Join Us on Facebook and Keep Up to Date Throughout the Week

Our E-Update, Calendar of Events and E-Update ResourcesTM, along with

supplemental updates of information during the week, now are available at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni
You do not have to be a Facebook user to access the Page but do need to be a user
to access other than basic features.
Like our Page and then click on Get Notifications in the dropdown menu next
to Like to obtain the latest updates. Otherwise, Facebook picks and chooses
what information you receive on your News Feed and Timeline based on
algorithms it chooses.

PRIMARILY FREE EVENTS AND TRAININGS

IMPACTING AREA INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Week of July 19, 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
improve our publications, content and convenience of use.
E-Update periodically reports ways in which subscribers use our publications to aid their
families or organizations. If you have a short description that might be helpful to others
and their uses, we would like to hear about them. Please forward two or three sentences
that provide specific uses of benefit to bps461@msn.com.
_________________________________________________________________
Activities are subject to change without notice; participants are encouraged
to use contact information to confirm times and dates.
To unsubscribe, please send a message to bps461@msn.com
with the word Unsubcribe in the Subject line.

-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)

Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
GSK Science in the Summer for Kids Various Libraries.
Delaware County Summer Music Festival Media.
Kindergarten Readiness Classes Pottstown.
Family Summer Fun for Everyone Series West Grove.
Photography and Paintings Exhibits Collegeville.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Summer Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good Feel Better for Women Multiple Locations.
Kimberton Fair Phoenixville (Kimberton).
Medicare 101 Workshop Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Pre-Schoolers Entertainment West Chester (East Goshen Township).
Oh, My Aching Hoof! Farm Life Series Presentation Glenmoore.
Healthy Childhood Milestones Presentation Pottstown.
International Piano Concert New Holland.
Dive Into Art History Portrayal Exton.
Concert on the Square Exton (Eagleview).
American Revolution Discussion and Lunch King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Summer Concert Pottstown.
The Tempest Shakespearean Play in the Park West Chester (East Goshen
Township).
Summer Concert Series Kennett Square.
Movie Night Exton (Eagleview).
Carillon Concert King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Unemployed Older Women Workshop Exton.
Animal Coats and Coverings for Kids Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Diversity in the Park Town Tour and Village Walk Phoenixville.

-3-

Beaver Builders - Summer Discovery Series for Kids Nottingham.

Kids Night Magic Show West Chester (West Bradford Township).
Organic Gardening Presentation Exton.
Summer Concert Chesterbrook.
State Rep. Cutle0rs Ice Cream Social Quarryville.
Sounds Under the Stars Summer Music Series West Chester (Pocopson Township).
Family Fun Night Downingtown.
Lawn Chair Movie Thorndale.
Stop the Drugs, Stop the Violence Day Pottstown.
Healthy Families Block Party Coatesville.

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

Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
GSK Science in the Summer for Kids Various Libraries.
Delaware County Summer Music Festival Media.
Kindergarten Readiness Classes Pottstown.
Family Summer Fun for Everyone Series West Grove.
Photography and Paintings Exhibits Collegeville.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Summer Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good Feel Better for Women Multiple Locations.
Hibernia History Walk Coatesville (Wagontown).
Solemn Assembly with Jim Liske of Prison Fellowship Honey Brook (Brandamore).
Summer Concerts - Pottstown (Sanatoga), Exton, West Chester (West Goshen
Township) and Lancaster.
Everest Vacation Bible School Parkesburg.
Super Cool Undersea Bible Venture Vacation Bible School Coatesville (Gum Tree).
Jazz Concert Phoenixville.
Veggie Tour Farm Life Series Glenmoore.
Pre-School Entertainment West Chester (East Goshen Township).
Photography Basics Class for Kids Nottingham.
What Killed Downtown? Presentation Norristown.
Concert on the Square Exton (Eagleview).
State Sen. Mensch and Rep. Simmons Veterans Outreach Red Hill.
Summer Concert Pottstown (Sanatoga).
Schuylkill River Cleanup Project Presentation Exton.
Summer Concert Series Kennett Square.
Carillon Concert King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
Sunset Paddling Tour Coatesville (Wagontown).
Chester County Trail History - Town Tours and Village Walks Frazer.
Learning OverDrive Presentation Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Summer Concerts Spring City, Chesterbrook and West Chester (Pocopson
Township).
Jazz Concert Berwyn.
Ourdoor Family Movie Downingtown (West Bradford Township).
Summer Jam Concert Downingtown.
Family Night Hike Pottstown (Warwick).
Super Smash Bros Tournament Qualifiers Exton.
State Rep. Truitt Community Day and Free Market West Chester (East Goshen
Township).
Nostalgia Night Car Show Pottstown.
No Light Night Hike Pottstown (Warwick).

-4-

New:

Future Weeks Events and Activities (View in Calendar of Events)

Essential Oils Presentation Phoenixville.
Downsizing for Seniors and Empty Nesters Presentation Exton.
National Night Out Kennett Square.
Evening Bird Walk Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Lets Get Dirty Organic Gardening Presentation Exton.
Individual Digital Device Clinics Exton.
Journey Off the Map Vacation Bible School Paoli.
State Rep. Truitt Legislative Breakfasts West Chester.
eBird Presentation - Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Medicare 101 Workshop Exton.
Payday Loans and Predatory Lending Presentation and Assistance for Veterans
Coatesville.
West Nile Virus Presentation Exton.
College Savings 529 Plans Presentation - Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).

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: Chester County Launches Platform to Employment Program for
Long-Term Unemployed
Chester County Workforce Investment Board is providing 25 individuals experiencing longterm unemployment an opportunity to take a five-week preparatory course that converts to
trial placements at local companies, with initial wages paid by the program.
Platform to Employment, which has been used in other areas of the country, provides a
variety of services, including skill assessment, career readiness workshop, employee
assistance programs and coaching. It then assists program participants in finding open
positions, with employers having an opportunity to assess worker skills during the trial
period without any cost to the business.
Further information and applications to participate in the initial trial are available at
www.platformtoemployment.com, info@platformtoemployment.com or (203) 610-8492.

