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Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
With over 35,000 abortions reported in Pennsylvania in 2023 – the highest number since 2011 – the urgent need to address the sanctity of life has never been clearer. This isn’t just a political issue; it’s a fundamental human rights issue that calls on each of us to look at our hearts and minds.
I was honored to join the Morning Light show at the Pennsylvania March for Life last week. We had the opportunity to discuss the profound significance of this event. The Pennsylvania March for Life is the largest human rights demonstration in Pennsylvania, which aims to empower women and defend the dignity of the unborn. What truly sets this march apart from other demonstrations around the Capital building is the overwhelming spirit of joy and peace.
As we walked around the Capitol, I was truly inspired by the next generation, whose voices were heard and whose presence was felt. They are stepping up to champion the message that every life matters, whether planned or unplanned.
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.”
Psalm 139:13-14 ESV
If you missed watching the interview on Morning Light, you can watch it here and learn more about the March for Life in Pennsylvania.
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Building Connections
I always feel fortunate to visit local businesses here in the 68th District. Each visit is a chance to learn more about the incredible work they are doing in our community. It is also an opportunity to listen, connect and explore how I can support their continued success.
I recently visited two local manufacturing companies just outside of Mansfield. While there, we had the unique opportunity to film our visit, capturing a behind-the-scenes look at their operations. You won’t want to miss this inside look at manufacturing here in the Northern Tier!
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WoodHouse, The Timber Frame Company
Driving along Route 549 outside of Mansfield, I have always admired the magnificent timber frame home perched on the hill, so I jumped at the chance to learn more about Woodhouse, The Timber Frame Company. Stepping into the showroom was an immediate “wow” moment. The natural beauty of the wood and the expansive, open floor plan were amazing.
Todd Mahosky, vice president of operations, and Chris Wilcox, financial controller, showed me around the Woodhouse campus. As they led me through the on-campus model home, they explained what sets Woodhouse apart. Woodhouse crafts custom-built, legacy homes and is one of the largest timber frame manufactures in the U.S. Their homes are more than just beautiful homes. They are energy-efficient, fast-to-build, elegant and durable. I learned about the design process, and I was able to meet the talented design team and then watch timbers being cut in the workshop. I was amazed by the precision that went into each timber that was cut; the attention to detail is remarkable. Since 1979, Woodhouse has completed over 1,000 timber frame projects all over the country. It is a true local gem and perhaps one of our area’s best-kept secrets.
Watch here to learn more about WoodHouse!
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Murus Structural Insulated Panels
Located just down the road from Woodhouse is The Murus Company, Inc. Woodhouse and Murus have a long-standing relationship because Murus’s Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) work seamlessly with Woodhouse’s timber frames, as well as a variety of other uses in both residential and commercial construction. While many traditional homes utilize 2x4s or 2x6s for framing and fiberglass for insulation, SIPs replace these to enclose the entire structure. Sales Manager Chris Bloom provided a tour of the plant and explained the functionality of the SIPs, describing them as two wood skins laminated to an insulating foam core, which essentially is like wrapping a house in a Yeti cooler, creating an extremely energy efficient home.
How cool is that? While working in construction, I had the opportunity to work on a barn restoration project using SIPs, so it was especially cool to see how these panels were made. We toured the plant and observed the manufacturing process and watched as panels were pre-cut to exact specifications. This process allows the panels to be installed quickly and easily on-site. The panels’ make-up also contributes to their strength and energy efficiency by providing a continuous layer of insulation. Whenever I get the opportunity, I always ask what the biggest challenges are. Like so many businesses, finding employees seems to be one of their biggest challenges. We have some great employers in our area, doing some really cool things. If you love construction, but don’t love the cold, this might be a great job.
Watch next week’s Community Connection to learn more about Murus!
