Receive Early Alerts During the Week on Many of These and Other Stories

Our E-Update, Calendar of Events and E-Update ResourcesTM, along with many
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 April 3, 2016

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-

2009-2016 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.
UPDATED THIS WEEK: 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)

Dare to Be the Best Fatherhood Initiative Pottstown.
Bird Walks Audubon.
College Admissions Workshops Strafford.
Parenting and Children Time Pottstown.
Parent Cafes Pottstown.
Art Show Audobon.
Scenes from Historic Yellow Spring Art Show Malvern.
Biweekly Cancer Survivors Well-Being Activity Pottstown.
Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Spring Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good, Feel Better for Women Various Locations.
Business Online Workshop Pottstown.
Mount Vernon During the Revolutionary War Presentation King of Prussia (Valley
Forge).
Navy Band Concerts Pottstown and Reading.
The Art of Gardening Presentation Strafford.
Emotions of Grief Support New Holland.
Special Needs Transition Planning Presentation West Chester.
Rowanda Presentation Exton.
Prepare to Meet the Lenders Workshop for Businesses Workshop Pottstown.
Philadelphia in Films Presentation Berwyn.
Hummingbirds Presentation Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Valley Forge at 40 Presentation Phoenxville.
Community Input on Economic Development Forum Kennett Square.
Film Fest Malvern.
Master Gardening Presentation West Grove.

-3-

Mentored Youth Fishing Day Pennsylvania Regional Waterways.

Bird Walk Audubon.
Single Mothers Conference West Chester.
Sheep Sheering Day Lansdale.
Pennypacker Gallery Talk Schwenksville.
Jazz Concert Collegeville.
Star Party West Chester.
Celebrate Victory/Celebrate Recovery Exton/Lionville.

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

Dare to Be the Best Fatherhood Initiative Pottstown.
College Admissions Workshops Strafford.
Parenting and Children Time Pottstown.
Parent Cafes Pottstown.
Scenes from Historic Yellow Spring Art Show Malvern.
Biweekly Cancer Survivors Well-Being Activity Pottstown.
Personal Finance Classes Pottstown and Norristown.
American Revolution History Events King of Prussia (Valley Forge).
PA CareerLink and Job Search Services Area Counties.
Spring Reading and Children Programs Area Libraries.
Look Good, Feel Better for Women Various Locations.
Jazz Fest Arts Edition Reading.
Jazz Concert Philadelphia.
Validation Therapy Presentation New Holland.
Communities Along the Lower Schuylkill Presentation Phoenixville.
Pardons and Expungements Workshop Coatesville.
Groundbreaking Architects Presentation Strafford.
Special Needs Transition Planning West Chester.
Prescribe-a-Trail Walk Phoenixville.
Stabilizing Neighborhoods Presentation Lancaster.
Errors at the Battle of the Brandywine Presentation Exton.
Family Caregivers Workshop Exton.
Cuban Missile Crisis Presentation Exton.
Historic Yellow Springs Art Exhibition Opening Reception Malvern.
Prenatal Trauma Presentation Terre Hill.
Essential Tremors Support New Holland.
Low Vision Myths Presentation New Holland.
Stop the Fighting! Help Your Kids Get Along Presentation West Chester.
Energy Summit Coatesville.
Spotlight Film Screening Phoenixville.
Building a Better Credit Report Workshop Exton.
Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Coatesville.
Housing Fair Plymouth Meeting.
Keeping Lawyers Aboveboard Presentation Strafford.
Spotted Lanternfly Presentation Pottstown (Warwick).
Prescribe-a-Trail Walk Phoenixville.
International Festival Lansdale.
Pottstown Celebrates Young Children and Healthy Kids Day Pottstown.
Percussion Concert New Holland.
Brooklyn Film Screening Oxford.
Celebrate Victory/Celebrate Recovery Exton/Lionville.

-4-

New:

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

Bring Balance to Your Budget Workshop Exton.
Protecting Native Pollinators Presentation Chester Springs (Ludwigs Corner).
Keeping Our Children Safe Parents and Kids Presentation Paoli.
Backpacking and Wilderness Survival Presentation and Hands-on Experience
Phoenixville and Pottstown (Warwick).
Reading with the Ranger for Children Oxford.
Non-Profit Repositioning Fund Seminar Exton.
A-Day Weekend Celebration Doylestown.
Kids Fishing Derby Huntingdon Valley.
Humanity Fest Lancaster.
Plant Swap Coatesville (Wagontown).
Long-Distance Hike Pottstown (Warwick).
U.S. vs. Art Thieves Author Presentation Berwyn.
The Lorax Movie and Tree Planting Pottstown (Warwick).
Compassion International Poverty Experience Tour Parkesburg.
Outdoor Ethics Awareness for Scouts Pottstown (Warwick).
Family Caregiver Workshop Kennett Square.
Beginner and Intermediate Nature Photography Classes Glenmoore.
Pardons and Expungements Workshop Coatesville.
Celebrate Victory/Celebrate Recovery Exton/Lionville.