NEW THIS WEEK: Chester County Expands Lead and Healthy Homes Program
Chester County Health Department has expanded its Lead and Healthy Homes Program,
increasing the children and youth qualification age for services.
Under the initiative, pregnant women and families with a child under 18 years of age that
suffers from asthma, resides in a home constructed before 1978, has pests or other risks, is
at 300% of poverty or participates in assistance programs such as food stamps or childrens
health insurance are eligible for a free home visit.

-5-

The activity is designed to identify asthma triggers, lead-based paint, pest activity and code
violations that pose safety and health hazards. Health Department representatives also
provide educational materials, Healthy Homes supplies to assist in making a home safer and
healthier, and referrals to other housing and community health agencies for additional
assistance.
Further information is available at http://chesco.org/index.aspx?NID=2680 or (610) 3446225.

NEW THIS WEEK: Montco Joins Text to 9-1-1, Urges Limited Use
Montgomery County has launched a new text to 9-1-1 service that gives county residents
the ability to send short text messages to 9-1-1 in an emergency if their wireless phone
service is provided by one of the four largest carriers: AT&T, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, or
T-Mobile.
Text to 9-1-1 is designed to be used primarily in an emergency situation when someone is
unable to speak because the caller is deaf, hard-of-hearing, speech impaired, or when
speaking out loud would put the caller in danger, such as in domestic and other violence
situations.
The system includes several limitations not occurring with telephone 9-1-1, with officials
urging call when you can, text when you must.
Further information on the system, which follows an earlier introduction in Chester County,
is available at www.montcopa.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=2455.

NEW THIS WEEK: Montco Sheriff Moves Toward Electric Cars

Montgomery County Sheriff's Department is going to electric cars to serve civil papers.
Officials have unveiled three $35,759 each Ford Fusion PHEV sedans,
with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection picking
up half the cost.
The plug-in electric units that alternate between gasoline and electric
power are expected to save $740 per year in fuel costs, depending on
usage, while collective maintenance costs are expected to be reduced by
$4,800 per year.
The vehicles are designed to get 100 miles per gallon on electric power and 43 miles per
gallon on gasoline combined city/highway driving. They can run approximately 21 miles on
electric alone, with a full batteries recharge taking seven hours.
The sheriffs office serves approximately 9,000 warrants and 48,000 court documents each
year.
Gasoline consumption is expected to be decreased by up to 74 percent over vehicles that
were replaced, with carbon dioxide emissions being cut in half. Capital costs are expected to
be recovered in 3.7 years, officials said.
Further information is available at www.montcopa.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=2453.

-6-

NEW THIS WEEK: Comments Sought on Montgomery County Child Welfare Plan
Friday, July 24
Montgomery Countys Office of Children and Youth (OCY), Juvenile Probation and the Youth
Center will hold a public hearing at 2 p.m. July 24, 2015 in the Community Room of the
Montgomery County Human Services Center, 1430 DeKalb Street, to obtain public comment
on a 2016-17 Child Welfare Needs Based Plan and Budget.
The document will be submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, Office
of Children, Youth, and Families, by Saturday, August 15.
Further information on the hearing or submission of written comments is available at
www.montcopa.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=2454 or (610) 278-5882.

NEW THIS WEEK: Two Environmental Associations Merge

The Brandywine Valley Association (BVA) and Red Clay Valley
Association (RCVA) have completed merger of a new regional
organization to provide watershed conservation and education
programs.
Information about the new Brandywine Red Clay Alliance, which will serve Chester County in
Pennsylvania and Northern New Castle County in Delaware, is available at
www.brandywinewatershed.org/template/merger.asp.

NEW THIS WEEK: People Spending More Time Living with Disability
People across the United States are living longer but spending more time in ill health,
according to a global research center at the University of Washington.
The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) says diabetes, neck pain, and agerelated and other hearing loss were among the 10 leading causes of years lived with
disability (YLD) in the United States in 2013, with other leading causes including anxiety
disorders, migraine, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Since 1990, diabetes and Alzheimers disease have replaced asthma and falls as leading
causes of YLDs for women, the Center reports, with diabetes now ranking higher for men.
Globally, back pain and depression are among the leading causes of YLD in every country,
with mental and substance abuse disorders causing one-fifth of disabling conditions,
according to the Institute.
Further information on U.S. data is available at www.healthdata.org/news-release/nonfataldiseases-including-depression-and-diabetes-pose-increasing-threat-health-us, with worldwide trends,including the United States, at www.healthdata.org/news-release/death-ratesdecline-nonfatal-diseases-and-injuries-take-bigger-toll-health-worldwide.

NEW THIS WEEK: A Guide to Air Quality Index Alerts

What do the Air Quality Index alert colors mean?
The region has been under AirNow Code Yellow and Orange
air pollution alerts developed by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), National Oceanic and Atmospheric

-7-

Administration (NOAA), National Park Service (NPS), and tribal, state, and local agencies to
provide the public with easy access to national air quality information.
State and local agencies report the air quality index (AQI) for cities across the United States
and parts of Canada and Mexico.
The standards are reported for both ozone and particle pollution, including who is most
effected at various levels and precautions that should be taken. Colors range from green
(good) to purple (very unhealthy) with red and purple levels impacting everyone.
Information on the different levels and their impacts is available at
http://cfpub.epa.gov/airnow/index.cfm?action=tvweather.ataglance.

NEW THIS WEEK: Study Says Low Education Levels Impact Early Death Numbers
A new study says that the number of premature deaths could be changed by individuals
attaining a higher education level.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Denver, New York University, and the University
of North Carolina at Chapel Hill estimate that 145,243 deaths could have been saved in the
2010 population if adults who had not completed high school went on to earn a GED or high
school degree. They also said that 110,068 deaths could have been saved if adults who had
some college went on to complete their bachelors degree.
The study said that a higher level of education is a strong predictor of longevity due to
many factors, including higher income and social status, healthier behaviors, and improved
social and psychological well being.
They equated the death rate associated with the lack of education to that of smoking.
Further information is available at www.nyu.edu/about/newspublications/news/2015/07/08/study-estimates-number-of-deaths-attributed-to-low-levelsof-education.html.

