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In this Update:
Inside Benton Foundry: A Look at Local Manufacturing
I recently had a very informative visit to Benton Foundry in Benton, Columbia County, where I was able to tour their facilities and learn more about their operations. Guided by President Jeffrey Hall and Vice President Tim Brown, I received an insightful look into their operations. We toured both the main foundry, where I learned about the intricate casting processes they utilize, and their impressive Discovery Center, which highlights the company’s significant history and commitment to innovation in the industry. It was fascinating to learn more about this important local employer and the skilled work being done there. My sincere thanks to Jeffrey, Tim, and the entire Benton Foundry team for their time and for sharing their story with me. It’s visits like these that reinforce the strength and innovation present right here in our district’s business community! Students: Apply Now for Grow PA Scholarships and Improve Access for Everyone
People across the state have felt the pain of industries with declining workforces, including long waits to see a doctor or a skilled mechanic. To address this, the Senate took legislative action last session to establish a grant program with the goal of getting young people to pursue careers in high-demand jobs and to remain in Pennsylvania following their education. The Grow PA Scholarship Grant Program offers grants of up to $5,000 per year for in-state students who pursue a degree or certification for an in-demand occupation. Qualifying courses of study include agriculture, computer science, business, education, special education, STEM education, engineering, nursing, allied health, criminal justice and other programs approved by the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. Because the funding is being awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, it’s important to apply as soon as possible. To qualify for the grant, applicants must agree to live and work in Pennsylvania in that occupation after graduation for 12 months for each year they receive the grant. Failure to meet this requirement will result in the grant converting to a loan requiring repayment. Learn more or apply here. Opportunity for Veterans to Serve on State Commission
Pennsylvania is home to over 700,000 veterans, and ensuring they receive the support and advocacy they have earned is a top priority. A key body advising the state on these critical matters is the Pennsylvania State Veterans Commission (SVC), which works closely with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) on issues impacting veterans’ welfare, benefits, employment, and overall support across the Commonwealth. I wanted to make veterans in our district aware of a unique opportunity to serve their fellow veterans at the state level. Applications are currently being accepted for a Veteran Member-at-Large position on the State Veterans Commission for a four-year term beginning this July (July 27, 2025 – July 27, 2029). This is a chance for a dedicated veteran, who is a member in good standing of a recognized veterans’ organization, to bring their perspective to help shape policy and advocate for veterans’ needs statewide. If you are passionate about improving the lives of those who served, I encourage you to consider applying for this impactful role. The application deadline is 4:00 PM on Monday, June 2, 2025. Interested individuals can find the application and email submission instructions on the PA Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) website or contact their offices here. Survey: How Did PennDOT Do This Winter?
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has created a short survey so motorists can offer their feedback on the winter services PennDOT provided. Filling out the survey allows you to share your thoughts about where you get information about road conditions, how soon you expect roads to be safe to travel following a winter storm event, and what features you find useful from 511PA.com. There is also an opportunity to share additional comments, and the survey is anonymous. PA Women Veterans: Register Now for Capitol Ceremony Honoring Your Service
Pennsylvania women who served in the armed forces have until May 9 to register for a state Capitol ceremony honoring their service on Tuesday, June 10. A virtual display will also be available online and will go live on June 9. The event will recognize the courage and dedication of Pennsylvania’s women veterans from World War II to the present. Women veterans from all branches of the military are encouraged to attend and take part. The first Women Veterans Day Capitol exhibit took place in 2023, after passage of legislation observing Women Veterans Day in Pennsylvania annually on June 12. New participants are encouraged to share their service stories by completing the required submission form. Veterans featured in last year’s display who wish to participate again may use the same form to simply update their previous submission. New Growing Greener Grants Available for Local Environmental Projects
This week, the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced the opening of a new application round for the Growing Greener Plus Grant Program. This program provides vital funding – the largest single investment of state funds for these purposes – to address critical environmental concerns like clean water, watershed restoration, flood mitigation, and more. Grants are available to a wide range of applicants, including watershed groups, county and local governments, municipal authorities, county conservation districts, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. If your group is working on projects to improve our local environment, I strongly encourage you to explore this funding opportunity. You can find detailed information, application guidance, and the online application portal on DEP’s website: https://www.pa.gov/services/dep/water/bwrnsm/apply-for-a-department-of-environmental-protection-growing-greener-plus-grant.html How to Locate Lost Military Documents
A veteran’s DD214 is a vital document when it comes to receiving the benefits they deserve. It provides the member and the branch of service with a concise record of time served in the armed forces, issued at the time of the member’s separation, discharge or change in military status. Veterans discharged from 2010 and after can access their own digital records by setting up an account through the VA e-Benefits portal. Veterans who were discharged before then, may complete the Standard Form 180, which includes mailing instructions on the last page. They may also visit the National Archives and Records Administration site to submit a signed form electronically. Anyone who needs assistance is encouraged to call 1-800-547-2838, email RA-REQ@pg.gov or learn more online. April 26 is Celebrate Trails Day
Pennsylvania has thousands of miles of trails to enjoy, including trails in state parks and forests, as well as rail trails – former railway lines that were converted to paths for foot and bicycle traffic. Trail lengths and difficulties vary. Some trails are scenic or leisurely, while others are self-guiding and educational. Still others offer rigorous exercise. No matter the trail you choose, enjoy it safely by planning the route for your trip, as cell phones and GPS units may not work in some areas. Bring a friend, monitor the weather and stay on the trail. It’s also recommended to share your route and the time you expect to return with someone who will not be on the trail with you.
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