Executive Summary 

  Next report card 8 years later in March 2025

       

America's Elder Care Crisis: Need to Reform , George Assad, March 6, 2025

The United States is facing an escalating elder care crisis. With over 55.8 million Americans aged 65 and older (16.8% in 2020), the demand for quality elder care has never been greater.

The system is burdened by skyrocketing costs, caregiver shortages, and an unsustainable Medicaid model that forces many seniors into financial ruin just to receive the care they need.

The Cost of Elder Care in America

Long-term care is one of the largest financial burdens faced by aging American families. Many  require assistance with daily activities. It ranges from in-home care to assisted living and nursing homes—each with staggering prices:

• Home Health Care: Costs $5,000+ per month for full-time care.
• Assisted Living Facilities: Average $4,500 per month, but can exceed $7,000 per month.
• Nursing Homes:
  • Semi-private room: National average of $7,756 per month; $10,038 per month in Pennsylvania
  • Private room: National average $8,821 per month; $11,268 per month in Pennsylvania

For many, these costs are unsustainable without government assistance. Medicare does not cover long-term care, and Medicaid—while available—has strict income and asset limits that force individuals to exhaust nearly all of their personal savings.

Medicaid’s Unfair Financial Burden on Seniors

Medicaid is the primary payer for long-term nursing home care, covering 62% of residents nationwide. However, to qualify, a senior must:

• Have no more than $2,000 in countable assets
• Have an income below $2,901 per month (2025 limit for a single applicant)
• Spend down their savings, often losing homes, retirement funds, and personal assets

This forces many middle-class Americans into poverty-level conditions just to receive care.

The Inhumanity of the Elder Care System

Beyond the financial burden, the quality of elder care is deeply concerning due to:

• Understaffed Nursing Homes: Many are operating at or below minimum staffing levels, leading to delayed responses, neglect, & increased medical errors.
• Profit-Driven Care Models: Corporate-owned facilities prioritize cost-cutting over patient well-being, resulting in lower staffing ratios & inadequate resources.
• Caregiver Burnout: Low wages & high patient loads have led to massive caregiver shortages, impacting the quality and of care.
• Rapid Discharges & Insurance-Driven Decisions: Hospitals and care facilities often prioritize insurance coverage over patient needs. I recently personally saw.

This system dehumanizes the elderly, treating them as financial liabilities rather than deserving of dignity & proper care. Society Must be prosperous & moral, else we get predators everywhere.

Solutions & Policy Reforms Needed

Policymakers must consider:

• Medicaid Reform – Raising asset limits and implementing better protections for seniors and spouses to prevent financial ruin.
• Increased Funding for Home-Based Care – Shifting the focus toward in-home and community-based services as a more affordable and humane alternative to institutional care.
• Better Nursing Home Oversight & Staffing Requirements – Implementing higher minimum staffing ratios and holding entities accountable for patient outcomes.
• Elder Care Tax Incentives – Providing tax credits for families covering caregiving expenses and allowing long-term care insurance to be tax-deductible.

Final Thoughts

The elder care crisis is not just a financial issue—it’s a moral one. The U.S. system forces seniors into financial ruin, deprives them of dignity, and often provides substandard care. 

It’s time for policymakers, healthcare leaders, and citizens to demand better solutions for the most vulnerable members of society.

Let's fix America’s broken elder care & healthcare system. Your thoughts? 

#ElderCareCrisis #AgingWithDignity #SeniorCareMatters #SupportOurElders #AgingPopulation #FixHealthcare #MedicaidReform #HealthcareForAll #LongTermCare #NursingHomeReform #ElderCareCosts #RetirementStruggles #LongTermCareCosts #MedicaidCrisis #FinancialSecurity #CaregiverCrisis #NursingHomeNeglect #HomeCareMatters #AgingInPlace #BetterSeniorCare

 

 

 

DO BLUE!  Clean Water, Healthy You/Body - Body 60% Water & Chronic Disease-Prone.                                                                         George Assad March 6, 2025

Average Body Water Composition is 60% water:

• Newborns: ~75% water 
• Children: ~65% water
• Adult Men: ~60% water
• Adult Women: ~55% water
• Elderly Individuals: ~50% water

 However, certain organs contain a much higher percentage of water:

• Brain & Heart: ~73% water
• Lungs: ~83% water
• Muscles & Kidneys: ~79% water
• Skin: ~64% water
• Bones: ~31% water

So while the body overall is about 60% water, the brain, blood, and other key organs have much higher concentrations, which is why clean hydration is so crucial.