NEW THIS WEEK: Internet Service Too Costly for Many; Lancaster Has a Plan
Internet access is out of reach financially for many, with the City of Lancaster planning to
offer free Wi-Fi in parks and provide low-income residents with free or low-cost Internet in
conjunction with the installation of a smart water metering system over the next year,
according to a Pennsylvania PublicSource report. It says possibilities also are being tested in
other areas.
Further information is available at www.publicsource.org/investigations/least-11-millionpennsylvania-homes-lack-internet-access#.Va0qPfm9ASL.

NEW THIS WEEK: Pennsylvania is 22nd on States List for Serving Medicaid
Recipients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
A new report says that Pennsylvania only ranks 22 out of
50 states in how well State Medicaid programs serve Americans
with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD),
including the young and the elderly, and their families.

-8-

The United Cerebral Palsy (UCP), in its annual The Case for Inclusion report, also ranked
Maryland as second and Delaware as 35th.
In its key aspects of a "high functioning Medicaid program", UCP rated Pennsylvania near
the bottom, at 43, in regard to reaching those in need, 33rd in promoting independence,
28th in promoting productivity, 22 in keeping families together, and seventh in tracking
health, safety and qualify of life.
The full report is available at http://cfi.ucp.org/wpcontent/uploads/2015/07/UCP_2015_CaseforInclusion_FINAL.pdf.

NEW LAST WEEK: District Judges and Law Enforcement to Receive Required
Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities Training
A new Pennsylvania law, to take effect in September, will require law enforcement officers
to obtain training in dealing with persons with mental illness, intellectual disabilities or
autism and district judges in identifying diversion options for such individuals.
State Rep. Thomas Caltagirone of Berks County, sponsor of legislation signed by Gov. Tom
Wolf says that "all parties will be safer ... if a police officer can quickly identify a person
experiencing a mental breakdown and use proven crisis intervention techniques to deescalate a situation."
Municipal police officers would be required to receive training though the Municipal Police
Officers' Education and Training Commission. Training for magisterial district judges would
occur every six years through continuing education requirements.
Further information in regard to the legislation and impacts is available in our earlier
Facebook post at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/photos/a.635705349828053.1073741828.62331760
4400161/894508417281077/?type=1.

NEW LAST WEEK: City of Coatesville

Water System Sale Panned by
National News Network
The City of Coatesville's sale of its water
system to Pennsylvania American Water
over a dozen years ago and the results
that followed are the subject of a
national story this week.
Al Jazeera America provides a lengthy,
highly critical feature, "In Pennsylvania
city, the poor are paying the price for a
bad water deal", about the 2001 sale
and what has happened since.
Saying that "(b)y all practical measures,
Coatesville is 2 square miles of ghetto"
and "has become an island of vulnerable populations marooned in a sea of wealth", the
news network alleges that the "dilapidation of Coatesville is closely intertwined with the
growing cost of water".

-9-

The story is available at http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/7/13/in-coatesville-thepoor-are-paying-the-price-for-a-bad-water-deal.html.

NEW LAST WEEK: Analysis Finds High Truck-Bicycle and Other Accident Deaths
A Pennsylvania investigative news organization says that trucks are involved in 46 percent
of all Pennsylvania bicycle deaths and from 2008 to 2012 were a party in 42 percent of all
traffic fatalities, despite representing only seven percent of all traffic.
PublicSource says it made the analysis from records of the State Department of
Transportation [PennDOT] and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration
[NHTSA].
One method cited for reducing bicycle deaths involving trucks is a retrofit, which the
organization says already is in use in much of the world, that could immediately save
lives.
PublicSource says that in about half of fatal bike and truck accidents, the person killed first
makes impact with the side of the vehicle, typically due to the vehicle turning.
Truck side guards, a panel or set of metal bars on the side of a truck, running between the
two sets of wheels, can keep bicyclists from falling under them, instead allowing individuals
to bounce off the side of the truck, the organization said.
Further information is available at www.publicsource.org/investigations/bicycle-commutingrises-so-does-danger-of-pedalingtrucks?utm_source=PublicSource+newsletter&utm_campaign=b73a8cf8f2bikeSafety&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_b58fd7b533-b73a8cf8f2309183425#.VaP7Ovm9ASK.

NEW LAST WEEK: Alarm Goes Out About

Increased Lightning-Related Deaths
National Weather Service (NWS) is sounding the
alarm in regard to lightning-related deaths, with
more than twice the average nationally so far this
year than during the past five.
NWS hasn't identified the cause but says it may be
due to convective activity across the country; an
improved economy resulting in more people taking
vacations this summer; the possibility of people
taking more risks than usual; and the element of
chance.
"But the most important issue is behavior: People must go indoors when they hear
thunder!" the agency says, adding these messages:
-- "There is no safe place outside. You must go inside a sturdy building with walls, closed
windows, electricity and plumbing, or get in a hard topped car with the windows rolled up.
-- "As soon as you can hear thunder or see lightning you are in danger. Don't WAIT...
When thunder roars, go indoors!

- 10 -

-- "Do NOT seek shelter under a tree! Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the
storm.
-- "Plan your activities so you don't get caught outside in a thunderstorm. If there are
thunderstorms in the forecast, make sure you can quickly get to a safe shelter or reschedule
the outdoor activity."
Further information is available at www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/science/scienceintro.htm.