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: Area Providers Chosen for Planning Initiative to Improve
Community-Based Behavioral Health Services
Organizations in Berks, Delaware and
Montgomery counties have been chosen by the
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
(DHS) to participate in a federal planning grant
for adoption of innovative approaches to
community-based behavioral health services.
The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) initiative will include Berks
Counseling Center, NHS Delaware County and Creative Health Services in Pottstown among
16 participating entities through the state.
The activity is designed to develop ways to serve more individuals in their communities and
ensure access to high-quality care, according to the Department.
Officials said that during the next four months the clinics will complete a needs assessment
and readiness review guided by the Department to determine additional services, staffing
and training to meet behavioral health needs of the community.

-5-

The readiness review will determine if each clinic meets standards required by federal
regulations to become a Certified Community Behavioral Clinic. Areas included in the
readiness review are staffing, accessibility of services, care coordination, scope of services,
quality measurement and reporting and governance of the clinic.
DHS will certify those clinics that have meet the standards by August 1, with an application
then being submitted in October to enable them to participate in the Centers for Medicare
and Medicaid Services (CMS) demonstration grant.
Successful CCBHCs are expected to provide crisis services, targeted case management,
outpatient mental health and substance abuse services, patient-centered treatment
planning, screening, assessment, and diagnosis, psychiatric rehabilitation services, peer and
family support, care for veterans and members of the military, and outpatient primary care
screening and monitoring.
Further information is available at
www.media.pa.gov/Pages/DHS_details.aspx?newsid=200.

NEW LAST WEEK: Multiple Rabies Incidents Reported in Lancaster County

Rabid animals have been confirmed in nine
March incidents in Central Pennsylvania, with
four of them in Lancaster County.
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture says three raccoons, one with human exposure, and
one bat were carriers.
It advises that people should avoid contact with wild animals and take precautions to limit
contact of their domestic animals with wild animals, and in particular avoid wild animals
acting abnormally including feral cats, with symptoms including unusual aggression,
daytime activity by nocturnal species, lethargy, drooling and paralysis
Not all animals show every sign, the department notes, but "most neurological or behavioral
abnormalities could potentially be rabies."
Further information is at www.media.pa.gov/pages/Agriculture_details.aspx?newsid=408.

NEW THIS WEEK: Four-County Anti-Aggressive Driving Campaign Kicks Off

Over 50 municipal police departments across Southeastern Pennsylvania will be combating
aggressive-driving for the next month as part of a statewide wave of law enforcement
activities.
Officers in Bucks, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties will target motorists
exhibiting aggressive-driving behaviors such as running red lights, speeding and tailgating.
The effort, running through Tuesday, May 3, is part of the Pennsylvania Aggressive Driving
Enforcement and Education Project, funded through part of the Pennsylvania Department of
Transportation (PennDOT) federal funds allocation from the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration.
PennDOT provides the following tips if encountering an aggressive driver:

-6-

-- Get out of their way and don't challenge them;

-- Stay relaxed, avoid eye contact and ignore rude gestures; and
-- Don't block the passing lane if you are driving slower than most of the
traffic.
Further information on aggressive driving is available at www.justdrivepa.org/Traffic-SafetyInformation-Center/Aggressive-Driving.

NEW THIS WEEK: Lancaster Reported to Be Among Top U.S. Fastest Growing
Economies
Lancaster is being reported by the U.S. Department of
Labor Statistics to have the seventh fastest-growing midsize metro areas economies in the nation for both a one
and five-year period.
An analysis by PennLive, showing the County growing at a
rate 165% above the average of other economies in
populations of 500,000 and one million people, is available
at www.pennlive.com/news/2016/04/10_fastgrowing_metro_economie.html?ath=335debdf0a8e069581597e2f04c38237#0.

NEW THIS WEEK: Justice Department Launches Regional Elder Justice Task Force
U.S. Department of Justice has created ten regional Elder Justice Task Forces of federal,
state and local prosecutors, law enforcement, and agencies that provide services to the
elderly to coordinate and enhance efforts to pursue nursing homes that provide grossly
substandard care to their residents.
Acting Associate Attorney General Stuart F. Delery said that although seniors expect nursing
homes to provide quality care, provided with dignity, the government too often is finding
nursing home owners or operators who put their own economic gain before the needs of
their residents.
The task forces are designed to help ensure all involved agencies we are working closely
with all relevant parties to protect the elderly, officials said.
Further information is available at www.justice.gov/opa/pr/department-justice-launches-10regional-elder-justice-task-forces.

