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State Rep. Mark Longietti's Fall 2022 Newsletter

(Sep 23, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

State Rep. Mark Longietti's Fall 2022 Newsletter Read more

 

Longietti hosting Oct. 6 flu shot clinic

(Sep 21, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Sept. 21 – State Rep. Mark Longiett i, D-Mercer, is hosting a free flu shot clinic in partnership with Primary Health Network from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6 at the Greenville Knights of Columbus , 170 Clarksville St. (Route 18) in Greenville. “With fall here, it’s time to start thinking about getting the flu vaccine,” Longietti said. “It’s a quick, simple step that can cut your flu risk in half – or prevent serious complications from occurring if you do get the flu. The shot is also safe – it cannot give you the flu and will not increase your risk of getting COVID-19 or other illnesses. I encourage everyone to consider scheduling an appointment at our upcoming clinic. “There will also be Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and boosters available.” Longietti said participants must bring a valid photo ID and insurance card to receive a shot. Pre-registration is preferred (though not mandatory) and can be done by visiting www.primary-health.net or calling (724) 699-9211 and selecting option 1. Residents with questions may also call Longietti’s district office Monday through Friday at (724) 981-4655 or his satellite Greenville office on Tuesdays or Thursdays at (724) 588-1005. Read more

 

Longietti, Brooks: Nearly $500,000 awarded for Mercer County recreational projects

(Sep 20, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, Sept. 20 – New grant funding of nearly $477,000 will expand recreational opportunities for Mercer County residents, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, and state Sen. Michele Brooks, R-Crawford/Mercer/Erie/Warren, announced today. The city of Hermitage will receive $230,904 for a dek hockey facility. The grant will fund excavation, installation of a concrete pad, decking, a rink, boards, lighting, fencing and other amenities. “Serving on Jamestown Borough Council, I saw firsthand how important these spaces were for local families to spend time together. There has been widespread interest and a demand from the community and surrounding area families for such a facility to enhance recreational opportunities for both youth and adults,” Brooks said. “In addition to expanding recreational opportunities for families, it will also help to attract others to the area – resulting in positive economic impacts.” Longietti said, "Hermitage residents have expressed a strong interest in new recreational options. Funding for the hockey facility is a great investment that will introduce residents of all ages to a new sport while also boosting the local economy as visitors to the rink patronize area shops and businesses." The second grant, in the amount of $220,854, will be allocated to the Mercer County Park Renovation project to renovate a 40-year-old park behind the Shenango Township Read more

 

Longietti to host September ‘mobile office’ sessions

(Sep 15, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Sept. 15 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, will host a series of “mobile office” sessions this month to provide residents easier access to information on state programs and services. “For folks who have questions or want to learn more about state programs and services, our mobile office sessions will make it easier to get that information closer to home,” Longietti said. “Residents can stop by to learn about various programs such as the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program, find out whether they are eligible and pick up applications. “There will also be information about handicap placards, discounted vehicle registrations for retirees, state prescription assistance, and other programs and services. Copies of the 2022 Senior Guide and various brochures will be available, as well. I encourage anyone needing information to stop by.” The sessions – all held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and open to the public – are scheduled for the following dates and locations: Thursday, Sept 22: West Salem Volunteer Fire Department, 625 Vernon Road, Greenville, PA 16125. Friday, Sept. 23: Clark Borough Building, 2798 Winner Road, Clark, PA 16113. Wednesday, Sept. 28: Pymatuning Township Municipal Building, 256 Edgewood Drive Ext., Transfer, PA 16154. Those interested in learning more should Read more

 

Longietti: Sharon schools awarded nearly $75,000 to expand access to fresh produce

(Sep 01, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Sept. 1 – Sharon grade-schoolers will benefit from healthier school snacks, thanks to grant funding that will bring more fresh fruits and vegetables to area schools, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti, who is Democratic chairman of the House Education Committee, said the funding awarded under the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program includes $35,700 to Case Avenue Elementary School, $21,140 to Musser Elementary School, and $17,780 to West Hill Elementary School. “ Educators will tell you that adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to school menus brings students multiple benefits, including better concentration and memory, higher test scores, and fewer illnesses, among other plusses,” Longietti said. “This funding is a great investment to help kids achieve more during the school day.” Funding priority was given to the schools with the highest rates of students eligible for free and reduced-price meals. More information about the grants is available here , and a full list of the schools receiving funding is available here. Read more

