State Budget Plan Moving Ahead
.
Click Photo to View My Gallery
Officials from Trying Together, which is a part of Pre-K for PA, Start Strong PA and Childhood Begins at Home, stopped by Rep. Oberlander’s Capitol office in June. Trying Together is an approved scholarship organization for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, which allows it to provide Pre-K scholarships to qualifying families in its 10-county service area (Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington and Westmoreland). Rep. Oberlander was thrilled to be on hand on June 10 as state Sen. Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) took the oath of office to serve the 41st Senatorial District, which includes the portion of Armstrong County that also serves the 63rd District. Pittman most recently served as the chief of staff for his predecessor, Sen. Don White, who retired earlier this year. To help ensure the success of our state’s No. 1 industry – agriculture – the House passed a state budget that includes a record amount of funding and approved a series of 13 bills to better support Pennsylvania farmers. At a press conference on June 26, Rep. Oberlander joined her House and Senate colleagues in a toast to the industry with the famous “Farm Show” milkshakes. The governor signed the majority of the bills on July 1. Rep. Oberlander was one of the speakers on June 3 at the 16th annual Motorcyclist Rights Rally in the State Capitol Rotunda, which was sponsored by ABATE (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education). Several residents of the 63rd District made the trip to Harrisburg on their bikes. During the Memorial Day weekend, Rep. Oberlander enjoyed the privilege of attending parades and ceremonies throughout the 63rd District. At the ceremonies, she thanked everyone who had a hand in coordinating these time-intensive observances and to all of the community members who attended them. Several veterans from the Korean War were honored June 13 in Clarion by the Office of U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey. Each of the eight veterans – or a designated family member – was presented with the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal for their service more than nearly 70 years ago. The veterans included Richard Wayne Hamilton, Callen Leroy Hull, Donald P. Tarr, Robert Eugene Kinzey, Herman R. Smith, Robert Eugene Thompson, Ralph Richard Umstead and Robert Elmer Young. Rep. Oberlander had the pleasure of thanking several area veterans who fought in the Korean War during a special ceremony organized by the Office of U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey on June 13. During the service, eight local veterans or their family designee were presented with the Korean Ambassador for Peace Medal for their service more than nearly 70 years ago. Congratulations to Isaak Jones of Knox on earning the rank of Eagle Scout! Isaak’s project included over 540 volunteer hours in the building of a weatherproof pavilion with ramped sidewalks at the Clarion Cancer Center, a terrific asset for both the patients and the staff of this wonderful facility. He is the son of David and Debra Jones and a member of Troop 55 in Ninevah. Isaak joins his brothers and cousin who are also Eagles, continuing a great family legacy. After their tour of the construction site for the Shell cracker plant, the House members also traveled to a pipeline construction site nearby to learn more about the safety requirements and community interaction the pipeline company is implementing. Rep. Oberlander joined numerous members from Western Pennsylvania for a tour of the future Shell ethane cracker plant in Beaver County on May 16. Shell reported that once finished in the early 2020s, 80% of its customers will be located within 700 miles of the plant. On May 16, Rep. Donna Oberlander convened a House Majority Policy Committee roundtable on emerging energy issues in Pennsylvania with U.S. Under Secretary of Energy Mark W. Menezes. The roundtable was held at the Beaver County Courthouse. Pictured with them is Pennsylvania House Speaker Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny). Rep. Donna Oberlander visited John Greenawalt’s sixth-grade social studies class at Immaculate Conception School in Clarion. Pictured with them are (from left) Kathryn Fenske, Raya Bhatti, Julianna Wilson, Jacob Daugherty and Eli Madrey. Her visit was part of the students’ lessons on the state and federal governments. Congratulations to administration, faculty, students and families at Immaculate Conception Parish School in Clarion on its 150th anniversary. Starting as a one-room schoolhouse, the school expanded into a new building in 1932, and then added a cafeteria in 1960. In 1990, a preschool class was added. Through the years, IC has kept up with technology and has welcomed the involvement of the local community and the families of the students they serve. The school currently serves students in preschool (age 4) and kindergarten through sixth grade. On June 10, two Penn State students who are interns at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau stopped by Rep. Oberlander’s office. Lauren Shaffer is a senior studying community and environmental development. She lives in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County. Nicole Guise is a junior studying extension education. She lives in Spring Grove, York County. Karen Spuck of the Science in Motion program at Clarion University was at the Capitol on June 5 to promote the tremendous value the initiative offers to students in our area. The program uses certified science teachers to deliver modern scientific instrumentation to high schools and provide support to the local teachers as they introduce and make use of the equipment in their own classroom. Teachers attend summer programs in which they practice with the equipment and also work with other teachers to develop experiences and curricula for their students. Congratulations to Cole Thomas Whitling of Strattanville for recently earning the rank of Eagle Scout. For his community service project, Cole constructed a pavilion at the Clarion-Limestone athletic field. During his Scouting days, he has served in the leadership positions of guide, scribe, quartermaster, patrol leader and senior patrol leader. Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson were on hand for his Court of Honor in May, when they presented him with congratulatory citations from the state House and Senate. He is the son of Kent and Becky Whitling, and a member of Troop 51 in Clarion. In late spring, Rep. Oberlander found herself near Clarion County Memorial Park when she was able to see the beautiful monument being set to honor those who have served in the Persian Gulf Era conflicts and operations. In May, Rep. Oberlander attended the unveiling of the Clarion River U.S. postal stamp at the Clarion Post Office. As part of the U.S. Postal Service’s Wild and Scenic Rivers stamps collection, the Clarion River is the only river east of the Mississippi to achieve this outstanding designation. The Clarion River is this year’s Pennsylvania’s River of the Year and is designated part of the National Wild and Scenic River program. In town for a conference on economic development, Justin Nolder from the Armstrong County Department of Economic Development stopped by to meet with Rep. Oberlander to talk about all the exciting economic development projects happening in Armstrong County. A dynamic group of students participated in the TeenPact Pennsylvania program, which teaches leadership skills. Students spend all week at the Capitol to learn more about the legislative process and participate in hands-on activities. Rep. Oberlander has served as the legislative sponsor for this group for the last several years. A group of students from Keystone High School visited the Capitol on May 1 as part of their studies of state government. The House was in session that week, so the students had a great opportunity to see the legislative process in action. To learn more about the intricacies of Marcellus Shale drilling and clean-burning natural gas, Rep. Oberlander led members of the House Majority Policy Committee on a tour in Marcellus Shale territory in Washington County in early May. The tour included stops at four locations to examine the process of drilling and production – a drilling site, well pad, compressor station and processing plant. Numerous House members, including Rep. Oberlander, wore turquoise on May 14 to recognize National Women’s Lung Health Week. The American Lung Association reports the rate of women being diagnosed with lung cancer has increased by 87% in the last four decades. As co-chairman of the House Manufacturing Caucus, Rep. Oberlander participated in a discussion on April 30 about the vital role manufacturing plays in Pennsylvania. The event attracted a couple dozen manufacturers, including several from northwestern Pennsylvania, and highlighted the work of the Industrial Resource Center (IRC), which is a network of seven private, nonprofit IRCs located strategically throughout the Commonwealth. These centers were established to help manufacturers respond to changing markets, new technology and the competitive pressures of today’s global economy. On May 7, Rep. Oberlander joined several of her colleagues to mark Rare Disease Day in Pennsylvania and to bring attention to the 1.2 million Pennsylvanians who have a rare disease. A rare disease is a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. An estimated 7,000 rare diseases affect 30 million Americans. A couple of years ago, the General Assembly created the PA Rare Disease Council, which serves as the advisory group for rare diseases to the General Assembly and all other relevant state and private agencies that provide services to, or are charged with the care of, individuals with rare diseases. This spring, Rep. Oberlander welcomed board members, officials and staff from Central and United Electric Cooperatives, which serve portions of the 63rd District, to Harrisburg. They were in town to attend the annual legislative event held by the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association. Family, friends and fellow Scouts came together for the Court of Honor for Reed Snyder Bell of Tionesta. For his community service project, Reed led a group of Scouts and volunteers to prepare, install and paint locking access gates on the Rail 66 Country Trail between Shippenville and Leeper. Reed is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and has served in the leadership positions of chaplain aide, den chief, assistant senior patrol leader, senior patrol leader and junior assistant scoutmaster. He is the son of the Rev. Dr. Jonathan Bell and Mrs. Anne Bell, and a member of Troop 82 in Tionesta. Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson presented House and Senate congratulatory citations for Reed. Rep. Oberlander was one of more than a dozen members from Western Pennsylvania who had the chance to visit the construction site of the Shell manufacturing plant in Beaver County. Nearly 5,000 people are working at the site there, and it is considered the largest construction site in North America with 134 cranes. According to a Shell official, 80% of its customers will be within 700 miles from the plant. The proximity to this major producer could reap huge benefits to the 63rd District. As chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, Rep. Oberlander convened a roundtable discussion on May 16 with U.S. Under Secretary of Energy Mark W. Menezes and officials with the energy industry in Pennsylvania. The roundtable was an opportunity to showcase the tremendous potential for energy and economic growth here in Pennsylvania. The conversation, which also included House Speaker Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) and 10 House members from southwestern Pennsylvania, specifically focused on Marcellus Shale and the Shell Manufacturing Plant, which participants toured after the event. This year’s rally to support our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms was another successful event on May 6. The Capitol Rotunda was filled with hundreds of Second Amendment supporters from all across the Commonwealth, including several from the 63rd District! This year’s featured speakers included Kelly Ann Pidgeon, Armed and Feminine LLC; Eric Pratt, executive director, Gun Owners of America; Joshua Prince, chief counsel, Firearms Industry Consulting Group; and Tim Schmidt, United States Concealed Carry Association. This event, held every spring since 2006, seeks to reaffirm our Second Amendment rights at the state level. As part of the Clarion County 4-H competition, Rep. Oberlander served as a judge for the club’s public speaking event. They were judged on introduction, content, delivery and conclusion. The 4H Sharpshooters had their annual awards banquet, where their members were honored for their efforts. They also had two of their members earn the pinnacle of awards as Distinguished Marksmen with the smallbore, Ethan Griebel and Brady Fowkes. Brady also received his plaque for the smallbore championship he earned in the fall. Age 14, he is the youngest to achieve this prestigious award. Rep. Oberlander thanked the many people who attended her seminar on April 25 on ticks and the spotted lanternfly. The event, held at the Marienville Civic Association Building, featured Scott Weikert, an expert from Penn State Extension. In April, Rep. Oberlander enjoyed her time judging and providing feedback to 4H teams. Pictured with her are Jachob Haines, Laurel Enders, Don Neese and Alaina Leasure. Thank you for the invitation to be part of your preparations for states! In April, Rep. Oberlander met with several girls from the sixth-grade class at Clarion-Limestone Elementary School who are part of the ROX (Ruling Our Experience) program. They invited her to share some of her life, educational and professional experiences with them. This terrific empowering and esteem-building program is helping to build strong, courageous and independent young women. As a trustee at Clarion University and a member of the Presidential Selection Committee last year, Rep. Oberlander participated in the inauguration ceremony for Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson as Clarion University’s 17th president. In just a few short months, Dr. Dale – as she is known throughout the campus and the community – has already made a profoundly positive influence. She knows what a gem the university is to Clarion County and western Pennsylvania, and is working hard to address challenges and showcase this campus to the world. To read more about Dr. Dale, go to this web site: http://www.clarion.edu/news/2019/march/pehrsson-to-be-installed-as-17th-president-of-clarion-university.html Congratulations are in order for Jaykeb Porter on earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Jaykeb’s project was to restore and landscape the memorial wall at Keystone High School. He is the son of Wesley and Andrea Porter of Knox and a member of Troop 55 in Ninevah. Recognizing April 2019 as “Esophageal Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month” in Pennsylvania, the state House honored Rich and Linda Horner of Rimersburg on April 8 for their ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the disease. They travel to the Capitol every year to witness the consideration of the resolution in the House chamber. They are pictured with House Majority Whip Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin), who is chair of the House Cancer Caucus; and Speaker of the House Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny). Congratulations to Robert Lee Schick of Knox and a member of Troop 55 in Ninevah for earning his Eagle Scout Award. In April, Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson attended his Court of Honor, to present Robert with congratulatory citations from the House and Senate. Robert, son of Gary and Robin Schick, installed flagpoles in the Venango County Fairgrounds’ outdoor area. He has served as a bugler, guide, patrol leader and senior patrol leader during his Scouting days. For more than 50 years, Tom Krizmanich, who turned 80 this spring, has served the Rural Valley community well, as auditor, borough council vice president and president, and mayor. In addition to serving as a volunteer firefighter for more than 54 years, he was a PIAA official for baseball, basketball and softball. He did all of this in addition to his full-time job at Christoff’s Rural Valley Bakery. He was married to Tina Krizmanich, who passed away last year. Their family circle includes three children and eight grandchildren. Officials with WRC Senior Services traveled to the state Capitol this spring to advocate for senior-related issues, along with those regarding long-term care. WRC met with Rep. Oberlander’s staff to discuss several of their legislative priorities for the current session. During the annual advocacy day for the State System of Higher Education, Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson brought several students and faculty members to the Capitol on April 10 to share the successes of Clarion University. As part of the House Majority Policy Committee’s series of roundtable discussions, Rep. Oberlander organized an April 17 briefing on election issues with the County Commissioners of Pennsylvania. The main focus of the conversation was new voting machines that counties are required to obtain prior to April 2020. Other topics included voting reforms that are part of current or pending legislation which would help to streamline the voting process or save counties money. Guest speakers were CCAP Executive Director Doug Hill, Snyder County Commissioner Joe Kantz and Lehigh County Election Director Tim Benyo. On March 23, Rep. Oberlander attended the Translational Research Medicine Club and Health Careers Club’s Opioid Symposium at Clarion University. The event allowed Rep. Oberlander to share from a legislative perspective the work that is being done to address this epidemic and to hear from others in the field. The recent Clarion University Council of Trustees meeting was filled with terrific presentations from faculty and students. Two ROTC cadets shared their experiences and with two of the university’s civic engagement scholars, MyKenzie Hoffman and Haley Link, who are pictured with Rep. Oberlander. Leeper native Col. Jeffrey S. Heasley (fourth from right) of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard was nominated for brigadier general and appeared before the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee for a confirmation hearing on March 26. They are also pictured with (from left) Maj. Gen. Anthony J. Carrelli; Clarion County Commissioners Ed Heasley and Ted Tharan; Rick Rathfon; Sen. Scott Hutchinson; and Col. Edwards S. Little Jr., who was also nominated for brigadier general. While they were in town for the spring meeting of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson welcomed County Chairman Rick Rathfon and Commissioners Ed Heasley and Ted Tharan for a short tour of the House floor. Members of the Armstrong County Farm Bureau met with Rep. Oberlander at the Capitol during their legislative advocacy day in late March. Oberlander then took Ross Grooms and Paul Stubrick to the House floor for a quick tour. Clarion County Farm Bureau members Bud Wills, Dave Yeaney and Paul Stahlman spoke to Rep. Oberlander about a number of agriculture-related issues during the statewide organization’s advocacy day in Harrisburg on March 26. In her role as chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, Rep. Oberlander was one of three panelists for the closing session of the spring conference of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania. During the event, she spoke about a number of policy issues important to local families and communities, including human service funding, transportation, energy, rural broadband and election reforms. Pictured with her (from left) are Lancaster County Commissioner Dennis Stuckey; Chester County Commissioner Kathi Cozzone; Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne); and Rep. Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster), the House Democrat Policy Committee chairman. The area can boast a number talented youngsters who deserve to be recognized for their achievements. Rep. Oberlander stopped by the Fryburg Sportsmen Club to congratulate Brady and Sidney, who will be going to the Junior Olympic and Para Olympic Shooting Competition in Colorado. She also spent time with the young men and women from Clarion, Forest and Venango counties who participated in the Fryburg Junior Marksmen to learn more about the sport from their coaches, Ashley Ahrens, Julie Graf and Scott Fowkes. Rep. Oberlander spoke to members of the Diabetes Action Network, which represents patient and professional organizations that are coming together in a unified effort to change the way diabetes is viewed and treated in Pennsylvania. During her March 12 visit, she updated its members on anti-obesity legislation she is sponsoring in the House and how that can help people better manage this chronic health condition. At her Elderton District Office, Rep. Oberlander met with a group of young Ukrainian business professionals while they are in the states. She spoke to them about state government, the legislative process and her role in House leadership. Rep. Oberlander administered the oath of office to Sugarcreek Fire Company’s officers during its annual banquet and installation dinner. This year the company celebrates its 70th year of protecting and serving the community! Three dozen teams from schools around the region competed at a robotics event at Clarion University. Several of the local schools made it through the semi-finals and will participate at states. North Clarion had several teams do very well and the robotchicks and sa-bot-age won the finals. FFA students from Clarion-Limestone High School were in Harrisburg on March 19 as part of the organization’s statewide legislative conference. The students are part of the Agriculture Machinery program at C-L, which helps prepare them for job readiness. Rep. Oberlander attended the closing breakfast with Mindy Stoops (not pictured), adviser and teacher; along with students Justin Goodman, Tyler Klingensmith and Jacob McCracken. Programs like these are great examples of workforce development initiatives and complement our #GoodJob4PA legislative package we passed in the House in March. In February, Keystone High School boys’ basketball coach Gregory Heath was honored for achieving 600 wins over a career of 35 years in coaching. Heath began his coaching career in the 1984-85 season, and has earned a total record of 600 wins and 277 losses -- a remarkable achievement. Rep. Oberlander presented him with a congratulatory citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. Pictured with them are Clarion County Commissioners Wayne Brosius and Ted Tharan. (Photo courtesy of The Clarion News.) Rep. Oberlander’s Tick and Spotted Lanternfly Seminar at Trinity Point Church of God on March 21 was a great success, with lots of people coming out to learn more about tick and tick-borne diseases, namely Lyme disease. The seminar was conducted by Penn State Extension. For more information, use this link: https://extension.psu.edu/ticked-off-about-ticks Pennsylvania ranks among the top states in the nation for confirmed cases of Lyme disease, which are caused by infected ticks. To educate the community about this disease and others caused by a variety of ticks, Rep. Oberlander hosted an informational seminar in Clarion on March 21. The seminar was conducted by Penn State Extension. Rep. Oberlander began her third term as a member of the House Republican Leadership Team, but in a new role this session as chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee. The leadership team consists of (from left) Reps. Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery), caucus chairman; Stan Saylor (R-York), Appropriations chairman; Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster), majority leader; Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny), speaker; Kurt Masser (R-Columbia/Northumberland/Montour), caucus administrator; and Mike Reese (R-Westmoreland/Somerset), caucus secretary. March 21 was national Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Day, and Rep. Oberlander used the opportunity to highlight Clarion University’s SBDC, which achieves its mission of promoting entrepreneurship, assisting business growth and fostering economic development in Pennsylvania. The SBDC provides no-cost consulting services along with valuable tools and resources to help business owners make better business decisions. Over the last five years, the Clarion University SBDC has helped over 170 individuals, entrepreneurs and business owners in the 63rd District, start 61 businesses and secure over $17 million in capital formation. The SBDC funding comes through the U.S. Small Business Administration, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and Clarion University. On Feb. 13, Reps. Oberlander and Cris Dush had the opportunity to visit Clarion-Limestone High School’s agricultural science, wood shop, metal shop and computer-aided design classes as we celebrated national FFA week. This is outstanding program and the FFA at C-L placed No. 1 at the PA Farm Show for the tractor they rebuilt! The House Majority Policy Committee, which Rep. Oberlander chairs, heard from physicians, administrators, attorneys and industry professionals that if the Pennsylvania Supreme Court repeals a rule dealing with medical malpractice lawsuits, access to health care could be in jeopardy. Shortly after the Feb. 14 hearing, the Supreme Court decided to postpone its consideration until a study is conducted later this year. The Clarion Venango Forest Farm Bureau held its annual legislative meeting on Feb. 8, with a great turnout of members and elected officials. As always, it was wonderful to see everyone and discuss the issues important to our agricultural community. Thanks for hosting the meeting. Eric Schmader of Farmers Mutual Insurance stopped by to meet with Rep. Oberlander while at the Capitol for a legislative advocacy day for his industry. They discussed a number of issues regarding the mutual insurance business, succession planning and much more. Rep. Donna Oberlander was recognized for not missing House session during the 2017-18 legislative term. She was presented with a certificate from House Majority Whip Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin). Oberlander takes very seriously her responsibility to the people of the 63rd District and has only missed session due to emergencies or illness. The House Majority Policy Committee, which I chair, led a discussion Feb. 6 on home-based care for senior citizens. The discussion focused on the challenges faced by seniors and their caregivers, along with legislative priorities that could make it easier for seniors to receive care in their homes. Not only is home-based care less expensive than skilled nursing home care, but it is also preferred by seniors. The forum was led by Vicki Hoak, CEO of the Pennsylvania Homecare Association. Rep. Donna Oberlander, who serves as chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, joined members of House and Senate Republican leadership after the governor’s budget address on Feb. 6 to discuss their reaction to the spending plan. The proposed budget, at $34 billion, is 2.8 percent higher than the current year and does not call for any increases in the state income or sales taxes. It seeks to invest more in workforce development, add more to basic education funding, lower the Corporate Net Income Tax and help with small agriculture producers. Congratulations to Roberta and Dennis “Butch” Alworth on being named Parker City’s Citizens of the Year. This couple is involved in so many ways and gives back to their community year after year! Butch has served on council, and as community banker, first responder and long-time leader of various organizations. Roberta, also a first responder and leader of the ladies auxiliary, has also dedicated much of her time to the Parker Personal Care Home, where both are active. They are truly deserving of being Citizens of the Year. Rep. Oberlander was happy to sponsor a citation on behalf of the House of Representative for this recognition. Rep. Oberlander, her legislative colleagues and regional county commissioners met with the Southwest Pennsylvania Planning Commission in February to discuss the region’s economic development and transportation projects. During a visit to the Pennsylvania Farm Show, Rep. Oberlander stopped by to check in with Punxsutawney Phil and meet with two of his handlers. Rep. Oberlander and her legislative assistant, Lisa Baker, met up with Helen Cyktich of Autumn Oaks in Dayton during our regular outreach hours in Armstrong County on Jan. 7. This visit was especially enjoyable as Helen was celebrating Russian Orthodox Christmas. During their visit, they discussed her family’s holiday traditions. As part of swearing-in day festivities at the state Capitol in Harrisburg, Rep. Oberlander congratulated new House Majority Leader Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster) after taking the oath of office. Several local residents, including Lisa Kerle, Clint Hetrick, Ian Taylor and Colin Sheffer, were Rep. Oberlander’s guests for the swearing-in ceremony for the 203rd Session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly on Jan. 1. Per the state Constitution, the House and Senate must meet on the first Tuesday of January to open session for the year. Rep. Oberlander joined 199 of her colleagues to take the oath of office for the 2019-20 legislative session, which began Jan. 1. Although the House contains a total of 203 members, 200 were sworn in that day, noting two legislative vacancies and one absence. Rep. Oberlander participated in the Wreaths Across America event