Groundhog Day, Handwriting & Zoning for ‘Attached’ Homes

It’s the Friday news roundup! One city councilor wants to update the zoning code for some residential properties, a new record number of Pennsylvanians are enrolled in SNAP, and there’s a bill in our state legislature that would require kids to learn cursive writing. We’re comparing our handwritten notes, plus diving deep into the history and lore of Punxsutawney Phil.

We always cite our sources:

• Pittsburgh City Council person Bobby Wilson introduced legislation that would update the city’s zoning code. We’ve previously chatted on the pod about how the city’s zoning rules can sometimes throw a wrench in development. 
• There’s a record number of Pennsylvanians enrolled in SNAP. 
• In 2022, the SNAP income eligibility requirements were raised, and the PA Department of Human Services lists the maximum gross monthly income by household size.
• You can apply for SNAP benefits online through COMPASS or find a county assistance office near you. 
• Organizations like Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank and Just Harvest also offer help with filling out SNAP applications and more.
• There’s a bill in the state legislature that would require PA schools to teach cursive writing.
• Instead of having Phil predict the weather with his shadow, PETA suggested using a coin flip this year. In the past, they’ve also offered alternatives like an animatronic groundhog or even having someone wear a groundhog costume and live in Phil’s enclosure.
• The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club has answers to questions about the Feb. 2 celebration at Gobbler’s Knob, and answers to questions you didn’t realize you had about Phil himself!
• Listen to our crossover episode with City Cast Philly about Groundhog Day.

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