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Articles by Kevin Battle
Remote I-9 Verification: What Employers Should Know
05 March 2024 Remote I-9 Verification: What Employers Should Know In July 2023, the USCIS introduced a new Form I-9, along with a new procedure for remotely verifying I-9 documents. As of August 1, 2023, employers who participate in E-Verify and are in “good standing” have the option of examining Form I-9 documents during a video conference instead of in-person.
ADDICTED: Tackling The Drug Epidemic
I was recently joined by three of our region’s leading voices in the fight against the drug epidemic that is destroying our society. One offered perspective from the neighborhood level. The second was from the medical community. Our third guest offered insights from Harrisburg and the legislative branch. Sadly, 107,000 Americans died of drug overdose last year alone. Drugs are devastating the ‘under 40’ demographic particularly hard.
Kevin Battle: Pittsburgher Ignored In Potential Biden/Putin Prisoner Swap
They were both arrested within a short timeframe for similar crimes. However, he is not a world famous celebrity athlete. He is not a Two-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA star. Therefore it is highly likely that a 61-year old western Pennsylvanian will serve the remainder of this life in a Russian penal colony. The name Brittney Griner takes priority over that of Marc Fogel. Griner is star basketball player for the Phoenix Mercury.
Pool Daze in Pittsburgh
Listening to my man, Marty Griffin, 9a-Noon on KDKA Radio last week. He was talking about a city pool on the North Side being shut down due to violence and drug overdoses in the immediate neighborhood. Imagine that in the heat of summer. Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey is trying. He recently stated that the city is attempting to “strengthen up security around the pool” hoping to “eliminate a lot of the criminal activity that you see.” However, in spite of efforts, major problems persist.
Hometown Tour: Hanlon’s Cafe in Crafton
PITTSBURGH (100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA) What a way to begin a holiday weekend! The KDKA Radio Morning Show’s ‘Hometown Tour’ took us to the Crafton-Ingram Shopping Center and a warm welcome at Hanlon’s Cafe. Open 7a-7p Monday-Friday and 7a-3p on Saturdays & Sundays, Hanlon’s Cafe sits at the heart of not one but two communities. The border between Crafton and Ingram sits outside their front door.
Hometown Tour: Judy's Java Joint
Warm & welcoming as you walk through the door complete with everybody’s favorite morning aroma: coffee. I don’t know what it is about it, but I love the smell of coffee. Although, I do not drink much coffee the aroma is comfort to my soul. It takes me back to the early mornings of my youth and the feelings of love, safety and comfort. It is the positive outlook on a brand-new day, regardless of how yesterday ended.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: PIA CEO Suzanne Markle
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - She is the original ‘Undercover Boss’ - having done practically every job on the West Mifflin campus. She started as a fill-in, temporary, substitute teacher. Now she is CEO of an institution that Forbes magazine ranks as America’s #1 two-year trade school. As leader of Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, she is ultimately responsible for training many of those who keep the airline industry flying.
Hometown Tour: Deer Creek Diner
‘Sometimes you want to go where everyone knows your name.’ Yes, those are the lyrics to a TV theme song written long ago by Gary Portnoy & Judy Angelo. However, as residents of Russellton say, the Deer Creek Diner is like “Cheers without the Beers.” Nestled just outside the entrance to Allegheny County’s Deer Lakes Park, the Deer Creek Diner really is the heart of the community.
Hometown Tour: Ham & Eggers
Conveniently located on Rt. 885 near the PAT bus garage, Ham & Eggers is a great neighborhood diner that sits on the busy road just above several neighborhoods. So many nice people started their day by stopping by and saying ‘hello’ this morning. I truly appreciate it. Thank you! Owners Warren & Candace Jackson are an extremely active couple and some of the best people our community offers.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Steve Forbes
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - ‘Sunshine, baseball, hot dog, beer: life is good.’ Steve Forbes. This was a surprising remark from the Chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media. Maybe I can get him to visit America’s best ballpark here in Pittsburgh someday. The invite is out there.