at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington, D.C. One of the wreaths she placed was at the gravesite of Knox native Ross McGinnis, a recipient of the Medal of Honor, who courageously died in combat on Dec. 4, 2006. To officially kick off the 203rd session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong/Forest) joined her colleagues in taking the oath of office Tuesday. This session, Oberlander, a member of the House Republican leadership team, serves as chairman of the House Majority Policy Committee, the first Republican woman to do so. Oberlander first joined the House in 2009. Four sixth-graders from Rimersburg Elementary School -- Dominic Campbell, Owen Terwint, Kya Wetzel and Savana Libecco -- competed Dec. 4 in the Grand Finale Cyber Robotics Coding Competition at Harrisburg University. While in Harrisburg, science teachers Debbie Shirey and Jake Weckerly and the students stopped by the state Capitol for a tour. The competition, in its second year, used a cloud-based simulation platform featuring a virtual, 3D animated robot. The competition focused on code development – the new frontier of STEM. Winners were the schools that best strategized, planned and completed the challenges. The Rimersburg students were the only ones competing from the 63rd District. Congratulations to Justin Weaver of Knox for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout recently. Justin did a wonderful project at the Salem Community ball fields, where he installed a new baseball backstop and assembled player benches. He is the son of John and Pamela Weaver, and a member of Boy Scout Troop 55 in Ninevah. Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson presented him with House and Senate citations for reaching this achievement. Congratulations to Jonathan Smith, who recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Jonathan, a student at Clarion Area High School, is a member of Clarion Troop 51 and the son of Dan and Heidi Smith (pictured above). For his community service project, Jonathan lead a beautification project at Gumtown Memorial Park in New Bethlehem, where he and volunteers under his director cleaned up designated areas, installed a new bench with new shrubbery and uncovered a very long sidewalk (which had been covered since the 1996 flood). Rep. Oberlander presented a citation from the House of Representatives to memorialize his accomplishment. This fall, Rep. Oberlander presented a House citation to Charles Byerly, a veteran of the U.S. Navy who served during the Korean War. He was recently presented a Korean Peacekeeper ribbon from the South Korean government. He is believed to be the first Pennsylvania resident to receive this distinction. Clarion County Sheriff Rex Munsee and District Attorney Mark Aaron were guest speakers for Rep. Donna Oberlander’s latest Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar Sept. 8 in Lucinda. Rep. Oberlander joined Kaz and the men and women of the Marienville Rod and Gun Club for the last trout stocking of the year. They were assisted by some young men from Abraxas. Members of the Red Cross held its Sound the Alarm event in Clarion and provided 300 smoke alarms which were installed throughout the area, just in time for Fire Prevention Month in October. Rep. Oberlander met some of their volunteers, the Clarion University baseball team and many others who helped make it possible. Nate Simmons recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. His hard work and perseverance were evident the badges he earned, the adventures he enjoyed and in the project he chose in building picnic tables for the Wentling’s Corners Park. He is the son of Rob and Susan Simmons of Knox and a member of Troop 55 of Ninevah. Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson presented him with Senate and House citations for his achievement. To earn his Eagle Scout honor, Travis Greenawalt of Knox installed a flagpole and sign on the grounds of the Ashland Township municipal building. He is a member of Troop 55 in Ninevah and the son of Eric and Sherri Greenawalt. Rep. Oberlander presented him with a congratulatory citation from the state House for this achievement. Nathaniel Wingard, a member of Troop 55 in Ninevah, led an effort to improve the dugouts at Knox’s Little League Baseball fields for his Eagle Scout community service project. He is the son of Shawn and Jennifer Wingard of Shippenville. Rep. Oberlander presented him with a congratulatory citation from the state House for this achievement. As part of state outreach services, the secretaries of several departments met in Franklin in September as part of the Cabinet in Your Community. Specifically, the meeting included the secretaries of Conservation and Natural Resources, Human Services, Aging, and Transportation. Afterward, Rep. Oberlander joined with members of the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce and the Clarion Chamber of Business and Industry, where guests had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson, the new president of Clarion University. More than 50 vendors and over 250 senior citizens participated in this year’s Senior Expo in Armstrong County, held by Reps. Donna Oberlander and Jeff Pyle and Sen. Don White. At this year’s Armstrong County Senior Expo at the Kittanning Township Firehall, Reps. Donna Oberlander and Jeff Pyle, along with Sen. Don White, were on hand to ensure that senior citizens had access to a variety of senior-related programs and services, and had their questions answered. Reps. Donna Oberlander and Jeff Pyle had a great time at this year’s Armstrong County Senior Expo. In addition to a wealth of information on senior-related programs and services, door prizes were awarded to those who attended the event. In late August, Rep. Oberlander attended the annual Veterans Picnic that is organized by Clarion County VA Director Judy Zerbe and all of the Clarion County veterans organizations. She and her husband, a Marine veteran, have been attending this picnic for a number of years. In Armstrong County, Rep. Oberlander participated in a flag dedication ceremony and family day at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6555 in Sagamore. Clarion University kicked off the fall session with Convocation for incoming freshmen in late August. Dr. Leah Chambers and Brianna Shepard, president of Student Senate, were just two of the great speakers to impart wisdom as the new students begin this chapter. Rep. Oberlander joined some of her fellow lawmakers and local officials on a tour of several unconventional gas wells operated by JKLM Energy in Potter County on Aug. 23. Pictured with her (from left) are Rep. Clint Owlett of Tioga, Bradford and Potter counties; Rep. Kerry Benninghoff of Centre and Mifflin; Rep. Martin Causer of Tioga, Cameron and Potter counties; Rep. Bryan Cutler of Lancaster County; and Rep. Mike Carroll of Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. During Rep. Oberlander’s Nifty Sixty Senior Expo at the Clarion Mall on Aug. 3, seniors were able to learn more about various programs and services available to them right in the 63rd District. Several hundred senior citizens, their family members and caregivers gathered at the Clarion Mall on Aug. 3 for Rep. Oberlander’s Nifty Sixty Senior Expo to ask questions about various programs and services. Not only do seniors learn more about programs and services designed specifically for them and their needs, Rep. Oberlander caught up with local residents to talk about statewide or community issues. Rep. Oberlander hosted another terrific Nifty Sixty Senior Expo at the Clarion Mall on Aug. 3. This event is designed for the senior citizens of the 63rd District to ensure they have valuable information about the wide range of programs and services available right here at home. The Clarion Venango Forest Farm Bureau hosted its annual legislative day at the RDM Goliath Hunting Lodge in late November. The meeting included speakers discussing deer farming and Chronic Wasting Disease, as well as other agricultural issues. Rep. Oberlander attended Central Electric Cooperative’s annual meeting at Whitehall Camp and Conference Center in Emlenton this summer. The employees of Central Electric are top notch and do a wonderful job not only with the annual meeting, but all year long! Pictured with Rep. Oberlander is Chris Panian, who demonstrated how to protect yourself from deadly shocks. At the Dayton Fair this year, Rep. Oberlander met up with Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, fair board member Larry Marshall and her colleague, Rep. Jeff Pyle, to tour the grounds and discuss the improvements made since last year, as well as the excellent lineup of activities and entertainment on tap. In July, Rep. Oberlander toured businesses in Forest County and northern Clarion County as a way to meet with job creators in the area, discuss opportunities and challenges and learn more about these wonderful businesses. One of the stops was at CarMate Trailers (pictured above). Congratulations to Pennsylvania Independent Oil and Gas Association on its 100th anniversary, which celebrated the milestone this summer. This organization is made up of oil and gas producers -- many of whom employ our neighbors, friends and family. They support our communities and power our Commonwealth and the nation. Several Scouts from the French Creek Boy Scout Council visited the Capitol during legislative session in June. They were guests of Reps. Donna Oberlander and Lee James. On June 27, Rep. Oberlander joined the Armstrong County 4H and its Penn State Extensive office for their open house and project demonstration. This project, Smart Lamp, won third place in the state. Congratulations! On June 15, Rep. Oberlander spoke at the groundbreaking for the new Glassworks Business Park, located on the site formerly occupied by Owens-Illinois. This business park will be transformed into seven building pads ready for development for office, warehouse and light industrial use. Oberlander assisted the Miles family in securing a state Business