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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Bringing Dental Care Directly to Our Community
As the saying goes, “When you smile, the whole world smiles back at you.” I am proud to partner with Miracle Dental Associates and UPMC for You to host a Mobile Dental Services event for children and young adults from first tooth through age 20 on Thursday, June 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Quaker Valley Middle School.
Oral health plays a critical role in overall health, confidence and quality of life. Research continues to show links between poor oral health and serious medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory illness. Access to preventive dental care helps families stay healthier and reduces long-term health care costs.
I introduced House Bill 583 to restore comprehensive dental benefits for Pennsylvanians who rely on Medical Assistance. The legislation would reinstate services cut in 2011, including root canals, gum disease treatment, emergency exams and other essential procedures that many families depend on. I am pleased the bill has passed the House and is now before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee for consideration.
The Mobile Dental Services Team will provide cleanings, X-rays, fluoride treatments and exams, along with referrals and appointment assistance for follow-up care. Families interested in scheduling an appointment can contact Miracle Dental Associates at 412-841-7026.
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More Events Coming Your Way! Make Plans to Attend!
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Meeting Up with an Old Friend During Aerospace and Aviation Day
Earlier this month, we marked the third annual Aerospace and Aviation Day at the Capitol, a celebration that highlights Pennsylvania’s continued leadership in aerospace, aviation, innovation and exploration. The event serves as a reminder of the Commonwealth’s deep contributions to flight and space discovery.
One of the best moments of the day was welcoming NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Air Force Col. Mike Fincke to the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Col. Fincke recently completed his fourth mission to space and has now spent a remarkable total of 549 days in orbit, including nine spacewalks over the course of his distinguished career.
He spoke with my colleagues and me about the importance of exploration and how space missions expand our understanding of the universe. His perspective on discovery, research, and innovation was insightful and underscored how space exploration drives progress here on Earth.
This visit was personal to me, as Col. Fincke and I both graduated from Sewickley Academy and share western Pennsylvania roots. It was a pleasure reconnecting with an old friend and seeing someone from our region achieve such extraordinary success.
Pennsylvania’s strong aerospace heritage continues to grow, supported by institutions such as NASA and the many professionals, educators and innovators who keep pushing boundaries.
Please take a moment to watch the video below from the event.
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Preserving Local History in Moon Township
As many of you know, I am a huge history buff, which is why I am especially excited as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday on July 4. It is an honor to serve as the House Republican Caucus designee for the Pennsylvania Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial and to help recognize the history that shaped our nation, as well as the communities we call home.
Our district is filled with history, and I recently had a great conversation with Earl Edwards, vice president of the Moon Township Historical Society. We talked about the people and places that helped shape Moon Township into the strong community it is today.
We also discussed the important history of Neville Island and the recent relocation of the historic Coventry Log House to Robin Hill Park.
Moon Township’s roots go back to the late 1700s, and its growth over the years reflects the hardworking families and strong community spirit that still define the area today.
The Moon Township Historical Society continues to preserve and share the history of our region. Its work ensures these stories and landmarks are not lost with time.
Check out my conversation with Earl Edwards below.
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West Allegheny School District Receives Special Education Teachers Grant
Congratulations to the West Allegheny School District on being awarded a Developing Future Special Educators Grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
West Allegheny is among 26 school districts across Pennsylvania selected to receive funding through this important initiative. The grants, which provide up to $20,000, are designed to help prepare the next generation of special education teachers.
This program gives high school students early exposure to careers in special education. Students will have opportunities to participate in hands-on learning experiences, take college level coursework, and engage in dual credit programs that allow them to earn college credits before they graduate.
This investment supports students who are interested in making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with disabilities. It also helps strengthen Pennsylvania’s future educator workforce at a time when schools continue to need dedicated and well-prepared special education professionals.
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Moon Area High School Honors Student Achievements
Moon Area High School held its annual Honors Night to recognize outstanding student achievements and award local scholarships to members of the Class of 2026.
The event celebrated the hard work, dedication and accomplishments of students as they continue their academic journeys and prepare for the future. During the ceremony, House certificates of achievement were presented in recognition of the students’ success and commitment inside and outside the classroom.
