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In this Update:
Erie Philharmonic Season Kickoff
I had a fantastic time celebrating the start of a new Erie Philharmonic season! We’re so fortunate to have this kind of talent right here in our community. A huge thank you to Maestro Daniel Meyer, the musicians, the staff, and Executive Director Bobby Pape—your dedication behind the scenes makes evenings like this possible. Nights like these are a reminder of how the arts bring us together, strengthen our community, and make Erie such a special place to live. CLEER at Gannon University
I got a behind-the-scenes look at Gannon University’s Center for Lake Erie Education and Research (CLEER) inside the Blasco Memorial Library, and wow—this is an amazing facility our community should be proud of! Some people questioned putting it in the library, but seeing it in person, this is more than just an addition. From the NOAA Science on a Sphere to interactive maps, hands-on labs, and exhibits, CLEER is a destination for families, students, and educators alike. The new facility officially opens tomorrow, October 4, definitely worth a visit! Erie Revitalization Investment Fund Launch
Our team was excited to attend the launch of the Erie Revitalization Investment Fund (ERIF) this morning with Ben Franklin Technology Partners and Erie Insurance. This $500,000 evergreen fund will support local entrepreneurs, tech startups, and small manufacturers right here in Erie County—helping drive innovation, create jobs, and keep businesses thriving in our community. Learn more and see how businesses can apply: https://buff.ly/niQLFFN 2025 Municipal League Leadership Summit in Erie
It was a pleasure to welcome leaders from across Pennsylvania to Erie for the 2025 Municipal League Leadership Summit. Local governments are truly the backbone of our communities, and events like this give us a chance to share ideas, collaborate, and celebrate the hard work that keeps our towns and cities running smoothly. It’s an honor to support these dedicated leaders and to showcase Erie as a great place for learning, networking, and innovation. Breathing New Life into Erie’s Buildings
I joined the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) as they announced $570,000 in Anchor Building Grants for seven local projects. What’s exciting about these grants is that they transform old, unused buildings into safe, vibrant spaces, creating jobs and strengthening our neighborhoods. A big thank you to ECGRA for continuing to invest in Erie and helping move our community forward! How I Can Help
If you or someone you know is having trouble accessing state programs or services, or if you have questions about a law or government program and aren’t sure where to turn, my team and I are here to help. We can guide you through the process, connect you with the right resources, and provide support on a wide range of issues to make things easier for you. Providing Loan Interest Forgiveness to Counties and Head Start
As work continues on finalizing a state budget for 2025-26, my priority remains enacting a budget that respects taxpayers and does not spend beyond our means. Spending too much this year would set Pennsylvania on a course of fiscal uncertainty and tax increases, and we cannot allow that to happen. It’s important to get a budget finished as soon as possible – but it’s more important to get it done right. Recognizing the impact of the incomplete budget, the Senate is expected to advance legislation providing loan interest forgiveness to counties and Head Start early childhood education programs that receive state Treasury loans to keep their services available while budget discussions continue. I’ll update you on the status of this legislation as it moves forward. Rock the Ribbon During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I hope you’ll join me in supporting those affected by breast cancer by raising awareness and encouraging early detection. You can find plenty of useful information to share at this resource page. I was proud to support Senate passage of legislation to strengthen Pennsylvania’s no-cost breast cancer screening law by ensuring diagnostic imaging is fully covered. The measure awaits action in the House of Representatives. Let’s come together and Rock the Ribbon with purpose and compassion. Open Government: How to Access Public Records
Under Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law (RTKL), all state and local government agency records are presumed to be public. If an agency wants to withhold a record, it must prove that it is entitled to do so under the state law or court order. The Office of Open Records maintains information about the RTKL and Sunshine Act, which governs public meetings. This includes information about filing a request for records, a database of Agency Open Records Officers and a Citizens’ Guide to the RTKL. The office also provides information about filing an appeal when a RTK request is denied and provides a variety of training resources including PowerPoint presentations and videos. Applications Accepted for Keystone ChalleNGe Academy January Class
Teens between the ages of 16 and 18 can apply now for the Jan. 2026 class of the Keystone State ChalleNGe Academy at Fort Indiantown Gap in Lebanon County. A National Guard program, the academy uses a military academy training model to provide structure and discipline for youth. Classes begin in mid-January and mid-July each year. The residential portion of the program runs for 22 weeks. All meals, housing, uniforms and school supplies are provided at no cost. You can learn more and apply here. Resources for Choosing an Insurance Provider
Cost matters when choosing insurance, but it’s not the only factor. Comparing quotes, checking coverage and reviewing customer feedback can help you decide. A good rule of thumb is to compare at least three companies, according to the Pennsylvania Insurance Department. The department has resources to help you:
Access information to help you make these important decisions here. Find the Best Fall Foliage Nearby and Statewide
Pennsylvania offers one of the longest and most varied fall foliage seasons in the world. You can find the best spots to view these vibrant displays with the fall foliage map from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. In addition, the department’s weekly Fall Foliage Reports offer regional updates, photos and expert tips to help you experience these seasonal landscapes.
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