Harrisburg Happenings, Community Events & More

Rep. Dan B. Frankel September 19, 2025 | 9:37 AM

PA Representative Dan Frankel banner image

Friday, September 19, 2025

My office will be closed on Tuesday, September 23 in observance of Rosh Hashanah. We will reopen on Wednesday, September 24 during normal business hours. Shana Tova!

Harrisburg Happenings

Mine Workers Press Conference

On Tuesday, I joined Lt. Governor Austin Davis, Pennsylvania DEP Secretary Jessica Shirley, and members of the United Mine Workers of America to call out reckless federal cuts that threaten the safety of miners. The Trump Administration and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have threatened critical research and laid off workers at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Pittsburgh Mining Research Division — a facility that has been at the forefront of mine safety for more than a century.

Working underground is dangerous enough without Washington ripping away resources that keep miners safe. I will continue to fight alongside the Shapiro-Davis Administration to protect all workers, their families, and the communities that depend on them.

Pennsylvania Joins Northeast Public Health Collaborative

Yesterday, Governor Shapiro and the Pennsylvania Department of Health announced that Pennsylvania will join neighboring states and New York City in launching the Northeast Public Health Collaborative. This voluntary coalition strengthens public health by coordinating responses to disease outbreaks, improving vaccine access, and ensuring equitable care.

Public health threats don’t respect state lines. By working together, we can be better prepared, more resilient, and protect the well-being of all residents. While each state keeps its independence, shared planning allows us to respond more effectively and make sure science and evidence guide our public health decisions.

A Step Forward for Patients, Pharmacies, and Public Health

In my 2023 public comment, I enthusiastically supported Department of Human Services proposals to make long overdue updates to our Medicaid pharmacy regulations. I am pleased to share that DHS moved those changes forward this week. They would:

Expand supplies of contraceptives. Patients should not face gaps in coverage for essential reproductive health care. I encouraged DHS to bring Pennsylvania in line with several other states that allow for year-long supplies.
Remove outdated restrictions on obesity medications. Obesity is a serious disease, and new medications can have a profound impact on health outcomes. By updating coverage rules, DHS is recognizing the importance of these treatments.
Eliminate co-pays for naloxone and immunizations. Medications that save lives, like overdose reversal agents and vaccines that prevent illness, must be as accessible as possible. Removing cost barriers ensures people can get them when they need them.

I appreciate DHS recognizing the importance of these issues and moving Pennsylvania forward.

Holding Duquesne Light Accountable After April Storm

Last April’s storm that left more than 300,000 Duquesne Light customers without power for days made clear that our region needs a stronger utility response and communication. Many families waited more than a week for service, without timely updates or support.

In a statement release this week, Duquesne Light pledged $2.7 billion in grid upgrades over the next five years and committed to clearer restoration estimates, better coordination with municipalities, and new customer service tools like two-way text messaging and expanded call capacity.

I will continue to press Duquesne Light to follow through on these commitments. Customers deserve safe, reliable service and open communication, especially after severe storms.

Standing with CHOP to Protect Patient Privacy

I recently signed on to a letter of support for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) as they fight back against unlawful efforts by the Trump Administration to obtain private medical records from their patients receiving gender affirming care.

CHOP is rightfully challenging these demands in court, standing firm in its commitment to protect patient confidentiality and follow the law. I am proud to stand with CHOP and with all Pennsylvanians who believe patients should be able to seek medical care without fear that their most personal information will be turned into a political weapon.

Community Events and Resources

Donation Drive for Jefferson Apartments Fire Relief

Donations accepted up to Friday, September 26

Donation Drop off: 4070 Beechwood Blvd.,15217

Kids Plus Pediatrics and the Squirrel Hill Urban Coalition are collecting items to support residents affected by the Jefferson Apartments fire.

Items being collected:

New or gently used clothing for 9–10-year-old children
Gift cards (Target, Walmart, Giant Eagle, reloadable cards, etc.)
Shoes
New or gently used clothing for men and women (all sizes)
Hygiene items
New, packaged socks and underwear
Tote bags and backpacks

Please note: food and cash donations cannot be accepted.

Learn more here.

USPS 250th Anniversary Stamp Vote

The U.S. Postal Service is marking its 250th anniversary by inviting the public to vote on a past stamp to reissue. Twenty-five of the bestselling stamps from recent years are up for consideration, including the 2018 Mister Rogers stamp.

Voting is open through September 30, and there is no limit to how many times individuals may participate.

Cast your vote here.

Squirrel Hill Resource Fair – Donation Drive
Ongoing

Support local families in need by contributing to the Squirrel Hill Resource Fair. Donations are being accepted daily at the customer service desk of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Squirrel Hill.

