My office will close on Friday, August 29 at 12:00 PM and will reopen on Tuesday, September 2 at 9:00 AM in observance of Labor Day.
Please note that my e-newsletter next week will be sent on Thursday, September 4.
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Last week, Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman delivered a floor speech accusing Democrats of neglecting rural Pennsylvania. That claim does not reflect the reality of Democrats’ work and appears to be an attempt to avoid honest, good-faith discussions on public transit funding.
My Democratic colleagues and I are proud of our record supporting all of our Commonwealth’s communities. We have expanded broadband access in rural areas, invested in agricultural and conservation programs, and promoted workforce development that benefits small towns and rural regions. As Chair of the House Health Committee, I have personally worked to advance legislation establishing a rural health care grant program. We are working for the entire commonwealth, and robust public transit funding across the state is critical to the success of all Pennsylvanians.
Without adequate state investment, public transit services risk reductions that would affect communities statewide. Diminished services and deferred infrastructure maintenance would limit access to jobs, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, isolating towns that rely on these vital connections to larger regional hubs.
House Democrats remain committed to advancing a budget that equitably serves all regions of Pennsylvania, and I urge Senate Republican leadership to return to negotiations in good faith.
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New Scheduling Tool Available
My office has launched a new online scheduling tool on my website to make it easier for you to set up meetings with me and my staff.
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Community Events and Resources
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Adopt-A-Lot Program Updates
The City of Pittsburgh is updating and expanding its Adopt-A-Lot Program, which gives residents the opportunity to transform city-owned vacant land into temporary, community-serving spaces.
As the program enters its next chapter, the city is seeking community input to shape a more flexible and inclusive initiative. Residents are encouraged to share their ideas on how Adopt-A-Lot can continue to support urban growers and expand to meet broader community needs.
Learn more about the program and provide feedback here.
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Apply for a Pardon Online in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has launched a new online pardon application, making it easier for people with criminal convictions to clear their records. A pardon, granted by the governor after review by the five-member Board of Pardons, erases a conviction from your record and restores rights such as serving on a jury, holding public office, and applying for jobs and housing without disclosing the conviction.
Anyone with a criminal conviction may apply for a pardon. The online application is available in 18 languages, including English and Spanish, and requires supporting documents such as court records, sentencing orders, and a personal statement. While paper applications are still accepted, the new system is designed to be faster and more accessible.
Learn more and apply online here.
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Friended by Shakespeare
Today & Sat., August 22 & 23, 7:00 PM | 937 Liberty Ave., 15222
Pittsburgh Shakespeare in the Parks presents “Friended by Shakespeare,” a witty, heartfelt one-man performance by Stoney Richards exploring the world of William Shakespeare. Proceeds support the company’s 2025 production of Macbeth and its mission to provide free, outdoor Shakespeare performances for the community.
Learn more and get tickets here.
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Greenfield Yard Sale and Neighborhood Block Party
Saturday, August 23, 8:00 AM | Greenfield
The annual Greenfield Yard Sale and Neighborhood Block Party returns with dozens of sellers and support from local businesses. Shoppers can explore a central sale area at Greenfield School and visit vendors on Coleman Street outside Alternate Histories, located at 517 Greenfield Ave. Maps, restrooms, and additional vendors will also be available at Alternate Histories. This community event offers an opportunity to shop, connect, and enjoy the neighborhood.
Free and open to the public.
Learn more here.
View the map of all the yard sales here.
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yArt Sale
Saturday, August 23, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Pittsburgh Center for Arts & Media
Both an art show and a yard sale, Pittsburgh artists are selling their work, and also extra material or scraps that they no longer need.
Learn more here.
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28th Annual Shadyside... The Art Festival
Saturday, August 23 & Sunday August 24, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Walnut Street
All are invited to view a diverse collection of artwork from both nationally recognized and local artists at this outdoor art festival.
Free.
Learn more here.
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Mural-making at the Frick
Saturday, August 23, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | 7227 Reynolds St.
All are invited to participate in creating a collaborative community mural at the Frick. This is part of the “Summer Explorer Series” which includes drop-in events catered to visitors of any age.
Free.
Learn more here.
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Squirrel Hill Night Market
Saturday, August 23, 6-10 PM | Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill from Forbes Avenue to Beacon Street
Murray Avenue will be turned into an open-air market full of vendors and entertainment. Sen. Jay Costa and I will be sharing a booth with information on state issues and will be available to assist with senior bus passes and other constituent services. Stop by and say hello!
Learn more here.
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Nonprofit: Is Starting a Nonprofit Right for You
Tuesday, August 26, 2025, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | CLP Main & Virtual
Learn about the legal and logistical steps involved in starting a nonprofit. This program will be held in the Job & Career Education Center on the second floor of CLP Main, as well as virtually.
Free.
Learn more and RSVP here.
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Repairing Together: Naming Loss While Fueling Change
Wednesday, August 27, 6:15–8:30 PM | Anathan, 1620 Murray Ave. 15217
NCJW Pittsburgh is hosting an evening of connection and action to honor personal, systemic, and collective losses while fueling movements for change. The program features a guest speaker from the Women’s Law Project, who will share insights from her work supporting youth access to reproductive care and advocating for justice beyond the courtroom. The evening will include a meal, a collective care practice, and opportunities to connect and organize for a future rooted in truth and possibility. Childcare will be provided with limited capacity.
Free and open to the public. Registration is required.
Learn more and register here.
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Parks on Tap Beer Garden – Final Fridays
Friday, July 29, 3:00–9:00 PM | Schenley Park Visitors Center
Enjoy cold local beer, food trucks, and scenic trails at this monthly pop-up beer garden from Eleventh Hour Brewing. Held under the tent at Schenley Park Visitors Center, this event features a limited-edition Summer in the Parks Lager and supports local parks. No registration required.
Free to attend; food and drink available for purchase.
Learn more here.
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Summer Fridays at the Frick
Friday, August 29, 5:00–9:00 PM | The Frick Pittsburgh
The Frick will host an evening of live music, food trucks, artmaking, and family activities on their lawns. Music begins at 6:30 PM. The Museum Store and Grable Visitor Center will remain open until 8:00 PM.
Please note: the Frick Art Museum and Car and Carriage Museum will be closed during these events.
For safety, visitors are asked not to bring pets, ride bikes or scooters, or engage in rough play.
Free admission.
Learn more here.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
152 Main Capitol Building
PO Box 202023
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 705-1875
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District Office
2345 Murray Avenue
Suite 205
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 422-1774
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