HARRISBURG, July 2, 2006 - State Sen. Richard A. Kasunic today offered a resolution that would declare today "Pennsylvania's Day of Remembrance" to honor 9/11 victims and their families.

"The September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks against this nation will forever remain heavy in the hearts and minds of Americans everywhere," Kasunic said. "It was a day of unimaginable brutality and cowardice from terrorist hijackers who used airplanes as virtual missiles to kill thousands of innocent people."

"This day of remembrance will enable Pennsylvanians to express sorrow for those who perished, as well as a renewed commitment to the cause of freedom." Kasunic also mentioned the bravery of the passengers of Flight 93, who perished in Somerset County.

"The 9/11 reflections will be particularly poignant in Somerset County where courageous passengers fought back and stopped hijackers from causing further devastation," Kasunic said. "Their bravery will forever stand as a symbol of this nation's resolve to defend at all costs the precious freedoms that Americans cherish."

Kasunic's resolution passed with a unanimous vote.

HARRISBURG, July 1, 2006 -- With the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program's income limits being raised from $15,000 to $35,000, State Sen. Richard A. Kasunic is encouraging senior citizens to sign up now to have an application mailed to them early next year.

"By more than doubling the program's income limit, we expect to provide benefits for an additional 400,000 seniors throughout the Commonwealth," Kasunic said. "Signing up now will help assure that an application is mailed to you when they become available next February."

By virtue of the recently enacted property tax relief law, the income limit for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program was more than doubled to $35,000 (only half of income earned from Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and Railroad Retirement Tier 1 benefits counts toward the income limit).

Kasunic said seniors can sign up for a rebate application now either online at www.papropertytaxrelief.com or by calling toll-free at 1-888-222-9190.

He said rebate checks should be issued in July 2007, based on property taxes or rent paid during 2006. Those eligible for the program are Pennsylvanians 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities over 18 years of age.

Earlier this week, the Governor signed into law a historic property tax relief law (Special Session Act 1) that Kasunic supported. The Act significantly expanded the program's eligibility and rebate amounts.

"This new law completely eliminates taxes for an estimated 150,000 seniors across the state," Kasunic said. "I am proud to support have supported a property tax relief plan that provides the greatest relief to those who need it most - senior citizens on fixed incomes."

The Westmorland Human Opportunities Head Start center in Donegal is now taking applications for the 2004/2005 school year. Head Start is free for families with preschool age children (ages 3-5) who meet the Federal Income Guidelines.

A child development program is offered along with comprehensive education, nutrition, health, parent involvement and social services. For more information about an application or the program. Please call 724-593-2255 or 724-834-1260, ext. 350.