors near the tank may signal a problem.
When fuel is delivered, DEP suggests making sure the home address is clearly visible and
the tanks fill line is clearly marked. If someone is unable to be home when fuel oil is
delivered, mark the fill pipe with a red flag or marker and inform the oil company of the
location. Ensure that any disconnected fill pipes are permanently sealed and cannot be
opened.
Residents who think their oil tank may have a problem should immediately contact their oil
company for help.
Additional information is available at www.elibrary.dep.state.pa.us/dsweb/Get/Document107008/2630-FS-DEP1681.pdf or from the DEP Division of Storage Tanks at (717) 7725599.

Please Note: New and Updated tags refer only to the time of appearance of information
in these E-Updates. Some on-going activities may have been in existence for some time
and are being listed for awareness.

Letting People Know/Making a Difference - Ongoing

Feedback indicates that a lack of communications tools is a primary deficiency in bringing
community services providers and those needing information together.
If you know of an activity designed to have a real impact on families (this includes
individuals and youth) that we should be aware of or might be interested in reporting in
these periodic e-mail updates, please let me know, either with details or a web site link. In
order to maintain its value, this forum currently is a subjective, selective distribution so all
information submitted may not be used.
Also, if you know someone who might be helped by these periodic updates, please forward
all or selected portions as you feel appropriate. If you would like to be added to or removed
from this list, please hit reply and advise by typing "Subscribe" or "Unsubscribe" or
something similar in the Subject line.
Events listed are based on subject matter related to activities impacting families and is
based on information reported to us. No endorsement is made or implied.
Suggestions for improvements are encouraged. We currently are developing a more
advanced electronic communications method for this type of material that will have more
expansive yet less obtrusive characteristics. Please stay tuned.

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To submit materials for publication, please refer to the guidelines that follow.

Blessings
Casey
Casey Jones
Transformation Initiative
Building Healthy Communities Through Healthy Families
(610) 707-1494 / bps461@msn.com
2009-2015 Casey Jones, Transformation Initiative for Building Healthy Communities Through Healthy Families.
Permission is granted to reproduce for personal or non-commercial uses only.

Information provided is designed to highlight activities within the broader community that can help
enhance Christian principles relative to development of healthy children, individual and family
relationships.
Recipients are encouraged to print and post this Calendar to employee and public bulletin boards
for benefit of others.
Activities included in this publication are gathered from various submissions and other sources. No
representation is made as to their accuracy or value.
Persons wishing to be included in future e-mailings of updates, should request inclusion by sending
an e-mail with Subscribe in the Subject line, along with your name, organization, community and
where you heard about the publications to bps461@msn.com.
General Guidelines for Information Submission:
Submission up to two to three months prior to the event is encouraged to increase exposure to new
subscribers, individuals who only may read the list periodically, and for other organizations that want
to avoid scheduling opposite an event or may want to collaborate with others in the area. For annual
events, even longer lead times may be appropriate. Our deadline generally is the Friday before the
week of publication.
A general idea of the information needed (many submit too little for the consumer to understand what
actually is occurring and why they should consider attending) can be obtained by perusing the
publications or using the following guide:
Please use full names followed, if appropriate, by acronyms in parenthesis.
Name of Event:
Date(s) - Include both day(s) of week and actual dates:
Times (Starting and ending):
Location (Including any applicable room number, particularly in a large facility, and a
MapQuest or Google Maps searchable address:
Sponsoring Organization(s), if not part of the location address:
Participant Eligibility (Ages, gender, etc.):
Description of Activities and, as applicable, the presenter and the purpose of the event (Two to
three descriptive sentences with the most appealing information; please avoid superfluous
words such as "wonderful", "great", etc.):
Any Fees, including free-will offerings:
Contact name, e-mail, telephone, along with any web page that is focused primarily on the
specific activity:
Any registration requirements.
We generally use only free activities of a non-commercial nature or those in which a very small,
optional materials fee is charged.
Fund-raising activities generally are not published unless there is a good mixture of free
activities also available, including free admission, with a participant having the choice of
purchasing incidental items such as food or crafts.

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Church events generally are published only if they are separate from normal weekly worship
services.

Due to the wide variety of activities available, decisions on publication ultimately are determined on a
case-by-case basis in context with focus of the publications.

ined on a case-by-case basis in context with focus of the publications.