We’re beginning this week’s eblast with a heartfelt congratulations to Mercyhurst University Football Assistant Coach Tom Herman on nearly 55 years of dedicated coaching. His commitment to student-athletes and to the sport has made a lasting impact on our community and on collegiate football across the region.

It was an honor to present Coach Herman with a Pennsylvania House Citation recognizing his years of service and leadership. Moments like these remind us of the difference one person can make through perseverance, mentorship, and a passion for their work.

Eastlake Woods in Harborcreek Township was the site of our first Property Tax/Rent Rebate workshop. If you are a Pennsylvania resident who is 65 or older, 100% disabled, or a widow or widower, you may qualify for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program. 

If you need help applying or have questions about eligibility, please call my office at 814-455-6319 or stop by 3921 Buffalo Rd. during normal business hours. We will be glad to assist you with the application and any related questions.

As a member of the PA House Game and Fisheries Committee, I’m proud of the outstanding reputation the S.O.N.S. of Lake Erie have across the Commonwealth. I was fortunate to attend their meeting on Tuesday and hear firsthand about their ongoing conservation work and community efforts.

We’re looking forward to the fish stocking happening soon as we prepare for trout season. These efforts support recreational fishing, local tourism, and healthy aquatic ecosystems across our region.

When you file your 2025 Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax return, you can support our military personnel, veterans, and their families by donating any portion of your state tax refund to the Military Family Relief Assistance Program (MFRAP) and/or the Veterans’ Trust Fund (VTF).

Both programs provide critical assistance to service members, veterans, and their families across the Commonwealth. To donate, simply designate any amount of your refund to MFRAP and/or VTF on your state tax form when you file.

Learn more by clicking here.

Are you interested in a career in law enforcement? The Pennsylvania State Police is accepting applications for the 2026 Law and Leadership Academy.

This free, 15-week program gives participants a hands-on opportunity to experience what it’s like to train as a cadet and learn more about a career with the State Police. The Academy is offered at six locations across the Commonwealth.

To apply or learn more, click here.

Bob Merski

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358