We were pleased to welcome PA State Secretary Al Schmidt to Erie as he presented the Benedictine Sisters of Erie with the Margaret Chase Smith American Democracy Award from the National Association of Secretaries of State. The Sisters were recognized for their efforts to address voter fraud accusations with facts and for encouraging the public to verify information before sharing it.

In addition, Sister Marcia Sigler and Sister Roseanne Loneck were inducted into the Voter Hall of Fame for voting in 50 consecutive November elections, and Sister Ann Hoffman was honored for her many years of dedicated service as a poll worker.

Congratulations to the Benedictine Sisters! Thank you for your steadfast commitment to truth and democracy. Click here to watch a video of my remarks during this wonderful occasion.

National Night Out was a blast! We connected with so many great neighbors across the district—from the City of Erie to the Borough of Wesleyville, as well as Greene, Summit, and Harborcreek Townships. Nights like this remind us that community is what makes this place feel like home.

Thank you to everyone who came out to support local first responders, share a smile, and strengthen the bonds that keep our neighborhoods safe.

Last Tuesday evening, state Rep. Pat Harkins and I joined local letter carriers outside the East 38th Street Post Office for an informational picket. Our goal was to stand with them and help spotlight several challenges the Postal Service is experiencing in our community.

We remain committed to working closely with postal leadership, union representatives, and local stakeholders to ensure these concerns are acknowledged and addressed.

Summit Township will receive $533,988 in Green Light-Go funding to modernize several key intersections, including Waterford Street and Bloomfield Avenue, Douglas Parkway and Commons Drive, and multiple locations along Perry Highway.

These upgrades will make daily travel safer and more efficient for families, workers, and visitors. Updated signal controllers and improved detection technology will help reduce delays, keep traffic flowing smoothly, and ensure roads stay responsive during peak demand.

Nearly one in four students nationwide struggle to access the period products they need, causing stress and missed school days. During her recent visit to Erie, Pennsylvania Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen emphasized how Governor Shapiro’s three-year, $9 million investment is helping schools across the state provide these products to students at no cost.

To learn more, click here.

Harborcreek Township is full of summer activities and recreation, and Food Truck Friday was a wonderful opportunity to connect with constituents and enjoy great lakeside food.

Thank you to The Four Coursemen for preparing an excellent lunch!

Bob Merski

District Office

3921 Buffalo Rd.

Erie, PA 16510

(814) 455-6319

Pennsylvania State Capitol

221 Irvis Office Building

P.O. Box 202002

Harrisburg, PA 17120

(717) 787-4358