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In this Update:
Honoring Gary Neely, Butler County’s Veteran of the YearLast Thursday, Rep. Marci Mustello and I proudly honored Gary Neely as Butler County’s Veteran of the Year at the Butler County Military Veterans Committee luncheon. Mr. Neely’s service to our country exemplifies honor and distinction. A dedicated member of the United States Marine Corps, he bravely faced the challenges of active combat in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1972. As a machine gunner with the Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, his exceptional courage earned him three Purple Hearts. Furthermore, he displayed remarkable skill as a crew chief and door gunner with the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron, where he was awarded seven Air Medals for his valorous missions. After an honorable discharge at the rank of sergeant, Mr. Neely pursued a bachelor’s degree in geology from Slippery Rock University. He then returned to service in the United States Navy Reserve as a chief warrant officer, shaping the next generation of leaders by teaching Reserve Officer Training Corps courses and training Navy SEAL candidates. His later career as a geologist and owner of a gasoline and oil company showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to his community. Today, Mr. Neely continues to make an impact as the junior vice commandant and color guard commander of the Bantam Marine Corps League Detachment No. 743, where he leads the pistol league. His commitment extends to the Community Alliance Church, where he is actively involved, as well as serving as a former member of the Military Order of the Devil Dogs, volunteering with Toys for Tots and Wreaths Across America. Additionally, Mr. Neely serves as a committeeperson for Connoquenessing Township. His tireless dedication has earned him profound respect and gratitude from those who have served alongside him. In recognizing Mr. Neely, we celebrate not just his remarkable service, but also his unwavering commitment to our country. Let us honor his legacy as a testament to the ideals of duty and sacrifice that define our nation. Senate Republicans Organize for 2025-26 SessionVoters returned a 28-22 Republican majority to the state Senate for the 2025-26 legislative session. All Republican incumbents were re-elected and two new Republican senators are on the way to Harrisburg. To drive priorities of protecting jobs, empowering families and defending freedoms, Senate Republicans re-elected our leadership team for the upcoming session. Senate Republicans are united in our efforts to prioritize the needs of Pennsylvanians. We remain focused on helping families restore economic freedom while positioning communities to thrive. Increasing energy independence, expanding access to well-paying jobs and making communities healthy and safer are top initiatives in our work to move Pennsylvania forward. Giving First Responders More SupportBeginning in December, a law passed by Senate Republicans will give first responders greater access to workers’ compensation benefits for a post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI). Firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians and paramedics will be entitled to benefits for psychological traumas resulting from their employment – even in the absence of physical injuries. To receive benefits, they need to be diagnosed by a licensed psychiatrist or psychologist. Previously, Pennsylvania law required a first responder to prove there were “objective abnormal working conditions” to establish a PTSI claim. This standard was often difficult to meet. Seasonal PennDOT Jobs Open NowPennDOT is hiring individuals for its winter maintenance program that runs until April 2025. The jobs pay from $17.00 to $27.75 an hour and could become a career. Roles include equipment operators, dispatchers, mechanics, tradesman helpers, semi-skilled laborers and tunnel maintainers. Job requirements vary based on position. Learn more regarding required experience, training and eligibility. Submit an online application. Call 855-524-5627 if you have trouble accessing your account. Being Prepared for Fall Driving HazardsFall brings different driving hazards, including wet leaves, fog, sun glare and frost. Drivers can use fall driving tips from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to make their commutes safer. Extra caution is needed on roads covered with wet leaves, which can be as slippery as ice. When driving in fog, it’s best to use low-beam headlights to avoid the glare created by high beams. Morning frost and icy spots can cause issues as overnight temperatures drop toward freezing. Ice is more likely to form on bridges, overpasses and shaded areas. Pennsylvania drivers face the third-highest chance of being involved in an animal-related crash in the nation. To report a dead animal for removal from a state road, call the PennDOT at 1-800-FIX-ROAD. Call the Game Commission at 1-833-742-9453 for local roads. Recognizing National Diabetes Awareness MonthThe men, women and children who live with prediabetes and diabetes face challenges not only with their health but also with the financial impact of the disease. However, there is support available, including health tips and food ideas. Healthy eating for prediabetes and diabetes can be delicious and satisfying using recipes like these. Tools and resources are available regarding health care affordability and driving with diabetes. There is also helpful information for caregivers.
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