The Commonwealth Beat with Laura LeBeau - Episode 109 - 03/22/2026

America is in the midst of the largest bird flu outbreak in its history.  As birds migrate this spring, avian influenza is spreading along the major flyways used to get to their spring and summer destinations.  As they travel, these wild birds are inadvertently spreading contagion through droppings, contaminated water, or direct contact with domestic birds.  Commercial poultry producers and egg laying enterprises had had to destroy hundreds of millions of birds to eradicate bird flu in their flocks.  So what can be done?  Dr. Chelsey Shivley with the USDA is leading the effort to get this terrible disease under control.  Then, in the PA-mazing segment, a trip to "the sweetest place on earth,"  Hershey, Pennsylvania to discuss the town's latest dining option, Hershey Social Restaurant and Bar.  Can you infuse Hershey candy into adult beverages and all manner of food?  Danielle Short and Chef Chris Emlet will explain that to their way of thinking, you can, indeed!