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In this Update:
Indiana County Bridge Renamed to Honor Military Service Member
US Army Staff Sergeant William Stivison was honored this past weekend with a memorial bridge designation in his name for the bridge identified as Bridge Key 68411 carrying State Route 3016 (Jacksonville Road) over Two Lick Creek in Homer City, Indiana County. Staff Sergeant Stivison attended Homer City High School and later the Bliss Electrician School. In 1935, he joined the National Guard and in 1941, he joined the United States Army and became a section leader and member of the 2nd Ranger Infantry Battalion. On March 30, 1945, Sgt. Stivison encountered surprise enemy fire while moving into position in Germany. He led his platoon in an attack so rapid and determined that the outer defenses of the enemy were speedily overwhelmed. During this assault, Sgt. Stivison demolished a machine gun nest and killed nine enemy soldiers. When his platoon was pinned down by enemy fire, Sgt. Stivision ignored personal safety to carry wounded men to cover. For his bravery, Staff Sergeant Stivison received the Silver Star, Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts with two Oak Clusters. After the war, Sgt. Stivison spent his lifetime volunteering with his local fire department, fishing, hunting, camping and square dancing. On April 2, 2007, he died in his sleep at his home in Homer City, Indiana County. We are forever indebted to him and his family for his service and sacrifice for our great country. I was pleased to work with state Rep. Jim Struzzi and local leaders to honor Staff Sergeant Stivison. Legislation was approved by the General Assembly and signed into law as Act 63 of 2024, containing this bridge dedication. Thank you to Homer City American Legion Post 493 for hosting the dedication ceremonies. March for Life at the State Capitol
Thousands of people made the trip to Harrisburg to support the unborn on a very rainy Monday. While I was unable to be at the Capitol, it was wonderful to see the photos of such an impressive gathering for Pennsylvania’s March for Life Rally. A sincere thank you to those who attended the events and to everyone who stopped by my office. Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
The Pennsylvania Senate recently came together to recognize and raise awareness during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Together, we wore our gold in honor of the strength of children and families who fight this terrible disease, and the hard work and dedication of medical professionals who heal, comfort and support these brave kids. Pennsylvania’s consistent and collaborative efforts during the last four years have led to more than $40 million in historic funding towards pediatric cancer research and allowed us to spearhead initiatives to create greater access to resources to keep these children connected to and supported by their peers while they fight their tremendous battle. While our collective work to offer support will certainly continue, thanks to the efforts of so many individuals, our commonwealth has become a national leader in the fight against pediatric cancer. Child Care Tax Credit Supports Families, Communities
Senate Republicans understand that supporting families helps create strong communities. We led the way in establishing the Child Care Tax Credit and also increased it to provide relief to as many moms and dads as possible. Because of the tax credit, more businesses can contribute toward their employees’ child care benefits, providing financial relief to parents, beginning Jan. 1, 2025. Employer contributions may not count as the employee’s income. The tax credit allows employers to claim a tax credit equal to 30% of what they contribute toward an employee’s child care benefits, up to $500. If an employer chooses to make contributions to its employees, the employer must make equal contributions to all employees who have eligible child care costs. Find more details about the tax credit here. Exciting Careers Await in PA Agriculture
There are more than 500,000 jobs in PA agriculture – covering the fields of business, technology, science and more – and 75,000 more need to be filled in the next decade to keep our farms operating and our nation fed. As the industry diversifies and innovates with new technology and its aging workforce retires, new opportunities are continually available. Find available careers in agriculture. State Seminars Explain New Tax Laws
Senate Republicans reformed the state tax code to bring jobs to Pennsylvania and help start-ups. Tax professionals can learn about these and other changes at the Department of Revenue in person or at virtual seminars. The one-day seminars offer information about the Personal Income Tax, sales tax, corporate taxes and compliance initiatives. They also explain how to use the department’s website to establish tax accounts for new businesses, file tax returns and pay state taxes. Seminars are offered through December. Learn more and register here. An Emergency Plan Can be a Lifesaver
Having an emergency plan that everyone in your family is familiar with can keep your loved ones safe during a power outage, severe storm or other unexpected event. A clear plan helps people stay calm and focused during a stressful experience. It should include information about where to go, who to contact and what to have on hand. It’s important to have enough food, water and other supplies to last at least three days. Other items for a basic emergency kit include flashlights, extra batteries, first aid supplies, hand sanitizer and a whistle to signal for help. Learn more. September is National Prostate Health Month
Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men in the United States, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer. It causes more deaths in men than all but lung cancer. Screenings can often catch the disease before it spreads, resulting in a five-year survival rate of 97.5%. For someone with an average risk, screening should begin at age 50. Getting screened every two or three years is sufficient for most men. While there is no way to completely prevent prostate cancer, men can reduce their risk by choosing a low-fat diet filled with fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising most days of the week.
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