My annual Senior Fair will be held on September 26, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM, at the Allegheny Valley Volunteer Fire Company, 851 Parkway Dr., Harwick. A hot to-go lunch will be provided. You can RSVP here or by calling my office at (724) 826-5151. I hope to see you there!

I joined Rep. Arvind Venkat, PennEnvironment, Pittsburgh Public Schools, and the PA Solar Center to discuss a new report showing the potential for monetary savings through installing solar panels at our schools. The state Solar for Schools program is an important vehicle for advancing this initiative in our community, as it has across Pennsylvania. Installing solar panels not only saves taxpayers money but also allows more funding to be directed toward classroom instruction!

I've introduced a bill (H.B. 1814) that would set a standard for no phones in classrooms in schools in Pennsylvania. Parents are worried. Teachers are frustrated. Kids are struggling. I hear all the time that someone needs to do something. It is a commonsense step in the right direction, and it already has legislators from both sides of the aisle signed on in support. This bill is among my top priorities when we return to session in Harrisburg next month.

The Fox Chapel Parks Committee is hosting a 1-mile and 5K race this Saturday, September 6, at the O’Hara Township Community Park. Please see the flyer above for the corresponding race times and entry fees (subject to change). There will be kids’ activities, community vendors, prize drawings, t-shirts, and more! Register now to run through the parks and celebrate community: www.foxchapel5k.com.

In the wake of the latest mass shooting tragedy, I want to clearly articulate some of the actions I am taking as a state legislator:

• I support common-sense gun reform. Red flag laws, which allow families to intervene when loved ones are in crisis, could be particularly impactful.
• I introduced a bill to ban Glock switches. A beloved police chief in my district was killed by a criminal in possession of one of these devices, and every police chief I have spoken with supports a ban on these senseless weapons.
• I support the Second Amendment. I am a licensed gun owner and a strong advocate for Pennsylvania’s hunters.
• I introduced a bill to increase the availability of mental health counselors in public schools. Early intervention could be key to preventing tragedies later in life.
• I introduced a bill to limit social media and smartphone use for students during the school day. Exposure to social media and constant screen time has contributed to the mental health crisis among adolescents.
• I am actively engaged in creating legislation to slow the worst effects of climate change. I believe a warming planet, worsening weather, and shifting migration patterns are destabilizing forces contributing to unrest here and around the world.
• I advocate for legislation that promotes better work-life balance, paid family leave, a higher minimum wage, stronger communities, improved health, and more time spent outdoors in nature.
• I make it a priority to listen to all kinds of people—both experts and everyday citizens—to understand different perspectives and find the best path forward. I value and respect opinions that differ from my own. Real change requires us to listen to and learn from one another.

I will continue to focus on common-sense, middle-path legislation that improves the quality of life for the greatest number of people.

Pennsylvania State Capitol

111 B East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 705-7141

District Office

1296 Pittsburgh Street

Cheswick, PA 15024

(724) 826-5151