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| The Barb Wire |
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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.
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199th District Memorial Day Events
On Memorial Day, I was grateful for the opportunity to join ceremonies across Carlisle, Newville, and the U.S. Army Heritage Center. Each service offered a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and service at the heart of this national day of remembrance.
In Carlisle, community members, veterans, and families gathered to reflect on the legacy of those who gave their lives in service to our nation. The ceremony provided a meaningful space to honor both past and present generations of service members, reminding us of the deep roots of military tradition in our region.
Newville’s observance continued that spirit with a heartfelt and personal tribute, highlighting the strength of small communities in keeping these traditions alive. It was an honor to hear remarks from the keynote speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan D. McElhaney.
At the U.S. Army Heritage Center, the ceremony offered a moment of both reflection and learning. It was particularly impactful to hear from Susan Eisenhower, Granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, whose remarks added depth and historical perspective to the commemoration.
Together, these ceremonies served as a moving reminder of the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of our service members and their families. I am honored to have been in attendance at each event and remain committed to ensuring the legacy of our fallen heroes is remembered with gratitude and respect.
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Application Deadline Extended for 2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
The deadline for senior citizens and Pennsylvanians with disabilities to apply for rebates on rent and property taxes paid in 2025 has been extended to Dec. 31.
Income limits for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program increased again this year to $48,110 for both homeowners and renters. Remember to exclude 50% of Social Security when determining your income. The maximum rebate is $1,000.
The program is open to residents age 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older.
Remember – you do not need to pay anyone for assistance to apply for the rebates. Apply online at mypath.pa.gov, or contact my office for help. Additional information about the program is available here.
Rebates will be distributed beginning July 1, as required by law.
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READY Communities Funding Collaborative – Now Accepting Applications
A new grant opportunity is now available through the READY Communities Funding Collaborative—a first-of-its-kind public-philanthropic pilot program sponsored by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and coordinated by Grantmakers In Aging.
Grants of $10,000, $25,000, or $50,000 are available to support innovative projects that strengthen communities for older adults and people living with dementia. All projects must align with Pennsylvania’s Multisector Plan on Aging, Aging Our Way, PA.
The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has committed $325,000 to this initiative and will fund at least 50% of each selected project. These proposals will also be shared with participating foundations for potential co-investment based on geographic and mission alignment.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local and county governments and coalitions with a fiscal sponsor. Please click here to apply.
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Prevent Lyme: Check for Ticks
May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. As you spend time outdoors, it is important to check yourself, loved ones and pets for ticks and be aware of the symptoms of Lyme disease and other tick-related ailments.
The first line of defense against Lyme is to take precautions outdoors by treating clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin, using insect repellent, and avoiding wooded and brushy areas with high grass or leaf litter. When you return indoors, check your clothing, gear and pets for ticks; shower as soon as possible after being outdoors; and check your body for ticks, particularly in areas such as under the arms, in and around the ears, back of the knees and other similar areas.
If bitten, an individual should monitor the area for the appearance of a bull’s eye rash, though the rash does not develop in all cases. Early symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, fatigue, headache and muscle aches. However, symptoms may progress to arthritic, neurologic and cardiac symptoms if not treated.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted by the bite of a blacklegged tick or deer tick. If you pull a tick from yourself, a loved one or your pet, you may have it tested to determine if it carries Lyme or other tick-borne diseases. More information about how to get a tick tested at the East Stroudsburg University Tick Lab is available here.
Learn more about Lyme disease symptoms, treatment and prevention here.
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Grants Available to Protect At-Risk Wildlife, Native Plants
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2026 Wild Resource Conservation Program (WRCP), which offers grants to support research and conservation projects that protect Pennsylvania’s native wildlife, plants and ecosystems.
The program will invest more than $500,000 in projects across the Commonwealth that support conserving non-game animals, native plants and fungi, and invertebrates such as insects — species that are often left out of traditional conservation programs but are vital to the Commonwealth’s ecosystems.