Health Risks of Contaminated Water:

• Cancer (linked to PFAS, lead, arsenic, chlorine byproducts)
• Neurological Disorders (lead, mercury, aluminum exposure)
• Kidney & Liver Damage (heavy metals, industrial runoff)
• Hormonal Disruption (pesticides, pharmaceuticals in water)
• Reproductive Issues (endocrine disruptors)
• Skin & Respiratory Diseases (chlorine, bacteria, mold)
• Gastrointestinal Infections (E. coli, parasites, nitrates)
• Weakened Immune System (heavy metals, toxins)

Over the past decade, numerous studies have highlighted the presence of chemical contaminants in U.S. municipal water systems, raising concerns about public health and infrastructure integrity. Here's a concise overview of key findings:

Chemical Contaminants in U.S. Water Systems

• Prevalence of Unregulated Contaminants: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified over a dozen unregulated contaminants, including chemicals linked to cancer and developmental issues, in the drinking water of millions of Americans. Despite their potential health risks, no safety limits have been established for these substances.

• PFAS Contamination: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," have been detected in approximately 45% of U.S. tap water samples. These chemicals are associated with various health risks, including cancer and immune system suppression.

• Disinfection Byproducts: Common water treatment methods, such as chlorination, can produce disinfection byproducts like trihalomethanes (THMs), which are genotoxic and carcinogenic. Typical chlorination levels in the U.S. and EU have been linked to increased risks of bladder and colorectal cancers.

These figures & high risks of chronic health diseases highlight that maintaining clean and safe water is vital for overall health and the proper functioning of essential organs.

Real concern and interest in solving the most serious, chronic diseases and mortality, indicate that MUCH of these egregious health hazards can be prevented, greatly minimize lifelong sicknesses & deaths, as well as huge costs to many.

WATER & HEALTH are "1" & Can Solve OUR HEALTH/LIFE!

In summary, while significant strides have been made in water treatment, the presence of both regulated and unregulated chemical contaminants in U.S. water systems remains a pressing concern. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive regulatory updates, infrastructure investments, and public awareness to ensure safe drinking water for all.

Motivational Reminders:

1. DO BLUE! Because Your Body is 60-80% Water!
2. Drink Clean. Cook Clean. Live Clean.
3. Toxic Water, Toxic Body—Demand Better!
4. Water Should Heal, Not Harm.
5. Your Brain Runs on Water—Make It Pure!
6. Every Drop Matters—So Does Your Health!
7. Safe Water = Longer Life.
8. Think Before You Drink—What’s Really in Your Water?

#DoBlue #CleanWaterCleanBody #SafeWaterNow #WaterIsLife #ToxicWaterToxicHealth #ProtectOurWater #HydrateRight #HealthStartsWithWater #PureWaterPureLife #FilterTheTruth #WaterisLife #BrainOnWater #HealthyWaterHealthyBody #SayNoToToxins #SafeWaterMatters #CleanWaterHealthyYou   #ProtectOurWater #Water #CleanWater #Health #Diseases #ChronicDiseases 

 

 

 

Pennsylvania's Many Crises (7-9): Where Are You Governor Shapiro? 

March 22, 2024

General list of crises that are directly relevant to Pennsylvania, categorized under Economic, Financial, Infrastructure, Policy/Security, as well as significant Political, Social, and Environmental challenges, many of which are becoming increasingly urgent. Here’s a categorized breakdown:

Economic Crises in Pennsylvania

• State Debt & Budget Deficits — Ongoing fiscal challenges impacting services and funding.
• Declining Workforce & Population Shifts — Out migration of workers, aging population, and labor shortages. As of March 2024, Pennsylvania is 4th in top states people are leaving, behind only California, New York & Illinois, who have enormous problems.

• Deindustrialization & Manufacturing Loss — Struggles of steel, coal, and industrial sectors.
• Housing Affordability & Urban Decay — High rents, lack of new development, and blight in older cities.
• Supply Chain & Logistics Strains — Port congestion (Philadelphia), trucking shortages, and rail system needs.

