(00 - 8:47) Correspondent Kim Sawyer discusses the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) with Dr. Stephanie Hoops, United for ALICE National Director and United Way of Pennsylvania President Kristen Rotz. Reports show that roughly 55 million US families could not afford the basics in 2023, equating to over 40% of working families right here in Luzerne County. The group talks about how wages aren't keeping up with rising costs, the age disparity in hardships across the US and how different states see hardship. ALICE is working with area agencies to help make an impact - including right here in Luzerne County. Learn more at UnitedforALICE.org

(8:47 -21:18) Scranton native Maria Piccolino joins the show to discuss the issue of bullying, and the importance of teaching "anti-bullying" in our youth. She authored a book titled "Be a Buddy, Not a Bully(Speak Up, Stand Strong)" that helps parents teach their children to become allies instead of bullies at a younger age. The book providers a series of steps and interactive "Reflection Pages" that can be used at home, in classrooms, with counselors and more. It shines a spotlight on the importance of choosing kindness and showing bravery between ages 5-9. Piccolino said the book is available to purchase on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and can be accompanied with a program for the school as well.  Learn more about the initiative here

(21:19 - 30) The 48th Friends of the Osterhout Tent Book sale is about to get underway at the Osterhoust Free Library on South Franklin Street. The sale acts as one of the library's biggest annual fundraisers, bringing in much needed dollars that helps continue various community-based programming. The sale runs from June 13 - 21, with Friday the 13th acting as their "Preview Sale", where shopping can get first dibs with a $10 admission. Wednesday June 18th is Children's Day, where you can fill a bag of children's books for only $5. Saturday June 21st - the final day of the sale - is bag and box day and runs from 9-11:30am.  The Library system offers a plethora of children's programming, access to wifi, a digital catalog, the Library of Things and much more for free to cardholders. Getting a library card is free! Learn more at www.osterhout.info.