|
|
|
Please do not reply directly to this email, as it returns to an unmanned account.
You are welcome to contact me through this link. |
Tioga County Spring ATV Kickoff Event
On Thursday, May 28, I joined representatives from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), including DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn, along with the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office, Tioga County commissioners, township supervisors, local elected officials, and members of the press to officially celebrate the opening of the Northcentral Regional ATV Trail Network.
Following the press conference, attendees had the opportunity to explore the trails firsthand. Although I was unable to join the ride due to other meetings, I was grateful for the opportunity to share a few remarks and recognize the strong collaboration among our townships, PennDOT, and DCNR in expanding outdoor recreation opportunities throughout our region.
We are excited to see how these expanded trail connections will continue to support economic development in our rural communities while enhancing the outstanding recreational opportunities Tioga County has to offer.
Transportation has evolved over the years, and today we are seeing transportation and recreation come together in a new and exciting way. Families can explore together, enjoy greater access to our DCNR forest lands, and do so within a culture of safety and sustainability.
Recently, I pulled into a gas station and met two pappies who were out riding with their grandkids. Seeing multiple generations connect while enjoying God’s creation is incredibly rewarding. Moments like these remind us that outdoor recreation is about more than the ride itself – it’s about making memories, strengthening family bonds, and sharing experiences across generations.
What I wouldn’t give to spend an afternoon riding in a UTV with my grandfathers!
|
Tioga County Special Olympics Spring Games
On Friday, May 29, the Tioga County Special Olympics hosted its annual Spring Track and Field event at Wellsboro High School. Lauren and I had the opportunity to attend and cheer on the 245 athletes from across Tioga County who competed in activities including the softball toss, long jump, and various walking and running events.
It was a beautiful community event, with 14 organizations hosting the Olympic Village for athletes to enjoy throughout the day. The event began with a parade of athletes, the presentation of the torch and the athlete oath. Special thanks to the Pennsylvania State Police for assisting with the torch presentation, and to the Wellsboro High School band for performing the national anthem.
The Special Olympics provides wonderful opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports. Athletes have the chance to stay active, demonstrate courage by trying new things, experience the joy of teamwork, and build lasting friendships with fellow athletes and members of the community.
This is always such a fun and inspiring event to attend, and we truly appreciate everyone who works so hard to make days like this possible — from the volunteers and organizers to the coaches, families, law enforcement, schools and community partners who support these athletes year after year.
|
Congratulations to the Class of 2026!
This year brought remarkable accomplishments for students across our district, from graduating from the Tioga County Youth Leadership program and earning Summa Cum Laude honors to winning top spots in regional competitions. Your achievements reflect excellence in leadership, athletics, arts and music, academics, agriculture and community service.
As you begin this next chapter, I encourage each of you to pursue what inspires you most. Finding your passion is one of the most important journeys you will take, and our communities are filled with opportunities to help you grow, succeed and make a difference. Earlier this year, I hosted a Future Entrepreneur Summit to highlight the many opportunities available right here in the Northern Tier. Small business owners shared how they turned their passions into careers and how dedication, hard work and community support helped them achieve their goals.
No matter where your path leads, remember that your community is proud of you and will always support you. There has never been a better time to make your mark – not only by achieving personal success, but by giving back and helping strengthen the communities that helped shape you. Whether through leadership, service, innovation or simply lending a helping hand, each of you has the ability to create a lasting impact.
Your future is bright, filled with opportunity and potential. I look forward to seeing all you accomplish as you pursue your passions and help shape the future of our communities.
|
Greenlight Operation Anti-Human Trafficking Policy Forum
On Thursday, May 28, Greenlight Operation hosted a Pennsylvania Anti-Human Trafficking Policy Forum at First Presbyterian Church in Wellsboro. The forum brought together leaders and advocates to assess the scope and impact of human trafficking across Pennsylvania and to discuss the ongoing challenges organizations face in combatting this crime.
It was an honor to attend alongside Sen. Chris Dush. Our discussions focused on strengthening education efforts, increasing public awareness, enhancing prevention strategies, and improving the support and assistance available to victims and survivors. Participants also shared valuable insights on the importance of collaboration between state agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare professionals, and local communities to identify trafficking situations and ensure survivors have access to the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Human trafficking continues to affect individuals and communities across Pennsylvania, making it critical that we remain committed to coordinated efforts that prioritize prevention, protection and prosecution. Forums like this provide an important opportunity to share knowledge, identify gaps in services, and work toward meaningful policy solutions that better support survivors and hold traffickers accountable.
I appreciate everyone who participated in this important conversation for their continued dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals and strengthening our communities.
|
Fresh Produce and Healthy Living
The B/S/S/T Area Agency on Aging is participating in Pennsylvania’s Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP). This valuable program helps seniors enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables while supporting Pennsylvania farmers and community markets.
Eligible participants may receive vouchers that can be used at approved farmers markets and roadside stands throughout the growing season. Vouchers are accepted for fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs grown in Pennsylvania.
|
Application Deadline Extended for 2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
The deadline for senior citizens and Pennsylvanians with disabilities to apply for rebates on rent and property taxes paid in 2025 has been extended to Dec. 31.
Income limits for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program increased again this year to $48,110 for both homeowners and renters. Remember to exclude 50% of Social Security when determining your income. The maximum rebate is $1,000.
The program is open to residents age 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older.
Remember – you do not need to pay anyone for assistance to apply for the rebates. Apply online at mypath.pa.gov, or contact my office for help. Additional information about the program is available here.
Rebates will be distributed beginning July 1, as required by law.
|
Grants Available to Protect At-Risk Wildlife, Native Plants
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2026 Wild Resource Conservation Program (WRCP), which offers grants to support research and conservation projects that protect Pennsylvania’s native wildlife, plants and ecosystems.
The program will invest more than $500,000 in projects across the Commonwealth that support conserving non-game animals, native plants and fungi, and invertebrates such as insects — species that are often left out of traditional conservation programs but are vital to the Commonwealth’s ecosystems.
The deadline to apply is June 30. For additional information and a link to apply, click here.
|
How May We Help You?
My district offices serve as your local connection to state government. My team and I are happy to hear your questions or concerns about state and local issues. We are also available to assist you with an array of state programs and services, including:
| |
• |
PennDOT paperwork, including driver’s license and vehicle registration applications and renewals. |
| |
• |
Information and applications for senior citizen benefit programs, including Property Tax/Rent Rebate and PACE/PACENET prescription drug programs. |
| |
• |
Information and applications for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). |
| |
• |
Help with securing birth and death certificates (photo identification required). |
| |
• |
Information about legislation. |
| |
• |
Assistance with resolving matters relating to state agencies. |
Please contact us at www.RepOwlett.com or by calling or visiting one of our offices
Wellsboro Office
74 Mains St., Wellsboro
570-724-1390
Troy Office
121 Canton St., Troy
570-297-3045
You may also follow us on facebook.com/RepOwlett or Instagram:/RepOwlett.
|
|