Hometown Tour: Central Diner & Grille
This week our KDKA Hometown Tour took us to Robinson Township. Central Diner & Grille is aptly named. The location is central. Just off the Parkway on Steubenville Pike near Robinson Town Center. You cannot miss it. In fact, I venture to guess that not many people do. It is central to the schedule of many in the area. The flow of hungry customers is steady…. seemingly constant. Yes, the place is busy. However, it is never too busy. You always feel welcome and you always feel like part of the family.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Dinesh D'Souza and 2000 Mules
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - We often hear arguments over drop boxes. Some want more while others want less of them. Is there a happy-medium? One conservative voice has a simple idea. He has a new documentary out called ‘2000 Mules.’ He says, “an anomaly does not prove fraud’ but that data-tracking could. Dinesh D’Souza asks that you, at least, hear him out before you role your eyes over another theory about the results of the 2020 elections. No. He is not trying to overturn anything.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Cheryl Tracy
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - One of the jewels of the nation sites right on Pittsburgh’s North Side. It does not get Federal funding but the facility and its leader is nationally recognized. Navigating the Covid-era was difficult. However, the National Aviary at Pittsburgh actually was able to expand in some ways. Some very beautiful and surprising ways! The attraction and educational center is now keeping its eye on another developing situation.
Kevin Battle: A Silenced Sacrifice On The Rio Grande
Rio Grande River Photo credit Hundley_Photography/Getty Images PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Must be an election year. A tragic, avoidable death was not widely reported at all in the media. This is very likely because it occurred at a political flashpoint: The US Southern Border. A Texas National Guard Soldier went missing while reportedly attempting to save two fellow human beings who appeared to be drowning in the Rio Grande river.
1Day1Thing: Audacy Pittsburgh and Allegheny Cleanways
Many companies have initiatives. Some want credit for the good deeds of employees or customers. Some match efforts or monetary donations to various charities. Others want to set an example or influence positive behavior. Some companies push a political agenda. Others just want to make sure that those who represent them are making positive impacts on the communities in which they live & work.
Pennsylvania state budget to focus on education
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - State Representative Bob Brooks (54th Legislative District) said Friday the focus of the state budget is going to be on education. "The governor wants to have a legacy, and his legacy is education." Brooks said during the KDKA Radio Morning Show Hometown Tour. "He's put money into it every year. He's again done that this year, and we as a legislature have backed that.
Hometown Tour: Wade's Breakfast and Grille
By Kevin Battle, KDKA Radio Morning Show Everyone says they’d like to own a little restaurant or bar….something small in a quaint community. Well, Karen and Allen Wade are "living the dream." They found that very spot on Washington Ave in Export. Larry & I were greeted immediately with great conversation and unbelievable homemade donuts before the place even opened. The donuts are incredible. My first was filled with blueberries and drizzled with chocolate. The second one was filled with apple.
Self-driving technology company Aurora expands in Pittsburgh
Aerial Drone Shot: Autonomous Self Driving Cars Moving Through City. Concept: Artificial Intelligence Scans Surrounding Environment, Detecting Cars, Pedestrians, Avoids Traffic Jams and Drives Safely. Photo credit gorodenkoff/Getty Images PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Self-driving technology company Aurora is expanding in Pittsburgh. The company opened its new headquarters in the Strip District on Wednesday. Gov. Tom Wolf joined other local leaders for a ribbon cutting.
Independent Voters could soon participate in primary elections in Pennsylvania
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Pennsylvania state lawmakers launched an effort last week to open future Pennsylvania primary elections to registered unaffiliated voters. "I think by and large most of the people that are registered Independents lean one way or the other anyway, they just don't like the label," State Senator Dan Laughlin said Wednesday during the KDKIA Radio Morning Show.
