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| The Latest News from Your State Representative |
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Discovering the History of Moon Township
As we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, I have been taking time to reflect on the local history that has shaped our community.
Have you ever heard of Joshua Meeks? If not, you are not alone. Joshua Meeks lived from 1731-1818 and played an important role in shaping our region. He is recognized as the founder of Moon Township, serving as a militia captain and respected civic leader. He was also one of the petitioners who helped to create Allegheny County, laying the groundwork for the surrounding communities we know today.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with local historian Beth Feather, who shared an in-depth look at Meeks’ life and the lasting impact of his leadership on our township.
Please watch the video below and learn more about Joshua Meeks and the remarkable history that surrounds us every day.
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State Grants to Support Fire and EMS Services in Our Community
I am pleased to announce fire and emergency response organizations throughout our community have been awarded more than $191,000 in state grants.
As a former emergency medical technician, I know firsthand the dedication it takes to respond to emergencies and save lives. The men and women who serve in our fire companies and EMS agencies are always ready to answer the call, often putting themselves in harm’s way to protect others.
This funding comes from an ongoing grant program created by the Pennsylvania Legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. The grants are supported by proceeds from slot machine gaming rather than General Fund tax revenue.
The following organizations received grants:
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• Allegheny County Airport Authority Fire Rescue - $15,518.
• Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Company - $13,869.
• Big Sewickley Creek Volunteer Fire Department - $12,839.
• Cochran Hose Company - $15,930.
• Crescent Township Volunteer Fire Department - $14,694.
• Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Protective Association - $13,251.
• Imperial Volunteer Fire Department - $16,137.
• Leetsdale Fire Department - $12,839.
• Moon Township Volunteer Fire Company - $16,137.
• North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department - $15,930.
• Oakdale Hose Company - $14,075.
• Quaker Valley Ambulance Authority - $15,000.
• Valley Ambulance Authority - $15,000.
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Since election to serve in the House of Representatives in 2019, more than $104 million in state grants has been secured for the 44th Legislative District. These funds help build stronger communities for residents and create opportunities for local businesses.
Investing in fire and EMS services is an investment in the safety and strength of our entire community.
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A Behind-the-Scenes Visit to McLaughlin Distillery
Recently, I had the opportunity to tour McLaughlin Distillery in Sewickley and see firsthand how this veteran-owned business crafts exceptional spirits from grain to glass. It was a great experience getting a behind-the-scenes look at the care and attention that goes into every bottle.
What stood out most to me was the pride the team takes in doing things the right way. From sourcing local ingredients to distilling and bottling, every step of the process happens right here in our community. That commitment to quality and local investment is something we can all appreciate.
I also had the chance to talk with owner Kim McLaughlin about why small businesses matter so much to our local economy. He shared how he produces all 48 of their products and explained what it takes to keep a growing operation running smoothly. It was clear that success does not happen by accident. It takes vision, discipline and a willingness to put in the hard work every single day.
Small businesses such as McLaughlin Distillery are a big part of what makes Pennsylvania strong. They create jobs, support other local businesses and help build the sense of community that makes our towns special.
Please take a moment to watch the video below and learn more about their story.
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Honored to Support Veteran Entrepreneurs
I was honored to receive the prestigious Sabre Award from Hivers and Strivers Fund at its annual meeting held at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis. This award recognizes outstanding support for veteran entrepreneurs and highlights efforts to bring more capital and resources to veteran-led businesses in western Pennsylvania.
I am very proud of the work we have done through newly established programs with the PenFed Foundation, helping veteran entrepreneurs access the tools and funding they need to grow their businesses.
Thank you to Hivers and Strivers Fund for this recognition.
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Talking Government, Community with Quaker Valley Students
I had a great time speaking with students at Quaker Valley High School. Our conversation covered a lot of ground, from how a bill becomes a law to the differences between local, state and federal government issues. We also discussed the importance of working across the aisle to build bipartisan support for legislation, including my work on a landslide insurance fund designed to help our roads get repaired more quickly.
The students asked thoughtful questions about the Gov. Josh Shapiro’s proposed budget, women’s sports and how conflict resolution and mental health support can help reduce violent gun crimes. On a lighter note, they even wanted to know my favorite hiking trail in our community.
I am always encouraged by how engaged and informed these students are. Thank you to the students and staff for the invitation and for the chance to discuss issues that matter to all of us. It was a pleasure spending time with such a thoughtful and curious group.
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Honoring Our Scouts, Preserving Scouting History
I had the pleasure of attending a meeting with Boy Scout Troops 248 and 9248 in Oakdale, where I assisted in presenting Alex Allen the troop colors, patch set and handbook.
During my visit, I also found a meaningful home for some family Scouting memorabilia from my older brothers, Tim and Dan Gaydos, as well as from my late husband, Bruce. These items included merit badges, pins, a necktie and a vest adorned with patches from the Order of the Arrow and a Boy Scout Jamboree Tim attended in his youth. It is gratifying to know these treasured pieces will become part of the Oakdale Historical Room’s Scouting display, preserving the rich history for future generations.
A special thank you to Scoutmaster Tom Taylor for maintaining this history and fostering a sense of tradition and pride within the troop. It was an honor to be part of this memorable evening.
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A Closer Look at the Governor’s $53.26 Billion Budget
The House Appropriations Committee’s examination of the governor’s proposed 2026-27 state budget gets underway next week with the start of budget hearings.
The committee will hear from officials with the Judiciary, Department of Corrections, and Board of Probation and Parole on Monday. The departments of Health, Insurance, Agriculture, and Community and Economic Development, along with the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, will round out the week.
The governor proposed a $53.26 billion budget earlier this month, representing a $2.72 billion, or 5.4%, increase over the current fiscal year. Under current law, revenues are projected to increase by less than $1 billion, or 1.9%.
Budget hearings will stream live at www.PABudget.com and www.PAHouseGOP.com. For a full schedule of hearings, click here.
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Pro-Consumer Auto Insurance Bill Now Law
Legislation designed to protect consumers who change auto insurance carriers was recently signed into law.
Act 3 of 2026 requires the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to create an online verification system to modernize its processes for ensuring motorists are carrying insurance on their vehicles, as required by law.
Under prior law, insurance companies would notify PennDOT when an auto insurance policy was canceled, but companies were not required to notify PennDOT when a driver acquires a new policy. If vehicle owners missed written notification from PennDOT to provide proof of insurance, those vehicle owners were then saddled with a three-month suspension of their registration.
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New Law Puts Cursive Instruction Back in Schools
Recognizing the educational and historical value of cursive handwriting, the General Assembly recently passed and the governor signed into law legislation to bring cursive instruction back to Pennsylvania classrooms.
Studies show that writing in cursive activates brain regions tied to memory, language and critical thinking. It also builds fine motor skills, improving coordination and dexterity. These are all benefits that extend well beyond the classroom.
Cursive is also a key to unlocking history. Foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were penned in cursive. Ensuring future generations can read and write in this style keeps those texts accessible, strengthening civic engagement and historical literacy.
Act 2 of 2026 takes effect in mid-April.
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Helping You Navigate Tax Season
As tax season approaches, I want residents to know that while my office does not prepare tax returns, we are here to help in other important ways.
We can provide you with the Pennsylvania state tax forms you need to file your return, as well as information on how to contact the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue if you need assistance completing your paperwork. Our goal is to make sure you have access to the right resources and know where to turn if you have questions.
If you need forms or guidance on how to reach the Department of Revenue for additional help, I encourage you to stop by my office at 1005 Beaver Grade Road, Suite 106, in Moon Township during normal business hours.
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