New bridge plaza lights

This afternoon, new lights were being installed at the entrance to the Veterans Memorial Bridge. According to a spokesman on the scene, the lights cost $6,000 each (installed) and were paid for by a federal grant.  They are illuminated by LED lamps.  Lights were also installed on the Wrightsville side.  Eventually, new lights will span the entire bridge.

It was a little foggy yesterday afternoon

At 3:30, the fog was quite thick down by the bridge.

About 12 minutes later, it had cleared (?) a bit.

Here's How Long Unemployment Benefits Now Last In Each State

On December 28, the Emergency Unemployment Compensation program (EUC) expired causing 1.3 million Americans to lose their unemployment benefits.
Since then Senate Democrats have attempted to pass another extension, but have not been able to come to an agreement with Republicans on how to pay for it. Yesterday, Republicans filibustered two procedural votes on legislation to extend benefits.

MORE HERE:
http://www.businessinsider.com/heres-how-long-unemployment-benefits-now-last-in-each-state-2014-1

'Passports' mean discounts in Columbia, Marietta, Wrightsville

The public is invited to travel to the river town area of Columbia, Marietta, and Wrightsville to shop, dine, and visit during the Passport to River Towns program.

Quaint antique shops, interactive museums, cozy eateries, and shops located off the beaten path are among the venues highlighted in the initiative coordinated by the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce.

A variety of local businesses have signed on as program vendors and are busy designing Passport to River Towns benefits for the participating public. This program, which showcases participating businesses in the region by designating each as a travel destination for passport holders, will run on weekends beginning Friday, Jan. 17, and ending Sunday, Feb. 16.

Paperwork accompanying the passport will verify hours of operation for each venue. Some businesses may be closed on Sundays, while others may extend their offers throughout the week.

Passport to River Towns offers participants specially designed discounts or promotions awarded only to holders of an SVCC program passport. When visiting participating venues, simply show the Passport to River Towns document, get a destination "stamp," and enjoy the program benefit offered at that location.

Program benefits will vary by location. Discover some hidden gems of the region when you visit.

Program benefits extend beyond the on-site promotions. Those who manage to receive an approved vendor stamp from each participating business may enter their completed passport in a prize drawing.

The drawing for prizes will be held at the SVCC Visitors Center on Monday, Feb. 24,. Completed passports must be submitted by the Friday before the drawing to qualify for entry.

The price for each passport is easily recouped in the discounts and benefits of the program. At a cost of $5, Passport to River Towns is an affordable opportunity to enjoy a day out with family or friends.

Passports are currently available for sale at the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center and many participating businesses, including Columbia Market House, Geltz Götz Goodeze, Gramma's Home Accents, Half Nuts Popcorn, Hinkle's Pharmacy, Rivertowne Antique Center, Sister's Treasures, Trin's Beans Café, and Watermelon Rind.

Other participating businesses include Keagy's Produce, National Watch & Clock Museum, Old State Theatre Antique Mall, Shank's Tavern, and The Turkey Hill Experience.

Passports will remain available for sale until the end of the Passport to River Towns program.

For more information on the Passport to River Towns promotion, contact the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center at 684-5249. Proceeds benefit the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/944082_-Passports--mean-discounts-in-Columbia--Marietta--Wrightsville.html

East Petersburg woman helped man flee to New York after shooting in Columbia, police allege

GO HERE:
http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/944562_East-Petersburg-woman-helped-man-flee-to-New-York-after-shooting-in-Columbia--police-allege.html

Weisser joins Columbia council as borough sorts out leadership positions

http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/943641_Weisser-joins-Columbia-council-as-borough-sorts-out-leadership-positions-.html

Columbia's grant aimed at boosting health insurance enrollment

Columbia Borough and Dallas aren't usually mentioned in the same breath. Now both are among the 12 cities receiving grants from the National League of Cities as part of its initiative to expand health care access.

In addition to a $22,600 grant, Columbia will get practical guidance from the NLC to develop a plan to reach out and enroll children and families in Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program.

MORE HERE:
http://lancasteronline.com/article/local/943383_Columbia-s-grant-aimed-at-boosting-health-insurance-enrollment.html