Financial Crises in Pennsylvania

• Underfunded Pension Systems — Public employee pensions creating fiscal strain.
• Commercial Real Estate Crisis — Office space vacancies in Philadelphia and other urban centers.
• Banking & Business Credit Risks — Local banks exposed to rising interest rates and business loan defaults.
• Municipal Debt & Credit Rating Concerns — Cities like Harrisburg facing long-term financial stress.

Infrastructure & Energy Crises in Pennsylvania

• Aging Water Systems & Contamination Risks — High violation rates and failing infrastructure.
• Electric Grid Strain & Energy Transition — Balancing natural gas production with renewable energy policies.
• Highway & Bridge Deterioration — Many roads and bridges in critical need of repair.

• Public Transit Funding & Ridership Declines — SEPTA and regional transit challenges post-pandemic.

Policy & Security Crises in Pennsylvania

• Border & Immigration Policy Struggles — Effects of national policy on local communities.
• Crime & Urban Safety — Rising concerns in Philadelphia and other key areas.
• Healthcare System Shortages — Hospital closures and staffing crises in rural PA.
• Education Funding Disparities — Public school funding issues, especially in poorer districts.

Political Crises in Pennsylvania

• Deep Political Polarization — The state is a swing state with extreme divisions between urban and rural areas.

• Election Integrity & Voting Law Battles — Ongoing disputes over mail-in voting, voter ID laws, and redistricting.

• State Budget Deadlocks — Partisan fights leading to government funding delays and legislative gridlock.
• Public Trust in Government Declining — Corruption scandals, lack of transparency, and political infighting.

• Crime & Public Safety Policy Debates — Divisions over policing, gun laws, and criminal justice reforms.

Social Crises in Pennsylvania

• Population Decline & Aging Demographics — More people moving out than moving in, leading to workforce shortage. Pennsylvania recently lowered All state government employment qualifications to high school diplomas, as a result.
• Drug Crisis & Opioid Epidemic — High overdose rates, especially in rural and low-income areas.
• Urban vs. Rural Divide — Growing economic and cultural divide between cities like Philadelphia and rural counties.
• Homelessness & Affordable Housing Shortages — Lack of low-cost housing options, especially in major metro areas.
• Healthcare Accessibility Issues — Hospital closures, provider shortages, and long wait times in rural areas.
• Education Disparities — Unequal funding between wealthy and poor school districts, leading to poorer outcomes.

Environmental Crises in Pennsylvania

• Aging Water Infrastructure & Contamination Risks — Frequent violations for drinking water quality in multiple counties.
• Fracking & Energy Production vs. Environmental Impact — Debates over balancing natural gas production with environmental concerns.
• Flooding & Extreme Weather Events — Increased flooding in river regions like Harrisburg and Pittsburgh.
• Coal & Industrial Pollution Legacy — Contaminated sites and water sources from past industrial activity.
• Air Quality Issues — High pollution levels in urban areas like Philadelphia, impacting public health.

Here is an overall ranking of Pennsylvania, in the U.S., by US News & World Report’s Best States 2025. It shows in at least 4 categories, that 80+% of states are better than it. Economy, Fiscal stability & Infrastructure rankings are frightening for a state to prosper & not become a failed state. Overall rank is #40, so with hopeful new leaders adept & experienced in restructuring economies & restoring faith there can be opportunity to fix all, as best time is when things are obvious to many:

WHERE ARE YOU GOVERNOR SHAPIRO?

Is Governor Shapiro & Pennsylvania’s leaders doing much/enough for Pennsylvania, when these are all alarming. He was Attorney General for 6 years prior (8 years in top leadership), that many of these crises had the need for partial resolution through that role, with oversight, compliance & new or updated legislation, for helping resolve.

The 7–9 issues, discussed above, in crisis, are all critical to PA’s stability and future. 

 

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Pennsylvania’s Potential to Lead an Economic Renaissance

 George Assad March 22, 2025

Pennsylvania has the potential to be a key driver of renewed economic vitality in the United States due to several strategic factors:

1. Strategic Location and Connectivity:
   Pennsylvania’s central location places it within an 8-hour drive of key markets such as New York, Washington, D.C., and Chicago. It also has access to major transportation hubs, including Philadelphia International Airport and the Port of Philadelphia, which facilitates trade with Europe and other global markets. This geographical advantage strengthens the state’s role as a logistics and trade corridor.

