Harrisburg Happenings, Community Events & More

Rep. Dan B. Frankel January 9, 2026 | 12:15 PM

PA Representative Dan Frankel banner image

Friday, January 9, 2025

Harrisburg Happenings

The end of the Post-Gazette?

The loss of Pittsburgh’s oldest newspaper is a tragedy for Western Pennsylvania and for the nation. For generations, the Post-Gazette has played a vital role in informing the public, holding powerful interests accountable, and telling the stories of our region.

There is no question that today’s media economics are challenging, but I reject any implication that workers exercising their right to collectively bargain caused the downfall of our once-strong newspaper. Hundreds of newsrooms across the country are union shops and continue to survive.

I hold out hope for a solution that would allow new leadership to carry on the proud tradition of Post-Gazette journalism.

Blocking irresponsible gun owners from having concealed carry permits

Around once a month, a traveler is caught at Pittsburgh International Airport trying to get through the TSA security line with a gun.

These individuals’ failure to use the lawful, safe procedure required to transport firearms on airplanes put us all in danger, drain TSA resources and cause major delays -- all while distracting from other serious security threats.

That's why this week I introduced the TSA Firearm Compliance Act, which specifically empowers local law enforcement to consider bringing a firearm through an airport security checkpoint among the reasons for revoking a permit to carry one.

Responsible gun owners do not forget they are carrying a loaded weapon. Responsible gun owners do not need intervention from the TSA to stop them from attempting to board airplanes while armed.

Strengthening the 340B Program to Protect Resources for Vulnerable Patients

This week, I introduced the 340B Transparency and Oversight Act to protect the program’s integrity and ensure it serves patients as intended.

The 340B Drug Pricing Program requires drug manufacturers to provide discounted medications to eligible providers so they can stretch resources and serve vulnerable patients. But rapid growth and limited transparency have raised concerns about who the program helps, with evidence from other states showing large hospital systems and intermediaries disproportionately reaping the benefits.

My bill would require providers to report on 340B revenues and administrative costs, bringing accountability and clarity to this vital program. As chair of the House Health Committee, I strive every day to increase access to high quality healthcare, and strengthening the 340B program will help support that mission.

Community Events and Resources

PRT Service Change in Oakland

Last weekend, Pittsburgh Regional Transit made major service changes in Oakland as part the University Line Project. Outbound bus service was moved from Fifth Avenue to Forbes Avenue, and the counterflow bus lane on Fifth Avenue was permanently retired.

Seventeen outbound bus stops on Fifth Avenue were eliminated, and nine routes—54, 61D, 71A, 71B, 71C, 71D, 75, 93, and P3—shifted to Forbes Avenue, serving stops at corresponding intersections. Outbound buses will travel with general traffic until a dedicated bus-only lane is established.

Riders with questions were encouraged to contact PRT Customer Service at 412-442-2000 or visit RidePRT.org.

Christmas Tree Recycling

Now-January 26

The City of Pittsburgh will have Christmas tree recycling drop-off sites throughout the city. All lights, decorations, tinsel, and stands must be removed from trees before drop-off.

In addition, local Girl Scouts will pick up Christmas trees in Morningside, Highland Park, Larimer, East Liberty, Friendship, Shadyside, Point Breeze, Squirrel Hill, Greenfield, and Lawrenceville. Trees will be collected and taken to designated drop-off centers to be mulched.

Call 311 or learn more about the city’s program here.

Restaurant Week & Preview Weekend

Preview Weekend: January 9-11

Restaurant Week: January 12-18

Pittsburgh’s Restaurant Week features dining specials highlighting the wide-ranging dining options that Pittsburgh has to offer. An early access Preview Weekend gives foodies a jump-start on the dining adventure with some of the participating restaurants.

Learn more here.

DICK’S Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend Training Kickoff Run
Saturday, January 10, 8:00 AM | 15th Street Plaza, Strip District

The free kickoff run marks the start of training for the 2026 Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend. Participants can choose a 5K or 10K route and run or walk alongside pace group leaders. The event is open to all experience levels and offers an opportunity to connect with other local runners.

Free.

Learn more here.

Winter Seed Sowing 101 with Bird Lab and Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy
Saturday, January 10, 2:00 – 4:00 PM | Frick Environmental Center

Led by the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy and Bird Lab, the workshop covers the basics of winter sowing, highlights native plant species available for planting, and includes a hands-on activity where participants create seed containers to take home. All materials, soil, and seeds are provided. The program is best suited for adults and families with children ages 8 and older.

$20 a ticket.

Learn more here.

Discovery Time: Rockin’ with Rocks
Sunday, January 11, 1:00 – 3:00 PM | Frick Environmental Center

Families are invited to spend the afternoon at the Frick Environmental Center with for rock-inspired children’s activities. Participants can decorate rocks with paint, create their own fossils, and enjoy a variety of hands-on games focused on geology and the natural world.

Registration is required; tickets are free.

Learn more and register here.

Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium Presents: Wonders of Wildlife
Tuesday, January 13, 11:00 – 11:45 AM | CLP – Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians (LAMP)

The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium presents an interactive program featuring live animals. Participants will explore animals with fur, feathers, and scales while learning about their physical characteristics and how they are adapted to their environments.

Free.

Learn more here.

OLLI at Pitt Online Open House
Thursday, January 15, 3:00 PM | Virtual

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Pittsburgh is a membership-based program for adults age 50 and older, offering courses with no tests, grades, or degree requirements.

OLLI will host an online open house for individuals interested in learning more about the program. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet members, instructors, and staff and preview the upcoming Spring 2026 term.

Learn more and register here.

Carnegie Mellon Chamber Series: Mentors and Protégés
Thursday, January 15, 7:30 – 9:30 PM | Kresge Theatre, 5000 Forbes Avenue

Carnegie Mellon University’s Chamber Series presents Mentors and Protégés, bringing together CMU School of Music faculty and members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra for an evening of chamber music in an intimate setting.

Free and open to the public; tickets required.

Learn more here.

Ready to Run Campaign Training for Women

Saturday, January 17 | Chatham University

Ready to Run Pennsylvania provides non-partisan political training to encourage women to run for government leadership positions. The day-long program targets women considering or recently deciding to run for political office, providing training and mentoring by campaign professionals, political women, and officeholders.

In addition, there will be a pre-conference on Friday, January 16 for women of color.

$50.

Learn more and register here.