Connell Park building undergoes renovations for community co-op 

Cycle Kitchen is a Scranton-based cooperative with permission from the city to repurpose a building at Connell Park.

The nonprofit will use the building to store tools and more than 120 bicycles.

Community members will have free access to the bicycles as long as they are willing to help maintain the space and the equipment. 

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Hospitals adjust to meet explosion of RSV cases 

Like much of the nation, Pennsylvania hospitals faced rising cases of RSV – a respiratory virus that largely affects children.

A pediatric physician from Penn State Health Children’s Hospital in Hershey indicated that cases were rare during the two years of pandemic-induced isolation and social distancing, but that many infants and young children have since been exposed to the virus for the first time.

Hospitals have been challenged to adapt their operations to this growing trend.

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County prison among many with staffing problems 

Numerous sectors currently struggle with workforce challenges, and correctional facilities are among them.

They must require existing staff to work long shifts, which then contributes to burnout and more turnover.

Furthermore, state and federal prisons are likelier to attract candidates because they generally offer higher salaries than county-level facilities can provide.

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Incidences of suicide by firearm increased among youth during pandemic 

According to the CDC, over half the firearm-related deaths in the country result from suicide.

That rate has increased more than 11 percent since 2014; in that time, firearm-related homicides grew by 18 percent.

The largest numbers of incidents occur in areas with fewest gun laws.

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Colombian city cares for caregivers

A unique program in Bogota recognizes the economic value of caregivers and how their role impedes their own personal and economic well-being.

Using existing programs and organizations, leaders in Bogota ensure that individuals receive professional development, education, support, and access to other resources while they serve as caregivers.

The value of Colombia’s care economy matches approximately 20 percent of the country’s GDP.

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Mexico City minimizes congestion and enhances communities

Mexico City is one of the world's densest regions on the planet, with plenty of traffic congestion to show for it.

That’s why road space is being redesigned to better accommodate mass transit, with dedicated lanes and right-of-way priority.

The city has also removed minimum parking requirements, introduced car-free events, and committed to enhancing bike lane capacity.

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