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In this Update:
Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings Kicked Off This WeekThis week marked the beginning of the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings, where we review and discuss the budget for the upcoming year. As your State Senator, I am committed to informing you about the key decisions impacting Northeast Philly. Throughout these hearings, I will be asking the tough questions that matter most to our community, ensuring that your concerns are heard. Below, you’ll find captions and photos from the various hearings. Our team is committed to keeping you informed every step of the way. (Senator Joe Picozzi questions Secretary Pat Browne during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the Department of Revenue.) (Senator Joe Picozzi questions State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the PA State Police.) (Senator Joe Picozzi questions PASSHE Interim Chancellor Chris Fiorentino and PHEAA President/CEO James Steeley during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the PA State System of Higher Education and the PA Higher Education Assistance Agency.) (Senator Joe Picozzi questions Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the Department of Health.) (Senator Joe Picozzi questions Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the PA Department of State.) (Senator Joe Picozzi questions Secretary Michael Carroll during the Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearing for the Department of Transportation.) State Resource Town Hall for Residents Affected by Cottman Ave Plane CrashOn Wednesday, Feb, 19, a State Resource Town Hall was held at Northeast High School to support residents affected by the tragic plane crash on Cottman Ave. This event aimed to provide crucial information, answer questions, and connect residents with vital state resources to aid in their recovery. Experts and local officials were present to address concerns, offer guidance, and ensure that everyone affected had access to the help they needed during this difficult time. We are deeply grateful to the organizers, service providers, and everyone who offered their time, expertise, and resources to make this Town Hall a success. Your generosity and commitment to helping others make a profound difference as we continue to support those affected by this tragedy. Support for Veterans Struggling with Substance UseAdapting from military life to civilian life comes with serious challenges. Most veterans, with the support of their loved ones, overcome these difficulties. Others, sadly, resort to using substances as a coping mechanism and develop substance use disorder. More than one in 10 veterans have been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is higher than the general population. Help is available for veterans, family members and their advocates at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). Find local treatment options here. The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is active in communities throughout the state to connect troubled veterans to the resources they need for recovery. In a partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the state agencies work together to provide supportive services that are person-centered and focused on achieving overall wellness. Tips to Protect Your Family in a Power OutageMore than just an inconvenience, power outages can also present safety threats. In extreme cold temperatures, do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home as it increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, fires and burns. It’s best to go to a community location with power – particularly for those at greatest risk. Another concern is keeping food at the proper temperature. Keep freezers and fridges closed; a fridge will keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer will maintain the temperature for about 48 hours. Dispose of food if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees. Find out how long refrigerated medication can be stored at higher temperatures and contact your doctor for a new supply if necessary. Generators can minimize the challenges associated with power outages, but they present their own risks if not used properly. Read more about how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Staying Safe in Winter’s Cold TempsNot only are the cold temperatures we’ve been experiencing unpleasant, they can also be quite dangerous when frostbite or hypothermia take hold. If someone’s temperature is below 95 degrees, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. When body temperature is too low, brain activity is compromised and the victim is unable to think clearly or move as usual – which makes it difficult for them to know they need help or get it if they do. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs can help to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers helpful information about how to stay safe in the winter. Recognizing National FFA WeekOne of the state’s top industries, agriculture, brings farming to mind for most people. However, there is so much more to it. People who are interested in science, business, technology and mechanics can find fulfilling careers in agriculture. The industry requires the skills of professionals in lots of areas to meet demands for food, fiber and fuel production. National FFA Week, which runs from Feb. 15-22, is a great time to consider career possibilities and to appreciate the many men and women who already serve in this critical industry.
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