Latest news with #LisaBaker
Yahoo
a day ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Sen. Baker announces Judiciary Committee approval of public safety bills
Jun. 4—WILKES-BARRE — Three significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety and modernizing Pennsylvania's criminal statutes were approved by the Judiciary Committee, which she serves as chair, Sen. Lisa Baker said on Wednesday. "These bills reflect a thoughtful approach to balancing innovation and public safety," said Baker, R-Lehman Township. "They represent another step forward in ensuring our justice system keeps pace with the times." The approved legislation includes: —Senate Bill 635: Baker said there are rising reports of drug dealers targeting people staying at recovery houses as they work to try and break the cycle of addiction. "Allowing for sentencing enhancements for those pedaling drugs within 1,000 feet of these facilities ensures sufficient penalties are in place to counteract this deadly practice and protect vulnerable individuals," Baker said. —Senate Bill 649: Baker said deep-fakes are being used to commit a variety of costly and disruptive crimes. These include scamming the elderly, embarrassing and extorting public figures and private individuals, and interfering with political campaigns. "Given the novelty of deep-fakes and their potential for misuse, our crimes code must be adapted to allow prosecutors to pursue these bad actors," Baker said. —Senate Bill 739: Criminals are ever resourceful in exploiting new technology for illegal purposes. Organized car theft operations are turning to devices that intercept key fob signals. Baker said this measure seeks to combat those who are manipulating legitimate key fob signals to steal vehicles, and the valuables sometimes kept inside, by making it a first-degree misdemeanor and ensuring the law keeps pace with technological developments. "As technology advances, so do the methods employed by those seeking to exploit it for criminal purposes," said Baker. "By updating our laws to include offenses like digital forgery and pirating key fobs, we are taking proactive steps to protect Pennsylvanians from emerging threats." The bills now head to the full Senate for consideration. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Sen. Baker's legislation to strengthen PFA orders approved by Senate
Jun. 3—WILKES-BARRE — Sen. Lisa Baker on Tuesday said law enforcement officers put themselves on the line every time they serve a PFA. "It's only right that the agencies performing this vital work receive the support and reimbursement they deserve," said Sen. Baker, R-Lehman Township. "This bill ensures that fairness is built into the process." The Pennsylvania Senate has approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Baker to improve the enforcement of Protection from Abuse (PFA) petitions and orders and ensure law enforcement agencies are properly reimbursed. Sen. Baker said Senate Bill 302 corrects a longstanding imbalance in the law that directs a portion of PFA-related court fees exclusively to county sheriffs — even in cases where local police departments or state troopers carry out the service of the paperwork. Sen. Baker said the legislation stems from concerns raised by Dallas Township Police Chief Doug Higgins and an audit conducted by Luzerne County Controller Walter Griffith, which highlighted that municipal departments were absorbing the cost of serving PFA orders without compensation. The bill also clarifies that only sheriffs or trained law enforcement officers — not private individuals — should be authorized to serve PFAs, addressing a critical safety concern and reinforcing professional standards in enforcement. Sen. Baker said the bill outlines the reimbursement process — while the $25 service fee will continue to be collected through the existing surcharge, sheriffs will be required to transfer the fee to the agency completing the service. "We are working to make sure no victim faces unnecessary delays or uncertainty when seeking protection," Sen. Baker said. "This reform is about accountability, safety and making sure the system functions the way it was intended." Senate Bill 302 now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
7NEWS
27-05-2025
- Health
- 7NEWS
Wellness gurus swear by this bone broth for improving gut health, skin, hair and nails
