Grants Aimed at Improving Parks and Recreation

            More than $1 million in state grants is headed to Central Pennsylvania to enhance recreation opportunities for residents and tourists.
            The region’s natural assets are a treasure as well as a vital part of the local economy. These grants not only serve to preserve but they will also help attract nature lovers from other parts of the state and country.  It’s a wise investment in our future.
            The grants, part of the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Community Conservation Partnerships Program, will go to:

North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission (NCPRPDC) -- $150,000 to provide mini grants to implement the North Central Greenways and Open Space Plan in Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter counties.  NCPRPDC is administering the project, guided by a study committee that includes state and local officials along with other groups that focus on   land use and tourism.

Pennsylvania Environmental Council --$280,000 to coordinate the activities of the Laurel Highlands and Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape Initiatives.  The Laurel Highlands work will include project development in Ohiopyle and Johnstown. The region contains the most diverse forest area in Pennsylvania along with the Yougiogheny, Casselman, Stoneycreek and Conemaugh rivers.

The Susquehanna Greenway Partnership -- $240,000 for the Susquehanna Greenway Implementation and Technical Assistance program in Central Pennsylvania, including Cambria, Centre, Clearfield, and Clinton, counties.  The grant will provide technical assistance to local partners, manage system-wide initiatives, and implement the Susquehanna Strategic Action Plan, which includes the Susquehanna Greenway River Towns Technical Assistance and Mini-Grant Program, providing water trail training and technical assistance, and conducting a greenway symposium.

Carrolltown Borough -- $36,500 for improvements to Stoltz Pond, including construction of a pedestrian walkway and bridge; installation of utilities and landscaping.

City of Johnstown -- $90,000 for improvements to Oakhurst Playground, including construction of a pavilion, basketball court, pedestrian walkway, fencing and play equipment.

Middle Taylor Township -- $35,000 for development of Benshoff Hill Park, including construction of pedestrian walkway, installation of play equipment, and additional parking.

Centre Regional Recreation Authority -- $300,000 for Phase 1 development of Whitehall Road Regional Park in Ferguson Township, including construction of comfort station/concession facility, pavilion, parking area and pedestrian walkway along with installation of play equipment.

Flemington Borough -- $88,600 for improvements to Grove Community Park, including construction of a pedestrian walkway along with installation of electrical upgrades and play equipment.

                    96th Farm Show Kicks Off in Harrisburg

Cindy Benshoff, of Summerhill, took home top prize for largest potato at last year's Farm Show. Her prize winner is shown next to an average-size potato.

          Judging begins today at the 96th Pennsylvania Farm Show and the event opens to the public tomorrow.
            Every year, people from this region put up with unpredictable weather and hectic schedules to participate in one of Pennsylvania’s greatest traditions. Local farmers and craftspeople have made their neighbors proud by bringing home numerous awards.
            Last year, resident’s of my senate district earned prizes in numerous categories, from livestock to crafts.
            Megan Vondad, of Mill Hall, Clinton County, showed the Champion Shorthorn Steer, while Cindy Benshoff, of Summerhill, Cambria County took home the prize for largest potato.
            Agriculture remains a vital part of the local economy. The work is difficult and the financial rewards are not always guaranteed.  It’s important to take this time each year to recognize their work and have some fun at the same time.  
           For information on visiting the Farm Show, click here.