As Chair of the Pennsylvania Legislative Latino Caucus, I want to take a moment to highlight Hispanic Heritage Month. This month allows us to celebrate our rich and diverse cultures, and the stories, and contributions of Latinos throughout the Commonwealth. Our community’s impact is felt in every corner of Pennsylvania, and our state is better because of you. I am honored to represent the Latino population -- and I'm so proud of how far we've come -- and know that we have much further to go. I encourage all Pennsylvanians, no matter their heritage, to attend local events, support Latino-owned businesses, share family histories, and listen to voices that have been marginalized. In doing so, we deepen not only our understanding of one another, but also our shared sense of belonging. 

I joined the House Policy Committee this week to discuss the destigmatization of mental health struggles. We discussed various types of breakthrough treatments and heard testimonies about the lives that these treatments have saved. If a new treatment can bring you relief, you don’t want to find government red tape in your way. We are working to make treatments ready for Pennsylvania’s communities once they are FDA approved.  

There are new grants available. Visit my website to see current funding opportunities. 

To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and honor Pennsylvania’s strong commitment to education, America250PA will be awarding $250,000 in scholarships to deserving Pennsylvania students attending in-state colleges next school year. Any Pennsylvania high school senior who plans to attend a college or university in Pennsylvania for the 2026-27 academic year may apply. Twenty-five scholarships, totaling $10,000 each, will be awarded. Applications are due January 31, 2026. More details, including matches by partner institutions, can be found here. 

The Borough of West Reading is now accepting applications for a part-time position as a Public Works Laborer working up to 24 hours per week through November 30. Qualified candidates must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License with no driving violations at the time of applying. Duties will include building and ground maintenance and street and utility repairs. Interested candidates should submit an application to West Reading Borough Hall, 500 Chestnut Street, West Reading, or via email to info@westreadingborough.org. Review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. All positions are subject to completing a background and medical examination.

Did you know that your State Representative has a Youth Advisory Council dedicated to civic engagement? This dynamic group of about 10 high school students, who come from all across the Legislative District, meets every two weeks with a clear mission: to make a real impact on our community. Currently, they are hard at work creating a community-driven resolution to address rising issues like substance abuse and mental health in youth communities. This involves meticulous research, public input, and a dedication to understanding the legislative process from the ground up. In their efforts, they are collaborating with local organizations, including the Berks Civic Table, a partnership that has helped strengthen their legislative knowledge and broaden their network. Together, these young leaders are transforming their ideas and those of others – showcasing that young voices need to be involved in the development of politics. 

I am now accepting applications for additional members of my Youth Council. You can apply through the QR code below or click here.

Last week I attended the United Way of Berks County’s Annual Fundraising Kickoff at FirstEnergy Stadium. This day was dedicated to the countless people and businesses in the community that have supported the United Way. Thank you to the community for showing up and showing out!  

The Reading Fire Department and Mayor Morán hosted a 9/11 Memorial Service last week to commemorate the 24th Anniversary of the tragic attack at the United States World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Somerset, Pennsylvania. Thank you to the Reading Fire Department and Mayor Morán for inviting me and for bringing the community together in solidarity.  

Last week I also had the opportunity to break bread with my constituents Denise Curan and Mike Baxter while attending the Reading Hospital-Tower Health Champions of Care 2025 supporting the future of health care event.   

At this event three exceptional individuals were recognized and honored for their dedication and embodying the true spirit of championship in health care. 

Sue Perrotty was honored with the Visionary Health Leadership Award for her transformative leadership as CEO of Tower Health. Chris G. Kraras was presented with the Legacy of Health Partnership Award for his enduring partnership with the organization and steadfast dedication to the community. Dr. Vinit Shah was recognized with the Spirit of Reading Hospital Award, for her compassionate leadership as Division Chief of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.  

Congratulations and thank you for making a difference in our community. 

I met with church leaders to discuss HB 1513.  I and Representative Jill Cooper are the prime sponsors of HB 1513.  This bill requires pornographic websites to verify the age of all website visitors to protect minors from inappropriate, harmful, and damaging material. Nearly 200 Pennsylvanian pastors, church ministry leaders, and Christian counselors representing over 2,000 churches and Christian institutions and an estimated 200,000 congregation members and workers have signed a letter in support of this legislation. Thank you for the visit; it was a pleasure to meet you all and hear your testimonies, your support, and advocacy work on this legislation! 

I had the honor of attending the Haven Behavioral Hospital of Eastern Pennsylvania 15th Anniversary last week. This hospital has provided a safe, nurturing environment for the treatment of complex mental health issues in our community, and I am grateful to have them as a resource for our neighbors.

The 6th Ward’s Block Party was a great success this year! Thank you to everyone who came out, I was proud to be a part of the celebration of our diverse and thriving communities here in Reading! 

This week I also attended the “Adulting Sucks” Shark Tank with Barrio Alegria held at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Reading. Adulting Sucks is a seven-week financial education program by Barrio Alegria that helps participants learn the basics of money without putting them to sleep. It includes topics such as budgeting, credit, investing, and entrepreneurship. The program concludes with a Shark Tank-style event where participants pitch business ideas (some real and some for just fun) to practice teamwork, public speaking, and financial planning. For more information, please visit their website at www.barrioalegria.com.

The Reading Public Museum will host a Hispanic Heritage celebration on September 20 from 1 PM – 4 PM at 500 Museum Rd. There will be FREE museum admission, local community groups, educational activities and demonstrations. 

West Reading’s Annual Fall Fest will be on September 20 from 11 AM – 7 PM, spanning the 400-700 blocks of Penn Avenue. The streets will be closed so festival goers can indulge in 200 craft and retail vendors, including a wide array of food and beverage choices, and there will be live music on three stages! 

I will host the Panel Discussion “Let’s Talk Mammograms,” complete with mocktails and candid conversations with Reading Hospital medical experts, on Tuesday, September 23 from 4:30 PM – 8 PM at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, 201 Washington Street in Reading. There will be a photobooth, crafts, free gift bags, and more! I look forward to seeing you there!    

The Sixth Annual Berks Cultural Diversity Festival will be in Reading City Park at Washington Street and North 11th Street on Saturday, September 27 from 12 PM – 6 PM. There will be live music, performances, food from all around the world, information on available resources, and more! 

Pennsylvania State Capitol

104-A East Wing Main Capitol
Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 772-1858

District Office

1111 Penn Ave.
Wyomissing, PA 19610

(484) 577-2756