 

Longietti: More than $1.2 million awarded to boost Mercer County early education programs

(Aug 02, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, Aug. 2 – Mercer County families will see expanded access to early education programs thanks to more than $1.2 million in new grant funding, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti, who is Democratic chairman of the PA House Education Committee, said the funding from the state Department of Education’s Office of Child Development and Early Learning will strengthen area Pre-K Counts and Head Start Supplemental Assistance programs. “When it comes to success in life, so much depends on the quality of a child’s early learning experiences,” Longietti said. “Attention span, independent thinking, confidence among peers – all of these skills and others start forming in young minds before a child ever steps through the kindergarten door. I’m thrilled by this new funding because it will increase the number of Pre-K Counts slots available to our community and ensure that local Head Start programs – which also provide critical nutritional and health benefits – have the resources they need to continue.” Longietti said the funding includes the following grants: Head Start More than $1.1 million to Community Action Partnership of Mercer County Pre-K Counts $80,000 to Building Blocks Child Center $35,000 to Zion Education Center Inc. More information on the funding is available here: Read more

 

Longietti serving Seventh District residents through Nov. 30

(Jul 15, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, July 15 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, issued the following statement to confirm that although he will be retiring from the legislature, he and his staff remain available to help residents through the end of his current term on Nov. 30. “Earlier this year, I announced my decision not to seek a ninth term in office. Although I will be retiring from the state legislature, I want to ensure that the residents of our district understand that my talented staff and I remain available to serve their needs through the end of November, whether it’s for application assistance, answers to questions or help with any other state-related matter. “Folks can stop into my Hermitage office located at 2213 Shenango Valley Freeway between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or call 724-981-4655 for help or an appointment.” Residents can also get help through Longietti’s satellite office, located at 182 Main St. inside the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce Building. The office is open from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, by appointment. Residents can call 724-588-1005 to schedule. Longietti announced in February that he is leaving the state legislature after eight terms in office. Read more

 

Longietti: $348,000 awarded for improvements to key Sharon intersection

(Jul 13, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, July 13 – The city of Sharon is receiving $348,000 for major upgrades to the traffic signal located at the intersection of West State Street and Irvine Avenue, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the funding will allow the city to modernize a key intersection located at the base of the business district. “The new funding will allow the city to overhaul signal equipment at the West State Street-Irvine Avenue intersection in ways that greatly improve traffic flow and safety,” Longietti said. “The work will include installation of new mast arms to improve signal visibility, pedestrian signals with countdown features to enhance crossing safety, controllers that operate based on traffic demand to better regulate traffic flow, and emergency vehicle preemption features that provide responders right-of-way to improve response times and reduce the risk of collisions.” Longietti said the improvements will complement other upgrades to Sharon’s business district. “The city has been revitalizing the State Street corridor and recently completed a streetscape project to add new ADA ramps and pedestrian-level lighting at the eastern section. As Downtown Sharon continues experiencing a revival, with new shops bringing increased pedestrian traffic, the signal safety enhancements are all the more important.” Longietti said the grant – which funds most of Read more

 

Longietti hosting Senior Health & Education Fair July 21

(Jul 12, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, July 12 – State Rep. Mark Longietti is hosting his 15 th annual Senior Health & Education Fair in Sharon on Thursday, July 21. Longietti, D-Mercer, said the fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sharon American Legion, 1395 E. State St. “I love being able to host the fair annually for our community’s seniors because they bring so much energy and enthusiasm to the event,” Longietti said. “As in previous years, this year’s fair will be a great opportunity for folks to learn about the latest state programs and services and to check out multiple exhibits featuring new products and services from local vendors. “There will also be door prizes, free health screenings, free brochures and staff on hand to answer questions. I encourage all of our area seniors to stop by.” Longietti said that there is no need to pre-register and that walk-ins are welcome. Those interested in learning more should contact Longietti’s Hermitage office at 724-981-4655. Read more

 