Honors Night also served as an opportunity to recognize the important role played by teachers, parents and families who support students throughout their educational experience.
Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on this well-deserved recognition, and best wishes for continued success in the years ahead.
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Rotary Club Unveils Memorial Honoring Local Leaders in Leet Township
Recently, my staff attended a special ceremony hosted by the Rotary Club of Quaker Valley in Leet Township, where a new bronze plaque and two commemorative trees were dedicated in honor of Rose Marie Bane and Jean Purcell. The event also coincided with the club’s observance of Rotary Day of Service.
The ceremony brought together family members, fellow Rotary members, and community guests to reflect on the lives and contributions of both honorees. Speakers shared personal stories about Rose Marie Bane and Jean Purcell, highlighting the lasting influence each had on the organization and the broader community through their dedication and service.
The dedication of the plaque and trees served as a lasting tribute, symbolizing the values both women embodied throughout their involvement with Rotary.
The gathering highlighted the importance of remembrance and recognition within civic organizations.
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Honoring Russell’s 100 Years
My office had the honor of presenting Russell Keith with a House of Representatives citation in recognition of his 100th birthday and his lifetime of service and achievement.
Russell is a World War II veteran who served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army’s 4th Division. During his military service, he earned numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, in recognition of his bravery and sacrifice.
Celebrating a century of life is a remarkable milestone, and Russell’s dedication to his country and community continues to inspire those around him. His service during World War II reflects the courage and commitment demonstrated by so many members of the Greatest Generation.
We extend our thanks to Russell for all he has done for our nation and wish him a wonderful birthday celebration surrounded by family and friends.
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Sweetwater Center for the Arts Celebrates 50 Years
Congratulations to Sweetwater Center for the Arts on celebrating 50 years of enriching the community through transformative arts programming.
Recently, we were proud to present Executive Director Christine Brondyke with a House of Representatives citation recognizing Sweetwater’s decades of creative impact and dedication to promoting the arts throughout the region.
For five decades, Sweetwater Center for the Arts has provided opportunities for artistic expression, education and community engagement, helping inspire generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Best wishes for continued success.
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Groundbreaking Held for Neighborhood 91’s Second Industrial Complex
Recently, staff attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Neighborhood 91’s second industrial complex, expanding its 195-acre advanced manufacturing hub near Pittsburgh International Airport.
Neighborhood 91 is an innovative manufacturing campus designed to bring every part of the manufacturing supply chain together in one location. By connecting suppliers and manufacturers side-by-side, the campus helps improve efficiency, reduce costs and strengthen the region’s manufacturing economy.
The expansion represents continued investment in advanced manufacturing and economic development across southwestern Pennsylvania. The project reflects the collaborative efforts of local, county, state and federal leaders working alongside the Regional Industrial Development Corporation - RIDC and the Allegheny County Airport Authority.
The new industrial complex marks another important step forward for Neighborhood 91 as it continues to position the Pittsburgh region as a leader in advanced manufacturing and supply chain innovation.
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Application Deadline Extended for 2025 Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
The deadline for senior citizens and Pennsylvanians with disabilities to apply for rebates on rent and property taxes paid in 2025 has been extended to Dec. 31.
Income limits for the Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program increased again this year to $48,110 for both homeowners and renters. Remember to exclude 50% of Social Security when determining your income. The maximum rebate is $1,000.
The program is open to residents age 65 years and older; widows and widowers 50 years and older; and people with disabilities 18 years and older.
Remember – you do not need to pay anyone for assistance to apply for the rebates. Apply online at mypath.pa.gov, or contact my office for help. Additional information about the program is available here.
Rebates will be distributed beginning July 1, as required by law.
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Grants Available to Protect At-Risk Wildlife, Native Plants
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2026 Wild Resource Conservation Program (WRCP), which offers grants to support research and conservation projects that protect Pennsylvania’s native wildlife, plants and ecosystems.
The program will invest more than $500,000 in projects across the Commonwealth that support conserving non-game animals, native plants and fungi, and invertebrates such as insects — species that are often left out of traditional conservation programs but are vital to the Commonwealth’s ecosystems.
The deadline to apply is June 30. For additional information and a link to apply, click here.
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