NEW THIS WEEK: Millions of Consumer to be Eligible for Internet Subsidies

Millions of low-income persons will be eligible for an early
Christmas present this year with a December 1 start date for
new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules to
expand Lifeline telephone subsidies to the Internet.
The Commission voted 3-to-2 to expand a program that currently provides free basic
telephone access to low-income Americans. Lifeline now will offer a $9.25 a month subsidy

-7-

to participants, who can apply it toward home broadband Internet access or add a data plan
to their cell phones.
Further information is available at www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-modernizes-lifeline-programdigital-age.

NEW THIS WEEK: FCC Proposing New Rules to Enable Consumers to Decide
Internet Privacy
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is proposing new rules to empower consumers
to decide how data is used and shared by Internet providers.
The FCC says the rule is designed to ensure that broadband
customers have meaningful choice, greater transparency and strong security protections for
their personal information collected by internet service providers (ISPs) and how it is
shared.
Further information is at www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-proposes-broadband-consumerprivacy-rules.

NEW THIS WEEK: Berks County Found Not to be Involved in Brain Drain
Berks County isnt suffering a "brain drain" of youth leaving area, according to Berks County
Community Foundation report.
In a Berks Vital Signs Brain Drain or Brain Gain study, researchers found that although
there is a modest outflow of individuals with graduate or professional degrees, isnt sufficient

to

determine if they are young adults under 35 years of age or older county residents, including
those electing to retire elsewhere.
The full report is available at https://issuu.com/alverniauniversity/docs/brain-drain-gainreport-2-11-16-v2.

NEW THIS WEEK: On the List for Safe High Schools and Worse States for
Hispanics
Two reports find a number of area high schools are among the top 30 safest in Pennsylvania
and that the state is the third worst in the nation for Hispanics.
The first study is by Niche.com, a content provider of reviews and insights that includes
schools, with the second by 24/7 Wall Street, a State of Delaware financial news and
opinion company.
They are reported
www.pennlive.com/news/2016/03/safest_pennsylvania_public_sch.html#0 and
www.pennlive.com/news/2016/03/10_worst_states_for_hispanics.html#0.

-8-

NEW THIS WEEK: Area Counties Now in Range for Zika Virus
Chester and adjoining counties are on new maps for
range of potential Zika virus spread, although risk or
likelihood, or exact locations or numbers of mosquitoes
living in these areas aren't shown.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
says that Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are more likely to
spread viruses like Zika that is being linked to birth
deformities with pregnant mothers.
The new report is available at www.cdc.gov/chikungunya/resources/vector-control.html.

NEW LAST WEEK: Zika Virus from Mosquitoes Drawing Increasing Concern for
Both Women and Men
The Zika virus is drawing increasing focus, particularly for
women who could become pregnant and men who can
transmit the disease, from the federal Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), with new guidance and
information to prevent transmission and health effects.
The CDC says there is "mounting evidence" that supports a
link between Zika, transmitted initially by mosquitoes, and
microcephaly, a birth defect that is a sign of incomplete
brain development, and possibly other problems such as miscarriage and stillbirth.
The new guidance is available at www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/s0325-zika-virusrecommendations.html, with further information on the disease at www.cdc.gov/zika.

NEW LAST WEEK: Are You Missing Out on Receiving News Faster?
Many of the stories that appear in this E-Update, along with others that many others that
dont meet our publications criteria, first appear during the prior week on our
Transformation Initiative and Transformation Initiative Emergency Preparedness Facebook
pages.
For information faster for Facebook users, Like and Follow our Pages at
www.facebook.com/TransformationIni and
www.facebook.com/TransformationInitiative.EmergencyPreparedness.
One doesnt need to be a Facebook user to access information on the Pages, but does need
to become a free user to Share the information and to obtain updates.

NEW LAST WEEK: Area Counties Declared Federal Disaster Areas for Aid
Chester, Montgomery and adjoining counties to the west, along with Philadelphia, have
been declared federal disaster areas for the January Winter Storm Jonas, making local
governments and some nonprofits eligible for federal aid.
Assistance, generally at 75% of costs, will be available to state and local governments for
costs of clearing of snow during the January 23-24 event, and to governments and certain

-9-

nonprofits for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the
severe winter storm and snowstorm.
Further information is available at www.fema.gov/disaster/4267 and county emergency
management offices.