Gov. Wolf hopes to give $2,000 stimulus to state residents
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - If Gov. Tom Wolf has his way, there will be direct payments of up to $2,000 for state residents with an income of $80,000 or less. The governor says this is money from the American Rescue Plan, and he proposes giving some of that money back to the taxpayers. "We have a little less than $2.2 billion left," Gov. Wolf said during the KDKA Radio Morning Show. "And it's just sitting there. This isn't the rainy day find, this isn't part of the budget.
Anthrocon to return to Pittsburgh in Summer 2022
Fur real! Members of Agents of Mirth cosplayers will attend the 2018 MegaPlex furry convention in Orlando on Aug. 3-5. TIM SHORTT/FLORIDA TODAY FILE Members of Agents of Mirth cosplayers at the Family Fun Fest hosted by Space Coast Early Intervention Center held at Space Coast Field of Dreams in West Melbourne.
Pirates President Travis Williams previews home opener
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - The Pirates home opener against the Chicago Cubs kicks off Tuesday just after 4 p.m. Pitcher Jose Quintana will start for the Pirates, and pitcher Drew Smyly will be on the mound for the Cubs.
Sean Parnell says Dr. Oz is 'farthest thing from America First & he’d be very bad for PA'
Mar 30, 2018; Atlanta, GA, USA; Television personality Mehmet Oz, Dr. Oz, at a game between the Philadelphia 76ers and Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at Philips Arena. Photo credit © Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports PITTSBURGH (Newssradio KDKA) - Former candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania Sean Parnell is speaking out against Former President Trump's newest political endorsement: Dr. Mehmet Oz. I have enormous respect for President Trump. I was honored to have his endorsement in PA.
The Hometown Tour: Ma & Pop's Country Kitchen in Bethel Park
Ma & Pop's Country Kitchen Photo credit KDKA Radio By Kevin Battle, KDKA Radio Morning Show There is something special about a neighborhood diner. Bethel Park has a special gem in ‘Ma & Pop’s Country Kitchen’ on South Park Road. The entire staff was on hand as Larry, Ronman & I arrived early this morning. They welcomed us with open arms.
Candidate for governor Bill McSwain hopes to cut state gas tax in half
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Candidate for Pennsylvania Governor Bill McSwain released his plan to permanently cut the state gas tax in half on Wednesday. Proud to announce my plan to PERMANENTLY cut the PA gas tax by 50%.
April: Donate Life Month
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - April is Donate Life Month, which helps raise awareness for organ donation. Every 10 minutes, someone is added to the national transplant waiting list, yet only half of Pennsylvanians are registered as organ donors. Dr. Lorenzo Machado, who is an abdominal transplant surgeon at Allegheny General Hospital, tells the KDKA Morning Show that the need for donors remains critical. "A donor can save up to eight lives," Machado said.
Aluminum can shortage began in August 2020 for some businesses
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Shortages are still prevalent as the country moves out of the pandemic. One of the most recent scarcities: Aluminum. "It actually started for us in August of 2020," Todd Zwicker, president of Pittsburgh Brewing Company said Thursday during the KDKA Radio Morning Show. "At one point we were getting all of our cans from one manufacturer.
Hometown Tour: Ritter's Diner in Bloomfield
Photo credit Kevin Battle The memories came flooding back as soon as I entered the door. The quintessential Pittsburgh diner. A place in which my dad, brother, and I shared many lunches while I helped them remodel a property nearby years ago. The atmosphere inside Ritter’s Diner on Baum Blvd. in Bloomfield just feels right. The word ‘iconic’ is overused in today’s world. However, it is one of the best words to describe Ritter’s, which has been owned by the Velisaris family for decades.
Sen. Toomey calls on U.S. to stop funding Putin's 'war machine'
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) -Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed U.S Congress Wednesday, making a plea for additional aid. Republican Senator Pat Toomey was among those in attendance. Speaking on the KDKA Radio Morning Show, Toomey says the U.S. and Europe are still sending between five to seven billion dollars to Russia for oil and gas. "How much longer are we going to go on funding, literally funding, his war machine? That's what's happening," Toomey said.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Aliquippa Mayor Dwan B. Walker
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - “Act right. Be right. do right.” This is the mantra that helps guide a rising star in Western Pennsylvania. The family man got into politics following tragedy. However, his boundless positive energy has propelled him as he tries to revive a Beaver County city that has seen rough days. He affectionately calls his hometown ‘L.A.’ - Lovely Aliquippa! He sees the town as a phoenix rising.
