It was an exciting week to watch and participate in democracy! The energy and enthusiasm throughout the day was felt not just in our neighborhoods, but across the commonwealth and country.
At the state level, Democrats expanded their majority of seats in the state House and had a historic win of the majority in the state Senate. I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Governor next session with a focus on our shared values and legislation that helps Pennsylvania move forward. Some of the things we care about deeply can now be considered, such as raising the minimum wage, protecting women’s reproductive rights, funding mass transit and equality for all – to name just a few.
On a personal note, I want to say a heartfelt thank you for the honor to serve you in Harrisburg. As I am wrapping up my fourth term, I reflect on serving the public both in Harrisburg and at home, and all we’ve been able to accomplish together. Your trust in me is deeply meaningful, and I look forward to starting again next session to deliver meaningful legislation for you.
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On Nov. 8, there is a planned boycott bike ride targeting Jewish-owned businesses here in the district. I’m a firm believer in freedom of speech and certainly recognize the right of my constituents to have honest disagreements with policy both foreign and domestic. However, a targeted boycott of our businesses due to their religious affiliation – particularly timed around the anniversary of Kristallnacht – moves into a territory of hostility we should never express toward our neighbors. Philadelphia is a welcoming city to all, and I have zero tolerance for any event promoting antisemitism. I hope the event organizers reconsider this gathering and instead share their disagreements with officials in Washington.
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Halloween Shredding and E-Recycling
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It was so much fun at my Shredding and E-Recycling event! It is always great to see so many of my constituents, and this one was extra special with all the kids in their Halloween costumes. Thank you to the Mummers Museum for having this event, and thanks to my co-sponsor Councilmember Mark Squilla.
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Chinatown History Exhibit
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My staff was able to participate in the grand opening of the fantastic This Is, Was, and Will Be Chinatown: Philadelphia Chinatown History Exhibit at 213 North 11th St. Developed over two years, this exhibit documents the history, struggles and resilience of Philadelphia’s Chinatown through archival materials, historic photographs and community stories.
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Do you need help understanding or paying your utility bills? You can join Community Legal Services and SEAMAAC for a utility clinic on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Bok Building, West Gym, 1901 S 9th St. You can discuss your bills with legal experts as well as representatives from PECO, Philadelphia Gas Works and the Philadelphia Water Department.
You can also learn more about programs that can assist, such as the commonwealth’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is now open for the 2026-2027 season. LIHEAP helps families living on low incomes pay their heating bills in the form of a cash grant ranging from $200 to $1,000 based on household size, income and fuel type. For more information and to see if you are eligible, visit the link above or give my office a call.
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This coming Wednesday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day and a time to remember all who have served and sacrificed for our freedoms. We can choose our own paths in life because of the efforts of our veterans, and they deserve the ultimate respect from our communities. A huge thank you to all our district veterans for what they do, and thanks to their families and friends for having their back. My office will be closed on Wednesday in observance of the holiday and will reopen on Thursday, November 12.
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My office is here to help!
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My office is always here and ready to help you with a bevy of services. We can help with programs like Property Tax/Rent Rebate, LIHEAP, SEPTA senior fare cards, Unclaimed Property searches and more! We can also help with things like unemployment, small business resources and other senior services. Come visit us Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., at 610 N. Second St., or give us a call at 215-503-3245, and we’ll be happy to help you.
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Policy Points of the Week
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District Office
610 North Second Street
Philadelphia, PA 19123
(215) 503-3245
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
300 Main Capitol Building
P.O. Box 202175
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-8098
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