A Franklin County bridge has been dedicated in memory of U.S. Army Sgt. who was killed in Vietnam.  State representatives joined the family of Sgt. Melvin Grayson Ehrhart last Friday (October 16th) to dedicate the bridge in the soldier’s honor.  Ehrhart continued to direct his troops in combat in April 1969, despite being seriously wounded. He was killed by an enemy rocket-propelled grenade. Representative John Hershey (R-Mifflin/Juniata/Franklin) introduced legislation to name the Sgt. Melvin G. Ehrhart Memorial Bridge on Jack Road over Back Creek on the border of Hamilton and St. Thomas townships.

The Pennsylvania Senate approved a comprehensive package of bipartisan reforms yesterday to improve the delivery of fire and EMS services throughout the state.  House Bill 1673 includes more than a dozen different proposals that were recommended in the 2018 Senate Resolution 6 Report to strengthen fire and EMS services in the Commonwealth. The bill contains key provisions including improvements to grant and loan programs for fire companies, new measures to support recruitment and retention of fire personnel, and critical changes in the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.

Authorities in Huntingdon County are investigating animal cruelty.  On October 11th, State Police responded to the Tatman Run boat launch near Old Plank Road and Chipmunk Crossing in Lincoln Township.  A large white dog, possibly a breed of pitbull, was found deceased, floating near the shore of Raystown Lake.  The dog had a rope tied around its neck that was attached to a large rock.  Anyone with information should contact State Police at Huntingdon, at 814-627-3161.

PennDOT reminds motorists that traffic restrictions are in place as a stream bank restoration project continues on Route 103 in Granville Township, Mifflin County. The work zone is located approximately one mile south of Juniata Terrace and continues for about half a mile. With the southbound lane (heading toward Newton Hamilton) closed, temporary traffic signals are enforcing an alternating traffic pattern through the area. Drivers are also reminded that the open, northbound lane has a 10-foot width restriction. PennDOT anticipates completing work and reopening the southbound lane to traffic in early November.