[naviga:h3]PennDOT holds motorcycle clinics[/naviga:h3]

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has announced a series of motorcycle safety clinics.

The clinics are free for any state resident who has a motorcycle license or learner’s permit, according to a news release.

The beginning rider clinic includes seven hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of practical riding.

The intermediate rider clinic is an eight-hour class that allows skilled riders to refresh their on-road skills.

The three-wheel riding clinic is meant for beginners to three-wheel motorcycles.

There is also a four-hour introduction to riding clinic and a one-day advanced rider clinic.

For more information, visit www.pamsp.com or call 1-800-845-9533.

[naviga:h3]State police vet is acting commissioner[/naviga:h3]

HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Wolf is appointing a 36-year veteran of the Pennsylvania State Police to head the agency and replace the retiring Col. Tyree Blocker.

Wolf’s announcement Thursday elevates Lt. Col. Robert Evanchick to acting commissioner.

Blocker came out of retirement from the force to take over in 2015, after the Republican-controlled Senate refused to confirm Wolf’s initial choice, Marcus Brown, Maryland’s former state police superintendent.