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In this Update:
Trout Run Watershed Water Quality Grant
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has been awarded a $169,000 grant to help improve water quality in the Trout Run (Leboeuf Lake) Watershed in Waterford Township, Erie County. As an avid sportsman, I understand the importance of improving water quality in the Trout Run Watershed. It can help to protect the watershed’s wild trout populations, as well as positively impact Lake Leboeuf, which Trout Run feeds, and the sensitive freshwater mussels and fish species within the downstream areas of the adjacent French Creek watershed. The funding will be used for targeted landowner outreach to implement erosion and sediment controls on farmlands, plant 10 acres of forested riparian buffers and grass filter strips, and stabilize 1,000 linear feet of streambank. Erie Solar Project
Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the Erie Solar Project in Girard, developed by Cypress Creek Renewables. This impressive 24 MW installation spans 172 acres and is poised to power approximately 3,000 homes in Pennsylvania, delivering clean, locally produced energy to our region. Special thanks to the Troyer family, whose farmland hosts this forward-thinking project. Their partnership ensures that renewable energy isn’t just a future goal—it’s happening now. During the next 40 years, this project will generate $2.3 million in revenue for our local communities, benefiting residents and supporting regional growth. What makes the Erie Solar Project truly remarkable is its advanced technology. With 45,000 solar panels equipped with sun-tracking capabilities and bifacial modules that capture energy from both sides, efficiency is maximized. And this is just the start: two additional projects are in development, aiming to eventually power 10,000 homes across the area! Thank you to Cypress Creek Renewables and the Troyer family for leading the way in clean energy innovation right here in Erie County. LECOM Ambulatory Surgery Center
I had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new LECOM Health Ambulatory Surgery Center, a cutting-edge facility offering advanced same-day surgical care. The center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring top-tier medical services right here in our community. After the ceremony, I toured the facility and saw firsthand how it’s set to transform patient care with efficiency, innovation, and compassion. I am grateful to have witnessed this milestone and excited for the positive impact it will have on our region! Visit to Erie High
I had a fantastic time visiting Erie High School with Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, where we met some truly talented students! They proudly showcased their vibrant mural, a stunning tribute to the diversity of the 53 nationalities in their school community. I also had the pleasure of speaking with students from the landscaping program, which is developing practical, hands-on skills that will allow them to give back to their community. Seeing these young minds embracing creativity, collaboration and community service is great. Thank you to the students and staff at Erie High School for sharing your incredible work and passion with us! Mazza Vineyards
I had the pleasure of visiting Mazza Wines alongside Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, where we met with Mario and Robert Mazza. Since 1972, Mazza has been at the forefront of Pennsylvania’s wine and spirits industry, crafting exceptional products that reflect their passion and expertise. With an impressive annual production of nearly 500,000 gallons, Mazza stands as the largest wine producer in the state. Their success is a testament to the talent, dedication and vision of this family-owned Erie business, making a name for itself across Pennsylvania and beyond. Mazza Wines illustrates what makes Pennsylvania thrive: excellent businesses, hardworking farmers and strong family values. Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative Grant Program
It was a pleasure to visit the Erie Food Co-Op to discuss the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative Grant Program. This exciting initiative offers a powerful opportunity to improve our food systems and create lasting change in communities across the state. At its core, the program strengthens connections between local farmers and consumers, fostering growth and collaboration. It’s about building, expanding and improving grocery stores, farmers’ markets and retail food establishments—especially in areas where access to fresh, healthy food is limited. Beyond traditional methods, the program promotes new technologies to make fresh food accessible and convenient for everyone. The potential impact is huge In Erie County, where many families face economic challenges. Healthier families, stronger communities and new opportunities for local farmers and businesses—this initiative is a win for everyone. I truly believe this is the start of something special. Together, we’re creating a more resilient, equitable food system that benefits all Pennsylvanians. 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.
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