Unvaccinated employees for Port Authority of Allegheny County to be put on leave
Signboard, Proof of Vaccination Required hanging on the door front of a shop. Photo credit sinseeho/Getty Images PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Port Authority of Allegheny County employees have until Tuesday to get vaccinated against Covid, after a judge denied a motion preventing requirements last week. 10% of the Port Authority workforce, or 500 employees, could be put on leave as a result of failing to comply with orders.
Hometown Tour: Bob's Diner in Kennedy Township
Bob's Diner Photo credit Kevin Battle Where is the new Bob’s Diner? Well, in typical Pittsburgh directions: You know where the old Bob’s diner was on top of the hill next to the Giant Eagle in Kennedy? Yeah, go there and walk 8-feet to the left. You can’t miss it. Larry and I had the pleasure of opening up the new Bob’s Diner in Kennedy Township….literally! First day of business! It is beautiful and big with plenty of elbow room.
State Senator Jake Corman calls for 50% cut on gas tax
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Over eight-thousand people are supporting a petition to end a controversial PennDOT plan to add tolls to nine highways including the I-79 bridge near Bridgeville. Petition organizer Peter Linko says rising fuel costs have likely added to people’s opposition to the plan. State Senator Jake Corman has a solution to alleviate these increasing prices: Cut the gas tax by 50%.
Opinion: Kevin Battle: Should We Starve The Russian People?
KYIV, UKRAINE - FEBRUARY 26: A view to the apartment block in 6A Lobanovsky Avenue which was hit with a missile on February 26, 2022 in Kyiv, Ukraine. A residential building was hit as missile strikes were reported around Kyiv on the second night of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has killed scores and prompted widespread condemnation from US and European leaders.
Pittsburgh gas prices soar to start the week
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Drivers are experiencing sticker shock as they head to the pumps, as the current rates have not been endured since the 2008 economic crisis. The price of fuel has jumped drastically in the last few days due to uncertainty in the world market as a result of the invasion of Ukraine. "One of the things that happens with gasoline prices is that they follow crude prices higher," said Susan Grissom, Chief Industry Analyst for American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers.
PennDOT to add nine toll stations on Pennsylvania bridges
PITTSBURHGH (Newsradio KDKA) - The I-79 bridge in Bridgeville is among nine bridges throughout the state that PennDOT is considering turning into toll bridges as part of the state's "Major Bridge P3 Initiative." "We can definitely contest that action by PennDOT and we're supporting some lawsuits against the administration and against PennDOT," Pennsylvania State Rep. Rob Mercuri said Friday during the KDKA Radio Morning Show.
Congressman Mike Doyle calls Ukrainian President 'tremendously inspirational'
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - As hundreds of thousands of Ukrainians flee their home country, some are choosing to stay and fight for it. Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, vowed to continue his fight and called on Ukrainians to keep up the resistance. "Watching their bravery has just inspired every American," U.S. Congressman Mike Doyle said during the KDKA Radio Morning Show Thursday.
Pennsylvania Treasurer divests millions from Russian-based companies
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is removing state money from Russian investments. State Treasurer Stacy Garrity says the investments total about $2.9 million invested in 31 companies - mostly banks and energy companies. "I just knew it was the right thing to do," Garrity said during the KDKA Radio Morning Show Wednesday.
Two Types Of War In Two Weeks
A protestor holding a placard saying 'No War' lies down during a protest against Russia's attack in Ukraine outside of Russian embassy in Seoul. Photo credit © SOPA Images PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - The fight for freedom took two very unique and historic turns over the last week or so. The people of Ukraine are physically fighting for their freedom and their homeland against an autocratic tyrant.
