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In this Update:
Bill to Improve Early Literacy Poised for Enactment
The Senate and House unanimously passed and sent to the governor legislation to give students the best chance at lifelong success through a strong, evidence-based reading program. Senate Bill 801 would provide schools with resources to dramatically improve early literacy in Pennsylvania. First, it would bolster reading instruction by giving schools a comprehensive list of evidence-based reading curricula. Second, it would help schools identify struggling readers early via universal screening by providing a list of high-quality screeners. Third, it would ensure educators are properly trained to use the structured literacy curriculum and screeners by creating a list of high-quality professional development programs. Low literacy scores are a problem that spans the geographic and demographic spectrum, with urban cities and rural communities struggling to help their students read proficiently at their age level. Studies show that childhood reading difficulties can produce long-term effects and dramatically impact someone’s chances of success. Mifflin County Library to Receive Broadband Grant
The Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) announced that the Mifflin County Library has been awarded over $1.6 million in grant funding to bolster internet access within our community. The proposed project entails both renovations of the existing building and enhancements to support increasing the capacity of the facility to accommodate the areas growing workforce, education and enrichment. The grant, funded through the federally backed Multi-Purpose Community Facilities Program, is part of a $45 million competitively awarded initiative to support projects that bolster high-speed broadband access for essential services, including work, education, and health monitoring, using community anchor institutions. Improving internet access in schools, libraries, recreation centers and non-profit organizations, this investment ensures that these facilities remain critical hubs for public benefit. To maintain transparency and ensure measurable progress, the PBDA requires grantees to submit quarterly and annual reports detailing the project’s advancement, and compliance with federal standards. A final report, due within three months of project completion, will outline the full impact of the grant, including outcomes, sustainability efforts and equity considerations. The final 10% of funding will only be released after a thorough review of this report. This investment is a key part of the Commonwealth’s broader mission to strengthen community infrastructure and create accessible public spaces that serve as lifelines for work, education, and health. By improving these facilities, Pennsylvania is ensuring its communities are well-equipped to meet current and future needs. More information on the PBDA and the projects can be found here. Join Us for Our Veterans Appreciation Luncheon
In coordination with the American Legion, Post 516, this free veterans appreciation luncheon will be hosted on Thursday, November 7 from Noon to 2 P.M. at the American Legion Park Social Hall in Hollidaysburg. An RSVP is required. Please call my office at 814-695-8386 to register. Senate Passes Bill to Extend Lemon Law Protections to Motorcycles
The Senate unanimously approved legislation that would extend Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law protections to cover motorcycles. Senate Bill 155 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law provides protections for customers who purchase or lease a car that is registered in the commonwealth. The law protects customers who experience defects with their car during the first year or 12,000 miles of leasing or ownership. Manufacturers are given three opportunities within a year to repair the defect. If the problem still cannot be corrected, the customer is eligible for a replacement or refund. The state Lemon Law currently only applies to cars. Bill to Improve Elevator Safety Standards Passes Senate
The Senate unanimously passed legislation to improve elevator safety standards in Pennsylvania. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Following the deaths of a correctional officer and an inmate who plunged down an elevator shaft in a violent confrontation, the Elevator Safety Board was established to address critical issues surrounding elevator construction, maintenance and inspection. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers has revised the national elevator code seven times since 2002, yet Pennsylvania still adheres to outdated standards that don’t reflect current safety practices. The board submitted its recommendations to update these codes to the Department of Labor and Industry in 2020, but the agency has not acted. Senate Bill 1230 requires the Department of Labor and Industry to adopt an updated safety code, effective July 1, 2025. Prior to adoption, the Elevator Safety Board may recommend modifications based upon its professional expertise and industry experience. The legislation would establish timely benchmarks, making sure necessary upgrades will not be delayed further. It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Time!