Improving your health doesn't have to expensive or complicated. In fact, just one simple switch can help to promote glowing skin, stronger hair and strengthened gut health. That's why hundreds of shoppers are implementing bone broth into their daily routines. A popular choice for wellness experts and celebrities alike, it's the secret to improving immunity, cognitive function, mood, sleep quality and digestion. And you can pick up a jar for just $30 from Nutra Organics. Sworn by models, athletes and wellness gurus, the delicious Beef Bone Broth makes a huge 6.25L (approx. 25 cups) — all you need to do is mix one heaped teaspoon with boiling water. Aussie-made and free from artificial flavours, it's rich in essential minerals and over 40 per cent of collagen protei n, making it a tasty addition to your wellness routine. Bone broth has endless benefits, from glowing skin to thicker hair and an improved gut health. Despite its current popularity in wellness circles, bone broth is far from a fleeting trend. Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to strengthen kidneys and support digestion, bone broth earned the nickname 'liquid gold' for good reason. Fast forward to today, and bone broth has re-emerged as a favourite among health-conscious individuals, endorsed by athletes and those in the wellness space. Unlike many wellness fads that fade over time, bone broth's resurgence is backed by both tradition and science, with a growing body of evidence supporting its benefits. Lisa Baker, a Nutritionist at Nutra Organics, highlights why bone broth is so effective for gut health. 'Bone broth concentrates are wonderful for boosting gut health,' she explains. 'Nutra Organics Bone Broth Concentrates contain over 40 per cent collagen protein, and our collagen protein includes the amino acid L-glutamine. L-glutamine feeds the cells lining the gut, helping them create a strong surface and healthy lining.' 'This, in turn, supports the immune system because over 70 per cent of it resides in the gut.' Nutra Organics' bone broth also contains apple cider vinegar, which naturally enhances the extraction of collagen and other essential nutrients from the bones — ensuring maximum benefit with every sip. The brand's bone broth jars retail from $29.95 and come in a range of flavours including beef, vegetable and chicken. But the power of bone broth doesn't stop at the digestive system. Thanks to the intricate gut-brain axis, the state of one's gut can directly influence mood, cognitive function, and sleep. A well-nourished gut supports serotonin production — a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, promotes healthy digestion, and even contributes to more restful sleep. In this way, caring for the gut creates a ripple effect across the entire body and mind. For those seeking a delicious, natural, and nutrient-rich way to support whole-body wellness, bone broth offers a compelling solution. Whether enjoyed as a comforting drink or incorporated into everyday meals, it provides a versatile and effective method to enhance digestion, boost immunity, sharpen mental clarity, and promote emotional wellbeing — without fillers, preservatives, or empty promises. Rave Reviews Shoppers have given Nutra Organics' bone broth a 4.8-star rating on its website. ' This is a kitchen staple and is a delicious addition to my cooking,' one impressed shopper wrote. 'My favourite bone broth, I drink it at least twice a day,' a second person added. 'Super convenient and delicious. I use it in all my meals,' a third reviewer commented.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Luzerne County received $11M in Local Share Account grants for 84 projects
May 20—WILKES-BARRE — Luzerne County received $11,055,891 in Local Share Account grants for 84 projects. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development announced statewide LSA grants for more than 1,100 projects, totaling more than $345 million. "Whether it's supporting emergency services, investing in recreational spaces or working to improve infrastructure, these projects directly respond to the needs expressed by the people and municipalities we represent," said Sen. Lisa Baker, R-Lehman Township. "We commend local officials for submitting good projects for state funding consideration." In addition to Baker, other state legislators released information about projects in their districts, including, Sen. Marty Flynn, D-Scranton; Sen. Dave Argall, R-Pottsville; Rep. Brenda Pugh, R-Dallas Township; Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski, D-Wilkes-Barre; Rep. Alec Ryncavage, R-Hanover Township; Rep. Jim Haddock, D-Pittston Township; Rep. Jamie Walsh, R-Ross Township; and Rep. Dane Watro, R-Hazleton. Grants awarded: Avoca Borough —$155,467 for the purchase of a backhoe. —$157,615.00 for the purchase of a new skid steer with attachments. Black Creek Township —$97,428 for a new skid steer. Butler Township —$180,000 to purchase a new plow truck. Conyngham Borough —$75,000 for improvements to Wishing Willow Park. Conyngham Township —$63,558 for road repair equipment. Dallas