September 11, 2025
Sylvester & Tweeties Restaurant
In this episode of “Nick in Your Neighborhood,” I stop by Sylvester & Tweeties in Forward Township, where food, family, and a love story come together. High school sweethearts, Sylvester and Tweetie, turned their dream into a restaurant and neighborhood landmark, complete with a welcoming bar, spacious banquet hall, and catering that goes the extra mile. The photos throughout the restaurant tell the story of a business rooted in heart, and a place that keeps the community coming back for more. Stop in to experience the real tweetheart special, the story behind the name.
Follow them on social media.
September 10, 2025
Harrisburg, PA, September 10, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D–Allegheny) has introduced Senate Bill 996, legislation aimed at strengthening transparency, improving fairness, and closing loopholes in the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) bidding process to ensure taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and workers are paid fair wages on state-funded projects.
The bill responds to growing concerns that the current RACP requirements allow contractors to submit bids that omit prevailing wage costs, creating an unfair playing field and leaving grant recipients without enough funding to complete their projects.
“If you know you’re required to pay prevailing wage on a project, that should be part of the bidding requirement from day one,” said Senator Pisciottano. “Right now, the law allows bids that exclude fair wage costs, leading to low-ball estimates that win the contract, then force the project back to the state for more money. That’s not fair to taxpayers, workers, or local businesses that follow the rules.”
Under current law, RACP applicants must submit three cost estimates as part of the grant process—but prevailing wage only applies after the grant is awarded. As a result, contractors who omit these required labor costs can undercut responsible businesses during the bidding phase, only for prevailing wage obligations to increase actual project costs later on.
Senate Bill 996 would:
- Require all RACP project bids to include prevailing wage calculations from the outset;
- Close loopholes that allow projects to avoid prevailing wage by dividing work into separate contracts or phases at the same site;
- Ensure greater transparency and fairness in the project selection process;
- Protect local jobs and workers’ wages;
- Help prevent cost overruns that lead to unnecessary requests for additional state funds.
“This legislation is about protecting wages, supporting local jobs, and making sure public money is spent responsibly,” said Senator Pisciottano. “When the Commonwealth invests in economic development, we should expect projects to comply with the law and treat workers fairly from the start. We can’t afford a system that rewards bad actors and penalizes honest contractors.”
The RACP program provides critical state funding for regional economic, cultural, civic, and historical projects across Pennsylvania. These investments are intended to boost long-term economic growth and job creation, but Senator Pisciottano says they must also reflect the state’s values on labor rights and fiscal accountability.
“We’re talking about real people, real wages, and real jobs,” he added. “When public dollars are on the line, Pennsylvania workers and taxpayers deserve a process that’s fair, transparent, and grounded in law.”
In the PA House, Representative David Madsen (D-Dauphin) has introduced House Bill 1896, companion legislation to Senate Bill 996. Together, Pisciottano and Madsen are working to advance a unified effort to improve how RACP dollars are awarded and spend across the Commonwealth.
September 5, 2025
Monroeville, PA, September 5, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny), State Representative John Inglis (D-Allegheny), and State Representative Andrew Kuzma (R-Allegheny/Washington), together with representatives from PennDOT, today honored the life and service of the late Honorable Raymond T. Book during a ceremony at the Whitehall Borough Building, where they announced the designation of a portion of Pennsylvania Route 51 as the Honorable Raymond T. Book Memorial Highway.
“Raymond Book was a decorated veteran, elected official, and community leader whose life exemplified dedication and service,” said Senator Pisciottano. “Designating this highway in his honor ensures that his legacy and contributions will be remembered.”
Raymond T. Book proudly served in the U.S. Army during World War II, earning the WWII Victory Medal and numerous other commendations. Following his honorable discharge, he worked for more than three decades in the steel industry at J&L Steel before building a successful career in real estate spanning over forty years.
In 1980, Book was elected to Whitehall Borough Council, marking the beginning of his long career in public service. Two years later, he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, where he served three consecutive terms. During his tenure, he championed important legislation, including Pennsylvania’s landmark Organ Donor Bill.
Book later served as Director of the Real Estate Appeals Department and as a member of the Pennsylvania Real Estate Board. Even in retirement, he remained an active volunteer, dedicating countless hours to serving patients at local hospitals.
