Earlier this month during National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, Pittsburgh Fire Fighters IAFF Local No. 1 unveiled the Fallen Firefighters Memorial honoring the Pittsburgh's firefighters that made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Later that week, I had the privilege of visiting the memorial, where the names of 138 fallen firefighters are etched in tribute. It stands as a powerful reminder of their courage, sacrifice and dedication to protecting their community, while ensuring their legacy will never be forgotten. While there, I had the opportunity to speak with leadership from Local No. 1 about issues impacting first responders and the important work they do to keep our communities safe.
Earlier this month, I was proud to honor an outstanding young leader with a citation from the Senate of Pennsylvania in recognition of earning the highest rank available in Scouting AmericaβEagle Scout.
Evan Wicke of Troop 147 has served his troop as Instructor, Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Assistant Senior Patrol Leader, Senior Patrol Leader, and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster.
For his Eagle Scout community service project, Evan removed and replaced fencing, installed a gate and cleaned up the area at a local garden.
Please join me in congratulating Evan on this prestigious achievement.
As chair of the Senate Institutional Sustainability and Innovation Committee, I hosted two hearings in Pittsburgh last week focused on strengthening Pennsylvania's future.
We heard testimony on my legislation to expand Pennsylvaniaβs research and development tax credit to support innovation, life sciences and small businesses.
We also reviewed legislation from Senator Devlin Robinson that would ensure Pennsylvania students have access to safe, lead-free drinking water in schools. We heard testimony from experts in environmental advocacy, public health, plumbing manufacturing and pediatric medicine regarding the dangers of lead exposure and the need for preventative action in schools across Pennsylvania.
Proud to recognize the Central Bucks East High School Cheer team to the Senate last week to celebrate their national title in the Division 1 Small Varsity Non-Tumbling Game Day Division at the 2026 UCA National High School Cheerleading Competition. Their performance topped 41 other teams from 19 different states.
Join me in congratulating the Central Bucks East High School Cheer team for all their hard work and this incredible achievement.
This week we recognized Police Memorial Day at the Capitol to honor all our law enforcement officers that made the ultimate sacrifice, joined by many of their family members. I am pictured here with Stephanie Mack, wife of late Trooper Martin F. Mack III and her father Bruce Spencer. @repjoehogan
Happy to stop by the Together We Dance Foundation's inaugural golf outing last week.
Thanks to the leadership of Mike Barnes and the strength of a caring, compassionate community, the Together We Dance Foundation continues to create inclusive opportunities and meaningful experiences for individuals with special needs.
@togetherwedance25
Proud to stand with many advocates from across Pennsylvania for Humane Lobby Day at the Capitol on Monday. @humaneworldforanimals
As an animal lover and supporter, I have been successful in passing major animal welfare initiatives in Harrisburg over the years and was named Humane Legislator of the Year by the Humane Society of the United States in 2017. I am thankful for the Womenβs Animal Center and look forward to working with them as a community partner.
Proud to join Pennsylvania Association of Staff Nurses & Allied Professionals (PASNAP) for their House of Delegates Conference Reception & Dinner last week.
Congratulations to Struble Elementary School on their 50th Anniversary. I was honored to attend their celebration over the weekend and present a citation from the Senate of Pennsylvania for this incredible milestone. @bensalem.school.district