Longietti votes for budget, citing historic education funding

(Jul 08, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, July 8 – State Rep. Mark Longietti voted Thursday to support Pennsylvania’s new budget plan, saying it spends responsibly while making historic investments in public education. “As Democratic chairman of the House Education Committee, I worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft a budget that would deliver the kind of meaningful education funding that has been long overdue for Pennsylvania’s public schools,” Longietti said. “The new plan delivers increases of $525 million for basic education and $100 million for special education. It also includes $225 million in level-up funding to help even the playing field for students in underfunded districts, including those in Farrell Area, Sharon City and Greenville Area schools.” Longietti said the new plan – which also includes $95 million each for student mental health and school security programs – includes the following school district funding increases: Farrell Area: $2 million (24.7% increase) for basic education; $100,000 (10.5% increase) for special education. Greenville Area: $836,600 (11.3% increase) for basic education; $102,300 (9.1% increase) for special education. Hermitage: $490,000 (7.5% increase) for basic education; $102,300 (8%) for special education. Reynolds Area: $373,300 (4.6% increase) for basic education; $71,700 (6.7%) for special education. Sharon City: $2.9 million Read more

 

Longietti: Nearly $400,000 awarded for ‘Digital Passport’ learning project

(Jun 15, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, June 15 – United Way of Mercer County and the Mercer County Career Center are receiving a $389,898 PAsmart Advancing Grant from the state Department of Education for a program that will teach area students the kinds of STEM and computer science skills needed for high-demand regional careers, state Rep. Mark Longietti announced today. Longietti, who is Democratic chairman of the House Education Committee, said the “Digital Passport” program will help expand opportunities for all students – including those in underserved areas. “Collaboration will help guarantee the program’s success,” Longietti said. “Partners in the project have the knowledge and experience needed to build a curriculum that aligns with the specific needs of our region’s high-demand employers. The program will also reach students in underserved areas to ensure they have the same opportunities. “In addition to putting students on a promising career path, the program will help ensure that our region’s employers have the continuing pool of talented applicants they need to stay competitive. It’s a winning proposition all around.” Longietti said the grant is part of a package of nearly $20 million in PaSmart Advancing Grants awarded to schools statewide and designed to bolster computer science and STEM learning. More information about the grants is available here: Read more

 

Longietti: Mercer County programs receiving more than $130,000 for housing counseling, ‘Lots to Love’ programs

(Jun 09, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, June 9 – Mercer County organizations are receiving $133,000 from the Pennsylvania Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund to support a housing and budget counseling program and help continue the successful Lots to Love program, state Rep. Mark Longietti announced today. Longietti, D–Mercer, said the funding includes $40,000 to the Community Action Partnership of Mercer County to support programs that help lower-income residents acquire the money management and budgeting skills needed for home ownership. “Community Action Partnership has played a key role in helping low- and middle-income families in our community navigate the path to home ownership through housing counseling and an incentive-based budget counseling program that matches participants’ investments,” Longietti said. “The funding awarded today is going to ensure the partnership can keep that program and those incentives flowing to low-income families needing them.” Longietti said an additional $93,000 will allow the organization to continue the successful Lots to Love program. “Lots to Love has been incredibly successful at helping the City of Sharon repurpose vacant lots in ways that invite investment and development,” Longietti said. “Securing this additional funding will bolster the program to continue stabilizing neighborhoods and also help Community Action Partnership create a Read more

 

Longietti: Nearly $90,000 awarded for program to bolster restrictive probation, reduce recidivism among nonviolent offenders

(Jun 08, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, June 8 – Mercer County is receiving $89,997 to support a restrictive probation program designed to reduce recidivism and improve outcomes among substance use disorder offenders, state Rep. Mark Longietti announced today. Longietti, D–Mercer, said the funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is an effective way to help nonviolent offenders transition back to the community. “Restrictive supervision probation programs help lower recidivism rates by giving people convicted of nonviolent drug- and alcohol-related offenses the treatment they need for a fresh start,” Longietti said. “The funding awarded today will ensure the Mercer County program has the staff, drug-testing equipment and supplies, and laboratory fees needed to vigilantly monitor offenders and keep them on the path to remaining drug and alcohol free.” The funding was recommended by PCCD’s County Adult Probation and Parole Advisory Committee. More about the committee is available here . Read more

 

Longietti receives ‘Friend of Education’ award from Pa. Association of Intermediate Units