in Our Sites loan that will help make this land productive, return it to the tax rolls and offer economic opportunities for our region. Secretary Dennis Davin of the Department of Community of Economic Development visited Clarion County for the groundbreaking, which clearly shows the amount of local and statewide support. Angelina Seigworth and Lauren Slaugenhaupt were in Harrisburg in late June to participate in Keystone State Girls Program and stopped by the state House to visit Rep. Oberlander. The Keystone State Girls Program is a non-partisan government and civics program designed to teach the importance of responsible citizenship and to empower young women to make a change in their community. Over the course of the week, KGS citizens will be asked to stray out of their comfort zone and truly challenge themselves to work as a team for the betterment of their city, county and state. In June, the House approved legislation, House Resolution 978, sponsored by Rep. Oberlander to mark Lineworker Appreciation Day on Friday, June 22. Lineworkers have dangerous jobs to do, and the public counts on them to get the power back on during some of the most challenging situations. In fact, Central Electric Cooperative’s Michael Over died while helping to get the power back on after an outage a few years ago, and another lineworker was gravely injured last year while helping to restore power in storm-damaged areas down south. During her remarks before her colleagues, she thanked the nation’s 144,000 lineworkers for the work they do. In early June, Peyton Kirkpatrick, a senior at Redbank Valley High School, also visited Rep. Oberlander in the House of Representatives. With lots of committee meetings and bills up for a vote, the schedule was full, giving Peyton a lot of opportunities to see all the action in the House. On June 11, Rep. Oberlander participated in the announcement of Engage Cuba - https://www.engagecuba.org - which is an effort to encourage the United States to better partner with Cuba. She believes that such a partnership can open doors for both business and agriculture, especially in the 63rd District. The effort is also supported by Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson. Pictured with her is Miguel Fraga, from the Cuban Embassy in Washington, D.C. Rep. Oberlander welcomed to the state House Ethan Straffin of Clarion, who is serving as an intern in her legislative office in Clarion. Ethan, son of Stephanie Kalinowski and Eric Straffin, will be a senior this fall at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. While he was at the Capitol on June 13, he had a chance to see the legislative process in action and learn more about the intricacies of the state House. Aside from his interest in government, Ethan also earned his Eagle Scout award in 2013. Congratulations to the Marienville Public Library; its director, Jacklyn McLaughlin; and the Friends of the Marienville Area Library for their recent statewide recognition by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Environmental Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell (pictured at left) visited the rain garden on June 8 to tout the significance of the project, funded by the state’s Growing Greener program. The 850-square-foot garden – funded by both a state grant and local fundraising -- will help to manage runoff from the new library building. It was also designed to serve as a future reading space, children’s educational programming area, adult educational programming area, as well as beautification of the library facility. Environmental Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell (pictured at left), along with Rep. Donna Oberlander, Growing Greener project partners from the Northwest Commission, Friends of the Marienville Area Library and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, joined officials with the Marienville Public Library to visit its rain garden project on June 8. Funded by the state’s Growing Greener program, the 850-square-foot garden – funded by both a state grant and local fundraising -- will help to manage runoff from the new library building. The Marienville Area Library Rain Garden is now among the 132 community gardens that the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy currently supports and maintains through thousands of volunteers and sponsorships. As part of a June 6 Capitol press conference, Rep. Oberlander joined with EMS personnel and officials from around the state to urge action on legislation that would help these valuable first response agencies. The two bills discussed would address some of the financial challenges facing ambulance companies across the state – both in terms of human and financial resources. The proposals would help by increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates and allowing reimbursement for services provided, even if a patient isn’t transported to a medical facility. In the meantime, a legislative commission is undertaking a comprehensive review and making recommendations to improve the delivery of emergency services in the Commonwealth. In early June, Rep. Oberlander joined other legislators from the Northwest and Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson at the annual meeting of the Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group. The group discussed the issues and opportunities important to these job creators and the value they provide to this Commonwealth. Colin Sheffer, a student at Redbank Valley High School, and his parents came to the state Capitol in early June. During his visit and shadowing experience, Colin was able to participate in some interesting meetings, a rally for ABATE and observe voting activity in the House chamber. During legislative session on June 5, Rep. Oberlander testified about House Bill 899, legislation that seeks to reduce health care costs by allowing Medicaid reimbursement for anti-obesity medications. Motorcycle advocates came to the state Capitol on June 4 for their annual rally, and asked Rep. Oberlander to say a few words during the event. This is the 15th year for ABATE (Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education) to rally in Harrisburg. Rep. Donna Oberlander recently toured the Training Center for the Western PA International Union of Equipment Operators-Local 66. These are the men and women who operate the heavy equipment on pipeline, shale, roadwork and building construction work, etc. During her visit, she was able to get behind the wheel of some of the equipment and spoke to an incoming apprentice class, which included several residents of the 63rd District. David Powers and West Shamokin High School students invited Rep. Donna Oberlander to join them at their Safe Driving Day. Sheriff Bill Rupert, along with local police and fire companies (as well as others) demostrated important driver safety tips for the students. In May, Rep. Oberlander worked with students from Armstrong County and the surrounding area at Sen. Don White’s “Senator for a Day” event. The students were engaged, discussed the bills, offered amendments and debated the issues. On Saturday, New Bethlehem held its annual parade and program, with the Redbank Valley Community Band performing several patriotic selections. This year, Mrs. Emhoff was presented the wreath in honor of her husband, Sid Emhoff, a Korean War veteran, who passed away within the past year. Rep. Oberlander is pictured above with the Rev. Roger Smith, former chaplain of the American Legion Post No. 354 in New Bethlehem. During the Fryburg MayFest on May 26, Sen. Scott Hutchinson and Rep. Oberlander greeted this year’s grand marshal of the parade, Craig Faller, a three-star vice admiral and hometown hero. The Knox community held its annual Memorial Day Service May 27 at Peanut Park. The ceremony included the presentation of the colors, the bagpipe rendition of “Amazing Grace” to the choir’s song selection. Congratulations to Eagle Scout Jonah Hubauer on earning the pinnacle rank of the Boy Scouts. Jonah’s community service project included an “instrument petting zoo” for home school students, allowing the students to try a variety of musical instruments. Pictured with Jonah are Rep. Oberlander, Sen. Scott Hutchinson and Ed Heasley. Congratulations to this year’s Clarion Conservation District Award Winners, Beaver Township; Gruber Farms and Hillwood Farm. Outstanding work was done by each group. To recognize their efforts, Rep. Oberlander presented them with a House citation. Samantha Bonner, a Clarion University international business and economics graduate, shadowed Rep. Oberlander during a session day in Harrisburg this spring. Since it was a day packed with meetings and event, Bonne was able to get a variety of interesting opportunities. Rep. Oberlander joined members of the Council of Trustees of Clarion University as they celebrated and honor the service of student trustee Edward Green, a graduating senior, for his outstanding work while serving on the council. Members of both the Clarion/Venango/Forest Farm Bureau (of which Rep. Oberlander is a long-time member) and the Armstrong County Farm Bureau traveled to Harrisburg for the annual legislative day in April. Oberlander met up with the group, where they discussed the latest issues and opportunities. She was also pleased to join the Farm Bureau in supporting a package of legislation addressing accessibility and affordability of broadband in our rural areas. Daniel Landers Jr. of Hawthorn recently earned his Eagle Scout award, and Rep. Oberlander presented him with a citation from the House of Representatives at his Court of Honor in April. He is the son of Dan and Kristen Landers. For his community service project, Daniel raised the bed gardens outside the greenhouse at Redbank Valley High School. He is a member of Troop 403 in New Bethlehem. They are pictured with Sen. Scott Hutchinson, who also presented him with a Senate citation. During a joint meeting with the House and Senate Policy committees on April 18, Rep. Oberlander participated in a discussion