Harrisburg Happenings, Community Events & More

Rep. Dan B. Frankel December 12, 2025 | 11:14 AM

PA Representative Dan Frankel banner image

Friday, December 12, 2025

Wishing you joy, light, and peace this Chanukah. Chag Sameach!

Harrisburg Happenings

Adm. Rachel Levine

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently removed Adm. Rachel Levine’s legally recognized name from her official portrait. This attempt to erase her identity does not change who she is or what she has accomplished — it only raises questions about why a federal agency would engage in such revisionism.

Adm. Levine’s portrait has hung among the leaders of the U.S. Public Health Service since 2021, honoring both her public service and her historic confirmation as the first openly transgender four-star officer in U.S. history. Her accomplishments are documented and verifiable — and they are not changed by the decision to deadname her on a wall.

In Pennsylvania, we have seen Adm. Levine’s leadership firsthand. Her work during major public health crises shaped our state’s response and continues to guide policy today. Efforts to diminish that — whether by altering official materials or denying her identity — do not weaken her legacy. They only raise questions about the credibility of those making such changes.

I’ve urged HHS to restore accurate information to her portrait. Public institutions owe the American people honesty, consistency, and records that reflect reality rather than ideology. This standard shouldn’t be controversial.

PRT Update on Bus-only Lane on Fifth Avenue in Oakland

Around January 4, 2026, Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) will retire the contraflow bus lane on Fifth Avenue. The nine routes (54, 61D, 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D, 75, 93, and P3) that currently use it will shift to Forbes Avenue, traveling with regular traffic and stopping at the existing Forbes stops.

The change is intended to accommodate the construction of a new protected bi-directional bike lane on Fifth Street as part of the University Line project, which is scheduled to be completed in 2027. The project will also include dedicated bus lanes on both Forbes and Fifth, along with upgraded sidewalks, ADA-compliant ramps, improved traffic signals, and safer pedestrian crossings.

Community Events and Resources

SLB Youth Media Center – Open Studio Afterschool Programming
Ongoing During the School Year | SLB Youth Media Center, Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh

The SLB Youth Media Center offers a range of creative programs for teens interested in podcasting, spoken word, journalism, audio editing, music, and other media arts. The center provides recording studios, professional-grade equipment, and dedicated spaces where teens can explore and develop their talents.

Open Studio is a free afterschool program for students in grades 6–12. Participants can drop in for workshops, creative meetups, and Open Mic nights. Fully registered teens may also be eligible for stipends, bus passes, and other benefits. No prior experience is required, and teens can join at any time.

Free to participate.

Learn more here.

Pittsburgh Tomorrow Leadership Corps – Applications Open
Applications Open Now Through December 19 | Online Application

Pittsburgh Tomorrow is now accepting applications for its expanded Leadership Corps program, a youth initiative aimed at developing civic engagement and leadership skills. High school sophomores and juniors from across Allegheny County and neighboring communities are encouraged to apply.

Participants will engage in community projects, meet with local and state leaders, connect with representatives from key regional industries, and receive guidance from university admissions experts. The program also offers unique experiences with organizations such as the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and First Tee Pittsburgh. Events kick off in January.

Free to participate.

Learn more here.

Apply here.

2025 Lawrenceville Cookie Tour

Saturday & Sunday, December 13-14 | Lawrenceville Business District

Explore local restaurants, shops, coffee houses, bars, and service businesses while enjoying homemade cookies, festive activities, and complimentary gift-wrapping stations. Printed and digital maps will guide you through participating stops, and free shuttle service and parking will be available. This event celebrates small businesses and invites the entire community to embrace the holiday spirit.

Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Holly Jolly Holiday Party

Saturday, December 13, 11 AM- 2 PM | Bakery Square

Bakery Square will host a family-friendly holiday celebration featuring crafts, a reindeer food station, letters to Santa, a Santa-themed bounce house, face painting, treats, and a photo booth. The event is free and open to the public, with activities available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Free.

Learn more here.

Jane Austen’s Life, Times, and Legacy
Saturday, December 13, 2:00–3:00 PM | Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh – Main (Oakland)

The Jane Austen Society of North America, Pittsburgh Region, will host a presentation exploring Austen’s world through the lens of her life, family, and the major historical events of her time, including the Napoleonic Wars and the abolition of the slave trade. Designed for adult participants, this program provides historical context to enrich understanding of Austen’s writing and enduring legacy.

Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Uncover Squirrel Hill Holiday Wine Walk

Saturday, December 13, 4 to 7 PM | 5884 Forbes Avenue

Embark on a self-paced wine tasting experience through the Squirrel Hill Business District. Have the opportunity to taste up to 15 different varieties of wine.

Tickets start at $30.

Purchase tickets here.

Greenfield Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, December 14, 5:30 PM | Bnai Emunoh Chabad, 4315 Murray Ave

Chabad of Greenfield will host a community Chanukah celebration featuring arts and crafts, dancing dreidels, glow sticks for children, a gelt and candy toss, and complimentary menorahs for attendees to take home. Each child will receive a small gift, and the Allderdice Marching Band will perform live to celebrate the first night of Chanukah. This event is open to the public.

Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Menorah Lighting
Monday, December 15, 5:00 PM | City-County Building

Mayor Gainey and community leaders will gather to light the 12-foot Menorah outside the City-County Building. The celebration will feature live music and traditional Chanukah treats, including latkes and donuts.

Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Squirrel Hill Menorah Lighting Festival

Tuesday, December 16, 4:15 PM | Corner of Beacon and Murray

Chabad of Squirrel Hill is hosting a community Chanukah celebration. The event will include live music, food and drink, donut decorating, and more.

Free and open to all.

Learn more by calling (412) 421-0546

OPDC’s Holiday Party
Thursday, December 18, 2025, 5:30–8:30 PM | OPDC HQ, 294 Semple Street, 15213

Oakland Planning and Development Corporation (OPDC) will host its annual holiday party and cookie table at its offices on Semple Street. Neighbors are invited to stop by, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with community members as the organization celebrates another year of service in Oakland.

Free to attend.

Learn more here.