Steelers' Hines Ward Honored by State Officials

The Senate last week honored former Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward for his efforts both on and off the field. Ward, 36, is widely recognized as someone who has used his celebrity status to do great things in local communities.

He received a proclamation from the governor and unanimous resolutions from both the House and Senate.

"I wanted to represent not only the city of Pittsburgh, but the whole state of Pennsylvania," Ward said. "I only thought that I had fans in Pittsburgh, but the Steeler Nation is all over. You guys have given me so much. Today is a big honor."

Ward played 14 seasons for the Steelers, earned two Super Bowl victories, set several team records and was named the team's most valuable player three times. He also has been active in his native South Korea, forming a foundation for biracial people there, and he created another group that works with inner-city children in PittsburghMemorial Day events across the region will honor Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Citizens can show their appreciation by taking time to attend.

Set Aside Some Time to Remember

I’m urging everyone who receives this email to take some time this week to remember the men and women who have given their lives in service of their country.

The wars in the Middle East have claimed more than 6,400 American soldiers, including 277 from Pennsylvania.  While there is nothing we can do to bring these soldiers back to their friends and families, we can promise that we will never forget their sacrifice.

Taking the time to attend one of the many Memorial Day events in the region is a small gesture that means a lot, not just to the families of the fallen, but to the soldiers still serving and the many veterans in the area.

You can also visit the Washington Post’s “Faces of the Fallen” website for a poignant reminder of what Memorial Day should be.

Coal Queen Visits Capitol, Addresses House and Senate

I hosted the reigning Pennsylvania Bituminous Coal Queen Victoria Buchtan during her visit to Harrisburg this week where she met the governor and addressed the Senate. 

Victoria, the 18-year-old daughter of Albert and Vanessa Buchtan, has followed in her mother’s footsteps. Vanessa was the 1983 Coal Queen.

In addition to her official duties and appearances, Victoria volunteers for the Salvation Army, sings at local sporting events and in nursing homes, and teaches modeling classes at the Center for the Performing Arts. A senior at Carmichaels High School, Victoria is the percussion section leader in the marching and concert bands, sings in the chorus, works for the school newspaper and participates in the Big Brother Big Sister program.

She plans to attend Robert Morris University, majoring in communications and theater and hopes to one day perform on Broadway.

Marcellus Shale Brings Jobs, Investment

On the steps of Capitol, I spoke to a mix of labor and business groups in support of the tremendous economic opportunity presented by Marcellus Shale.  Energy exploration has created new jobs and fueled an economic revival in the region. Soon, the industry will deliver badly needed money for environmental projects and local infrastructure.

Seven out of 10 natural gas industry hires are from Pennsylvania, and nine out of 10 are from Pennsylvania and neighboring states, according to Mike Narcavage, Marcellus Shale Coalition Workforce Committee co-chairman.

Job opportunities are still plentiful in the Marcellus Shale, with more than 3,400 openings in the natural gas industry right now, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry

Oil and Gas Expo Highlights Business Opportunities

While the Marcellus Shale industry is creating jobs for local workers, it’s also creating opportunity for local businesses.

More than 1,000 people turned out for the Tri-County Oil and Gas Expo at the Washington County Fairgrounds where 283 exhibitors offered information on the products and services needed to fuel the energy exploration industry.

The expo attracted exhibitors ranging from large energy companies to small, local suppliers that are ready to grow.

The next step will be bringing job creators and job seekers together at the Greene County Fairgrounds on June 8 for The Tri-County Oil & Gas Employment Expo.

Eldercare, Community Center Co-Host Open House

The new Waynesburg Community Center and its neighbor, Eldercare, held a joint open house recently to let the community see the what the facilities have to offer. Joining me at the event were County Commissioner Pam Snyder and Southwestern PA Area Agency on Aging Executive Director Leslie Grenfell.

Help for Veterans Looking for Employment

Military veterans looking for employment can locate jobs through the convenience of their home computers. These “virtual” career fairs are targeted toward particular service members or particular companies.

Upcoming events are:
May 30 Virtual Military Career Fair. The event will start at noon. To sign-up, visit www.brazenconnect.com/event/corp_gray_main_may_30
July 18-19 Virtual Military Career Fair for Marines. Marines must sign-up in advance at http://www.brazenconnect.com/event/marines_main_july_18_19