“Through his time serving his country, the Commonwealth, and his community, Raymond Book was an exemplary public servant,” said Representative Inglis. “We can proudly honor his lifetime of service with this well-deserved highway designation.”
“Although I never personally met Representative Raymond Book, it has been my honor to know his family and through them learn about the lifetime of contributions he made to his country, Whitehall community and family,” said Representative Kuzma. “An honor well deserved!”
Representatives from PennDOT also joined the ceremony to mark the designation. “The department is honored to be part of this dedication ceremony recognizing Raymond T. Book for his significant contributions to family, community, and country,” said PennDOT District 11 Executive Jason Zang. “With over 9,000 vehicles utilizing this busy corridor each day, motorists will now see signage dedicating this portion of roadway as the Raymond T. Book Memorial Highway in Whitehall Borough for generations to come.”
Linda Book, daughter of Raymond T. Book, Whitehall Borough Councilwoman, and District Office Manager for Representative Kuzma, attended the ceremony to represent the family.
“On behalf of my family, there are countless words of love and respect we could share about our father,” said Linda Book. “Above all, the affection and devotion he showed to us throughout his life will always be reflected in the love and pride we hold for him.”
The legislation designating the stretch of Route 51 from Nurnberger Drive to Stilley Road (Segment 0280/Offset 0000 to Segment 0300/Offset 0570) within Whitehall Borough, Allegheny County, now Act No. 17 of 2025, unanimously passed the Pennsylvania Senate and House of Representatives earlier this summer.
August 28, 2025
Monroeville, PA, August 28, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D–Allegheny) today announced that the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) has approved funding through the federal Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program to expand high-speed internet access across Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County.
The PBDA awarded $2,530,793 in grant funding to Comcast and Verizon to deploy fiber and hybrid-fiber broadband infrastructure in underserved areas of the 45th Senatorial District. This investment is part of a historic statewide initiative that will generate over $1.3 billion in infrastructure spending, creating jobs, fueling economic growth, and delivering high-speed internet access to the 130,000 Pennsylvania homes and businesses that currently lack service.
“Reliable broadband is a necessity for work, school, healthcare, and everyday life,” said Senator Pisciottano. “This investment ensures that families and businesses in our district are not left behind in the digital economy. Expanding internet access will strengthen our local economy, support job growth, and improve quality of life across our communities.”
Statewide, the BEAD awards include:
- 21 broadband provider awardees
- $793 million in grant funding paired with $650 million in private sector matching funds, an unprecedented 80% private match, far exceeding the 25% minimum requirement
- Deployment of multiple technologies, including 14 fiber projects, 3 fixed wireless projects, 2 partial fiber projects, and 2 satellite projects
Pisicottano praised the collaboration between the PBDA, federal partners, private providers, and local governments for making this milestone possible.
“This is a transformational moment for broadband access in Pennsylvania,” Pisciottano added. “I am proud to support these investments, which will connect thousands of residents and businesses to reliable high-speed internet and open the door to new opportunities.”
All projects remain subject to NTIA approval and acceptance by the applicants. Adjustments may be required during NTIA’s review of the Final Proposal, and applicants may also choose not to move forward with certain projects or project areas. As a result, provisional selections—and the overall BEAD spend—are subject to change.
August 26, 2025
Legislation builds on bipartisan effort to strengthen protections for hospitality workers
Harrisburg, PA, August 26, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) has introduced Senate Bill 976, legislation designed to protect hotel employees from harassment and violence in the workplace by requiring hotel employers to provide “panic buttons” to workers who service guest rooms alone.
“Every Pennsylvanian deserves a safe workplace, yet hotel workers, many of whom are women, face risks of harassment, assault, and unwanted sexual advances while working alone in guest rooms,” said Senator Pisciottano. “No one should feel unsafe doing their job. This legislation ensures hotel employees have access to help when they need it.”
Pisciottano’s legislation would require hotels to equip employees servicing guest rooms alone with personal safety devices at no cost to the worker. When activated, the panic buttons would instantly summon hotel management or security personnel to the employee’s location.
If enacted, Pennsylvania would join a growing number of states and municipalities across the nation that have adopted panic button laws to better protect hospitality workers, a movement driven by incidents that underscore the need for such protections. In Pennsylvania, there have been reports of housekeepers being harassed or worse while on the job, and Philadelphia enacted its own panic button ordinance in 2019 following worker reports of harassment in city hotels. Nearly 60 percent of housekeepers surveyed in Chicago reported being sexually harassed by guests, including being groped, exposed to, or blocked from leaving rooms. Similar cases in Seattle and New Jersey have drawn national attention, with workers testifying about being cornered, stalked, or even assaulted by guests.