(Jun 03, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

SEVEN SPRINGS, June 3 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, was awarded the “Friend of Education” award – which recognizes a person or organization making a “significant impact” on childhood education – by the Pennsylvania Association of Intermediate Units yesterday. Longietti – who co-chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Pennsylvania Legislative Early Childhood Education Caucus and is Democratic chairman of the state House Education Committee – said he was honored to be recognized by the group, whose efforts improve student lives and open doors. “Education is the great equalizer, and it represents the gateway to opportunity,” Longietti said. “When we invest in our children and provide them with the educational resources they need to succeed, we reap a harvest that is many times greater than our investment. “The Intermediate Unit professionals help maximize that investment through work that helps schools overcome obstacles, expand resources and strengthen special, individualized attention to students needing it.” Longietti accepted the award at the association’s annual conference held at Seven Springs. The Intermediate Units are regionally based and provide a range of services to schools in their area, including in the fields of special education, technology, finance, human resources and transportation. Schools in Mercer County and the region are served by Midwestern Read more

 

State Rep. Mark Longietti offers boating safety tips

(May 23, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

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Longietti receives ‘Legislative Excellence in Caring’ award from early education commission

(May 10, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, May 10 – State Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, was honored today by the Pennsylvania Early Learning Investment Commission for his legislative support and advocacy on behalf of improving early childhood education and child care in the commonwealth. Longietti – who co-chairs the bipartisan, bicameral Pennsylvania Legislative Early Childhood Education Caucus and is Democratic chairman of the state House Education Committee – said he was honored to be recognized by the commission because he is a strong supporter of the group’s work. “I will treasure this award because I am a such big fan of the work this commission does to ensure Pennsylvania’s kids receive the best possible start in life through quality child care and early learning programs,” Longietti said. “These are some of the best investments we can make in state government, and the commission’s voices are essential to making them happen.” In presenting the award on behalf of the commission, former Pennsylvania Gov. Mark Schweiker called Longietti an “outstanding champion for children and families,” saying he was instrumental in securing funding for the state’s Pre-K Counts Program, bringing the Nurse-Family Partnership to Mercer County and working with United Way to launch the county’s chapter of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Praising Longietti as a “reliable and stout advocate with stakeholders across Read more

 

Longietti honored by University of Pittsburgh Occupational Therapy Department

(Apr 26, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HARRISBURG, April 26 – The University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Occupational Therapy today presented State Rep. Mark Longietti with the school’s Award of Appreciation, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated meaningful engagement with the University’s OT students. Longietti – who was nominated based on his service as a guest lecturer for the university’s Master in OT Program – said he was deeply honored by the award. “Receiving this recognition from the University of Pittsburgh’s Occupational Therapy Department is a special honor because the folks presenting it are models of dedication to their field,” Longietti said. “The passion and devotion to the work these educators show every day inspires students to take that with them into the field, and it makes a world of difference to their patients. “I have felt humbled to play a role in helping teach these students about the legislative process and the importance of becoming engaged in policies affecting their profession.” In presenting the award, professor and Department Chair Elizabeth Skidmore noted that Longietti has been consistently engaged with students in creditable and valuable ways during the past five years, has regularly made time for in-person lectures on the complexity of government, and has taken information from hearings and meetings with those in the profession to the House chamber to Read more

 

Longietti: PHEAA board votes to raise maximum student aid grant amount

(Apr 22, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, April 22 – Eligible Pennsylvania college students may see an increase in financial aid grant funding after the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency board voted to raise the maximum amount available under the PA State Grant Program from $5,000 to $5,750, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti, who is a member of the PHEAA board, said he voted for the increase because it is a sound financial investment that will pay off for the state economy. “These are challenging times for everyone, but for young adults just starting out in life, the weight of student debt can be crushing,” Longietti said. “The grant program makes it possible for low- and middle-income students to pursue their career goals and allows them to graduate with less debt and more disposable income to invest back into the economy. “Supplementing the program at a time when household budgets are strained only makes sense. It’s a move that will encourage more students to stay in state, study here and raise families here.” Longietti said the proposed funding formula for 2022-23 also would allow an additional 9,000 students to benefit from the grant system. The increase depends on the state legislature’s approval of a proposed $350 million appropriation for the PA State Grant Program, which represents a 12.8% increase over the current year. Read more