Borough —$150,000 on behalf of Back Mountain Regional Fire and EMS Fire Rescue for a new truck. Dallas Township —$65,000 to purchase and up-fit a police vehicle. Dupont Borough —$22,000 to create a Memorial Park on Oak Street. —$190,000 for an additional pump and equipment upgrades at the Quail Hill Pump Station. Duryea Borough —$80,176 for upgrades to the Brennan-Regan American Legion Post 858. —$223,724 for the Phase II renovation of Healey Playground. Edwardsville Borough —$150,000 for the resurfacing and associated work for the improvement of five streets in the Edwardsville Borough. Exeter Borough —$300,000 to replace and separate sanitary and storm sewer systems along Barber, Orchard and Lincoln streets. —$50,000 for Westside Revitalization Phase V along Route 11/Wyoming Avenue. Fairview Township —$60,000 to purchase of a maintenance vehicle Forty Fort Borough —$75,000 to purchase maintenance equipment for roadway and tree removal projects. —$50,000 to purchase and install servers for the police department and administrative office. —$65,000 to purchase and up-fit a police vehicle. Franklin Township —$90,000 to purchase road equipment. Freeland Borough —$205,000 for ADA accessibility improvements at the Freeland YMCA, which will support their efforts to offer childcare services at the location. Hanover Township —$250,000 for resurfacing of Division and Liberty Streets. —$50,000 on behalf of the Street Art Society of NEPA for the painting of four murals. —$400,000 for the Solar for Schools Grant Program. Hazle Township —$98,155 for the purchase of a dump truck with accessories. —$250,000 on behalf of the Municipal Authority of Hazle Township for sanitary sewer rehabilitation. Hazleton City —$84,932 for the purchase of a Multipurpose Utility Vehicle. —$189,999 on behalf of the Hazleton Fire Department for renovations to three of its fire stations. Hunlock Township —$86,545 for the purchase of a brush truck for use in Hunlock Township. Huntington Township —$87,740 to resurface Hortop Road in Huntington Township. Jackson Township —$65,000 to purchase and up-fit a police vehicle. —$300,000 on behalf of the Back Mountain Community Partnership to purchase shared public works equipment for road departments. Jenkins Township —$161,630 for the purchase of a loader backhoe for use by the public works department. —$150,000 to make building renovations at the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce. —$41,031 to install an emergency preparedness brine system at its Department of Public Works building. Kingston Municipality —$200,000 to purchase a new compaction truck. Laflin Borough —$159,829 on behalf of the Laflin Fire Department for the purchase of Fire Department Air Packs. Larksville Borough —$30,000 to replace HVAC units at the Municipal Building —$20,000 on behalf of American Legion 655 Larksville for HVAC improvements. Laurel Run Borough —$62,946 for renovations to the Public Works pole barn. Lehman Township —$63,244 to purchase a new vehicle for the police department Nanticoke City —$176,000 for parking improvements at City Hall. Nescopeck Township —$17,950 to replace the roof of the township office building. Nescopeck Township —$27,125 to renovate the floor of the township office building. Newport Township —$60,000 for sidewalk improvements along Main Street in Glen Lyon. Pittston City —$300,000 to construct an outdoor stage. —$125,000 for parking lot improvements. —$78,241 to repair composting equipment at the Greater Pittston Regional Compost Facility. —$210,000 for exterior renovation and security upgrades at the Greater Pittston YMCA. Pittston Township —$294,797 to construct a first responder training facility and range. —$17,975 to build a hometown heroes monument. —$156,145 to purchase rescue equipment. —$92,355.00 to purchase a police vehicle. Plains Township —$100,000 to renovate the Legion building. —$100,000 to construct a new police station. Plymouth Borough —$40,000 to construct a new playground. Rice Township —$61,987 for road improvements. Shickshinny Borough —$40,000 to complete renovations at the wastewater treatment plant. Slocum Township —$160,000 on behalf of the Slocum Township Volunteer Fire Company for site work and building design for its future fire station. Sugarloaf Township —$160,000 for the final phase of the Joe Larock Recreation Field rehabilitation project. Swoyersville Borough —$75,000 to construct a street department equipment garage. Union Township —$100,000 to purchase a compact track loader with planer and boom mower attachments to be used in Union Township West Pittston Borough —$60,000 to repair a senior housing facility. —$213,866 for the purchase of a recycling packer truck. West Hazleton Borough —$273,900 