Pisciottano noted that lawmakers have already demonstrated support for the measure when he partnered with Representative Roni Green to move the bill through the Pennsylvania House of Representatives last session with bipartisan backing. In July of this year, the legislation again passed the House with support from both parties. Pisciottano emphasized the importance of finishing the job in the Senate this session.
“Hotel workers should feel secure knowing that assistance is always within reach,” Pisciottano added. “By providing these protections, we are safeguarding employees’ health and well-being and reinforcing Pennsylvania’s commitment to safe and fair workplaces.”
Senator Pisciottano encouraged his Senate colleagues to join in this effort to pass commonsense legislation that protects some of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable workers.
August 20, 2025
In this episode of “Nick in Your Neighborhood,” I visit Willow Golf & Ice Cream in Plum, a family-owned business that has been serving up fun for 65 years. Founded by Frank and Rose Marie Borkovich in 1960, Willow has grown from a small driving range into a community landmark featuring 50 driving tees, an 18-hole mini golf course, batting cages, and of course, a sweet ice cream shop. Now run by the second and third generations of the family, Willow continues to be a place where families, friends, and golfers of all ages can come together to practice their swing, share a cone, and create lasting memories. Join me as we tee up a conversation about family, community, and a legacy of local fun that stands the test of time.
Follow them on social media.
August 6, 2025
Monroeville, PA, August 6, 2025 – State Senator Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny) today announced over $400,000 in state grant funding to support critical needs across the 45th Senatorial District, including life-saving equipment for first responders, upgrades to recreational spaces, and new resources for animal rescue organizations.
“These investments directly improve the quality of life in our communities,” said Senator Pisciottano. “From enhancing public safety to expanding recreational opportunities and protecting animals, I’m proud to bring these funds back to our region.”
Animal Protection Grants:
- Allegheny County Police – $25,000 for large animal rescue equipment, enabling officers to respond more effectively in emergencies involving livestock and other large animals.
- Fur All Kitties – $33,000 for an animal transport vehicle, improving the organization’s ability to safely relocate and care for rescued cats (with Rep. Inglis).
First Responder Grants:
- Baldwin Borough Police – $25,000 for safety equipment (with Rep. Inglis).
- Dravosburg #1 Volunteer Fire Department – $32,000 for a rescue truck to improve emergency response capabilities (with Rep. Inglis).
- Glassport Police – $25,000 for ballistic safety vests to better protect officers in the line of duty (with Rep. Inglis).
- Homestead – $42,000 for a drone to assist in emergency management, search and rescue, and public safety monitoring.
- Port Vue Vigilant Hose Co. No. 1 – $25,000 for dive drysuits and underwater PPE to enhance water rescue operations.
- Southeast Regional EMS – $27,000 to replace garage doors at their station, ensuring safe and efficient vehicle deployment.
- West Mifflin Police – $36,000 for a drone to support law enforcement operations (with Rep. Inglis).
- West Mifflin #3 Volunteer Fire Company – $25,000 for equipment (with Rep. Inglis).
- Whitehall Volunteer Fire Department – $50,000 for technology and infrastructure upgrades to strengthen emergency services (with Rep. Inglis).
Recreation Grants:
- North Versailles – $50,000 for new recreational structures at Washington Road Park, expanding outdoor play and gathering options.
- Whitehall – $50,000 to construct a pavilion at Overlook Park, providing a new space for community events and recreation (with Rep. Inglis).
Senator Pisciottano also thanked State Representative John Inglis for his role in bringing these funds to the district, noting his partnership as instrumental in advocating for projects that deliver tangible benefits to residents.
“These grants are a direct result of listening to the needs of our communities and working together to secure resources that make a difference,” Senator Pisciottano added. “I’m grateful for the tireless work of our first responders, local leaders, and advocates.”
July 24, 2025
Pennsylvania legislators introduced identical bills in the state House and Senate that would regulate animal cremation services after a scandal involving a local funeral director.
Patrick Vereb, 70, of Hazelwood was charged in April by the state Attorney General’s Office with taking money for pet cremations but instead disposing of the animals in landfills.
