Over the next three weeks, I’m back and forth to Harrisburg for a round of Appropriations Committee hearings. These hearings are when we get to delve into the proposed state budget to make sure our tax dollars are getting where they need to go — including helping working families, improving public safety, and funding vital services like health care and education.

I’ll also be focused on helping make our schools better, supporting small businesses, and making things more affordable -- including increasing wages.

Throughout these hearings, I’m committed to making sure our priorities are heard loud and clear. If you’d like to follow along, every PA House Committee meeting is livestreamed on the PAHouse.com YouTube page. Find those streams here or by clicking the image below!

Image: Photo of me during a House Committee hearing

Mutt Madness, Library Hours & Shredder Day!

Spring is around the corner, and we’ve got some exciting community events lined up! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details.

🗑️ Shredder Day

Saturday, May 17 from 9 a.m. - noon (Location TBA)
Time to declutter! Gather your old documents and sensitive paperwork and bring them to Shred Day for secure, free disposal. It’s an easy way to protect yourself from identity theft while clearing out some space at home. We’ll announce the location soon -- stay tuned!

While you wait, here is a short video from our last Shredder Day announcement! I already can’t wait for May!

Image: Screenshot from a video where we discuss the last Shredder Event

🐶 Mutt Madness Animal Adoption Event

Friday, March 29 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Roxborough Pocket Park
Looking to welcome a new furry friend into your family? Mutt Madness is the perfect opportunity! In coordination with Roxborough Development Corp. and ACCT, local rescues will be bringing adorable, adoptable dogs that are looking for their forever homes. Whether you’re ready to adopt or just want to come out and support, it’ll be a fun day filled with wagging tails and happy hearts!

Image: Me with volunteer Nick & office friend Apollonia (she already has a human!☺️)

📚 Library Office Hours

Monday, March 10 from 4-7 p.m. at Falls of Schuylkill Library
Need help with state services? Whether it’s PennDOT paperwork, property tax or rent rebates, or any other issue, our team will be on hand to assist you -- no appointment needed! Although I will be in Harrisburg working on the budget, my staff will be available to help you get the support you need right in our neighborhood

We’ll be sharing more details in the coming weeks, but for now—save the dates, spread the word, and we hope to see you there!

FREE Eagles' Hat Raffle!

Image: Super Bowl LIX Champions Coach Siriani & MVP Jalen Hurts wearing NFC Champs hat.

Enter to win a hat like the Eagles wore after they dismantled the Washington Commanders to win the NFC Championship on their way to the Super Bowl! The hat says, “Conference Champions” and has the Super Bowl LIX logo.

To enter, please email us at reptarik@pahouse.net and request to be entered in the drawing. Entries must be received by Monday, Feb. 24 at 8:30 a.m. The winner and their neighborhood will be announced in next week’s newsletter. You must be able to pick up the hat at our office during business hours.

Good luck to everyone who enters!

Two State Fellowships Available

There are two PA fellowships available to talented people with a passion for public service offering a unique chance to work on high-impact projects that benefit our state.

William and Hannah Penn Fellowship

The William and Hannah Penn Fellowship provides master's or advanced degree holders the opportunity to work directly with the state’s top executive leaders on critical initiatives.

Governor’s Science and Technology Fellowship

This one-year program is tailored for master's or doctorate-level candidates aiming to build a career in a STEM field within state government. Fellows are paired with state agencies to work on special projects, with the potential for a permanent position upon completion.

PA Wants to Hear from You - State LGBTQ Youth Listening Sessions

At a time when it may feel like their very existence is under attack, Pennsylvania is continuing its critical efforts to protect LGBTQ people & address ongoing concerns. In March, the Governor’s Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs will host a series of Youth Listening sessions via Zoom.

These sessions, scheduled for Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday March 19, both from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., aim to give LGBTQ+ Youth a voice to talk about any issues they are having in school or in their daily lives.

Youth interested in joining the sessions should complete this survey. Responding to this survey will result in an official invite with the Zoom link. Please feel free to share this with any youth who might want to participate.