We’re pleased to share that state Rep. Pat Harkins and I had the honor of welcoming the Pennsylvania State Association of County Controllers to Erie for their annual meeting at the Bayfront Convention Center. It was a privilege to host these dedicated public servants in our community.

The question-and-answer session provided a valuable opportunity to hear directly from county officials representing every corner of the Commonwealth. Their insights on local budgeting, fiscal accountability, and best practices will help inform our work in Harrisburg and beyond.

Yesterday, Gov. Josh Shapiro appointed a distinguished group to Pennsylvania’s first-ever Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Related Disorders Advisory Committee. I’m particularly proud that an Erie local, Melanie Titzel, Ph.D., earned this well-deserved honor.

This advisory committee will provide strategic guidance to the new Alzheimer’s, Dementia & Related Disorders (ADRD) Office within the Pennsylvania Department of Aging. Their expertise will shape our statewide response to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, ensuring families across the Commonwealth receive the care and support they need.

We had the privilege of joining our community at Whitford Park in Harborcreek Township, where the talented band Shady Side entertained a lively crowd under the summer sky.

Shady Side’s musicians are former students of Iroquois High School, and it was heartwarming to see so many of their classmates and neighbors come out to support them. The energy they brought to the stage showcased the enduring spirit and creativity of our local graduates.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission has approved additional Sunday hunting dates for the 2025 season. This change gives you more opportunities to get out in the field without reducing your overall bag limits.

Here are the new approved Sundays for general hunting (migratory game birds remain excluded due to federal regulations):

• September 14, 21, 28
• October 5, 12, 19, 26
• November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• December 7

Please remember that firearms deer season still closes on Saturday, December 13, and any Sunday hunt must fall within an open-season window. Dates for fox, coyote, and crow hunting on Sundays remain the same as in previous years.

The Pennsylvania Department of General Services (DGS) has launched two first-of-their-kind initiatives to help growing businesses access Commonwealth contracts:

• Micro Business Program: Designed for enterprises that have outgrown traditional small-business set-asides but remain too small to compete with larger firms.
• Midsize Business Program: Tailored for companies poised for the next level of growth, bridging the gap between micro businesses and large contractors.

Both programs were developed by the Bureau of Diversity, Inclusion, and Small Business Opportunities (BDISBO) to ensure that entrepreneurs at every stage can compete fairly for state contracts.

By participating, businesses will gain access to networking events, dedicated procurement support, and specialized training designed to streamline the bidding process.

Summer break shouldn’t mean empty plates. SUN Bucks provides $120 per eligible child on a prepaid EBT card to help families cover grocery costs when school is out. Children already on SNAP are automatically enrolled, and households not currently receiving SNAP may still qualify.

Visit dhs.pa.gov/SUNBucks to check eligibility, explore program resources, and submit your application.

Benefits for Summer 2025 will begin issuing in mid-July. Apply by August 31, 2025, to make sure your children get the support they need.

Bob Merski

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319