NEW LAST WEEK: Chester County Homeless Numbers Jump

The number of recorded homeless as part of
January's Point-in-Time count jumped by more than
10 percent this year in Chester County, with the
number of individuals spending at least one night in
shelters in 2015 increasing by more than 12
percent.
Less than half seeking shelter were able to be
assisted, according to a report to community
agencies from Decade to Doorways, the county's
10-year-plan group to end homelessness within 10
years.
The number of this year's homeless included 677
sheltered individuals, including 50 under the age of 18 and nearly half of those under five,
with another five unsheltered.
The unsheltered numbers, down from 15 the year before, may be unreliable, it was
reported, due to the count following January's major snow storm and cold weather when
more individuals are likely to seek shelter inside. Consideration is being given for a summer
count.
Lauren Hutzel, at podium, Decade to Doorways coordinator, said that 490 persons were
served in family emergency shelters in 2015, with over half arriving from housing with
family or friends.
Of these, 66 percent exited shelters to permanent housing, with 77 percent of those to
rentals with housing subsidies.
During 2015, ConnectPoints, the single telephone point of contact for homeless services,
received 5,166 calls reflecting 2,033 unduplicated clients. Of those, 87 percent of calls had
an emergency shelter and cold weather/warming shelter
need. Only 49 percent of these calls were able to have needs met, according to the report.
Information in regard to the Point-in-Time count is available at
www.decadetodoorways.com/the-need/point-in-time, and other statistics at
www.decadetodoorways.com/the-need/statistics.

NEW LAST WEEK: Elevated Levels of Caffeinated Beverages May Cause

Miscarriages
A new federal study says a woman is more
likely to miscarry if she and her partner drink
more than two caffeinated beverages a day
during the weeks leading up to conception.

- 10 -

The report by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Ohio State
University, Columbus. also found that women who drank more than two daily caffeinated
beverages during the first seven weeks of pregnancy were also more likely to miscarry.
At the same time, the study found that women taking a daily multivitamin before conception
and through early pregnancy were less likely to miscarry than those who did not.
Further information is available at www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/couples-prepregnancy-caffeine-consumption-linked-miscarriage-risk.

NEW LAST WEEK: State Creates New Human Services Information System, To Be
Further Upgraded This Summer
Pennsylvania Departments of Aging and Human Services
have rolled out new public information and human services
assistance systems that are scheduled to be further
upgraded and consolidated this summer under a re-branded
Link to Community Care.
The changeover, from the Link to Aging and Disability
Resources, will affect 15 multi-county Links of services
providers, along with new information systems and a current toll-free information line.
Current Link service areas include Bucks, Chester and Montgomery; Berks, Lancaster and
Lebanon; and Delaware and Philadelphia counties.
A new Human Services COMPASS website for information and online applications for various
types of public assistance now is available at www.compass.state.pa.us. A new information
referral tool (IRT) for state services is available at www.humanservices.state.pa.us/IRT, and
toll-free telephone assistance is available at (800) 753-8827.
COMPASS is an online application where individuals can apply for many health and human
service programs such as Medicaid, cash assistance, or Low Income Home Energy
Assistance Program (LIHEAP). With COMPASS improvements, Pennsylvanians can submit
applications for long-term living services and supports or request services for intellectual
disability services, autism services, and early intervention services.
Pennsylvanians can use the IRT anonymously to input information about themselves, a
loved one, or client. The online program will guide individuals through a series of questions,
then provide a list of resources that are based on the clients specific needs in areas such as
intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities, aging, addiction, mental illness, veteran
needs and help paying for prescriptions.
Further information on the changeover is available at
www.media.pa.gov/Pages/DHS_details.aspx?newsid=196, with information about current
Link service areas available at www.adrc-tae.acl.gov/tikiindex.php?page=PAProfile&stabrev=PA.

NEW LAST WEEK: Pennsylvania Human Services Opens Lancaster Call Center
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services has opened a 10th state-wide call center,
adding 130 individuals to the payroll in Lancaster.

- 11 -

The new center is being brought online to meet call volume. The Department reports it
currently is answering 93.2% of incoming calls to the Office of Income Maintenance
Customer Service Center, a major improvement from the 44.6% answered in January 2015.
The new location, open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, will include bilingual caseworkers
for calls from Spanish speaking clients.
Consumers can use the call center at (877) 395-8930 for address changes, household
member add-ons and removals, income changes, replacement EBT card requests and case
status inquiries.
The site will supplement the Lancaster County Assistance Office at 832 Manor Street,
Lancaster.
Further information is available at
www.media.pa.gov/Pages/DHS_details.aspx?newsid=197.