with Tracie McCall, marketing manager for Marathon Petroleum Corporation. She spoke about the thousands upon thousands of products derived from fossil fuels that are a part of our daily lives. On April 30, Rep. Oberlander welcomed to the Capitol members from the Pennsylvania Rural-Urban Leadership (RULE) Program, which encourages and fosters the development of adult community leaders from all segments of Pennsylvania. RULE explores public issue engagement, interorganizational networking, effective public decision making, strategic design and sustainable relationships. Locally, Tom McConnell and Kathy Ellwood are participants in this year's class, so I was glad to extend to them a warm welcome! Ellwood is a professional coach and trainer with KECoaching and Consulting, LLC of Clarion County, while McConnell is the treasurer for Clarion County. This year, Rep. Oberlander hosted students who were participating in a week-long series of educational sessions through Teen PACT. The sessions – held in Harrisburg – are designed to instill leadership skills in and understand the political process. Although the organization selects students statewide, many of them are from right here in the 63rd District. This is a great organization that does so much to encourage our youth. In fact, Pennsylvania state directors, Deb and Dave Jones are from Knox. Students from Keystone High School make the long trek to Harrisburg on May 2 for a visit to the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Since we had voting session that day, Rep. Oberlander had the opportunity to say hello to the group, who had this photo taken in the historic Capitol Rotunda. On May 2, Rep. Oberlander joined her colleagues in supporting a resolution declaring May 6-12, 2018, as “Women’s Lung Health Week” in Pennsylvania. The resolution encourages all Pennsylvanians to learn more about the detection and treatment of lung cancer. While the lung cancer death rate among men has decreased 29 percent in the last 39 years, it has increased 102 percent among women. After the vote, the members paused for a photo wearing turquoise, the color designated to raise awareness about lung cancer in women Congratulations to the Eccles-Lesher Memorial Library in Rimersburg on its recent 50th anniversary. Rep. Oberlander surprised Head Librarian Rachel Campbell, library staff, the board, friends of the library and community with a House citation to commemorate this historic milestone. The library has expanded from 1,800 books at its opening to more than 22,000 volumes, free internet and Wifi, online databases and resources, nearly 2,000 DVDs, scanners, microfilm, copiers, genealogy records, a music collection and more! Dr. Joe Harmon and his eighth-graders at Redbank Valley High School invited Rep. Oberlander to visit and talk about state government and the issues they find most important. The students were an excellent group with great questions and lots of interaction! During House session on April 10, Rep. Donna Oberlander welcomed Richard and Linda Horner of Rimersburg to bring attention to House Resolution 788 and Esophageal Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month in Pennsylvania. Rich is now nearly a decade-long survivor of the disease, and the Horners have spent many years advocating for early detection. Thank you to the Horners – who make the trip to the Capitol every year for this resolution – for their ongoing efforts to fight this disease and to raise important awareness. Thank you to everyone who attended Rep. Oberlander’s latest Firearms Safety and Rights Seminars in Clarion on April 7, which featured Clarion County District Attorney Mark Aaron and Sheriff Rex Munsee. These seminars are incredibly important in making sure that residents know their rights about carrying a concealed weapon. During an April 11 Capitol press conference, Rep. Donna Oberlander announced a package of legislation that seeks to protect potential victims and ensure Pennsylvania has the most effective laws to address sexual and workplace-related harassment. Legislators are prioritizing potential victims, emphasizing that anyone facing harassment and/or misconduct must have suitable outlets to be heard and with timely action taken. They fear unintended consequences could otherwise arise from hastily passed proposals. To achieve this, they are insisting on a thorough review of laws, protocols and procedures already in place to help determine any appropriate, follow-up action, policy or change. At the Rural Valley Gun Bash in March, Rep. Oberlander presented Greg Hadley with a citation from the PA House of Representatives to honor his heroic acts to assist a woman in an emergency health situation and give her a second chance at life. Several students from Clarion University came to the Capitol in February as part of the advocacy day for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. They spoke with me about the great education they are receiving at Clarion and their aspirations for the future. Congratulations to Ian Henry for achieving the rank of Eagle Scout last weekend. Your hard work, dedication and kindness are recognized by your troop, your family and your community - thank you for being such a tremendous role model. For his Eagle Scout project, he landscaped the playground area, constructed raised flowerbeds, and created a path for the Cornerstone Church of Clarion campus. Members of local 4-H groups met with Reps. Donna Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson on March 12 while in Harrisburg. These young women are tremendous role models for their peers, not only within the agriculture industry but in our community. 4-H groups from Forest County traveled to Harrisburg for a March 12 state program for young ag leaders. Joining them were Reps. Donna Oberlander and Kathy Rapp, along with Sen. Scott Hutchinson. In February, Rep. Oberlander joined members of the Sugarcreek Volunteer Fire Department in Armstrong County for its annual appreciation dinner and swearing in of its officers. Among the local winners at this year’s Farm Show were Dale and Tracie Brockhoff and daughter, Sarah, of Brockwood Belgians in Dayton, who earned Grand Champion honors at the Draft Horse Hitch competition. In the photo above, Sarah Brockhoff does an outstanding demonstration of team driving. Congratulations to the Brockhoffs! The 63rd District and Armstrong County are very proud of you! On Jan. 23, Rep. Oberlander joined her House colleagues in voting to designate January 2018 as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Human trafficking endangers the lives of millions of people around the world through domestic and transnational trafficking networks. It is a $32 billion global industry and one of the fastest growing criminal activities in the world. As a member of the House Majority Policy Committee, Rep. Oberlander traveled to Fayette County on Jan. 31 to participate in a hearing regarding the impact of the opioid crisis on children and families. The hearing featured testimony from Auditor General Eugene DePasquale, as well as several local experts and community advocates. During House session in December, Rep. Oberlander had the honor of meeting World War II veteran Charles A. Libby of Lycoming County. Sgt. Libby, who recently turned 100, fought in World War II in the European Theater of Operations. During the war, he was a driver for several units and was involved in saving Allied soldiers and transporting enemy POWs, among other assignments. Pictured with us are Rep. Jeff Wheeland (R-Lycoming) and Steve Hunter, an author of a book about him. Thank you, Sgt. Libby, and all of our veterans for all you have done to protect our cherished democracy. At a press conference on Dec. 5, Rep. Oberlander stood with Speaker Mike Turzai (at podium) in support of legislation that would protect human life by outlawing abortions after 20 weeks. Medical advances have come so far that babies born at this stage can survive, and that’s why we must protect them. Senate Bill 3 is expected to come up for a vote in the coming days. On Nov. 30, Rep. Oberlander participated in a hearing held by the House Majority Policy Committee in Erie to examine efforts to bring more jobs to the northwest region of the state. They also heard from several manufacturers about the challenges of doing business in the Commonwealth and ways in which we can help address those challenges. Pictured with her is Rep. Parke Wentling (R-Mercer/Lawrence/Crawford/Erie). As part of the House Majority Policy Committee’s examination of ways to strengthen the middle class and help businesses grow in Pennsylvania, Rep. Oberlander and her colleagues toured Sanofi Pasteur in Swiftwater, Monroe County, in October. The company is a global leader in health care, having more than 100,000 employees worldwide. It is known for its vaccines and work with rare diseases, MS, oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, diabetes and cardiovascular solutions. Rep. Donna Oberlander, a member of the House Majority Policy Committee, toured Sanofi Pasteur in Swiftwater, Monroe County, in October. A global leader in health care, having more than 100,000 employees worldwide, the company is known for its vaccines and work with rare diseases, MS, oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, diabetes and cardiovascular solutions. The visit was part of the committee’s examination of ways to strengthen the middle class. Rep. Donna Oberlander held her Second Annual Veterans Expo on Oct. 26 as a way to help active duty military personnel, veterans and their families learn more about the wide variety of services and programs open to them. The Second Annual Veterans Expo, held Oct. 26 at the Trinity Point Church of God, was very well attended. The expo included various services and programs open to active-duty military members, veterans and their families. