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In this Update:
Sinkhole in Mahanoy Township?My office was contacted about a scary situation in Mahanoy Township last week – a massive, 50-feet-deep sinkhole opened up in a residential backyard, swallowing an in-ground pool. Rep. Dane Watro and I quickly contacted the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, which was on the scene and working to address the issue within hours. It was determined that the collapse of earth was caused by a long-abandoned mine. Thank you to local first responders, Quandel Concrete, Ondeck Concrete, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation, who all jumped into action to secure the site. We’re now working to ensure the family has a safe place to live. A Future Without Alzheimer’sDecember 21st marked the Winter Solstice – the shortest day and longest night of the year. The Alzheimer’s Association recognizes the occasion every year by lighting luminaries – a reminder that by working together, we can light a path to a future without Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. My mom suffered from this terrible disease in the final four years of her life. If you are interested in learning more about how you can help outshine the darkness of this disease, visit their website here. Anthracite Model Railroad Society Showcases Local HistoryThe Anthracite Model Railroad Society in Hazle Township is hosting open houses throughout the holiday season. Their massive, impressive model train layout includes many landmarks in the Greater Hazleton area, faithfully recreating Eckley Miners Village, Weatherly, Jim Thorpe, Hazleton, and other local locations. For the next three weekends, they will be open from noon to 4 p.m. I’m planning to visit soon! Learn more here. Completing Key Transportation Projects in the 29th DistrictThis month’s edition of my local TV program reviews the widening of Route 61 between Frackville and St. Clair, a tour of the new Reading and Northern Railroad passenger train platform and maintenance facility in Nesquehoning, and a moving dedication ceremony for the Caitlin McGarry Memorial Bridge in Schuylkill Haven. Widening Route 61 between Frackville and St. Clair has been a top priority to make the road safer for all. Now, construction is finally underway. For anyone who travels along this road as frequently as I do, this is cause for celebration. My Pennsylvania Dutch grandparents in St. Clair knew the perfect word to sum this up: Endlich. Finally! Reading and Northern Railroad’s new Nesquehoning passenger train platform is now open, to encourage many of the visitors to Jim Thorpe to explore other local communities, supporting local employers and breathing new life into older neighborhoods. After the 102-year-old Columbia Street bridge over the Schuylkill River in Schuylkill Haven was hit by a flood, replacing it became a top priority. The bridge was dedicated in memory of Caitlin McGarry, a PennDOT engineer and Schuylkill Haven native. Watch the full show here. Finnegan Foundation Offers State Government InternshipsCollege students interested in state government can apply for summer internships in Harrisburg through the James A. Finnegan Fellowship Foundation. The deadline is January 24, 2025. This is a great opportunity for Pennsylvania’s future leaders. The Finnegan Foundation allows college students from across Pennsylvania who are interested in politics and government to take their experience to the next level. I was a Finnegan intern during my college career – it was a very valuable experience. Internships are awarded through an essay contest. Applicants must write between 1,500 and 2,500 words about whether school choice should be included in the next state budget. Happy Holidays to You and YoursWarm wishes for a very Merry Christmas filled with joy and laughter. May you and your family enjoy a holiday season that is marked by hope and love. My district office hours may be limited due to the holidays. Please call ahead to be sure my offices are open. PennDOT Driver License Centers will be closed on Jan. 1, 2025 for New Years. Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online through PennDOT’s Driver and Vehicle Services website. Wishing You a Joyous Festival of LightsOne of the most important holidays in the Jewish faith – Hanukkah – begins on Dec. 25 and lasts for eight days. I hope this festival of lights brings blessings for everyone in your family as your candles burn bright. Chag sameach!
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