NEW LAST WEEK: Montgomery County Says Financials Now More Transparent
Montgomery County has joined the City of Reading in launch of an online web-based
financial analysis platform that provides residents, elected officials and
staff new access to information on the countys finances.
OpenGov.com is said to transform complex financial data into an
interactive, digital format that provides greater transparency, enabling
better consumer analysis and understanding of the countys finances.
The new platform displays six years of government spending and
revenue detail and is designed to provide easier exploration of how
taxpayer money is collected and spent.
Reading announced its launch last month, with three other local governments, including
Pittsburgh and two others in that area, also making data available under that platform.
Further information is available at www.montcopa.org/Archive.aspx?ADID=2447, with the
program available at www.montcopa.opengov.com.

NEW LAST WEEK: Middle Class Feeling Pinch of Rising Rents Throughout Area
A new report finds the middle class to be feeling the strain of rising rents as homeowner
rates drop to historic lows,
with the Philadelphia area
experiencing one of the
largest pinches nationally,
with Lancaster and Reading
somewhat less.
The 2015 State of the
Nations Housing study by the
Joint Center for Housing
Studies of Harvard University
says the U.S. is seeing record
numbers of cost-burdened
renters, including more renter
households higher up on the
income scale.
The study explains that:
"The U.S. housing recovery lost momentum in 2014 as homeownership rates continued to
fall, single-family construction remained near historic lows, and existing home sales cooled.

- 11 -

In contrast, the rental market remained a bright spot, fueled by strong growth in renter
households.
"With rents rising and incomes well below pre-recession levels, though, the number of
housing cost burdened renters set another
record, far surpassing public efforts to provide affordable housing. And despite the rebound
in much of the nation, a number of minority and low income neighborhoods remain
severely distressed.
Further information, including renter statistical impacts in the Philadelphia and suburbs,
Reading and Lancaster markets, is available through our earlier Facebook post at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/posts/893677574030828.

NEW LAST WEEK: Report Details Technologies Harmful Effects on Children

A PublicSource report, analyzing technologies harmful effects on children, says that
although screen addiction is not diagnosable, the average teenager spends more than 11
hours per day engaged with various electronic media.
Citing a variety of sources, the Pennsylvania investigative news organization says that
(t)elevision is not a babysitter, so parents should enforce rules about media use, noting
the American Academy of Pediatrics only recommends a maximum of two hours per day for
teenagers and older children.
Other citations include texting, violent video games, ability to focus and possible future
physical health issues.
The report is available at www.publicsource.org/from-the-source/technology-s-harmfuleffects-children?utm_source=PublicSource+newsletter&utm_campaign=b73a8cf8f2bikeSafety&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_b58fd7b533-b73a8cf8f2309183425#.VaP5yfm9ASK.

NEW LAST WEEK: Transportation and Home and Community-Based Services are
Top Eldercare Focuses
A new federal agency Snapshot of Older Adult Issues & Needs in America finds that
transportation is highest on the list for immediate or future needs, followed close behind by
home and community-based services.
The 2014 Eldercare Locator Data Report from the Administration for Community Living
found that 19% of elderly, caregivers and others contacting its national Eldercare Locator
call center were seeking answers to questions about transportation, followed by 18% for
home and community-base services. Housing at 15%, medical services and supplies at
11% and health insurance at nine percent rounded out the top five.
Legal and tax assistance, elder abuse, long term care, caregiver resources and employment
services were other areas of interest.
The report stresses, however, that even though individuals may contact the call center for
one purpose, other interconnected needs often become apparent.
Examples given include someone inquiring about home-delivered meals also may be lacking
transportation to the grocery store, or an individual exploring housing options actually

- 12 -

needing to move because they are unable to afford home modifications that would allow
them to stay in their home.
A copy of the report is available at www.n4a.org/files/EldercareLocatorDataReport.pdf. The
Eldercare Locator is available at www.eldercare.gov or (800) 677-1116.

NEW LAST WEEK: Study Says More Follow-up Care Needed for Stroke Survivors
A new study suggests a need for better long-term follow-up care for stroke survivors,
including therapy to retain or even regain cognitive ability.
University of Michigan researchers have found over six years that stroke is associated with
accelerated and persistent declines in thinking ability.
Although stroke is common, costly, and disabling, and cognitive decline is a major cause of
disability in stroke survivors, the study author says that cognitive decline after stroke has
not received enough attention.
We hope these findings will shine a spotlight on stroke survivors long-term cognitive
needs.
Further information is available at www.uofmhealth.org/news/archive/201507/memory-andthinking-ability-keep-getting-worse-years-after.

NEW LAST WEEK: Non-Elderly Health Uninsured Drops to Eight to 13 Percent

Up to five percent of the population in our E-Update
primary reporting area is enrolled in marketplace
health coverage under the federal Affordable Care
Act, with the number of non-elderly uninsured now
estimated at eight to 13 percent, depending on county.
The data, gleaned from the federal Department of Health and Human Services and Enroll
America, a national healthcare enrollment coalition, is through February 22 of this year,
following closure of the annual open enrollment period. Individuals with changing
circumstances can enroll at additional times.
Based on the data, Delaware County had the highest percentage of enrollment in relation to
population at five percent, with Lancaster County the least at 3.26 percent.
Berks at 13 percent, Lancaster at 12 and Delaware at 11 had the highest estimated
uninsured rates, although they each dropped a percentage point from the year before, with
Montgomery County at nine percent and Chester at eight, unchanged from 2014.
Further information in regard to numbers enrolled in relationship to populations in the fivecounty area, and uninsured rates is available in our earlier Facebook post at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/photos/a.635705349828053.1073741828.62331760
4400161/893710330694219/?type=1.

NEW LAST WEEK: New State Law to Allow Commuter Ridesharing

A new law by a Delaware County state legislator will take commuter ridesharing
arrangements by private operators out of the state regulatory process.

