Transitioning Times

When we think about safety planning, we think about victims of domestic violence packing a bag, putting money aside, and grabbing important documents. But, have you thought about safety planning for a first date? Have you ever felt uncomfortable because of the person with whom you are on the date? A new campaign in Florida aims to help women who believe they are not safe when out at a bar. Ordering an "angel shot" at these bars is a way of letting a bartender know that you need help or you are uncomfortable.  If you ask the bartender for an "angel shot," it means you would like to be escorted to your car or taxi.  If you ask for an "angel shot" with ice, the bartender will call a taxi for you.  If you ask the bartender for an "angel shot" with lime, it lets the bartender know you would like them to call the police for you. In England, they are using a similar campaign for the same purpose.  If someone feels uncomfortable at the bar, they ask...

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month.  This year, we are hosting a mock trial at the Union County Courthouse on April 15 th at 6:30 p.m.  Whenever there is a scandal surrounding sexual assault, many people ask how this could have happened in our community.  Including many people from the criminal justice system, including President Judge Michael Hudock, Judge Michael Sholley, District Attorney Michael Piecuch, Assistant District Attorney Jeffrey Crossland, North Penn Legal Services Managing Attorney Peter Macky and a representative from the Buffalo Valley Regional Police, showcases how Union and Snyder Counties are working together  to stop sexual assault.   Mock trials have been used throughout the country for this same purpose.  Colleges , military bases , and communities have all used mock trials to raise awareness about sexual assault.  For me, this mock trial serves two purposes.  The first is to show victim/survivors that o...