Hello friend! Spring cleaning isn’t just limited to our homes; even the outdoors could use some tidying. I am partnering with Spring Clean Berks, in conjunction with the Great American Clean Up, to host a district-wide clean up initiative. We will be improving our community’s environment by safely removing and reducing litter and debris in our neighborhoods. Join us on Saturday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to noon for this volunteer clean up event. Pickup for supplies will be available at Albright College at the Rockland Professional Center, Boscov’s East Department Store, and Kutztown University. For more information or to sign up, call my district office at 610-929-2151.

For all the latest news and events in the 11th Senatorial District and in Harrisburg, visit my website, my Facebook page and Twitter page.

SINCERELY,
SENATOR JUDY SCHWANK

Take Precautions to Prevent Wildfires

As firefighters continue to manage a wildfire in southeastern Berks County, I urge residents to be extra cautious about preventing a wildfire.

A warm winter and dry, windy spring have become favorable conditions for wildfires in Berks County, as we’re now seeing in French Creek State Park. Because the plant life in our parks and forests is still dry and dormant, these fires can catch easily and spread rapidly, threatening wildlife, residential communities and the safety of our firefighters.

It’s extremely important that all citizens take precautions to prevent a fire, whether they live in an urban, suburban or rural community.

Forest fires are certainly a major risk but garden beds and roadside areas are also very dry and possibly flammable. Last fall, a lit cigarette that was discarded in a flower bed at my Reading district office started a small fire. I urge everyone to be conscious about preventing a fire, whether they are considering building a campfire, burning trash or flicking a cigarette. A fire can happen anywhere, especially in this dry, windy weather.

I want to thank our firefighters and emergency responders for containing the French Creek State Park wildfire. Their quick response to the fire likely saved many acres of land and surrounding communities. I appreciate all the efforts of our first responders, who put their lives on the line every day to ensure our safety. 

Kutztown University Football Champs!

State Sen. Judy Schwank welcomes the Kutztown University football team to the State Capitol on March 28. With them are (left) Kutztown University President Javier Cevallos and (right) Head Coach Raymond Monica Jr.

Congratulations to the Kutztown University football team on a stellar 2011 season. The Golden Bears were the 2011 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference champions, a first for the university. 

I was honored to welcome the team, along with University President Javier Cevallos and Head Coach Raymond Monica Jr., to the state Capitol last month.

I had the pleasure of introducing them on the Senate floor, where they received a warm welcome and applause from the entire chamber.

Farm Equipment Bill Passes Senate

I’m pleased that the Senate recently passed legislation that would lift restrictions on small community farm equipment dealers that want to carry and sell competitive products.  

Currently, the Pennsylvania Dealership Law regulates contracts between independent dealers and suppliers of agricultural equipment. Under Senate Bill 1169, independent agricultural equipment dealers and suppliers would be able to sell multiple product lines.   

This legislation will certainly help agriculture – Pennsylvania’s and Berks County’s number one industry – by allowing independent farm equipment sellers to better serve their rural customers and compete with big box chain stores. Additionally, it would provide farmers with more convenient access to parts and service so that they can do their job more efficiently and profitably.

Lifting certain restrictions of farm equipment sales helps the economy, the industry and all consumers of Pennsylvania agricultural products.

Need a Photo ID? I Can Help!

Pennsylvania’s new voter ID law will have a direct impact on citizens who exercise their right to vote starting this November.

I encourage anyone who does not have the proper identification needed to vote in November’s election to take the steps now toward getting an ID. My staff and I will gladly assist constituents through this process.

Constituents may stop by my district office at Rockland Professional Center, 1940 N. 13th St., Suite 232 in Reading (610-929-2151) Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Comprehensive information on obtaining a valid ID is also available on my website.

Bill to Shrink Legislature Gets House Approval

The House of Representatives recently voted in favor of legislation that would reduce the size of the legislature from 203 to 153 representatives and from 50 to 38 senators. I have introduced similar legislation, which currently awaits debate in the Senate State Government Committee.

Both House Bill 153 and my Senate Bill 1079 requires a Constitutional amendment, which means it must be approved in both the House and the Senate during two consecutive legislative sessions, then approved by a referendum vote by Pennsylvania voters.

Especially during these tough times when Pennsylvania faces yet another budget deficit, it’s important that we spend every dollar wisely, and that includes the tax dollars spent on our General Assembly. However, we also want to make sure that every citizen receives proper representation in Harrisburg. I will monitor the progress of House Bill 153 and keep my constituents informed about updates on any legislation that calls for reducing the size of the legislature.