Emailed Newsletter - September 2, 2024
9/2/2024

 
Capitol Report
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The latest news from the State Capitol
 
Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link
 
Upcoming District Events

Senior Expo

Click here to view video.

Concealed Carry Seminar

 
 
 
Around the 139th

Troop 102 of Lake Ariel recently celebrated 75 years of providing our local youth invaluable like skills and guiding them to become their best selves through scouting.

My staff and I attended the Pike County Area Agency on Aging’s Elder Justice Day.

Each month, my staff visits the Hamlin Senior Center in Wayne County. It’s always great to meet people and hear about concerns and issues affecting them.

I was honored to attend the annual dinner fundraiser for Hemlock Farms Conservancy. Pictured with me, from left, are Kelly Stagen, conservancy president; John Hannick, board president; and Tim Morey, Blooming Grove Township supervisor and local business owner.
   
 
‘Jail Scam’ Reports on the Rise

Pennsylvania State Police are again warning people to be aware of scammers claiming their loved one is in jail and promising to release them in exchange for cash.

Scammers will usually make contact by phone and claim a loved one (typically a grandchild) is either currently in jail, or faces the possibility of jail, and will even cite specific names. They will then ask for an address where they can pick up the money.

State police offer these tips to protect yourself from this and other scams:

  •   Don’t feel pressured to provide payment for something or to someone.
  •   Do not give out sensitive information over the phone.
  •   NEVER place money in your mailbox or at your doorstep for someone to pick up.
  •   Do not give remote access to anyone for any of your devices.
  •   Never make a payment to someone with gift cards – it’s a scam!

Click here for additional tips to protect yourself from scams.

If you or anyone you know is a victim of a scam, contact state or local law enforcement to have it investigated.
 
 
Saving for Higher Education with PA 529


With the new school year upon us, now is the perfect time to start saving for the next steps in your student’s education. Whether a child in your life is starting kindergarten or heading into their senior year, it’s never too early, or too late, to start saving with the PA 529 College and Career Savings Program.

Saving with PA 529 has big tax advantages and doesn’t impact Pennsylvania state financial aid eligibility. There are two great plans from which to choose.

Both plans can be used to help pay for a wide variety of education costs like tuition and fees, books, supplies, room and board, and more at technical schools, community colleges, four-year institutions and apprenticeship programs. Learn more at pa529.com today!
 
 
PA Elk Cam Back for Another Season!


You can once again check in on the state’s elk herd from the comfort of your own home!

The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) has installed a camera on Elk County game lands that are typically a hub of elk activity as the bugling season heats up. In the coming weeks, bulls will become more vocal as they compete with one another for available cows.

In addition to the elk, viewers can expect to see turkeys, deer and other wildlife as well. The best times to view elk are at dawn and dusk.

If you’d like to see the bugling season in person, the PGC reminds visitors to always be “Elk Smart.” Give elk space, never feed elk and do your part to ensure the welfare of the herd. Learn more here.
 
 
While Summer Winds Down, Bugs are Still Buggin’


Summer is winding down, but ticks and mosquitoes are as active as ever, so it’s important to continue taking steps to protect yourself outdoors.

Pennsylvania typically ranks in the top 10 in the country for Lyme disease cases per 100,000 residents. Most cases can be treated successfully with a short course of antibiotics. However, if the infection is left untreated, it can spread to joints, heart and nervous system.

The state Department of Health offers an online dashboard to show where ticks are prevalent and help people prepare to take appropriate precautions while enjoying outdoor activities.

Residents should also take steps to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and by wearing long sleeves and pants, especially during peak mosquito activity times, like dusk and dawn.
 
 

PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed for Labor Day Holiday

All PennDOT driver license and photo centers will be closed Saturday, Aug. 31, through Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of Labor Day.

Customers may still obtain a variety of driver and vehicle products and services online at www.dmv.pa.gov.
 
 


Do you have a question, concern or problem that needs to be resolved? Reach out by phone or email or stop by the office. My staff and I are here to help you.