Fine-tune Your E-Updates

As many of you know, "Mike's Memo" is a tax dollar-saving alternative to a printed and/or mailed district newsletter.  I appreciate the feedback provided by my constituents and I want you to know your comments and opinions are read and valued.

In addition to "Mike's Memo", I send out periodic updates on government reform, education, agriculture, and state spending, just to name a few.  In the New Year, I intend to organize advisory groups focused around many of these subjects.  I am hopeful this effort will help you to become more involved in your government.  Click here to update your information and to register for e-updates.

Pennsylvanians Encouraged to Turn Down, Seal Off and Save Up

Home heating costs are higher than ever and, combined with increasing food and gas prices, staying warm this winter could be very difficult. Pennsylvania is doing everything possible to provide financial assistance to those who need help paying home heating bills and weatherization expenses, but making sure you have the resources to outlast winter starts with you ... the homeowner.  With a little planning and a little knowledge, you will be protected from the cold and your heat can last all winter.  Below are a few helpful tips and resources.

• Turn down your thermostat. Setting your thermostat at 65 degrees during the day and lowering it to 60 degrees when you’re not at home or asleep can save you as much as $500 a year. If you install a programmable thermostat, it’ll take care of that for you automatically. Learn more...
• Seal off. Wasted heat costs everyone. Keep your heat where it’s needed by closing heating vents in unused rooms. Make sure any open vents are clean and that furniture isn’t blocking them. Adding insulation also lowers your energy bills and provides a lifetime of savings. Learn more...  You may even qualify for a tax credit.
• Save up. When you act, you can save as much as $740 a year. Doing these small steps can save you more money, help your heating budget go a lot further and help you stay warm all winter. Learn more...

Election Day

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, and regardless of which candidates you are supporting, remember to exercise your right to vote. Voting is a precious right guaranteed by our Constitution and one that should be taken seriously.  After all, both the United States and Pennsylvania Constitutions begin with three words that summarize the key to our governments ... "We the People."

Polls are open across Pennsylvania from 7a.m. – 8p.m.  Being prepared on Election Day will help you save time and make informed decisions about the candidates when you go into the poll booth. Click here for information to help you get ready for Election Day.  Keep in mind, if you have questions at your polling place; ask the poll workers or Judge of Elections. 

For more information on these issues or other legislative and state topics, or if you are unable to open the bill links, visit the Pennsylvania General Assembly website at www.legis.state.pa.us. 

Please feel free to contact me at any time on state-related issues that are of concern to you.  I may be reached through e-mail at mfolmer@pasen.gov, my website, or any one of my offices listed below.