|
||||
|
In this Update:
Grandstands at Mack Park
On Friday morning, I was very pleased to take part in the grandstands naming at Mack Park at the Indiana County Fairgrounds, in honor of former Senator Don White. As a lifelong resident of the district, Senator White has always recognized the importance of investing in the local community and fostering recreational opportunities for families. Mack Park is a public community park privately owned and operated by the Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC). The park is open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. Pictured in the group photo from left to right are, Senator Joe Pittman, Anne White, Senator Don White, Heather Reed, Executive Director of IRMC Healthcare Foundation and Ed Nehrig, Vice President of the Indiana County Fair Board. Absent from photo is Steve Wolfe, IRMC President & CEO. United Way of Indiana County
Congratulations to United Way of Indiana County for raising $71,195 for their annual fundraising gala celebration “Reaching Greater Heights”! $11,400 of the money raised will be shared with the Indiana County humane society and Four-Footed Friends, as part of the United Way’s “Fund a Need.”
I was honored to take part in this tremendous evening and to present Maura and Bob Marcus with the community Leaders Award for their dedication and tireless work for our community.
Thank you to all the participants and volunteers who made this such a memorable and successful evening!
$2 Million Grant Awarded to Address Water Emergency in Barr Slope, Green Township
I was pleased to Join with Rep. Brian Smith to announce Indiana County Municipal Service Authority (ICMSA) has been awarded a state grant in the amount of $2 million to be used for an emergency water interconnection for the village of Barr Slope in Green Township. The determination was made that the Barr Slope wells are no longer producing adequate water for the system demand to residents of Barr Slope. This emergency waterline project is crucial to the well-being of residents living within the Barr Slope area. The emergency contract was awarded to Pollard Land Services, and waterline construction began on Jan. 8, 2025. Access to clean, safe and reliable water is a critical part of ensuring the health of our local community. These significant system upgrades will result in a permanent safeguard to the water supply. Years of neglect have finally caused the Barr Slope system to permanently fail, and this new water line ensures professional services will be provided by ICMSA to the ratepayers going forward. Over the past few months, residents suffered massive inconveniences while several volunteer fire departments stepped forward to keep the system operating. It’s time for Green Township to remove itself from the water business and allow a professional organization to deliver necessary services to the people of the township. The grant is funded through the Department of Community and Economic Development Keystone Communities Program. Read the full press release on this grant here. Senate Concludes First Week of Budget Hearings
The Senate Appropriations Committee began public hearings this week on the proposed 2025-26 state budget. Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget plan would increase state spending by more than $3.6 billion, or about 7.5% above the current year’s budget. During the next five years, using realistic spending and revenue estimates, Shapiro’s spending plans would leave a $27.3 billion hole in the state’s finances. Among the highlights: The Department of Revenue hearing focused on the inflated revenues Gov. Josh Shapiro used to balance his spending proposal. Revenue Secretary Pat Browne confirmed the state is only expected to bring in approximately $47.5 billion in revenue under existing law. Balancing Shapiro’s budget would require elimination of the state’s entire existing fund balance of nearly $3 billion and a transfer of $1.6 billion from the state’s emergency savings, known as the Rainy Day Fund. Following his plan would cause serious financial issues. At the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA) budget hearing, the committee sought information about how PASSHE is working to right-size the system given steep declines in enrollment and to minimize student debt. The new Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program, made possible by the support of Senate Republicans, provides $25 million in funding for students earning degrees and completing job training programs in high-demand industries. The State Police budget hearing highlighted Shapiro’s budget proposal for the State Police that would slow the phase-out from the Motor License Fund, making $375 million less available for road and bridge repairs. There were also questions about how the State Police would handle Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. At the Department of Health budget hearing, members shared health-focused concerns regarding Shapiro’s plan to legalize recreational cannabis use. While most doctors prescribe fewer than 100 medical marijuana certifications, three doctors prescribed more than 11,000. Access to health care, particularly in rural areas where hospitals have been closed, was also discussed. Thursday’s hearings included the Department of State and the Department of Transportation. Find the hearings schedule, livestreams of budget hearings, daily recaps and video from prior hearings at PASenateGOP.com. Support for Veterans Struggling with Substance Use
Adapting from military life to civilian life comes with serious challenges. Most veterans, with the support of their loved ones, overcome these difficulties. Others, sadly, resort to using substances as a coping mechanism and develop substance use disorder. More than one in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is higher than the general population. Help is available for veterans, family members and their advocates at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Find local treatment options here. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is active in communities throughout the state to connect troubled veterans to the resources they need for recovery. In a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the state agencies work together to provide supportive services that are person-centered and focused on achieving overall wellness. Tips to Protect Your Family in a Power Outage
More than just an inconvenience, power outages can also present safety threats. In extreme cold temperatures, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home as it increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and burns. It’s best to go to a community location with power – particularly for those at greatest risk. Another concern is keeping food at the proper temperature. Keep freezers and fridges closed; a fridge will keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer will maintain the temperature for about 48 hours. Dispose of food if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees. Find out how long refrigerated medication can be stored at higher temperatures and contact your doctor for a new supply if necessary. Generators can minimize the challenges associated with power outages, but they present their own risks if not used properly. Read more about how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Staying Safe in Winter’s Cold Temps
Not only are the cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing unpleasant, they can also be quite dangerous when frostbite or hypothermia take hold. If someone’s temperature is below 95 degrees, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. When body temperature is too low, brain activity is compromised and the victim is unable to think clearly or move as usual – which makes it difficult for them to know they need help or get it if they do. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs can help to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers helpful information about how to stay safe in the winter. Recognizing National FFA Week
One of the state’s top industries, agriculture, brings farming to mind for most people. However, there is so much more to it. People who are interested in science, business, technology and mechanics can find fulfilling careers in agriculture. The industry requires the skills of professionals in lots of areas to meet demands for food, fiber and fuel production. National FFA Week, which runs from Feb. 15-22, is a great time to consider career possibilities and to appreciate the many men and women who already serve in this critical industry.
If you are not already subscribed to this newsletter please sign up here. |
||||
|
||||
Want to change how you receive these emails? 2025 © Senate of Pennsylvania | https://senatorpittman.com | Privacy Policy |