- 13 -

Gov. Tom Wolf has signed legislation, authored by Rep. Thomas Klllion, that will enable
private companies to arrange and promote vanpooling without being subject to regulation
by the state Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Unlike transportation network companies, such as Uber and Lyft, which transport
commuters for profit and are therefore regulated by the PUC, Killion said his legislation
would allow an employer, public agency, nonprofit organization or entity to lease a
ridesharing vehicle from a private company for the purpose of transporting employees,
round trip, to and from work, without profit or being engaged in transportation as a
business.
This is true commuter ridesharing that would enable employers to provide low-cost round
trip transportation for their employees while exempting them from needless state
regulation,Killion said.
A copy of the legislation, which takes effect in 30 days, is available at
www.legis.state.pa.us/CFDOCS/Legis/PN/Public/btCheck.cfm?txtType=PDF&sessYr=2015&s
essInd=0&billBody=H&billTyp=B&billNbr=0140&pn=0124.

NEW LAST WEEK: Two Saturday Day-time Bus

Services Depart Coatesville
Individuals relying on daytime Saturday bus service on
two CHESCOBUS lines, Coatesville LINK and SCCOOT, are losing their pickups.
The Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), which serves as
liaison between public sector transportation agencies and the private sector on
transportation issues affecting the Chester County business community, announced services
curtailment July 11 due to reduction of local match funding.
TMACC said the service "needed to be eliminated in order to balance the service operation
budget," reporting that due to "strong ridership Saturday evenings TMACC will continue
Evening LINK service to compliment the Krapfs A Bus schedule to Exton Mall".
Further information is available from TMACC at (610) 993-0911.

NEW LAST WEEK: Counselors of Sexually Violent Predators Required to Notify

District Attorney and Police
Counselors of sexually violent predators now must notify annually the district attorney and
law enforcement officials of the jurisdiction in which they are conducting business of such
activity.
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf has signed legislation authored by Bucks County Rep. Frank
Farry who says it is designed to close a loophole in reporting requirements of individuals
who have been deemed sexually violent predators.
Designees are required to undergo counseling sessions at least monthly, Farry said, but law
enforcement often doesnt know they are in their jurisdictions on a regular basis.
Affected counselors must report their businesses by January 15 of each year. A copy of the
new law, H.B. 73, is available at

- 14 -

www.legis.state.pa.us/CFDOCS/Legis/PN/Public/btCheck.cfm?txtType=PDF&sessYr=2015&s
essInd=0&billBody=H&billTyp=B&billNbr=0073&pn=0064.

Requirements Modified for Child Worker Background Checks Effective

Immediately
New requirements for child worker background checks that went into effect July 1 already
have been amended.
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf signed House Bill 1276, now Act 15, that amends the law on
the same day it went into effect.
Bucks County Rep. Katharine Watson, the chief sponsor, reported in a memorandum
accompanying the original proposal that the amendments are an effort to "clear up
ambiguous aspects of the statute and to address concerns expressed by numerous
volunteer-based organizations and other entities from across the Commonwealth that are
affected by the new law.
"The intent of this legislation (amendment) is to more clearly define who is subject to the
requirements, and, where possible, to make those requirements less onerous for adult
volunteers who work with children," she said, with the objective being "to strike a better
balance between protecting children and not making the requirements for volunteers so
onerous that the result is losing both volunteers and consequently programs that are
beneficial to children."
Further information is available at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/photos/a.635705349828053.1073741828.62331760
4400161/889791054419480/?type=1.

State Health Department to Accelerate Nursing Home Regulatory Efforts After

Phoenixville and Others Lawsuit
Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Karen Murphy says her department "will accelerate its
current efforts to evaluate our regulatory processes in order to determine what additional
measures can be taken to ensure enhanced quality in the future", after a lawsuit yesterday
against 14 nursing homes, including one each in Phoenixville and Lansdale.
The facilities, said to be managed and operated by Golden Gate National Senior Care LLC,
were sued in Commonwealth Court by the State Attorney General's office for promising "to
provide the care needed by residents and then (failing) to meet residents most basic
human needs."
Information on the complaint is available at
www.attorneygeneral.gov/Media_and_Resources/Press_Releases/Press_Release/?pid=1936,
the Health Department's statement at www.media.pa.gov/Pages/HealthDetails.aspx?newsid=224 and Golden Living's response at www.prnewswire.com/newsreleases/golden-living-responds-to-attorney-general-complaint-300108128.html.

State Attorney General Issues Tips to Avoid Flood-Damaged Vehicle Purchases

Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office has issued a set of tips to avoid purchasing a flooddamaged vehicle, such as those impacted by recent flooding in the Midwest and Southeast.

- 15 -

The suggestions also include references to The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB),
AutoCheck and The National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) that provide
tracking for storm damaged vehicles.
Further information is available at
www.attorneygeneral.gov/Media_and_Resources/Press_Releases/Press_Release/?pid=2147
483653.

Free Summer Breakfasts and Lunches for Kids Available at Community Sites
Sites in several area communities have opened to serve
breakfasts and/or lunches to children 18 years of age
and younger.
The Summer Food Service Program, funded through the
U.S. Department of Agriculture, is providing meals at
some 1,800 sites in Pennsylvania.
Further information, including a searchable sites locator
listing types of meals and dates, is available at
www.fns.usda.gov/sfsp/summer-meals-toolkit-summermeal-sites. An additional breakfast and lunch site not
yet on the map is located at Lincoln University, 351 Kersey Street, Coatesville, with further
information available at (484) 784-5945.

Volunteer Fees for Most Child Abuse Clearances Eliminated Effective Thursday,
July 25
Pennsylvania volunteers working with children will be
relieved of fees for child abuse clearances and criminal
background checks required by the state Child
Protective Services Law starting July 25, but it won't
help those who have been or are being required to have
such clearances by July 1 or during the nearly month-long interim period.
Governor Tom Wolf announced the waivers today, also saying the cost of Department of
Human Services (DHS) and Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) child abuse and criminal history
record checks are being reduced from $10 to $8 for all other applicants, also effective on
the same date.
FBI clearances, required for all employees and for volunteers who have not been a
continuous resident of the Commonwealth for the last 10 years, will continue to apply.
Jeffrey Sheridan, press secretary to Gov. Wolf, told Transformation Initiative that the gap in
time between the July 1 volunteer clearances requirements and the July 25 waiver effective
date is due to computer system updates that need to be performed to enable the new
actions to be undertaken.
Therefore, savings for individuals who must apply prior to July 25 won't be realized until a
volunteer's three-year clearance renewals.