NEW LAST WEEK: Chester and Lancaster Counties Among Top in Population Gains
Chester and Lancaster are among the
top Pennsylvania counties in percentage
of population growth during the past five
years, coming in third and fourth
respectively.
New data from the U.S. Census Bureau
today showed Cumberland and Centre
counties in Central Pennsylvania in top
spots with more than four percent
growth, with Chester and Lancaster both
recording more than three percent
increases.
Chester had a population of 499,146 in 2010, which increased to 515,939 in 2015, the
Census Bureau estimates, or a 16,793, or 3.4 percent jump in residents.
Lancaster was at 519,448 in 2010, which moved to 536,624 last year, for a 17,176 hike, or
a 3.3 percent increase.
Other area counties include:
-- Berks: 411,572, 415,271, +3,699 (0.9%)
-- Delaware: 558,726, 563,894, +5,168 (0.9%)
-- Montgomery: 799,884, 819,264, +19,380 (2.4%)
A report on the Census information, from the State Data Center at Penn State Harrisburg, is
available at
https://pasdc.hbg.psu.edu/sdc/pasdc_files/researchbriefs/2015_County_Estimates_RB.pdf.

- 12 -

Celebrate Victory Support Ministry to Start Wednesday, April 6

A new Celebrate Victory support ministry for individuals and families struggling with all
types of hurts, habits and hangups will
start next month at Calvary Fellowship
of Downingtown, 95 West Devon Drive
at Route 113 in Lionville/Exton.
The outreach, an expansion of the
international Celebrate Recovery model
for both men and women, will create
availability of the basic nondenominational ministry every
weeknight in Chester County.
The basic Celebrate Recovery was
started 25 years ago at Saddleback
Church in California, led by Pastor Rick
Warren, author of Purpose Driven Life, and now is offered at free weekly gatherings in some
20,000 churches world-wide.
New Life in Christ Fellowship started on Monday nights in Coatesville earlier this year.
Celebrate Recovery also is available Mondays at Willowdale Chapel at Kennett Square,
Tuesdays at Hopewell United Methodist Church at Downingtown (Guthrieville), Thursdays at
Westminster Presbyterian Church at West Chester, and Fridays at both Christ Community
Church at West Chester and Gateway Church at Parkesburg. Further information about
locations and times is available on individual church web sites.
The Celebrate Victory ministry will help participants connect with other Calvary Fellowship
supports such as Care Monday offerings of DivorceCare, GriefShare, Job-Seekers, Parents
with Prodigals, Financial Peace University, prayer, and marriage classes, StepFamilies and
Single&Parenting support, along with other opportunities for children and adults. It will be
part of the churchs Community of Care ministry umbrella designed to connect with many
different church and community supports for individuals and families.
Further information about Celebrate Victory is available at
www.cfdowningtown/celebratevictory, care@cfdowningtown.com or (610) 363-7171.

NEW LAST WEEK: Free Prenatal Trauma Training for Ministry Leaders Thursday,
April 14
Living Hope Counseling Center will host a training for pastors and ministry leaders on
Prenatal Trauma and Generational Inheritance from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. April 14 at Elanco
DOVE Fellowship, 113 Conestoga Street, Terre Hill.
The session, part of a year-long series on ritual abuse and dissociative identity disorder
(RA/DID), will include information on awareness, types of prenatal trauma and transmission
of generational inheritances, and healing of prenatal wounds.
Further information and registration, which includes a continental breakfast, is available at
livinghope8@comcast.net or (215) 767-5004.

- 13 -

Free Local Income Tax Preparation Now Available, Along with Preparation
Software Through Friday, April 15
Free income tax preparation sites throughout the region are
providing income tax preparation services for individuals who
generally make $54,000 or less annually, persons with
disabilities, the elderly and limited English speaking taxpayers
who need assistance in preparing their own returns.
In addition, the federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also is providing free tax preparation
software to aid individuals having less than $62,000 in 2015 income.
The free services take particular note of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) that provides
up to $6,269 to an individual or couple with three or more qualifying children and earning
less than $53,506, all based on a sliding scale.
The IRS estimates that one out of five individuals who have earned money during a year
and qualify for the benefit, which can be more than that paid in taxes, fail to file for it.
Further information on the ETIC is available at www.irs.gov/Credits-&Deductions/Individuals/Earned-Income-Tax-Credit/EITC-Income-Limits-Maximum-CreditAmounts-Next-Year.
Information and searchable databases for Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax
Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) preparers are available at www.irs.gov/Individuals/FreeTax-Return-Preparation-for-You-by-Volunteers.
Information on Free File software is available at www.irs.gov/uac/Free-File:-Do-YourFederal-Taxes-for-Free.

NEW THIS WEEK: Human Service Block Grant Hearing Set Monday-Tu8esday,
April 18-19
Chester County Department of Human Services has scheduled public hearings in West
Chester and Coatesville to receive comments in regard to its proposed state Human
Services Block Grant for the 2016-17 state fiscal year.
The first session will be held at 4:30 p.m. April 18 in Suite 170, Government Services
Center, 601 Westtown Road, West Chester, with the second at 1:30 p.m. April 19 in the
fourth floor Community Room, Brandywine Health Center, 744 East Lincoln Highway,
Coatesville.
The county is one of 20 in Pennsylvania to implement a five-year pilot process in which a
portion of its human services funding can be re-allocated for discretionary block grant
purposes.
Further information, including that regarding written comments, is available at
www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/25679 or (610) 344-5262.