To ensure your donation meets current needs, please sign up for a specific item before dropping it off: Donation Signup

Trackchair Pilot Program at Frick Park

Now-October 26

The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy is testing all-terrain wheelchairs designed to make park trails more accessible. Visitors with limited mobility can reserve a Trackchair for weekend use on the South Clayton loop, accompanied by a trained volunteer.

The program is open to youth (ages 5 and older) and adults. Participants will be among the first to experience Frick Park with the new Trackchairs and share feedback before the program fully launches next spring.

Learn more and sign up here.

Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival

Saturday-Sunday, September 20-21 | Streets on Liberty Ave.

The Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival is a free street party with live music from local and international artists, food trucks, and craft beer. Be sure to bring a lawn chair to enjoy the shows.

Learn more here.

Pittsburgh Art Book Fair
Saturday–Sunday, September 20–21, 10:00 AM –5:00 PM | Carnegie Museum of Art – Hall of Sculpture

The third annual Pittsburgh Art Book Fair brings together more than 60 local, national, and international exhibitors for a two-day celebration of printed matter. Visitors can browse artist books, zines, publications, and enjoy book launches while meeting artists, publishers, and fellow enthusiasts.

This event is free and open to the public; museum admission is not required.

Learn more here.

Lil’ Yoga at The Ellis School

Saturday, September 20, 10:00–11:00 AM | The Ellis School

Families with children ages 5 and under are invited to a family-focused yoga class. The session includes light refreshments. Children must attend with a parent or guardian, and advance registration is required. Please bring a yoga mat, towel, or blanket and a water bottle.

This event is free and open to the public.

Learn more here.

14th Annual Point Breeze Yard Sale

Saturday, September 20, 9 AM – 3 PM |Various Homes in Point Breeze

The Point Breeze Organization will be hosting a neighborhood-wide yard sale across Point Breeze.

Learn more and to view a map of all the yard sales here.

Disability Pride Through Adaptive Sports with the Pittsburgh Steelwheelers
Sunday, September 21, 12:00–1:00 PM | Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Main (Oakland)

Celebrate Disability Pride with the Pittsburgh Steelwheelers and learn about competitive adaptive sports, including wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball, and handcycling. This program highlights the achievements of athletes with disabilities and the importance of inclusion in sports.

This event is free and open to the public.

Learn more here.

2025 Be A Good Neighbor Block Parties

The University of Pittsburgh’s Office of Engagement and Community Affairs will host the annual Be a Good Neighbor Block Parties throughout Oakland. Residents and members of the Pitt community are invited to enjoy food, music, prizes, and the opportunity to connect with neighbors and community partners.

All events are free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

Next Block Parties are:

Saturday, September 20, 12:00-2:00 PM | South Oakland: Dan Marino Field, 3716 Frazier St.
Tuesday, September 23, 5:00-7:00 PM | West Oakland: Dunseith St. and Allequippa St. (outside of Trees Hall)

Learn more here.

Urban Trail Pop-Up Coffee Truck

Friday, September 26, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Frick Environmental Center

Urban Trail Coffee Co. will bring its mobile coffee truck to the Frick Environmental Center, offering fresh espresso drinks made with Commonplace Coffee. Visitors can grab a drink before or after enjoying the park.

Fifteen percent of all sales will benefit local parks.

Learn more here.

Parks on Tap Beer Garden – Final Fridays at Schenley Park
Friday, September 26, 3:00–7:00 PM | Schenley Park Visitor Center

Enjoy the final installment of the Parks on Tap beer garden series at Schenley Park. In partnership with Eleventh Hour Brewing, guests can enjoy a limited-edition Summer in the Parks Lager alongside a rotating lineup of local food trucks. Visitors are encouraged to explore the park’s trails before relaxing under the tent at the Visitor Center.

This event is free and open to the public; food and beverages are available for purchase.

Learn more here.

The Great Race Weekend

The Junior Great Race

Saturday, September 27 | Downtown Pittsburgh

Junior athletes can join the Great Race in either a one-mile run, a Tot Trot, or a Diaper Dash. Each race has age restrictions and registration has a fee.

The Great Race

Sunday, September 28, 8 AM | Squirrel Hill, Oakland, Downtown Pittsburgh

Runner can compete in either a 5K or 10K race from Squirrel Hill or Oakland to Downtown Pittsburgh. Registration has a fee.

Learn more and register for the races here.

Children’s Literacy Summit
Saturday, September 27, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM | Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Main (Oakland)

The Children’s Literacy Summit brings together literacy organizations, educators, caregivers, and community members to promote early literacy and inspire a love of reading in children from birth to age 8. The event includes discussions on strategies and best practices, as well as a Children’s Literacy Resource Fair starting at noon, where families can connect with local organizations and discover resources to support early literacy.