Senator Ward, J E-Newsletter

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In this Update:

  • A.B. Ross Leadership Program
  • Students: Apply Now for Grow PA Scholarships and Improve Access for Everyone
  • Survey: How Did PennDOT Do This Winter?
  • PA Women Veterans: Register Now for Capitol Ceremony Honoring Your Service
  • How to Locate Lost Military Documents
  • April 26 is Celebrate Trails Day
  • Out and About in the 30th District

A.B. Ross Leadership Program

The A.B. Ross Leadership Program provides 4-H Club members in 7th grade through 12th grade with knowledge and hands-on learning about timely topics affecting Pennsylvania’s No. 1 industry, agriculture. This year’s program offered a full day of interactive learning experiences focused on agricultural technology, with the theme “Agriculture, Technology & Our Future.”  

This year’s A.B. Ross Leadership Program was hosted at Mill Creek Fire Hall in Huntingdon County, where over 50 4-H students from across my legislative district attended. Our special guest was Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, who conducted a special leadership segment with me. In addition to the Secretary, we had a drone presentation by Travis and Rebecca Couch, a career exploration presentation by Cher Harpster of the Penn State Extension Department, and a farm equipment presentation by Rob Ratvasky of Hoober’s. It was a great day!

You can view all the photos from the day, here.

Students: Apply Now for Grow PA Scholarships and Improve Access for Everyone

People across the state have felt the pain of industries with declining workforces, from the long waits to see a doctor or a skilled mechanic. Senate Republicans took action to address those issues – and to reduce the loss of talent as young adults begin their careers in other states, rarely to return to Pennsylvania.

As part of this year’s state budget, the Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who pursue a degree or certification for an in-demand occupation. Qualifying courses of study include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.

Because the funding is being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s important to apply as soon as possible. To qualify for the grant, applicants must agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation after graduation for 12 months for each year they receive the grant. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the grant converting to a loan requiring repayment. Learn more or apply here.

Survey: How Did PennDOT Do This Winter?

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is offering a short survey so motorists can offer their feedback on the winter services PennDOT provided.

Filling out the survey allows you to share your thoughts about where you get information about road conditions, how soon you can expect roads to be safe to travel following a winter storm event and what features you would find useful from 511PA.com.

There is also an opportunity to share additional comments. The survey can be completed anonymously.

PA Women Veterans: Register Now for Capitol Ceremony Honoring Your Service

Pennsylvania women who served in the armed forces have until May 9 to register for a state Capitol ceremony honoring their service on Tuesday, June 10. A virtual display will also be available online and will go live on June 9.

The event will recognize the courage and dedication of Pennsylvania’s women veterans from World War II to the present. Women veterans from all branches of the military are encouraged to attend and take part.

The first Women Veterans Day Capitol exhibit took place in 2023, after passage of legislation observing Women Veterans Day in Pennsylvania annually on June 12. New participants are encouraged to share their service stories by completing the required submission form. Veterans featured in last year’s display who wish to participate again may simply update their previous submission.

How to Locate Lost Military Documents

A veteran’s DD214 is a vital document when it comes to receiving the benefits they deserve. It provides the member and the branch of service with a concise record of a period of time with the armed forces at the time of the member’s separation, discharge or change in military status.

Veterans discharged from 2010 and after can access their own digital records by setting up an account through the VA e-Benefits portal. Veterans who were discharged before then may complete the Standard Form 180, which includes mailing instructions on the last page. They may also visit the National Archives and Records Administration site to submit a signed form electronically.

Anyone who needs assistance is encouraged to call 1-800-547-2838, email RA-REQ@pg.gov or learn more online.

April 26 is Celebrate Trails Day

Including trails in state parks, trails in state forests and rail trails – former railway lines that were converted to paths for foot and bicycle traffic – Pennsylvania has thousands of miles of trails to enjoy.

Trail lengths and difficulties vary. Some trails are scenic or leisurely, while others are self-guiding educational. Still others offer rigorous exercise.

No matter the trail you choose, enjoy it safely by planning the route for your trip as cell phones and GPS units may not work in some areas. Bring a friend, monitor the weather and stay on the trail. It’s also important to share your route and the time you expect to return with someone who will not be on the trail with you.

Out and About in the 30th District

Juniata Valley Chamber of Commerce After Hours Event

Juniata Valley Chamber of Commerce held their After Hours event at the Lost Art Studio and Vintage located at 13 East Market Street in Lewistown. Local art, vintage treasures, clothing and unique finds are some of thing things you will find at this local business in downtown Lewistown.

Williamsburg Fire Company

I had a nice time in Williamsburg at their annual ox roast and soup sale, which benefits the Williamsburg Fire Company. Great soup, great baked goods and great people!

Mifflin and Juniata County Envirothon 2025

The Mifflin and Juniata County Envirothon 2025 event was held recently at Kish Park this week. Students in grades 9-12 from high schools in Mifflin and Juniata Counties attended this event and competed in a range of natural resource topics such as soils, wildlife, aquatics, forestry and current issue topics. The winning team from each county will then have the chance to compete at the PA State Envirothon that will be held at Windber Park on May 21.

Hampton Inn Altoona Ribbon Cutting

The Blair County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting to celebrate the remodeling of the Hampton Inn Altoona. These improvements to the exterior, lobby, breakfast area, meeting spaces, guest rooms, and amenities offer a modern, welcoming place to stay for visitors to the area.

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