The deadline to apply is June 30. For additional information and a link to apply, click here.
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2026 High School Graduation Dates
Here are the confirmed 2026 high school graduation dates for our local schools:
• Boiling Springs graduation was held on Thursday, May 28th.
• Cumberland Valley graduation takes place on Saturday, May 30th at 10:00 a.m. at the Giant Center.
• Shippensburg graduation takes place on Tuesday, June 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at the Luhrs Performing Arts Center.
• Carlisle graduation takes place on Wednesday, June 3rd at 7:00 p.m. at Ken Millen Stadium.
• Big Spring graduation takes place on Friday June 5th at 7:00 p.m. at Bulldog Stadium.
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Big Spring FFA Banquet
The Big Spring FFA community gathered recently for an evening of celebration and well earned recognition at their annual FFA Banquet. The event highlighted the dedication, leadership, and growth of outstanding students who continue to uphold the values of agricultural education and the FFA tradition.
Throughout the night, students were honored for their achievements in supervised agricultural experiences, classroom learning, and leadership development. From first year members discovering their passions to seasoned leaders guiding their peers, each student recognized has played a vital role in the chapter.
Congratulations to all Big Spring FFA students for another remarkable year. I look forward to seeing what you achieve next!
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Tips to Protect Against Common Scams Ahead of Large-Scale Events
With half a million fans expected to take part in the FIFA World Cup festivities starting next month in Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) is offering tips to help visitors and residents protect themselves from crimes and potential scams commonly associated with large-scale events.
These include:
• Ticket Scams: Only purchase tickets from verified platforms.
• Accommodations Fraud: Be cautious of rentals, hotels or travel packages at “too good to be true” prices.
• Malware/Phishing: Social media may be used to send links to photos and videos of important event moments. The links may appear valid, but when clicked, malware is downloaded.
• QR Codes: Fraudulent QR codes may be placed in areas surrounding event venues to mislead unsuspecting attendees into believing the link is for legitimate sites to purchase merchandise, tickets, parking, meet and greet opportunities, or other goods. Avoid QR codes that are stickers, and always check the website URL after scanning a QR code.
• ATM Cash Traps/Skimming Devices: Use caution when using ATMs and points-of-sale terminals to withdraw funds or pay for items. Avoid using standalone ATMS or ones that show signs of tampering. If the cash doesn’t dispense immediately, report it to local law enforcement.
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Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. By consistently following safe driving and riding practices and sharing them with others, all motorists can help reduce the number of motorcyclist fatalities on America’s roads.
The following are safe driving and riding practices that all road users – vehicle drivers and motorcyclists alike – should follow to help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our roadways:
• Observe all traffic laws and always obey the speed limit.
• Drive and ride alcohol- and drug-free.
• Avoid distractions while driving or riding.
• Drivers should yield to motorcyclists, especially while turning at intersections.
• Motorcyclists should wear high-visibility protective gear.
One other significant step that motorcycle riders can take toward promoting road safety for all motorists is completing a rider education and training course. Please visit pamsp.com to learn about Pennsylvania’s free motorcycle training courses.
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Telephone Town Hall
You are invited to take part in a telephone town hall meeting I’m hosting on Wednesday, June 17. Shortly before 5:30 p.m. that evening, you will receive a recorded message inviting you to remain on the line and participate in a discussion of state and local issues.
During the call, I will provide updates on recent developments at the state Capitol and answer questions on a variety of topics. You may stay on the line for as long as you wish; however, the event will conclude at 6:30 p.m.
To ensure that you receive an invitation, please register your name here. I look forward to speaking with you on Wednesday, June 17.
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| Office Locations |
| District Office: 437 E North Street | Carlisle, PA 17013 | Phone: 717-249-1990 |
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| 427 Irvis Office Building | House Box 202199 Harrisburg, PA 17120-2199 | 717-772-2280 |
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