2. Access to Ports and Global Markets:
   The Port of Philadelphia, one of the busiest on the East Coast, is a gateway for imports and exports, providing Pennsylvania with direct access to international trade routes. This positions the state as a key player in facilitating transatlantic commerce, which could enhance bilateral foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly with European partners.

3. Diverse Economic Base:
   Pennsylvania’s economy is multifaceted, with established sectors in energy (natural gas from the Marcellus Shale), healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and finance. However, many regions, particularly in rural areas, remain underdeveloped relative to their potential. Investment in infrastructure, innovation hubs, and workforce development could further diversify and strengthen the state’s economy.

4. Underdeveloped Resources and Bilateral FDI Potential:
   Despite its historical role as an industrial powerhouse, Pennsylvania has untapped potential in emerging industries, including renewable energy, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. Encouraging bilateral FDI by capitalizing on international partnerships could unlock this potential. Attracting foreign investors to Pennsylvania’s rural areas, with their lower land and labor costs, could foster economic growth beyond the state’s traditional urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

Conclusion:
If Pennsylvania leverages its strategic location, strengthens its trade and port connections, and attracts more bilateral FDI, it could play a leading role in driving a U.S. economic renaissance. The state’s underutilized resources, diverse economy, and proximity to global markets provide a solid foundation for this transformation.

Sources:

1. Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) – Economic Development Reports
2. U.S. Chamber of Commerce – State Economic Competitiveness Rankings
3. Brookings Institution – Regional Economic Development and Trade Policies
4. Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) – Trade and Infrastructure Statistics

 

 

Keystone Capital: A Pennyslvania Keystone Stock Exchange

George Assad March 18, 2025

Could a state-level stock exchange boost Pennsylvania’s economy? Let’s explore.

Pennsylvania, with its diverse economy, rich entrepreneurial spirit, and thriving small businesses, is well-positioned to become a pioneer in creating a state-based stock exchange. A Pennsylvania Stock Exchange (“PSE”) could serve as a localized trading platform designed to provide small and mid-sized businesses with easier access to capital, while offering investors opportunities to support regional enterprises. Pennsylvania’s economy spans industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, energy, healthcare, and technology, providing a broad base of potential listings.

The “Farm Team” Idea:

• Think minor league baseball or local politics. A “Pennsylvania Stock Exchange” (PSE) wouldn’t rival the NYSE.
• It would nurture smaller, local companies.
• These firms do not qualify for national exchanges.

Why It Makes Sense:

• Local Focus: PSE would prioritize Pennsylvania businesses. …
• Capital Access: Smaller firms gain easier access to funding. ….. With over 1 million small businesses in the state, a localized exchange could offer them alternative funding sources beyond traditional bank loans or venture capital.
• Job Creation: Exchange operations, tech, and supporting services create jobs in PA, and empowers local citizens to support, enthusiastically.
• Economic Boost: Local investment stays within the state, keeping capital circulating within.
• Limited Cap: A maximum market capitalization limit ensures focus on small to medium sized buisnesses.

How to Build It:

• State Legislation: Pennsylvania lawmakers must create the PSE.
• Regulatory Body: A state-level SEC equivalent is needed.
• Technology Platform: A secure, online trading platform is essential.
• Headquarters: Must be located within Pennsylvania.
• Hiring: Majority of employees must be Pennsylvania residents.
• Initial Funding: State investment and private sector partnerships.

What It Would Look Like:

• Online trading platform, accessible to investors.
• Listing requirements tailored for PA companies.
• Market cap, saying for a maximum of $100 million to list & a minimum.
• Transparency and regulatory oversight.
• A physical office location in a major city or major suburbs, of Harrisburg, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.

Who’s Responsible?

• Pennsylvania State Legislature.
• Pennsylvania Department of Banking and Securities.
• A newly forming PSE regulatory board.
• Private sector investors and technology providers.
• Pennsylvania citizens.

Models for Implementation
Three successive steps for establishing PASE include:

1. State Government-Led Initiative in Early Stage Only:
   The state government could establish and regulate the exchange, potentially through a public-private partnership (PPP). This would provide oversight while encouraging private sector innovation in the platform’s design and operation.
2. Entrepreneur-Led Exchange with some PA State Oversight:
   Pennsylvania-based entrepreneurs or financial technology (FinTech) firms could lead the effort, creating a private exchange with state regulatory approval. This model could be similar to how NASDAQ began as an over-the-counter market before evolving into a larger exchange.
3. Partnership with National Exchanges:
   National stock exchanges like NASDAQ or NYSE could create a regional “feeder” exchange in Pennsylvania. This exchange would focus on small businesses and provide a stepping stone for eventual listings on larger national platforms.