- 14 -

Rep. Milne to Host Prescription Drug Take Back and Recycling Saturday, April 30
Pennsylvania Rep. Duane Milne will host his
annual Shredding, Recycling and Prescription
Drug Take Back Day from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in
the Penn State Great Valley Parking Lot, 30 East
Swedesford Road, Malvern.
The event, which traditionally has resulted in the highest collection of unused prescription
drugs in the area during the biannual Drug Enforcement Administrations nationallypromoted activity, also will include document shredding and small electronics and items
recycling.
Improper appropriation of unused prescription drugs from home medicine cabinets has been
identified as a leading cause of teenage and adult migration to heroin use in the Philadelphia
area and other parts of the country. Flushing of medicines has resulted in measurable
amounts being found in municipal water supplies.
Law enforcement officials coordinate Take Back activities at police departments,
supermarkets, drug stores and other locations that schedule the event from 10 a.m. to
2 p.m., with further information, including a searchable database of national locations
available starting Friday, April 1, at
www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html.
Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan recently reported that nearly two tons of
unused prescription drugs were collected last year through year-around secure drop boxes
at 19 county locations.
He reported 57 overdose deaths in 2015, with 42 involving prescription drugs.
Nationwide, more people are dying from prescription drug overdoses than from overdoses of
any and all illegal drugs, including heroin, cocaine, and amphetamines, he said.
A searchable database of Pennsylvania drop box locations, including hours of collection, is
available at https://apps.ddap.pa.gov/GetHelpNow/PillDrop.aspx.
Additional information for the Milne event is available at
www.duanemilne.com/Display/SiteFiles/92/OtherDocuments/Milne%20Recylcing%20flyer%
202%2016%2016.pdf, dmilne@pahousegop.com or (610) 251-1070.

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.

- 15 -

NEW LAST WEEK: Free Look into the Future Connections 2045 Workshop
Monday, May 2
Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) will host a Connections 2045
workshop from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., May 2, at the Chester County Historical Society,
225 North High Street, West Chester, with others to be held in Philadelphia and New Jersey
on different dates.
The session is to gather opinions on what the future will look like, including forces such as
social, technological, economic, environmental, and political trends that can create sudden
and rapid change, affecting how people and places connect, particularly transportation
needs.
Further information and registration for the event, which includes a light dinner, are
available at www.dvrpc.ticketleap.com/connections-2045-chesco and the other events at
www.dvrpc.ticketleap.com, or (215) 238-2890.

NEW THIS WEEK: WIC Public Hearing Wednesday, May 18

Pennsylvania Department of Health will hold a public hearing in
regard to the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program from
10 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 18 in Room 149, Goverment Services
Center, 601 Westtown Road, West Chester.
The sessions are related to development of the 2017 State Plan of
Program Operation and Administration for the Special
Supplemental Nutrition Program for WIC.
Further information, including pre-registration for persons wishing to comment, is available
at
https://snt148.mail.live.com/mail/ViewOfficePreview.aspx?messageid=mgUqaTH3T65RGAk
QAhWtgBzg2&folderid=fl_4JWu82tNkiTlETUMO0XIQ2&attindex=3&cp=1&attdepth=3&n=6472903 or Bonnie Mellott at (717-783-1289. Written comments also
may be submitted.

Great American Cleanup of PA Underway Through Tuesday, May 31

Annual Great American Cleanup of PA, in which 128,000 volunteers collected six million
pounds of litter last year from Pennsylvanias roads, trails and shorelines, is in effect
through May 31.
During this period registered events can obtain free cleanup supplies, such as bags, gloves
and vests, from the Pennsylvania Department of Transporation (PennDOT) and Keep
America Beautiful. In addition, during Pick It Up PA Days, from April 16 to May 9,
registered events have access to reduced or free disposal.
Further information on Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is available at
www.keeppabeautiful.org, with details on the cleanup event at www.gacofpa.org.

