As Memorial Day approaches, our office joins communities across the country in honoring the service members who gave their lives in defense of our nation. In observance of the holiday, our office will be closed at noon today (May 22) and on Monday, May 25. We wish everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day Weekend.
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Standing with All Victims of Hate Violence
So many of us felt our hearts drop this week when we heard that there had been an attack on the Islamic Center of San Diego.
Pittsburgh knows the unique trauma that comes of an attack on a house of faith. It's been more than seven years since an antisemitic gunman tore through the synagogues in the Tree of Life building – but trauma, grief and fear still ripple through our community.
It is crucial that we recognize that this week’s terrible event is more than a single tragedy – it is part of a sharp rise in Islamophobia and antisemitism that is spreading fear through communities of faith everywhere.
In Pennsylvania, we must do our part to finally modernize our hate crimes laws to address today’s threats. Laws written for another era are not keeping pace with organized harassment, online radicalization, coordinated intimidation, and targeted violence.
As we grieve with the Muslim community in San Diego and beyond, I will keep fighting to pass my anti-hate crimes legislative package. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their house of worship and in their community, regardless of their faith or background.
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Community Events and Resources
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District 23 High School Essay Contest
Deadline: May 31, 2026
I’m partnering with the League of Women Voters to host a civic essay contest commemorating America’s 250th anniversary.
One high school junior or senior from the 23rd Legislative District will be selected to represent our community at a special Pennsylvania House session and civic learning experience at Congress Hall in Philadelphia on Sept. 9, 2026.
To enter, students should provide a 200-400 word response to one of three essay prompts focused on democracy, civic responsibility and America’s future.
Eligible students must live in the 23rd District and be high school juniors or seniors in fall 2026. Participants can check their legislative district using the Pennsylvania General Assembly district finder. Support for the attending students includes a $200 travel stipend (provided after), student meals during the event and one night of hotel accommodations.
Learn more and apply through the essay contest application form.
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Bike Share Pittsburgh’s Annual Le tour de Donut
Saturday, May 23, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. | Meet at POGO Office, 3328 Penn Ave.
POGOH - Bike Share Pittsburgh will host its annual Le Tour de Donut, a casual group ride and fundraiser celebrating the start of the biking season. For $20, riders can visit multiple donut checkpoints located along Pittsburgh’s river trails and bike network, featuring stops for treats at Paddy Cake Bakery, Pigeon Bagels, Sidecar and Baked True North.
This is not a race; participants can ride at their own pace and have four hours to visit as many stops as they choose. The event is open to bikes, trikes, and e-bikes.
Learn more and buy tickets here.
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Swissvale/Swisshelm Park Free Sale
Sunday, May 24, 9:00 a.m. | Swissvale
Neighbors across Swissvale and Swisshelm Park are encouraged to place unwanted items on their yards marked “FREE” on Sunday, creating a walkable, neighborhood-wide exchange of goods.
Participants can stroll the streets in search of new finds while giving household items a second life. A digital map of participating homes will be shared in advance for easy planning.
To be included on the map, residents should email swissvaleswisshelmparkfreesale@gmail.com with their address by Friday, May 22.
Learn more here.
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City of Pittsburgh 2027 Budget Engagement Meeting
Tuesday, May 26, 6:00 p.m. | Greenfield Healthy Active Living Center
Join the Mayor’s Office in District 23 this Tuesday to give your input on the 2027 city budget and hear from experts about the city’s financial future. Refreshments will be provided.
This is a free event, but advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.
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Schenley Park Roller Rink Opening Night
Wednesday, May 27, 6:30 p.m. | Schenley Park Skating Rink
Beginning May 27, the Schenley Park Rink will transform from ice skating to roller skating for a season full of music, movement and family-friendly fun. Guests are welcome to bring their own skates, and skate rentals will also be available on site. Admission rates are discounted for youth, seniors and veterans. Please note that sessions are weather permitting, capacity is limited and tickets must be purchased online in advance.
Learn more and buy tickets here.
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Annual Memorial Day Ceremony & Celebration
Monday, May 25, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum
Honor those who served our country at Soldiers & Sailors’ free annual Memorial Day Ceremony & Celebration. The day will include museum tours, family-friendly activities, entertainment, special exhibits, and a tribute to fallen Pennsylvania service members, including a 3 p.m. National Moment of Remembrance.
Free holiday parking is available nearby.
Learn more here.
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PA State of the Woman Survey
Deadline May 30 | Online
The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women is collecting input for a State of the Woman Report for Pennsylvania. This 20-minute survey invites women across the Commonwealth to share their experiences, priorities, and challenges. Responses will help inform recommendations and future policy considerations.
Find more information and a link to the survey in multiple languages here.
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
152 Main Capitol Building
PO Box 202023
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 705-1875
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District Office
2345 Murray Avenue
Suite 205
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
(412) 422-1774
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