Marcellus Shale President: 'We have generations of natural gas available' in Pennsylvania
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Oil prices soared to over $100 per barrel last week. As those rates are expected to grow even higher, some wonder if the natural resources in Pennsylvania could help alleviate those costs. David Callahan, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, says the commonwealth could accomplish just that. "We need infrastructure, we need shovels in the ground," Callahan said Monday during the KDKA Radio Morning Show.
Hometown Tour: Kelly O's Diner in Warrendale
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Everyone seems to know Kelly O’s! Maybe it is because the spot with amazing breakfasts was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, & Dives. Maybe it is because Kelly O’s has become an iconic place to start your day in our city. Maybe it is the freshly squeezed orange juice or the wonderfully oversized M. Cibrone & Sons toast. It could be the attention to detail from every staff member.
Could Pennsylvania's natural resources help alleviate rising fuel costs?
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Oil prices soared to over $100 a barrel overnight, as Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war against Ukraine. The U.S. imports millions of barrels of crude oil from Russia every month. With fuel prices already on the rise prior to the invasion, could Pennsylvania, the "Saudi Arabia of the U.S.," utilize their natural resources to help alleviate the increasing costs at the pump?
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: John Mowod
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Movie Mogul John Mowod, Mowod on Movies, joins Kevin for an exclusive conversation to discuss the rerelease of the iconic film The Godfather, 50 years after the original release date. You can see the movie at many theaters around the region this weekend.
Ukrainian Catholic Pastor in Carnegie describes Russian conflict
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - The U.S. and other countries around the world are watching to see what will happen in Ukraine, as thousands of Russian troops are stationed along the country's border.
Presidents Day quiz on KDKA
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Every Presidents Day, former Pirates play-by-play announcer Lanny Frattare, who is also an expert on Presidential history, joins the KDKA Radio Morning Show to quiz the talent on the history of our countries presidents. Kevin Battle won last years challenge. Did he repeat this year? Listen above to see who won took this years contest.
Hometown Tour: Aliquippa
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - ‘When you come to Aliquippa you are family.’ The kind words of Mayor Dwan B. Walker who warmly welcomed The KDKA Radio Morning Show to Yianni’s Family Restaurant. Truer words are rarely spoken. Terri, the manager, came in on her day off – way earlier than normal – to open the doors and allow Larry, Ronman the engineer, and me to set up and start our broadcast.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Former Governor Tom Corbett
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - He loves the Commonwealth. His pride for Pennsylvania radiates from him as he speaks fondly of all 6 regions. His knowledge and appreciation of the state and its history are incredible. But, how did he rise to be the 46th Governor of the Commonwealth? And, what are some of the misconceptions about his term that he would like to clear up? How valuable was military service?
When Do The Olympics Start?
BEIJING, CHINA - FEBRUARY 13: A reflection of members of the media at the Main Media Center (MMC) on February 13, 2022 in Beijing, China. The Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics is being run in the midst of a global pandemic, and China has gone to extraordinary lengths to ensure the event is a success even with its zero-covid approach.
Kevin Battle: Racist NFL
Feb 1, 2022; Inglewood, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals helmets are seen with a Vince Lombardi trophy at SoFi Stadium. The Rams and Bengals will play in Super Bowl LVI on Feb. 13, 202. Photo credit © Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Is the NFL racist? A lot of people are throwing around opinions following shocking allegations from former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores. He is suing three teams claiming racist hiring practices for head coaches.
Kevin Battle Goes One-On-One With: Harbison Walker International CEO Carol Jackson
PITTSBURGH (Newsradio KDKA) - Who are the two largely forgotten men that helped propel Andrew Carnegie’s vision of a steel empire? How does an impressive young girl on a Fayette County farm grow up to tie it all together almost a century and a half later? She was inspired to go into business through her father’s leadership and a Western Pennsylvania nonprofit. She earned degrees from THREE of Pittsburgh’s institutions of Higher Learning but started out making Christmas wreathes.
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