- 16 -

UPDATED THIS WEEK: Community Organization Networking Connection Meetings

(Regular Meeting Dates are Subject to Change)
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. On April 7, at
Neighborhood Health Agencies at 795 Marshall Street, West Chester, social worker Amanda
Woolston will discuss Vision and Hearing Impairment and ways congregations can create a
welcoming environment for worship and ministries. The Speaker will be, who is a 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.
Berks-Lancaster-Lebanon Counties LINK to Aging and Disability Resources
meetsfrom 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. Further information is available at http://berkslancasterlebanonlink.org, or
from Brian Long, coordinator, at blllink@mail.com or (717) 380-9714.
Bucks-Chester-Montgomery Counties LINK to Aging and Disability Resources
meets at various times and locations in the three counties. Further information and
suggested registration is available at www.buckschestermontgomerylink.weebly.com,
buckschestermontgomerylink@aim.com or (484) 364-6981.
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 April 26, presentations will be made by the Chester County
Library and TriCounty Community Network (TCN). On May 24, representatives of Health
Care Access, ResCare Home Care and Abilatools will speak. 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 area
community. On May 11, the meeting will be at First Baptist Church, 415 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.

- 17 -

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 the Government
Services Center, 601 Westtown Road, West Chester. 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 June 3, it will learn about Faith-Based Collaborations and Success
Stories. 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 1:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the
month from September through May. 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) Job-Seeker 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 on Job-Seeker 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. On April 9, Alex Freund, known as the

- 18 -

Landing Expert, will discuss Navigating Your Way to Re-Employment. 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. On April 5, Doug Ferguson, director of
Alumni Programs for Delaware County Community College, will discuss the use of
LinkedIn as part of a job search. 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. On April 12, Ernie
Russom, executive director of The Westview Associates, a staffing firm, will discuss
How to Write the Best Resume Ever. Third Tuesday: Hassler Chapel, Media
Presbyterian Church, 30 East Baltimore Pike, Media, with further information at
robinst37@gmail.com. On April 19, Brenda Grove, director of College Outreach and
On-Site Programs at Villanova University, will discuss Open the Hidden Job Market
and More.
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. Further information and required registration for
limited seating are available at www.josephspeople.org/retreat.
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.

- 19 -

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 April 27, Bob Moran, change management manager for Wawa, will
discuss Gotta Havva Change and its role in the job search process. 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 THIS WEEK: Free Job Assistance Workshops and Job Opening Report April
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, including onsite job recruitment opportunities, is available at http://pachestercounty2.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/32887.
The March Job Openings Report is available at http://pachestercounty2.civicplus.com/DocumentCenter/View/32888, with daily job opening 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

Mobile Job Lab Available

A new monthly Mobile Job Lab will be held from
1 p.m. to 4 p.m. the first Monday of each month in
Room 114 at the University Center, 95 South
Hanover Street, Pottstown.
Montgomery County Community Colleges University
Center, its Career Services and TriCounty
Community Network (TCN) will host the activity the first Monday of each month, with
attendees being able to search for jobs and obtain resume writing and other job-seeker and
career support services. Representatives of the University Centers college and university
partners also will be available to discuss admission processes.

- 20 -

Further information is available at

http://calendar.mc3.edu/EventList.aspx?fromdate=2%2F1%2F2016&todate=2%2F29%2F2
016&display=Month&type=public&eventidn=12720&view=EventDetails&information_id=195
32 or (610) 850-0181, with additional information on the University Center at
www.mc3.edu/universitycenter.

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.

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.

Chester and Montgomery Counties Top State Health Rankings

Chester and Montgomery counties continue to jockey for top spots in County Health
Rankings, with Lancaster also within the top 10 in Pennsylvania for area counties.
The ratings, involving a collaboration between the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF)
and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (UWPHI), compare counties
within each state on more than 30 factors that impact health, including such social
determinants as education, jobs, housing, exercise, commuting times and more.
During the past seven years the Rankings have been said to be an important tool for local
communities working to build a Culture of Health.
Chester County is first in Pennsylvania in 2016 for overall health outcomes, with
Montgomery third, and second in overall health factors, with Montgomery first. Lancaster is

- 21 -

ninth in both categories. Berks County is at 25th place and Delaware at 37th in overall
health outcomes and 27th and 15th respectively in overall health factors.
Last year, Chester was fourth in overall health outcomes, with Montgomery sixth and
Lancaster eighth, and Montgomery first, Chester third and Lancaster ninth in health factors.
Annual overall ratings and those for specific health areas since 2011 are available at
www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/pennsylvania/2016/overview.

Elevated Lead Levels Found at Various Sites, Including Schools

A number of area schools, daycares and other entities have been included in a national USA
Today report on elevated lead levels in tap water samples.
PennLive, also reporting on the issue, provided additional local detail at
www.pennlive.com/news/2016/03/pa_tops_nation_in_daycares_and.html, with a link to
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) comments about lead hazards.
The USA Today report includes area listings accessible by clicking on Pennsylvania at the
bottom of the story at www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/03/17/drinking-waterlead-schools-day-cares/81220916.
A separate story, highlighting issues in Lancaster County, is at
www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2016/03/16/lancaster-county-pa-lead-drinkingwater/81576034.