- 16 -

In 2014, 23 pieces of legislation were enacted including Act 153 of 2014, changing how
Pennsylvania responds to child abuse, such changes significantly impacting the reporting,
investigation, assessment, prosecution and judicial handling of child abuse and neglect
cases. However, organizations using volunteers raised concern about future recruitment
due to the costs.
The list of persons required to obtain clearances, according to the Governor's Office, are:
-- Child care service employees;
-- Foster parents and adult household members;
-- Prospective adoptive parents and adult household members;
-- Individuals 14 year of age or older applying for a paid position as an employee
responsible for the welfare of a child or having direct contact with children;
-- Any individual seeking or provide child-care services under contract with a child-care
facility or program;
-- School employees governed by public school code and those not governed by the public
school code (colleges and universities).
From Jan 1, 2015 to April 30, 2015, 61,019 clearance applications were received for
volunteers, with the projected total number of volunteer clearances for FY 2015-2016,
starting July 1, being 296,836.
For DHS, the total number of clearances received was 512,583 from the time the electronic
system went live in late December 2014 through May 31, 2015. The PSP processed
828,579 Criminal History Record Checks from January through May of 2015.
More information about clearances required under the Child Protective Services Law is
available at www.keepkidssafe.pa.gov. Individuals seeking clearances can go directly to
www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis to create an individual account and apply for their child
abuse clearance electronically.

Free Kindergarten Readiness Classes Monday-Friday, August 10-21.

Pottstown Early Action for Kindergarten Readiness (PEAK) will host its annual readiness
classes for Pottstown School District children entering kindergarten in September.
Enrollment is open to children of families at 300 percent or less of federal poverty guidelines
-- $72,750 for a family of four with classes being held at KinderCare Learning Center,
Pottstown YMCA, YWCA Tri County Area, Montgomery Early Learning Centers and Pottstown
School District Pre-K Counts.
Classes are designed to provide a head start to incoming students as to kindergarten
routines and structure, acquainting them with the rhythms of school, and fostering
independence and responsibility.
Further information and required registration are available at www.peakblog.org or (610)
970-6655.

- 17 -

Free Strength-Based Family Worker Credential Course Tuesday, September 8

Tuesday, May 10; Registration by Tuesday, August 25
Chester County is receiving registrations for the Strength-Based Family Worker (SFW)
Credential course, an 18-class training and test for frontline family workers.
The course, open to government, private and nonprofit agencies, includes seven
undergraduate college credits or continuing education units.
Training includes development of a variety of skills related to effective family engagement
through strength-based practices within agency and community systems and with families.
Further information and required registration are available from Valerie Griffiths at Chester
County Department of Children, Youth and Families at vgriffiths@chesco.org or (610) 3445885.

State Property Tax/Rent Rebate Application Deadline Extended Now 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.
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.

- 18 -

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 July 21, Country Meadows of Wyomissing and the IM Able Foundation will
present at Country Meadows, 1800 Tulpehocken Road, Wyomissing. On August 18, Berks
County Veterans Affairs will present in the Community Room at Boscovs Department Store,
4500 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading. On August 20, Webb Medical Systems will present at
Excentia, 617-C North Prince Street, Lancaster. Specific topic workshops also are being
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.
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
entrance), 865 South Main Street, Phoenixville. Representatives of community organizations
exchange information about current and upcoming activities and hear presentations from
various services providers. On July 28, Open Hearth of Spring City and the Phoenixville
Time Bank will present. On August 25, Chester County Emergency Management and
Chestnut Hill College at the Montgomery County Community College Center will discuss
activities. Additional information about the group is available from Debbie Dundon at Open
Hearth, Spring City, at (610) 792-9282 x201 or debbie.openhearth@verizon.net.
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 area
community. On September 9, the group will meet at La Comunidad Hispana, 731 West
Cypress 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.
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 exchange information about current and upcoming activities and
hear presentations from various services providers. Further information is available from
Kathryn Spurlock at ccch@comcast.net or at (610) 380-7111 x16.
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. Additional information is available from
Kathy Brauner at kbrauner@chesco.org or (610) 344-5262.
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

- 19 -

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.
COSECHA (Harvest) meets from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. the second Wednesday of the
month from September through June at the Head Start Center, 380 West Cedar Street,
Kennett Square. Further information is available from Elizabeth Garduno at
elizabethga@cciu.org or (610) 444-2880 x305.
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:
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

- 20 -

new member orientation at 8:30 a.m. In August, there is no meeting. 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: The Parish Hall
Rear Entrance, St. Laurence Church, 8245 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby. Third
Tuesday: Hassler Chapel, Media Presbyterian Church, 30 East Baltimore Pike,
Media, with further information at robinst37@gmail.com. On July 21, the subject
will by Networking During the Summer Months.
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
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. 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.

- 21 -

UPDATED LAST WEEK: Free Job Assistance Workshops, Job Fairs and Job
Openings Report July
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 what PA CareerLink has to offer.
A calendar of PA CareerLink-Chester County workshops for the current month is available at
www.pacareerlinkchesco.org/calendar.
Monthly job openings list that provides several pages for the Chester County area is
available at http://pa-chestercounty.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/26907. 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

UPDATED LAST WEEK: Volunteering Can Help with Employment Loss

The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) reports that chances of
obtaining employment are
increased by 27% if one volunteers,
and escalates to 51% for those
without a high school diploma and
55% for those in rural areas.
CNCS research finds that
volunteering helps job seekers learn
new skills, expand their networks,
and take on leadership roles and
also is associated with an increased
likelihood of finding employment for
all volunteers regardless of a
persons gender, age, ethnicity,
geographical area or job market
conditions.
Further information on the research
is available at
www.volunteeringinamerica.gov/research.cfm.

