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In this update:
Are Governor Shapiro’s Spending Increases Real or Phony?
Are Governor Shapiro’s spending increases realistic or phony? I want to do more to help our students and invest in Pennsylvania’s economy – the key question is what can our taxpayers afford? During the governor’s budget address this week, we heard a long wish list of what our governor would like to spend, without a detailed explanation of how to pay for it. We need to be realistic. We cannot follow California and New York down the path of reckless spending. Their choice, now that they have spent down their reserves, is to slash important programs or dramatically increase taxes. We don’t want to make the same mistake here in Pennsylvania. Public Comment Regarding PPL Settlement Open Now
In late 2022 and early 2023, PPL customers experienced unusually high or low estimated bills, missing monthly bills and inadequate customer service support resulting in customers’ inability to reach PPL Call Center representatives to discuss their billing concerns. My local offices received many questions about this problem. To address those issues, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) will evaluate and consider a joint settlement. As part of the evaluation, a public comment period regarding the proposed settlement is active through Feb. 28. Customers may submit a comment by e-filing through the PUC or sending a written comment at the address below. All comments should reference the docket number of the case: M-2023-3038060. Secretary’s Bureau How Can We Better Teach Children How to Read?
A bill by Senator Ryan Aument to improve literacy won bipartisan approval in the Senate Education Committee this week. It’s impossible to function in today’s world without being able to read, yet we’re seeing very high rates of illiteracy across Pennsylvania and the nation. We need to focus on the basics. We cannot afford to fail our children in this regard. Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Pottsville Maroons
Next year marks a huge milestone in Pottsville and Schuylkill County history – the 100th anniversary of the Pottsville Maroons, who played in the National Football League from 1925-28. The Schuylkill Historical Society is hosting a “Kick-Off” event on Saturday, February 17 from 6-9 p.m. An expert will be on hand to discuss the team and its 1925 “stolen” championship. Call the historical society at 570-622-7540 to reserve your tickets. The historical society is also sponsoring a coloring contest to teach children about this fascinating piece of local history, which you can learn more about above. Learn more about the plans for this celebration here. Tamaqua Train Station Recognized AGAIN for Restoration
Photo by Donald R. Serfass The Tamaqua Train Station Restaurant was featured in an article in the March 2024 edition of Trains Magazine – just the latest recognition of the restoration effort that transformed a decaying shell of a building into a bustling local landmark. This station was once a symbol of blight in Tamaqua. For decades, the walls were caving in, the windows and doors were boarded up, and the roof leaked. But many dedicated volunteers came together in the 1990s to work with us to transform an abandoned wreck into the pride of the community. It now houses a successful restaurant and is a frequent stop on Reading Blue Mountain and Northern Railroad’s scenic train rides. According to the article, what distinguishes the restaurant from others is “their great customer service and attention to detail” – in addition to the great location, of course. Boy Scouts Celebrate 114 Years of Expanding Horizons
This week marked the 114th anniversary of the founding of the Boy Scouts. One of the very best things my parents ever did for me was sign me up for Cub Scouts the age of eight. I have literally travelled the world as a scout and as a volunteer leader. From camping in my own back yard with my son to exploring New Mexico, Canada and Bavaria, scouting has given me and so many others the opportunity to expand our horizons. Pictured here are some of my favorite Scouting “artifacts”: My grandfather Argall’s Scoutmaster card from his Middleport troop in the 1930s, my Eagle ceremony with my grandparents, my brother Doug’s Eagle with our parents and leaders, and my son AJ’s Eagle. State Route 424 Extension Open to Drivers
Reminder: the extension of State Route 424 near the Humboldt Industrial Park is now open for all drivers. This is a HUGE deal for Hazleton – it will allow companies in the area to expand their operations, continuing the incredible economic growth the region has witnessed in recent years. Days like today do not happen without public-private partnerships and true collaboration. Thanks to the hard work of CAN DO, the Greater Hazleton Chamber of Commerce, state and local officials, and many more people, local drivers can expect less traffic jams and delays for first responders. Happy 100th Birthday to Mary Dembinsky and Mary Stockmal!Last weekend, two longtime residents of the area celebrated their 100th birthdays!
Mary Dembinsky is a lifelong resident of Schuylkill County, currently calling Beurys Lake her home. She is the proud mother of three children and a longtime Phillies fan. She celebrated this incredible birthday with many friends and family at St. Nicholas Hall in Minersville last weekend. Christine Verdier, my Chief of Staff, was there to celebrate her and present her with a Senate Citation.
Mary Stockmal lives in Nesquehoning and is a devoted member of Saint John the Baptist Orthodox Church. She is a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. PA State Rep. Doyle Heffley and I wished her a happy birthday last Saturday. |
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