PRIVATE EQUITY & VENTURE CAPITAL NOT ADEQUATE

Private equity and venture capital exist, but the potential value of a state-level stock exchange is empowering of locals & investors. Here’s why:

• Private equity and venture capital often require high investment minimums, limiting access for many smaller investors and businesses.
• A state exchange could democratize investment, allowing broader participation.
• Private equity and venture capital tend to concentrate on high-growth, high-return ventures, potentially overlooking stable, local businesses that are vital to the state’s economy.
• A state exchange would provide a venue for those businesses to find capital, beyond the many barriers of banks.
• By keeping the focus on in state buisnesses, the money invested, stays in the state, creating a positive local economic impact.

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#PennsylvaniaStockExchange #KeystoneCapital #StateLevelExchange #LocalInvestment #EconomicDevelopment #SmallBusinessFunding#JobCreationPA #PennsylvaniaEconomy #InvestLocalPA #PAstartup #AlternativeFinance #KeystoneInvestors

Sources for Reference:

LOCAL STOCK EXCHANGES If local stock exchanges have been created in the United States and What issues must be addressed to create one. https://www.cga.ct.gov/2011/rpt/2011-R-0368.htm

How to make a new stock exchange Dec 9, 2021 · Setting up an entirely new stock exchange designed for long-term investors was a lengthy, arduous process — but founder Eric Ries is optimistic that his innovative system will https://www.juliusbaer.com/en/insights/future-insights/digital-disruption/how-to-make-a-new-stock-exchange/

 

 

 

 

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George Assad: Proven Leadership in Crisis, Strategy & Growth, March 16, 2025, Press Release

With a distinguished career in strategic leadership, George Assad has consistently delivered impactful results across diverse sectors. His expertise spans economic development, crisis management, and business transformation. Here's a snapshot of his notable achievements and capabilities:

Key Skills & Expertise

• Strategic Leadership: Proven ability to manage billion-dollar restructurings, economic recovery, and corporate governance.
• Crisis Management: Successfully led economic recovery efforts in Indonesia and other high-stakes environments.
• Business Development: Drove major growth initiatives, including turning companies into profitable ventures with over 600% gains.
• Negotiation & Mediation: Managed a $100 billion project in Southeast Asia, resolving stalled contract talks in six weeks while saving $10 million in legal fees.
• Economic Policy & Infrastructure: Advised on multi-billion-dollar economic reforms and privatization strategies.

Notable Achievements

• Global Business Access (Partner/Senior Advisor)

  • Led initiatives supporting economic stability in Indonesia and Gulf economies.
  • Managed $20 million in fundraising for global forums and events.
  • Spearheaded partnerships with European Central Bank to promote economic stability.

• Tsunami Hospital Foundation (Managing Director & Co-Founder)

  • Built healthcare infrastructure supporting recovery efforts in Asia.
  • Led efforts to fund a university research hospital with specialized disease prevention programs.

• FDIC/RTC (Oversight Specialist & Compliance Advisor)

  • Key contributor to a $160 billion government bailout recovery effort.
  • Successfully cut costs by 80% and reduced legal fees by 90% in asset sales.

Industry Contributions

• Featured speaker and panelist at prestigious forums including The Economist, Forbes CEO Forums, and UN Conferences.
• Contributor to key media platforms such as Fox News, WFMZ, and Agence-France Presse.

Education & Certifications

• MBA in Finance (Thunderbird School of Global Management)
• B.A. in Computer Science/Finance (Penn State University)
• Passed the U.S. Foreign Service Officer Exam and held Top Security Clearance.

Why George Assad for Leadership?

George's deep understanding of global economics, combined with his results-driven leadership style, makes him well-suited for roles requiring decisive action, strategic planning, and impactful results. Whether in public office or a senior executive role, his track record speaks to his ability to foster growth, improve efficiencies, and deliver meaningful change.

For those seeking a proven leader who thrives on problem-solving and impactful solutions, George Assad offers a compelling and experienced profile to consider.