- 22 -

A search tool to find volunteer opportunities is available at www.serve.gov or by typing

"Volunteer Opportunities" into other search engines.

Free Certified Nursing Assistant Training Available

Chester County Opportunities Industrialization Center (OIC) is enrolling income-eligible
individuals for its Certified Nursing Assistant Training Program.
Further information is available at (610) 692-2344.

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.
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.

Chester County Pops Up First in Southeastern Pennsylvania for West Nile Virus
West Nile Virus (WNV) season has started, with the Chester County Health Department
recording its first2015 positive mosquito sample for WNV in Phoenixville Borough, the most
recent reporting for four Pennsylvania counties.
The total number varies annually, depending on weather. Last year, the county recorded 52
positives for the season, with 146 in 2012. Totals for adjoining counties last year were 148
in Delaware, 61 in Lancaster, 42 in Montgomery and 30 in Berks.
Further information on WNV and mitigation is available at
www.chesco.org/index.aspx?NID=868, with updating state-wide impact and totals for the
current and previous years at www.westnile.state.pa.us.

Study Says Some Area Hospitals Among Top 50 Nationwide for Highest Uninsured
Patient Charges
A new study, reported on by Lancaster Online, says that six of seven Pennsylvania hospitals
with the highest charges nationally to uninsured patients are in Southeastern Pennsylvania,
including Crozer Chester Medical Center in Delaware County, Brandywine Hospital at
Coatesville, and Phoenixville and Pottstown Hospitals.
Five of the seven top chargers, among 50 nationally, are identified as part of the for-profit
Community Health Systems, with costs as much as 10 times over Medicare-allowable costs.
Hospital spokespersons argued that their facilities "provide significant discounts to
uninsured and underinsured patients to help cover out-of-pocket costs".

- 23 -

Further information on the report is available through

www.facebook.com/TransformationIni/posts/880257112039541.

Lyme Disease Up in Pennsylvania; Chester County Remains the Leader in

Southeast
Lyme disease is up 25% in reported cases in Pennsylvania last year, although area counties
other than Delaware showed a decrease.
Secretary of Health Dr. Karen Murphy
reported last week the Commonwealth
recorded 7,400 cases of Lyme disease in
2014, compared with 5,900 cases in
2013, with the increase, in part,
attributable to heightened awareness
about Lyme disease, better reporting,
and enhanced monitoring efforts, particularly in Allegheny County.
"Lyme disease is present in every county in Pennsylvania," the Secretary reported, saying
that residents need to better protect themselves from tick bites and know the signs and
symptoms of Lyme disease
"For those with the disease it is important to seek early treatment to avoid any potential
long-term health complications," she said.
Chester County continues to lead the number of cases in our reporting area, with 2,022 last
year, or 134 per 100,000 average annual rate, versus 2,395 cases the year before, or a
159.5 average annual rate.
Delaware County, in the meantime, skyrocketed from 62 cases, or a 3.7 average annual
rate in 2013, to 320 cases, a 19.1 average annual rate, last year.
Other area county rates, all showing declines between years, are:
-- Berks: 142 cases in 2013 (11.5 average annual rate) / 79 in 2014 (6.4 average annual
rate).
-- Bucks: 1,977 (105.3) / 1,400 (74.5)
-- Lancaster: 36 (2.3) / 35 (2.2)
-- Montgomery: 1,262 (52.9) / 1,052 (43.6)
-- Philadelphia: 549 (11.9) / 435 (9.4)
U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and eight colleagues recently introduced the federal Lyme and TickBorne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act of 2015 to increase public
awareness and strengthen efforts to combat tick-borne diseases. A text of the bill is at
www.blumenthal.senate.gov/download/lyme-and-tick-borne-illness-prevention-act.
A Department of Health Lyme Disease Fact Sheet is at
www.health.pa.gov/My%20Health/Diseases%20and%20Conditions/IL/Documents/Lyme%20Disease.pdf.

- 24 -

The 2014 County Health Profiles are available at

www.statistics.health.pa.gov/MyHealthStatistics/VitalStatistics/CountyHealthProfiles/Pages/
CountyHealthProfiles.aspx#.VXkgyUa9BP0.

Southeastern Pennsylvania Counties Unveil New Emergency Alert Systems

Chester, Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks counties
have unveiled a new emergency alert notification
system via telephone, text and e-mail to replace the
current Cooper Industries ReadyNotifyPA brand.
Citizen signups for ReadyChesCo, ReadyMontco, Delco
Alert and ReadyBucks have started. Those enrolled in
the current alerting system will need to re-enroll in the
EverBridge system by the end of the month to continue
to receive emergency alerts.
The new system allows residents to choose the alerts
they receive and the order of notification, along with other types of information.
Enrollment is available at:
Chester County: www.readychesco.org
Montgomery County: www.montcopa.org/index.aspx?nid=595
Delaware County: www.co.delaware.pa.us/delcoready/delcoalert.html
Bucks County: www.buckscounty.org/ReadyBucks
Alerts for South Central Pennsylvania counties, including Lancaster, also are available
through Everbridge at www.co.lancaster.pa.us/658/Emergency-Services.
Alert information in Berks County -- Berks Alert -- is accessible through the Cooper
Industries system at https://berks.alertpa.org/index.php?CCheck=1.
Pennsylvanias alert system -- Alert PA -- for any county, also through Cooper Industries, is
available at https://alert.pa.gov.
More comprehensive weather information for the region is available through our Facebook
page. To receive updates for this and other family-related information during the week,
"Like" our page at www.facebook.com/TransformationIni and "Get Notifications" in the
dropdown menu next to "Like" to avoid Facebook filtering posts to individual Timelines and
News Feeds based on its own algorithms.
Although we also provide alerts, Facebook should not be considered a primary alerting
source for emergency broadcasts if emergency alert systems are working.

FTC Creates Resource to Help Recover From Identity Theft

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has developed a new website to help consumers identify
steps and follow a process to recover from identity theft.
Identity theft has been the top consumer complaint reported to the FTC for the past
15 years, it says, with the Commission receiving more than 330,000 complaints in 2014
from consumers who were identity theft victims.