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success! And most importantly, thank you for your service to our country! This fall, Rep. Oberlander was invited to participate in the dedication of the flag and flag pole at St. Nicholas Church cemetery in Crates, Limestone Township. In early November, a flag was dedicated at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Crates, Limestone Township, to honor the veterans of the area and those laid to rest in this cemetery. The Armstrong County 4H held its annual leader appreciation and member achievement banquet on Nov. 1. This is excellent program that involves so many outstanding and deserving youth who were recognized for all the hard work and effort they put in all year long! Of special note, Abby Martin, age 6, sang the National Anthem beautifully and Kaden Haines led the 4H pledge. The students involved in the Armstrong County 4H were honored for their leadership and achievements at its annual banquet on Nov. 1. The 4H program, operated by the Penn State Extension, offers a variety of leadership experiences for our youth – not just those involving agriculture. In late October, the Stanley Cup was on display at the state Capitol as both chambers honored the Pittsburgh Penguins on their second consecutive Stanley Cup title. This is the franchise’s fifth National Hockey League championship, making them one of the most elite teams in the league. Congratulations to all of the worthy recipients of the 14th Annual Health Care Worker Recognition program, held this fall, and to Sandy Hockenberry for her Lifetime Achievement Award. Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated. On Oct. 31, Rep. Oberlander joined several colleagues from across the Commonwealth at a Policy Committee Hearing held in Wayne County to hear testimony on the potential impact of a permanent drilling ban being proposed by the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC). At the present, the commission, which consists of elected officials from three states – Pennsylvania, New York and New Jersey – are denying property owners in northeastern Pennsylvania the opportunity for natural gas to be drilled. As co-chairman of the Gas and Oil Caucus, she participated in this informative hearing to learn more about the local perspective and how the industry could boost its local economy. Congratulations to Dalton Jones, who received the rank of Eagle Scout this fall. Rep. Oberlander and Sen. Scott Hutchinson were invited to attend his Court of Honor and presented him with House and Senate citations for his achievement. Rep. Donna Oberlander’s annual Identity Protection and Shredder Event was another great success. In addition to offering information to protect one’s identity from scams and theft, the event included an industrial-sized shredder truck, operated by Iron Mountain, set up in her parking lot to securely shred hundreds of boxes of personal and financial information. To honor those who have fought breast cancer or are fighting it now, the fountain at the Pennsylvania State Capitol’s East Wing was dyed pink in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The pink fountain is also a reminder to all women of the importance of mammograms and early detection. Every day, 37 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Pennsylvania, and more than 2,000 Pennsylvania women die each year from the disease. However, more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors are alive today in the United States. Rep. Oberlander joined with her colleagues to vote in favor of House Resolution 435 which makes the official designation for October. As a member of the House Majority Policy Committee and co-chairman of the House Gas and Oil Caucus, Rep. Oberlander traveled to Delaware County on Sept. 19 to hear from Energy Transfer Partners (formerly Sunoco), as well as upstream and downstream businesses, labor organizations and community leaders, about how regulations and policies being considered at the state level have already impacted, and could further impact, the production and transportation of natural gas. Ultimately, this could impact the build-out of Pennsylvania as the national energy and jobs hub it could become. The roundtable was part of a larger initiative by the Policy Committee to strengthen Pennsylvania’s middle class by getting government out of the way of prosperity. The Penn Grade Crude Coalition hosted an informative discussion and tour for lawmakers and administration officials in Bradford on Sept. 7. The group, which included Rep. Oberlander, discussed issues and concerns of the conventional oil and gas industry, and then visited several sites including the Cline oil well in the McDonald’s parking lot, American Refining Group’s refinery, the Penn Brad Oil Museum and a Minard Run Oil Company well site. In August, Rep. Oberlander joined with Sen. Scott Hutchinson; Clarion County Commissioners Ted Tharan, Wayne Brosius and Ed Heasley; Coroner Terry Shaffer; Assistant District Attorney Drew Welsh, Deputy Coroner Randall Stom, Deputy Sheriff Keith Troesch and the executive director of Drug and Alcohol Cami Anderson for a meeting with Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro. The meeting focused on efforts to fight the opioid and heroin crisis throughout Pennsylvania. Hundreds of people from around the 63rd District attended Rep. Oberlander’s Nifty Sixty Senior Expo at the Clarion Mall on Aug. 4. Blood pressure screenings were one of many health services offered at Rep. Oberlander’s Nifty Sixty Senior Expo, held Aug. 4 at the Clarion Mall. Dozens of exhibitors were on hand offering information to local senior citizens about the various services and programs they provide to older residents. Jimmy Swogger and Friends delighted the crowd at this year’s Nifty Sixty Senior Expo, sponsored by Rep. Donna Oberlander at the Clarion Mall on Aug. 4. While at the Dayton Fair, Rep. Oberlander caught up with Smokey Bear who was on hand to raise awareness of forest fire prevention. During the livestock auction at the 2017 Dayton Fair, Rep. Oberlander partnered with Seneca Resources to successfully bid on Natalie Eroh’s champion pig this year. Congratulations to all the champions and to all the participants for a successful year! With generous support from EQT, Colcom Foundation and the Carnegie Science Center, the “H2Oh! Why Our Rivers Matter” mobile science lab was unveiled at this year’s Dayton Fair. A project through the Armstrong County Conservation District, the mobile science lab uses kinetic water-driven motion to discover the relations between water, land and habitat, while thinking about the big picture – how do everyday decisions impact our water supply and the environment? Pictured with Rep. Oberlander (from left) are Gregory Hostetter, deputy secretary for Animal Health and Food Safety; Greg Smith, Armstrong County Conservation District; Brenda Stambaugh, Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts; and Dave Rupert, executive director, Armstrong County Conservation District. Reps. Donna Oberlander and Lee James joined Gov. Tom Wolf, Clarion University President Karen Whitney (at podium) and other officials for the announcement of a new specialty certificate program at the university. The Opioid Treatment Specialist Certificate will be the first of its kind in Pennsylvania, and is one such way to train individuals to help ensure that people who are in need of treatment can obtain it and save lives. According to the university, the certificate is an online, four course (12-credit) certificate that anyone may take which would qualify someone to be an opioid treatment specialist. It will be offered through the creation of the university’s College of Health and Human Services. In late June, Rep. Oberlander (at podium) joined officials with the Clarion County YMCA and its capital campaign members, dozens of local donors, local families and elected officials to break ground on its new facility in Monroe Township. More than 220 donors have contributed more than $7 million. The YMCA also received a $3 million grant from the state’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program. (Photo courtesy of Clarion County YCMA Facebook page.) Rep. Oberlander was one of many officials to help the Clarion County YMCA break ground on its new facility in late June. The YMCA’s capital campaign has done a tremendous job in raising funds for this worthwhile project, further evidence that Clarion County is full of generous individuals, businesses and organizations that appreciate the importance of having a full-service YMCA here in Clarion County. More than $10 million has been raised for the facility, which will triple the size of the current Y and include a pool, a full-size gymnasium, an indoor track, a wellness center, a weight room, multiple purpose rooms and locker facilities for men, women and families. It is expected to be open in 12-15 months. (Photo courtesy of Clarion County YCMA Facebook page.) The Alliance of Bikers Aimed Toward Education (ABATE) held its 40th anniversary rally at the Capitol on May 22, and Rep. Oberlander was on hand to advocate for the rights of motorcyclists in Pennsylvania. May is also Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month in Pennsylvania and a good time for all drivers to be aware and practice safety around motorcycles. Rep. Nesbit joined with dozens of his colleagues and supporters from around the Commonwealth in Making the Second Amendment Great Again at a Capitol Rotunda rally on May 22. The event, now is its 11th year, is held to reaffirm the right to bear and keep arms and oppose any legislation that seeks to diminish that right. Rep. Oberlander proudly received a 2017 Pre-K Champion Award from the Pre-K for PA campaign during a visit to Creative Kids Learning Center on May 15. During her tenure, she has been strongly committed to and supportive of expanded investments in early education. On May 15, Rep. Oberlander visited Creative Kids Learning Center to see firsthand how pre-kindergarten programs are helping give local children a head start in their education. Demonstrating the tremendous value to northwestern Pennsylvania, Rep. Donna Oberlander spoke at a Capitol press conference on