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In this Update:
Hamburg Area High School Honors Local Military and First Responders
The Hamburg Hawks celebrated first responders, police, and military service members this week at their football game. It was great to see the local community come together to show their support. The event brought out veterans, law enforcement, police, fire, EMS, and veteran based organizations. The stadium was packed and really brought Berks County first responders together to enjoy a night of football and community. Thank you to the men and women who put themselves at risk to serve our communities, protect our freedoms, and preserve our way of life. Hunting & Middle Creek Visitor Center Update
The Pennsylvania Game Commission joined my office to present an update at the Middle Creek Wildlife’s Visitor Center this week. I was surprised to learn about all the recreational and hunting opportunities at Middle Creek. We are lucky to have this 6,000-acre Wildlife Preserve right in our backyard. If you have never been there, I would encourage you to stop by. Outside of their interactive visitor center and Game Commission Museum, there are monthly programs, special hunts, and miles of hiking trails. Also, don’t forget the Snow Geese migration in February every year. Learn more here. Veterans Appreciation Lunch on Nov. 9 at Cabelas
I will be joining with Rep. Jamie Barton (R-124) to host a veterans appreciation lunch on Saturday, Nov. 9, at Cabela’s, 100 Cabela Drive, Hamburg. Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. with lunch and the program commencing at noon. The men and women who have defended the American ideals we hold dear have influenced the history of the country, ensuring that we can continue to enjoy our many freedoms. I look forward to personally thanking the veterans who are able to attend the lunch we are hosting. Col. Frank Ryan, UMCR-retired, former state representative and Iraq War veteran will be the keynote speaker. Veterans are welcome to bring one guest. Space is limited for the lunch, so veterans are required to RSVP to my district office by calling 610-562-3411 or signing up online at SenatorGebhard.com/veterans-lunch-reg. Bill to Improve Early Literacy Poised for Enactment
The Senate and House unanimously passed and sent to the governor legislation to give students the best chance at lifelong success through a strong, evidence-based reading program. Senate Bill 801 would provide schools with resources to dramatically improve early literacy in Pennsylvania. First, it would bolster reading instruction by giving schools a comprehensive list of evidence-based reading curricula. Second, it would help schools identify struggling readers early via universal screening by providing a list of high-quality screeners. Third, it would ensure educators are properly trained to use the structured literacy curriculum and screeners by creating a list of high-quality professional development programs. Low literacy scores are a problem that spans the geographic and demographic spectrum, with urban cities and rural communities struggling to help their students read proficiently at their age level. Studies show that childhood reading difficulties can produce long-term effects and dramatically impact someone’s chances of success. Senate Passes Bill to Extend Lemon Law Protections to Motorcycles
The Senate unanimously approved legislation that would extend Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law protections to cover motorcycles. Senate Bill 155 now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. Pennsylvania’s Lemon Law provides protections for customers who purchase or lease a car that is registered in the commonwealth. The law protects customers who experience defects with their car during the first year or 12,000 miles of leasing or ownership. Manufacturers are given three opportunities within a year to repair the defect. If the problem still cannot be corrected, the customer is eligible for a replacement or refund. The state Lemon Law currently only applies to cars. Bill to Improve Elevator Safety Standards Passes Senate
The Senate unanimously passed legislation to improve elevator safety standards in Pennsylvania. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Following the deaths of a correctional officer and an inmate who plunged down an elevator shaft in a violent confrontation, the Elevator Safety Board was established to address critical issues surrounding elevator construction, maintenance and inspection. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers has revised the national elevator code seven times since 2002, yet Pennsylvania still adheres to outdated standards that don’t reflect current safety practices. The board submitted its recommendations to update these codes to the Department of Labor and Industry in 2020, but the agency has not acted. Senate Bill 1230 requires the Department of Labor and Industry to adopt an updated safety code, effective July 1, 2025. Prior to adoption, the Elevator Safety Board may recommend modifications based upon its professional expertise and industry experience. The legislation would establish timely benchmarks, making sure necessary upgrades will not be delayed further. Prepare Now for the Nov. 5 Election
Election Day on Nov. 5 is approaching. Make sure you’re able to participate by registering to vote no later than Oct. 21. If you’ve moved, this is also a great time to double check that you’re registered to vote at your current address. Anyone who wishes to vote by mail must apply by Oct. 29. You must be a registered voter to submit an application to vote by mail. If you are looking for a way to help your community, learn more about becoming a poll worker here. Thousands of Pennsylvanians are needed to run elections, and poll workers are needed in all 67 counties. Know Your Breast Cancer Risk
Understanding your breast cancer risk is vital for protecting your health. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains can lower your risk. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking are also important preventive steps. Regular screenings and self-exams are essential for early detection, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors. Discussing your personal risk with a doctor can help you explore further preventive options, such as genetic testing or medications. By implementing these strategies and staying informed, you can take significant steps toward lowering your risk. Learn more about breast cancer risk here. Local Events
Saturday, October 19, 10am-4:30pm: Adamstown AppleUmpkin Festival Saturday, October 19, 11am: Malloween Sunday, October 20, 12pm-4pm: Living History, Fall Park Walk Sunday, October 13, 10am-4pm: Lebanon Community Library Halloween Trivia Night
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