Chester County Child Abuse Cases Skyrocket

The number of child abuse reports to Chester County law enforcement jumped more than
three times between 2014 and 2015, with an anticipated rise this year by another 30
percent.
Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan reports 219 reports were received in 2012,
291 in 2013, and 414 in 2014, but the number then escalated to 1,306 in 2015, with 1,700
to 1,800 anticipated this year, based on current trends.
The sharp increases are attributed to new mandatory reporting laws resulting from the highprofile Penn State-Jerry Sandusky case. One sergeant and three full-time detectives
currently are assigned to investigate county reports.
Further information is available at www.chesco.org/DocumentCenter/View/32748.

Free Motorcycle Safety Training Available

The Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program is offering free training to all state residents
and active duty military with a class M permit or motorcycle license.
The course focuses on training motorcyclists of all levels, from beginning riders to
intermediate, three-wheeled and advanced riders.
Further information on the year-around program is available at www.pamsp.com or (800)
845-9533.

- 22 -

New State Legislative District Resource Guide Published

Pennsylvania Rep. Chris Ross has published a new Resource Guide for his 158th District in
Chester County.
The 52-page document includes a wide variety of information on organizations and services
in and serving the District that includes East Bradford, East Marlborough, London Britain,
New Garden, Newlin, West Bradford, West Goshen Middle and South Precincts, and West
Marlborough Townships, along with Avondale Borough.
The guide is available online at
www.repross.com/Display/Display/SiteFiles/86/OtherDocuments/2016ResidentsGuide2-316.pdf with a few hardcopies available for those without online access through his district
office at 692 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, or (610) 925-0555.

Adult Depression Screening Being Recommended

A federal task force is recommending that primary care clinicians screen the general adult
population, including pregnant and postpartum
women, for depression.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force)
published its final recommendation yesterday, saying
it should be implemented with adequate systems in place to ensure accurate diagnosis,
effective treatment, and appropriate follow-up.
The Grade B recommendation means the task force found there is high certainty the net
benefit is moderate or there is moderate certainty that the net benefit is moderate to
substantial.
The task force says that (d)epression is one of the leading causes of disability in adults and
affects millions of Americans.
It can affect a persons quality of life and is associated with an increase in suicide rates,
among other health problems
Pregnant women and new mothers are also affected by depression, and both mother and
child can experience the effects of the illness.
The Task Force found that patients who were identified through depression screening and
went on to be treated with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or both showed
improvement in depression symptoms.
The group is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and
evidence-based medicine that is said to work to improve health of all Americans by making
evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services such as screenings,
counseling services, and preventive medications.
Further information on the recommendation is available at
www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/RecommendationStatementFinal/d
epression-in-adults-screening1.

- 23 -

FTC Unveils New Website for Reporting and Recovery from Identity Theft
U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has debuted a new website that is said to make it
easier to report and recover from identify theft.
The initiative, at www.IdentityTheft.gov provides a personal recovery plan that walks one
through each recovery step, tracks progress and adapts to changing situations and pre-fills
letters and forms for easier reporting.

Free AlertBerks Crime Tips App is Introduced

Crime Alert Berks County has introduced a new smart phone application that allows county
residents to provide anonymous tips about crimes or suspicious activity, including
anonymous two-way conversations.
AlertBerks, developed by tip411, can be downloaded at no charge via the Google Play Store,
iTunes App Store, or by visiting the Crime Alert Berks County Web site at
www.alertberks.org.
Further information is available at www.bctv.org/special_reports/safety/crime-alertberkscounty-launches-tip/article_51ee8ace-b55b-11e5-baa823552383f307.html#.VpeOrMTuKmg.facebook or (877) 373-9913.

Pennsylvania Establishes New State Veterans Benefits Portal

Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs(DVMA) has established a new
online application that allows veterans to obtain
information about state benefits, programs and services.
Registrant information will be shared with County
Directors for Veterans Affairs and other Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania agencies to help facilitate local connections.
Officials say the PA Veterans Registry is the departments first step of a long-term strategy
to achieve a higher level of communication with veterans and partner providers supporting
them.
Further information and registration is available at www.register.dmva.pa.gov.

New Consumer Rating System for Hospitals Unveiled

Capital Blue Cross, which services Lancaster and Berks County west, along with the Lehigh
Valley, and LeapFrog are starting a consumer rating system for hospitals, designed to help
employers and consumers make informed health care decisions.
The Leapfrog Hospital Survey is said to be the only nationally standardized and endorsed set
of measures that captures hospital performance in patient safety, quality and resource
utilization. Rating results will be made available online.
Further information is available at www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/capitalbluecrossnew-hospital-recognition-program-improves-quality-of-care-for-customers300200235.html.

- 24 -

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.

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.

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.

- 25 -

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
2009-2016 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.

- 26 -

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.