He also is accused of giving customers ashes that weren’t from their pets’ remains, according to authorities.
July 22, 2025
Sens. Pisciottano, Brown, & Bartolotta with Rep. Markosek Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Accountability for Pet Cremation Services
Harrisburg, PA, July 22, 2025 – In response to disturbing allegations and criminal charges involving the mishandling of pet remains at Vereb Funeral Home, State Senators Nick Pisciottano (D-Allegheny), Rosemary Brown (R-Lackawana, Monroe, Wayne) and Camera Bartolotta (R-Beaver, Greene, Washington), along with State Representative Brandon Markosek (D-Allegheny), announced the introduction of bipartisan companion legislation to strengthen oversight of pet cremation and burial service providers.
Currently, Pennsylvania law provides no regulatory framework governing how the cremated remains of pets should be handled. This gap allows bad actors to exploit grieving families with little fear of consequences, even in cases where cremation services are paid for but never actually performed.
“Anyone with a pet knows they are a part of our family, and they deserve to be treated with dignity, including in death,” said Senator Pisciottano. “The recent charges involving the alleged mishandling of pet remains have exposed a lack of accountability. We must ensure there are standards and consequences for misconduct.”
The legislation would establish new standards and enforcement mechanisms for the pet cremation industry, restoring public trust and ensuring pets are treated with the respect they deserve. Key provisions include:
- Creating the Companion Animal Cremation Consumer Protection Act to ensure transparency and accountability in pet cremation services and require providers to give a clear, written description of services offered.
- Requiring certification when remains are returned, confirming services were performed as represented and creating a chain of custody.
- Mandating that cremation providers and referring entities inform pet owners of their rights.
- Establishing health and safety standards for cremation facilities, including respectful treatment of remains and worker safety.
- Requiring cremation providers to retain detailed records of each cremation for at least five years.
- Granting the Attorney General authority to enforce fines ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 per violation.
- Allowing the appropriate licensing board to suspend or revoke licenses for noncompliance.
“This bill sends a clear message: if you abuse the public’s trust, there will be serious consequences,” Senator Pisciottano added. “We must act to make sure this never happens again.”
Senate Bill 950 and House Bill 1750 have garnered bipartisan support. Six members of the Senate Democratic Caucus have signed on as co-sponsors, joined by four Republican Senators, including co-prime sponsors Senators Brown and Bartolotta. Senator Brown serves as Co-Chair of the bicameral Animal Protection Caucus alongside Senator Pisciottano, and Senator Bartolotta is also a member of the caucus and a dedicated advocate for animal welfare in the Commonwealth.
“As a dog owner for many years, I understand the deep bond and unconditional love our animal companions give us,” Senator Bartolotta said. “This legislation is about respect and peace of mind. We owe it to every pet owner to ensure their animals are cared for properly, even after they pass. Holding pet cremation services accountable is the least we can do for those who gave us so much.”
The companion legislation, sponsored by Representative Markosek, has similarly drawn support in the House as part of this coordinated legislative effort.
“Our legislation will ensure that funeral homes truly treat pet remains with dignity when providing cremation services,” said Representative Markosek. “Pet owners deserve consumer protection as they are coping with the loss of their companions.”
To ensure the legislation is grounded in best practices and practical implementation, the lawmakers engaged a broad group of stakeholders, including local pet crematoriums, funeral homes, and the International Association of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories (IAOPCC). They also worked closely with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the Department of State to align the bill with existing regulatory and enforcement frameworks. This collaborative approach played a critical role in crafting a bill that prioritizes consumer protection while establishing clear, enforceable standards for service providers.
The Senators and Representative encourage additional colleagues in their respective chambers to join in this bipartisan effort to protect Pennsylvania families and the animals they love.
July 22, 2025
HARRISBURG, Pa. — After a Pittsburgh-area funeral home director was charged earlier this year with stealing more than $650,000 from customers by accepting payments to cremate their pets and instead disposing of the remains in a landfill, state lawmakers are introducing bipartisan companion legislation to strengthen oversight of pet cremation and burial service providers.
Patrick Vereb, 70, owner of Vereb Funeral Home and Eternity Pet Memorial, was charged with the improper disposal of thousands of dogs and cats after owners paid for cremations, burials, returns of ashes and other services.