 

Longietti: $9 million loan secured to improve Greenville water service

(Apr 20, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, April 20 – Better water service is on tap for Greenville residents, thanks to a $9 million low-interest loan from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the loan to Greenville Water Authority will fund a project to replace and relocate the Hadley Road Booster Pump Station and replace approximately 25,600 linear feet of leaded-joint, cast-iron pipe with polyvinyl chloride mains and 272 service connections, including 32 known/suspected lead service lines. “The new pump station and service lines will improve the delivery and safety of drinking water for Greenville," Longietti said. “The Hadley Road Booster Pump Station was built during the early 1900s and is long overdue for replacement. The new station, which will be installed near UPMC Horizon Hospital, will be more efficient and better at reducing unwanted disinfection byproducts in the water. The installation of a new, permanent generator at the site will ensure a continuous, reliable water supply to customers. “The new service lines will replace the existing cast-iron pipes and lead joints that had a history of leaks and water main breaks and will give residents better peace of mind in knowing that their drinking water is free of contaminants.” Longietti said the project will also include replacing fire hydrants, service lines, interconnections to side streets and Read more

 

Longietti: Area child care providers receiving more than $2.2 million to stabilize operations

(Apr 11, 2022) Rep. Mark A. Longietti

HERMITAGE, April 11 – Area child care providers are receiving more than $2.2 million in federal funding to help them reopen their doors and return to full capacity, state Rep. Mark Longietti, D-Mercer, announced today. Longietti said the funding under the American Rescue Plan Act will provide grants to 24 area providers ranging from approximately $5,000 to more than $290,000. “Pandemic-related shutdowns and declining enrollments have had a devastating impact on child care providers in our community, and it’s an issue that is not only hurting these business owners and their families, but also complicating plans for working parents trying to return to the workplace. “This funding – which providers can use for operating expenses, personnel and program costs, equipment and supplies, and reimbursement for past COVID-19-related expenses – will help stabilize operations for these businesses that play such a key role for our community.” According to the state Department of Human Services, which administers the funding, providers will receive the funding in six monthly installments and must use it within nine months after their applications were approved. Centers also must report to DHS on how the funding is spent. A list of the approved funding to the 24 providers is available here . The American Rescue Plan Act provided $24 billion to states nationwide to stabilize the child care sector. The local grants Read more

 

State Rep. Mark Longietti's Fall 2022 Newsletter
Sep 23, 2022

Longietti hosting Oct. 6 flu shot clinic
Sep 21, 2022

Longietti, Brooks: Nearly $500,000 awarded for Mercer County recreational projects
Sep 20, 2022

Longietti to host September ‘mobile office’ sessions
Sep 15, 2022

Longietti: Sharon schools awarded nearly $75,000 to expand access to fresh produce
Sep 01, 2022

Longietti: More than $1.2 million awarded to boost Mercer County early education programs
Aug 02, 2022

Longietti serving Seventh District residents through Nov. 30
Jul 15, 2022

Longietti: $348,000 awarded for improvements to key Sharon intersection
Jul 13, 2022

Longietti hosting Senior Health & Education Fair July 21
Jul 12, 2022

Longietti votes for budget, citing historic education funding
Jul 08, 2022

Longietti: Nearly $400,000 awarded for ‘Digital Passport’ learning project
Jun 15, 2022

Longietti: Mercer County programs receiving more than $130,000 for housing counseling, ‘Lots to Love’ programs
Jun 09, 2022

Longietti: Nearly $90,000 awarded for program to bolster restrictive probation, reduce recidivism among nonviolent offenders
Jun 08, 2022

Longietti receives ‘Friend of Education’ award from Pa. Association of Intermediate Units
Jun 03, 2022

State Rep. Mark Longietti offers boating safety tips
May 23, 2022

Longietti receives ‘Legislative Excellence in Caring’ award from early education commission
May 10, 2022

Longietti honored by University of Pittsburgh Occupational Therapy Department
Apr 26, 2022

Longietti: PHEAA board votes to raise maximum student aid grant amount
Apr 22, 2022

Longietti: $9 million loan secured to improve Greenville water service
Apr 20, 2022

Longietti: Area child care providers receiving more than $2.2 million to stabilize operations
Apr 11, 2022