- 25 -

The online guide and checklist are available at www.identitytheft.gov, with a Spanish
version at www.robodeidentidad.gov.

Pennsylvania Launches Mobile Child Support Website

Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) has launched a mobile version of its
Pennsylvania Child Support website to simplify screen navigation and case details for people
accessing child support program information with a smartphone or tablet.
The website provides access to child support program information and case details,
including the status of their cases, making payments, viewing upcoming appointments,
requesting materials, calculating estimated child support payments, and locating local
domestic relations sections.
More than 18,000 people visit the child support website daily, according to the department,
with 67 percent using mobile devices as their primary means of accessing online content.
Further information is available at www.childsupport.state.pa.us.

Coatesville Seeks 100 Free Pop-Up Lending Libraries

Several community organizations are joining together to promote development of 100 popup lending libraries at sites throughout the community as part of the Citys centennial
celebration.
Pull Together Coatesville, being coordinated by Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AH-HAH),
Coatesville Area Public Library, Priority Education Consulting and Lincoln University
Coatesville Campus, seeks to establish take a book, return a book locations where one can
stop to read, pick up a book or two and drop others off to share.
Sites can be at any gathering place, including offices, restaurants, laundromats, barber and
beauty shops, and more.
Further information on this free sharing initiative is available at
http://www.artsholdinghandsandhearts.com/#!WHY-WE-NEED-POP-UP-LENDINGLIBRARIES-IN-COATESVILLE/c4v5/557efa810cf298dc5b99a98f, jan.michener@ah-hah.us or
(484) 883-2367.

Check out Delaware and Pennsylvania If Retiring

If you want the best place for retirement, you have to move across the border to Delaware,
according to Kiplinger magazine, although Pennsylvania is listed as fourth in line.
In a June report, the publication called Delaware one of Kiplinger's 10 Most Tax-Friendly
States for Retirees, levying no sales tax and modest income taxes, from which Social
Security benefits are exempt. Florida was second and West Virginia third.
Of Pennsylvania, Kiplinger says: "Economic stability holds the poverty rate of older
residents of the Keystone State down to 8.3%, compared with 9.4% for the U.S. And crime
rates are safely below average. Though the overall cost of living is above average, housing
for people 65+ is reasonably priced."
Rounding out the top ten are South Dakota, Arizona, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas and Wyoming.

- 26 -

Additional information is available at www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/T037-S001best-states-for-retirement-2015/index.html#8Lc4wImDODdOjEo9.99.

NIDA Says Abuse of Prescription Pain Medications Risk Heroin Use

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) says that one in 15 people who take non-medical
prescription pain relievers will try heroin within 10 years.
In an infographic campaign, it is noted that nearly one in 20 adolescents and adults, or
12 million people, used prescription pain medication in 2010 when it was not prescribed for
them or only for the feeling it caused.
While many believe these drugs are not dangerous because they can be prescribed by a
doctor, abuse often leads to dependence, according to the NIDA. And eventually, for
some, pain medication abuse leads to heroin.
Further information on prescription drug and other abuse is available at
www.drugabuse.gov/related-topics/trends-statistics/infographics/abuse-prescription-painmedications-risks-heroin-use.

New Consumer Hospital Discharge Planning Checklist

Available
Medicare has published a six-page checklist to help individuals
avoid being re-admitted after a hospital stay.
It is suggested by Medicare that Your Discharge Planning
Checklist be used early and often during your stay and that a
patient talk to their doctor and hospital staff, such as a discharge
planner, social worker or nurse, about items on the list.
The publication, including a list of additional resources, is
available at
www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11376.pdfm with the The Joint Commission, an
independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies more than 20,500 health
care organizations and programs in the United States, providing additional information at
www.jointcommission.org/toc.aspx.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness May be Available for Some Student Loans
Individuals working in governmental organizations, some charitable organizations and some
organizations providing specific services such as public education or health may be eligible
for a broad, employment-based forgiveness program on qualifying student loans.
Further information on Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is available at
www.ed.gov/blog/2015/04/how-to-qualify-for-public-service-loan-forgiveness-2 and
www.studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service#page.

- 27 -

Free Child Abuse Prevention Resource Guide Published

A new 2015 Prevention Resource Guide: Making Meaningful Connections, along with other
publications to aid in combating child abuse, has been made available as part of April is
National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The materials and other information are available at
www.childwelfare.gov/topics/preventing/preventionmonth/?utm_source=Gateway&utm_me
dium=homepage&utm_campaign=NCAPM15.

Free Motorcycle Safety Courses Scheduled

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) is offering all riders from novice to
experienced -- safety training for the riding season.
In addition, anyone under 18 years of age must take and successfully complete a
Pennsylvania motorcycle safety program basic rider course before he or she can receive a
motorcycle license. To be eligible to test, youth must have a motorcycles learners permit
for at least six months and have 65 hours of supervised riding.
Further information about new motorcycling laws effective last year is available at
http://dmv.state.pa.us/centers/motorcycleCenter.shtml, with information on PAMSP at
www.pamsp.com.

Berks County is under Drought Watch

Berks and 26 other Pennsylvania counties are under a DROUGHT WATCH due to belowaverage groundwater levels.
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) says that "despite the recent surge of
surface water caused by snow melt .... low groundwater levels can cause well-fed water
supplies, both private and public, to go dry.
"The very dry fall and below-normal precipitation in January and February have contributed
to low groundwater levels in the northeast and central portions of the state. The increasing
temperatures and melting snow have helped, but groundwater levels may not be back to
normal before the summer," it says.
A drought watch declaration is the first and least-severe level of the states three drought
classifications. It calls for a voluntary five percent reduction in non-essential water use and
puts large water consumers on notice to begin planning for the possibility of reduced water
supplies.
Further information and conservation information are available at
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/news_releases/14288.

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.

- 28 -

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.
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.

- 29 -

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.
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.