Did you know it is Medicare Open Enrollment time? Between now and December 7, you can join, switch or drop your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plans. Any changes that you make to your plans will take effect on January 1, 2025. If you have questions, please contact the PA MEDI Helpline, Monday through Friday, 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. at 1-800-783-7067 or call your local PA MEDI Program. You can learn more about this here or through your local Area Agency on Aging. Prepare Now for the Nov. 5 Election
Election Day on Nov. 5 is approaching. Make sure you’re able to participate by registering to vote no later than Oct. 21. If you’ve moved, this is also a great time to double check that you’re registered to vote at your current address. Anyone who wishes to vote by mail must apply by Oct. 29. You must be a registered voter to submit an application to vote by mail. If you are looking for a way to help your community, learn more about becoming a poll worker here. Thousands of Pennsylvanians are needed to run elections, and poll workers are needed in all 67 counties. Know Your Breast Cancer Risk
Understanding your breast cancer risk is vital for protecting your health which is an important reminder during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can lower your risk. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking are also important preventive steps. Regular screenings and self-exams are essential for early detection, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. Discussing your personal risk with a doctor can help you explore further preventive options, such as genetic testing or medications. By implementing these strategies and staying informed, you can take significant steps toward lowering your risk. Learn more about breast cancer risk here. DCNR Offering Virtual Grant Workshop
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) will be hosting a free, virtual grant workshop for those seeking funding assistance for a new park, trail or conservation project on Thursday, November 7, from 9 A.M. to Noon. DCNR’s Bureau of Recreation and Conservation staff will present about grant program selection criteria, review current program priorities, and discuss eligible project types. 2025 potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend. The workshop is especially suited for municipal officials, consultants, board members, trail managers, land trust staff, and park and recreation professionals. A general session for all applicants will begin at 9 A.M. Project type-specific breakout sessions will follow. Applicants should plan on attending both the general session and the breakout session for the project type they plan on applying for. There will be ample time for project-specific Q&A with DCNR’s professional grant managers and regional advisors. To register or for more information, click here. State Game Lands Tours About to Get Rolling
The Pennsylvania Game Commission will be offering Fall Driving Tours on State Game Lands, happening on Sundays in October. These driving tours provide residents with a look at habitat projects, as well as hunting and trapping opportunities on public lands across the state. All tours are held on Sundays (no hunting is interrupted). They are FREE, held rain or shine, and open to vehicles licensed for travel on public roads. Here is a schedule of all events across the state: SUNDAY, OCT. 20
Starting Point: SGL Parking Lot off Rte 810/ Mountain Rd. (40.552243, -76.054135)
Starting Point: SGL gate off Ellendale Rd. (40.406108, -76.818071)
Starting Point: SGL 51 Maintenance building at 268 Dunbar Ohiopyle Rd, Dunbar. (39.9147133, -79.5523173)
Starting Point: Kenrock Rd, off Rte 913. (40.2163556, -78.1827349) Out and AboutDolly Parton Imagination Library Program Launches in Altoona! How exciting it was to be a part of the launch for the Dolly Parton Imaginary Library children’s book program at the Altoona Area Public Library! With the collaborative efforts of the library and the Altoona Area School District, children living in the 16601, 16602 and 16603 zip codes can enroll in a free book program. Children enrolled in the program will receive a free book mailed to their home every month until their 5th birthday! The goal is to add more zip codes to the program. For more information on how you can be a donor to this program or to enroll your child, contact the library at 814-946-0417.
Our Own Rosie the Riveter Happy Birthday to Mary Lidwell, a resident of the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home who turned 101 years old. Mary was surrounded by family, friends, and HVH staff who love her on her special day. She is a remarkable example of a defender of freedom with the United States Marine Corps Women’s Reserve during WWII. She was honored with a “Rosie the Riveter” coin for her birthday. This lady is truly amazing!
Mount Aloysius Opens New Success Commons and Library Mount Aloysius College celebrated the ribbon cutting of its new Mountie Success Commons & Library. Visitors had the opportunity to tour this beautiful, functional centralized hub where students will have the ability to learn, grow and help them reach their full potential. Through projects like this, the college consistently demonstrates its commitment to the success of its students and the entire community. Congratulations to President John McKeegan, the dedicated leadership, project team, staff and students at Mount Aloysius College for making this project a success!
Hollidaysburg Citizens of the Year Congratulations to Linda Straub for receiving the Hollidaysburg Borough Citizen of the Year Award! Linda has a lifetime of service to helping animals and has created a whole community of individuals that help predominately cats in Blair County. Linda is known for her creation of “Yard Kitty,” a statue in her highly visible yard that is dressed up in different themes and costumes throughout the year. Congratulations, Linda!
Fulton County Township Supervisors Convention It was wonderful to be with local supervisors from across Fulton County as they joined for their annual convention recently. This is always a good time to hear from the local municipalities on issues and current projects they are working on.
Blair County Honor Guard Annual Banquet Each year, I am pleased to attend the Blair County Honor Guard’s annual banquet. This group of individuals is so dedicated to area veterans and their family members. Thank you guard members for all you do!
Every Life Matters (Blair County) Dinner Every Life Matters (ELM) in Blair County held their annual banquet at B & D Acres Farm recently. Comedian, Gordon Douglas, provided an entertaining message, but also the importance of every life having purpose. ELM is a pregnancy resource center that provides pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, counseling and supplies for pregnant women and their babies.
United We Can Luncheon I was thrilled to have Majority Leader Joe Pittman in Blair County for the United We Can luncheon where he was the Keynote Speaker. The United We Can Series looks to bring folks together seeking inspiration, encouragement, support and networking opportunities. Leader Pittman provided both inspirational and very encouraging remarks for all in attendance!
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