to make improvements to 4th Street. White Haven Borough —$380,000 to finally complete the transformation of a former engine repair shop into a multi-purpose library and heritage visitor center. Wilkes-Barre City —$70,000.00 for Bulldog BBQ Sauce South Franklin Street Greenspace for the rehabilitation of a demolished lot. —$61,924 for Fire Department/Emergency Medical Services for the purchase of a monitor/defibrillator. —$346,144 for Police Department Vehicle Purchase. —$199,081 for Wilkes-Barre General Municipal Authority new equipment for golf infrastructure improvements. —$200,000 for Wilkes-Barre Irem Temple renovation of a minaret. —$200,000 for King's College Safety and Security Project Phase 1. —$63,74 for Mia Bella's Gourmet Candles new equipment to purchase a label maker and oil filling machine. —$50,000 for Wilkes-Barre Moving River Ministries former Planters Peanuts building restoration —$38,225 for Wilkes-Barre Northeast Counseling Services building renovation —$120,685 for Wilkes-Barre Project Elevate for renovations to the Chamber building. —$300,000 for Wilkes-Barre R/C Theatres Movies 14 seating renovation. —$200,000 for Wilkes-Barre Wright Center Health City Hub Accessibility & Bee-utification Project —$115,000 for Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) for first and second floor renovations. —$131,388 for Wilkes-Barre Welcome Home Affordable Housing to construct a single-family home to be located at 43 Monroe St. —$73,437 for Wilkes-Barre YMCA wellness facility upgrades for the purchase of gym equipment. Wilkes-Barre Township —$205,500 to purchase four 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 regular cab 4×4 dump trucks for the street department. Wright Township —$350,000 for road repair on Terrace Drive and Oak Drive. Wyoming Borough —$130,000 for road repairs. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Baker's bill to improve PFA order enforcement approved by Judiciary Committee
May 15—WILKES-BARRE — Sen. Lisa Baker on Thursday said legislation she has sponsored would bring fairness and clarity to a system that is disadvantaging local law enforcement and the Pennsylvania State Police. The Senate Judiciary Committee, which Sen. Baker serves as chair, this week approved legislation to strengthen the enforcement of Protection from Abuse (PFA) orders and ensure fair reimbursement for law enforcement agencies that serve these critical court orders. "Departments performing this important and sometimes dangerous work should be compensated for their efforts, just as sheriffs are," Sen. Baker said. Senate Bill 302 addresses a flaw in existing law that prevents local police departments from being reimbursed when they serve PFA petitions and orders on defendants, despite being authorized to do so. Currently, the $25 service fee included in the $100 surcharge on PFA defendants is directed solely to sheriffs, regardless of who performs the service. The need for reform was brought to Sen. Baker's attention by Dallas Township Police Chief Doug Higgins — following an audit by Luzerne County Controller Walter Griffith — that revealed local law enforcement agencies were effectively donating their time and resources to serve PFAs without reimbursement. "Police departments are stretched thin and as PFAs increase in the county, it becomes cumbersome to get them served," Chief Higgins said. "In the past, departments would only serve PFAs after regular court hours, and on weekends and holidays, but we are now serving them around the clock. With this new legislation, we will be able to regain some of the cost to local municipalities and the Pennsylvania State Police." In addition to ensuring equitable distribution of the service fee, Sen. Baker said the legislation also clarifies that only sheriffs or properly trained law enforcement officers may serve PFA petitions and orders — eliminating any confusion in current law that could allow private citizens to perform this hazardous duty. "This is a commonsense step," said Controller Griffith. "All law enforcement agencies are dealing with funding and staffing issues. This legislation will help ensure they are compensated for the duties they are performing on behalf of the courts." Sen. Baker said an amendment to the bill clarifies the reimbursement process: the $25 fee will initially be distributed to the sheriff, who must then forward it to another agency if that agency performed the service. "Victims of abuse rely on swift and safe enforcement of PFA orders," Baker said. "This legislation helps ensure that responsibility falls to those best trained and equipped to handle it." Senate Bill 302 now moves to the full Senate for consideration. Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
