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In this Update:
Growing Greener Watershed Grant Program Opens Friday
Beginning Friday, April 21, organizations involved in water resource restoration and protection can apply for the next round of Growing Greener grants through the Department of Environmental Protection’s Growing Greener Plus Grants Program. Growing Greener grants are designed to improve or protect this Commonwealth’s waters from nonpoint source pollution associated with agricultural activities, acid mine drainage, stormwater runoff, energy resource extraction and streambank and shoreline degradation. Counties, municipalities, municipal authorities, county conservation districts, watershed organizations, councils of governments, educational institutions and other organizations dedicated to water clean-up and preservation can apply. The application deadline is June 23. How to Apply for a Veterans ID Card
Many former service members are unsure how to prove they are a veteran to take advantage of discounts offered by businesses. These include restaurants, hotels, stores, recreational activities, home improvement and more. The easiest way is to apply for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans ID Card (VIC), which is a digital photo ID you can use to get those discounts. Since September 2022, all new Veterans ID cards have been digital. A veteran with a physical ID card can continue using it to get discounts. The VIC is separate from the VA health care ID, which a veteran receives when enrolling in VA health care. Find out how to apply for a card here. If you have any questions or need help, email VA’s VIC program at vetidcard@va.gov. Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy for At-Risk Youth Accepting Applications The Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy (KSCA) is accepting applications for its third class of cadets, which begins in July. KSCA is designed to give academically challenged teens a second chance at obtaining their basic education, as well as learning leadership, self-discipline and responsibility. The program is open to 16- to 18-year-old male and female Pennsylvania residents who are failing to progress in high school or may not be on a clear path to graduating. Applicants must be willing to be drug free, free of felony convictions and voluntarily commit to the program. The program lasts for 17 months, with the first five months consisting of residential training at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County, followed by a year of mentorship back in the community. Learn more about eligibility requirements and begin the application process here. Anyone who prefers to have an application mailed or would like to talk with someone about the program may contact the academy by emailing RA-MVPAChallenge@pa.gov or calling 717-861-7767 or 717-861-8831. Check Out a State Park Near You Now that spring has arrived, the nicer weather will allow Pennsylvanians more opportunities to explore our state’s 124 beautiful state parks, including the newly opened Vosburg Neck State Park in Wyoming County, operated by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Pennsylvania’s state parks system manages more than 300,000 acres for popular recreation activities, such as hiking, picnicking, camping, fishing, hunting and boating. Pennsylvania state parks do not charge an entrance fee; however, fees do apply for some activities. If you like to enjoy the outdoors with your dog, 56 of our state parks offer dog-friendly campgrounds. Learn more or find a park nearby here. Make reservations online here to secure campsites, cabins, picnic pavilions, whitewater boating launch time permits and more. Baker, Ryncavage to Host Open House at District Offices Sen. Lisa Baker (R- Luzerne/Pike/Susquehanna/Wayne/Wyoming) and Rep. Alec Ryncavage (R-Luzerne) announced they are hosting a joint open house at their district offices on Friday, April 28, from noon to 4 p.m., at 50 N. Walnut St., Suites 105 and 102, in Nanticoke. “A crucial part of public service is meeting face-to-face with constituents, listening to what they have to say and alerting them to state programs and services that may assist in improving their personal situation,” said Baker. “For people who want to talk about issues, this joint open house allows them to gain perspective from both the Senate and state House. We receive input and information from a wide variety of sources, but community conversation still gives the most helpful insight.” “As a new legislator, I’m grateful that a seasoned senator like Sen. Baker and I will be in close proximity to one another as we help the constituents in our area,” said Ryncavage. “Our neighboring offices create a one-stop shop for our residents. The building and ample off-street parking make our space accessible, welcoming and convenient for those needing legislative services.” The offices of Baker and Ryncavage can assist residents with PennDOT paperwork, driver’s license and vehicle registration applications and renewals; information and applications for senior citizen benefit programs, including Property Tax/Rent Rebate and PACE/PACENET prescription drug programs; securing birth and death certificates (photo identification required); organizing tours of the state Capitol; copies of legislation; and many other services. Everyone who plans to attend is asked to RSVP to Liz Gorski or Beth Clemow by April 24 at lgorski@pasen.gov or bclemow@pahousegop.com. Recognizing the Vital Role of Volunteers
The strength of America is found not in the relationship between citizens and government, but between citizens themselves: Neighbors helping neighbors through the act of volunteering. An estimated 23.2% of Americans or more than 60.7 million people formally volunteered with organizations between September 2020 and 2021. For everyone who steps up and gives time, effort and more, you have my deep appreciation.
Please do not reply to this email. If you would like to contact Senator Baker, submit a web contact form here: https://www.senatorbaker.com/contact-me-2/ |
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