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Honoring 131 Years of Service
I am deeply grateful for all our volunteer fire companies who serve rural Pennsylvania with dedication and courage. These men and women represent the very best of our communities, answering calls to protect lives and property. It is always an honor when I have the opportunity to recognize their service and commitment.
Recently, the Ridgebury Volunteer Fire Company celebrated its 70th anniversary, and Rep. Tina Picket and I had the privilege to join them for this milestone banquet and present them with a citation from the House of Representatives.
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Pictured here: Rep. Tina Pickett, President Austin Jelliff,
Fire Chief Greg Jelliff and me |
The company’s story began in Bentley Creek on Sept. 5, 1955, when 15 members came together to form a department that quickly became a vital part of the community. Sixty years ago, the company moved to its current location, and today, it has grown to 30 active members. Over the decades, the Ridgebury Volunteer Fire Company has continually advanced, updating its equipment, adopting new methods, and training to meet the ever-changing demands of emergency services. What has never changed is the shared mission: to be well-prepared; disciplined; and united in preserving lives, protecting properties and safeguarding the wellbeing of neighbors.
During the celebration, we were especially honored to recognize Leland Jelliff, who has devoted an incredible 61 years of service, which is a testament to the loyalty, perseverance, and selflessness that defines this department
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| Pictured here: Rep. Tina Pickett, Leland Jelliff and me |
Seventy years of steady growth and achievement stand as a powerful legacy for the Ridgebury members, past and present. They embody the highest traditions of emergency service, and I extend my heartfelt best wishes as they continue their vital work in our community.
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Assistance Available for Farmers for Feed Losses from Flooding
The USDA recently announced the launch of its Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP), the first federal livestock disaster assistance program designed to address feed losses from flooding. The program will compensate dairy farmers and other livestock producers for feed-related expenses stemming from qualifying floods in 2023 or 2024. ELRP’s $1 billion in available funding is intended to help offset the steep rise in supplemental feed costs and the resulting disruptions to milk production caused by feed shortages and animal stress during flood events.
The enrollment period for ELRP is open now and will run through Oct. 31. To apply, dairy producers must:
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Confirm county eligibility through USDA’s Approved Counties Dashboard. |
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Prepare documentation on livestock inventories and locations at the time of flooding. |
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Submit all required forms and records to their county FSA office before Oct. 31. Payments are expected to be issued after that date due to the anticipated high number of applicants. |
USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has released a list of pre-approved counties that automatically qualify. Producers in 23 Pennsylvania counties, including Tioga County, will not need to provide additional documentation of flooding. Producers in non-approved counties (Bradford County) may still be eligible if they can provide records such as photographs, insurance claims and news articles verifying that their operations were adversely affected by flooding. You may click here for more information.
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Upcoming Events
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Don’t Miss Out on PA’s Fall Foliage!
Pennsylvania residents and visitors will get a new way to plan their autumn adventures as the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has launched a redesign of its weekly fall foliage reports.
An updated report will be posted every Thursday during peak foliage season on DCNR’s website. It will feature a fresh design, dedicated pages for each week, and detailed information by region. DCNR experts will also be available to provide regional insights and answer questions throughout the fall:
Visitors can also explore Pennsylvania’s fall offerings through Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway, a statewide campaign highlighting public lands, scenic drives, festivals, pick-your-own farms, and family-friendly autumn activities. Be sure to check out these options to enjoy all our Commonwealth has to offer!
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Nominate Your Favorite Trail
If you have a favorite trail that provides unique opportunities, encourages and celebrates diverse user groups, or enhances your community, please nominate it for Pennsylvania’s 2026 Trail of the Year.
Each year, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and its Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee (PTAC) designate a Trail of the Year to help build enthusiasm and support for trails and raise public awareness about the economic, environmental and health benefits trails bring. The winning trail will be recognized through a commemorative poster for statewide distribution, a trailhead marker along the trail, and a grant for educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection on the trail.
Click here to nominate your favorite trail. The deadline for nomination is Friday, Oct. 31.
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