May 9 that unveiled a study which detailed the extensive economic impact of the conventional oil and gas industry. This industry, which includes the shallow wells drilled throughout our area, plays a huge role in the economy of northwestern Pennsylvania and contributes $1.4 billion each year to our economy. Dozens of residents came out April 29 for Rep. Oberlander’s most recent Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar at the Distant Firehall. Special thanks also to guest speakers, Armstrong County District Attorney Scott Andreassi and Armstrong County Sheriff Bill Rupert, for their informative presentations. During the seminar, residents learned about how to obtain a permit to carry a concealed weapon; what to do when coming in contact with a member of law enforcement while carrying a concealed weapon; the Castle Doctrine; and other valuable information regarding state gun laws. During the first week of May, students from the Teen PACT organization participated in educational sessions to instill leadership skills in and understand the political process. Although the organization selects students statewide, many of them are from the 63rd District. This is a great organization that does so much to encourage our youth. In fact, Pennsylvania state directors, Deb and Dave Jones are from Knox. On May 3, ninth-grade students from Keystone High School traveled to the Capitol as part of a field trip. During their tour, they visited the chambers of the state House, Senate and Supreme Court. Winners of Rep. Donna Oberlander’s essay contest joined her at the Capitol on May 8 and were recognized in the House. The theme of this year’s essay was “PA – The Creation of the Nation.” Pictured with her in the House chamber (from left) are Cody Zaeske and Faith Young from Keystone High School and Clara Gourley from Redbank Valley. Mr. John Greenawalt, a teacher at Immaculate Conception School in Clarion, brought his fifth-grade class to the Capitol on May 5 to learn more about Pennsylvania history and state government. Thank you to everyone who attended the Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar April 8 in Knox. Thank you also to the Knox Volunteer Fire Department for the use of its facilities and to Clarion County Sheriff Rex Munsee and District Attorney Mark Aaron for their excellent presentations. Clarion County District Attorney Mark Aaron explained the details of Pennsylvania’s concealed carry laws and the Castle Doctrine during Rep. Oberlander’s Firearms Safety and Rights Seminar at the Knox Fire Hall on April 8. Rep. Oberlander welcomed Rich and Linda Horner to Harrisburg and the state Cpaitol on April 4 to see the House pass House Resolution 190, which designated the month of April 2017 as Esophageal Cancer Awareness and Prevention Month in Pennsylvania. Esophageal cancer is among the deadliest cancers, with 17,000 cases estimated to be diagnosed this year. Of those, 15,000 individuals will die, and only one in five will survive for five years. Rich is a survivor of this disease and is dedicated to raising awareness. Clarion University students and president Karen Whitney traveled to Harrisburg in April to advocate for the university. They joined Rep. Oberlander at the front of the House chamber for this photo. Redbank Valley High School senior Logan Markle, a cadet with the Civil Air Patrol, was promoted to cadet major during a ceremony at the Clarion County Airport on March 18. In addition to his promotion, Markle, who is enlisted in the delayed entry program for the Air Force, was also presented the Air Force Recruiting Service Achievement Award for demonstrating the core values of the Air Force, specifically excellence, by his recruiter Technical Sergeant Harold Normoyle. Markle is pictured with Rep. Oberlander, Sen. Scott Hutchinson and his parents, Vince Markle and Tracey Colwell, and Civil Air Patrol personnel. (Photo by Evanne Gareis, The Leader-Vindicator.) Rep. Oberlander also recognized Cadet Second Lt. Ryan Moore of Mayport for receiving the General Billy Mitchell Award. The award, named after an aviation pioneer, is bestowed upon cadets after completing the first eight achievements of the cadet program and passing an arduous test on leadership theory and aerospace topics. Upon receiving the award, Ryan is promoted to her current rank. It is the second milestone of the cadet program and will increase his eligibility for a wide range of military and Civil Air Patrol opportunities. Ryan is also a senior at Redbank Valley High School. A group of students from Clarion Area High School visited the state Capitol this afternoon and posed for this photo in the historic Capitol Rotunda. I hope they learned a lot about our state history and government. Recently, Rep. Oberlander had the chance to catch up with Magisterial District Justices Duane Quinn and Amy Long Turk during an event in Harrisburg. Rep. Oberlander was one of the featured speakers for Sen. Scott Hutchinson’s “Senator for a Day” program held at Clarion University on March 16. The program involves giving area high school students experience with the legislative process through a mock committee meeting and then floor debate. Pictured with her are the participating students from Union High School. Rep. Oberlander had the honor to present Nicholas Beightol of Shippenville with a House citation for completing the requirements of becoming an Eagle Scout. For his community service project, Nicholas procured and installed a removable outfield fence for the Keystone High School softball field, which also serves as a soccer field. He is a member of the Order of the Arrow and has served as a historian and patrol leader for Troop 55. He is the son of Lorraine Beightol. Joining them in this photo was Sen. Scott Hutchinson. On March 13, Rep. Oberlander joined individuals with disabilities and their families at a Capitol rally to ensure they can make their own choices when it comes to participating in day programs and sheltered workshops. On March 11, the Clarion Area Chamber of Business and Industry recognized several members of the community for their contributions. Among the winners were Bill and Judy Miller, Lifetime of Achievement; John McCall, Volunteer of the Year; WRC Highland Oaks at Water Run, Business of the Year; and Dr. Brenda Sanders Dede, Citizen of the Year. To learn more about the award winners, go to this link: http://www.clarionpa.com/. Clarion County can be very proud that it hosts one of the largest Youth Field Days in the entire Commonwealth. That pride was on display March 11 during the annual Clarion County Sportsmen for Youth’s fundraising banquet. Thank you to all the volunteers and generous contributors for making this banquet and the annual Youth Field Day such tremendous successes. Congratulations to Tyler Ortz of Fairmount City on achieving his Eagle Scout rank on Feb. 19. Tyler earned almost double the badges, spent over 138 hours on community projects and is the first of Troop 403 to achieve this pinnacle of scouting. For his community service project, he constructed and installed two picnic tables and four benches for the Redbank Valley Trail Association. Way to go, Tyler! He received a House citation from Rep. Oberlander and a Senate citation from Sen. Scott Hutchinson. On Feb. 19, Rep. Oberlander attended the Sugarcreek Fire Company’s annual officer installation and appreciation banquet on Saturday, where Armstrong County District Attorney Scott Andreassi administered the oath to the company’s officers. Thank you to the fire department for all of its efforts in keeping our community safe! Happy 100th birthday to Willis Elliott of Sligo, who celebrated his milestone birthday. Rep. Oberlander was on hand during a special birthday party to present Mr. Elliott with a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives acknowledging his long life and contributions to his community, his state and his country. During legislative session on Jan. 23, Rep. Donna Oberlander welcomed Fred Anderson of New Bethlehem and his grandson, Ryan, to the state Capitol. Even in the midst of a busy session day, it was fun spending some time with them, showing them around and even bringing them to the House floor. To officially kick off the 201st Session of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, Rep. Donna Oberlander (R-Clarion/Armstrong/Forest) took the oath of office Tuesday. Oberlander, who is again serving as caucus secretary, began representing the 63rd District in 2009. Rep. Donna Oberlander joined Sen. Scott Hutchinson and Peter Winkler of Congressman Glenn “G.T.” Thompson’s office in welcoming Shannon Barrios as the new executive director of the Clarion County Economic Development Corporation in December. Happy birthday to Sarah “Sally” Best of Clarion who recently turned 104. Rep. Donna Oberlander presented her with a congratulatory citation from the Pennsylvania House for reaching this amazing milestone. They were joined by her nieces and nephews, as well as neighbors and friends to celebrate this significant milestone. Rep. Donna Oberlander was re-elected by her peers to continue serving in House leadership for the 2017-18 legislative session. For the new term, the leadership team consists of House Majority Leader Dave Reed (R-Indiana), Whip Bryan Cutler (R-Lancaster), Policy Chairman Kerry Benninghoff (R-Centre/Mifflin), Appropriations Chairman Stan Saylor (R-York), Caucus Chairman Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery) and Caucus Administrator Kurt Masser (R-Columbia/Montour/Northumberland). Current House Speaker Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) was selected as speaker-designee and will be up for election to the House’s top spot when House members select the speaker on swearing-in day, Jan. 3, 2017.
 
Get My Email Updates
 
E-mail Address:
Zip Code(5-Digit):
Connect with Donna 
Contact Information 

District Offices:
160 South 2nd Ave.
Suite C
Clarion, PA 16214
(814) 226-9000
Fax: (814) 226-1614

309 Saltwork Street
(P.O Box 304)
Elderton, PA 15736
(724) 354-3500   
Fax:  (724) 354-2896