FIRST GUEST: Amanda Bickell, Bryan & Amanda Bickell Foundation
Today on the show, we welcome back Amanda Bickell, co-founder of the Bryan and Amanda Bickell Foundation which creates awareness for the misunderstood dogs known as Pit Bulls and works with them to assist abused children.
Every month, they shine the spotlight on that month’s Bick’s Pit. June’s adoptable dog is Smokey, a stunning 1-year-old who was found as a stray and taken to Animal Care League in Oak Park, IL. He is a fun loving and playful young dog who needs an owner willing to put in some training work to turn him into the perfect dog. Click here to learn more about Smokey.
Meet Smokey, Bick’s Pit for the month of June. See all the pits up for adoption at bickellfoundation.org.
Smokey has it in him to be an amazing companion but is not getting everything he needs in the shelter. To make Smokey your best friend and for more information about adopting Smokey visit bickellfoundation.org or email info@bickellfoundation.org.
Check out more adorable pictures of this handsome boy HERE.
RELATED: Amanda Bickell tells us about Red, Bick’s Pit for May!
If adopting a dog is not an option for you, but you’d still like to help, mark your calendar for the Mustache Crawl on July 19th! A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Bickell Foundation, and prices range from $10 to $20. Not bad for a fun day of bar crawling in River North! Get your tickets here.
If a bar crawl isn’t your thing, but you’d still like to be a part of the event, volunteers are needed. Learn about the Mustache Crawl volunteer opportunities here.
Lastly, Amanda debunks the top 5 myths about Pit Bulls. After all, the whole point of the Bickell Foundation is to create awareness for this misunderstood breed. Get the facts in the video below.
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SECOND GUEST: Dr. Katherine C. Nordal, American Psychological Association
Then, Dr. Katherine C. Nordal, executive director of professional practice at the American Psychological Assocation, discusses the findings of the recent survey conducted by Harris Poll on awareness of the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act which enhances access to mental health treatment for millions of Americans.
How many people are aware of the Act? How many Americans need mental health treatment? How does the law enhance insurance coverage for mental health needs? What are the misconceptions about the new law? Dr. Nordal answers all our questions.
Learn more at apa.org/helpcenter.
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THIRD GUEST: Steven Barnett, Ph.D., National Institute for Early Education Research
Later, board of governors professor and director of the National Institute for Early Education Research Steven Barnett, Ph.D. explains why enrollment of 3- and 4-year-olds in state pre-kindergarten programs has declined to a historic low.
How does Illinois stand as compared to other states? Is this rock bottom, or will the trend worsen? How can states get their early education programs back on track? Barnett explains all.
Learn more at nieer.org and see how Illinois ranks here.
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Listen to this week’s full episode below.
Weekend Journal airs Sunday mornings at 6:30 on US99.5.
