As we count down the days to the New Year, I always enjoy taking a few minutes to look back on the year that is winding down.
2025 was a year for the record books. Personal and political ups and downs aside, the last 50 weeks have taken us for a wild ride. We’ve seen budget impasses, food insecurity, SEPTA disruptions, and significant shifts in immigration and public safety postures. We’ve broken ground on school improvements, fixed a few more roads, and celebrated our small businesses… and who could forget the SPS fire, where first responders from all over showed what it means to come together as one community.
Through it all, the community stuck together. We stocked the shelves of food pantries and kept an eye on our neighbors. We stood by our teachers, shopped small, voted in record numbers, coached out little leaguers, and thanked our veterans.
As we look ahead to the new year, my team remains focused on showing up for our neighbors here at home while also crafting policies that advance justice and equity in Harrisburg. I take comfort in approaching 2026, truly a seminal year for this nation, knowing that we have shown such capacity to care for each other. The moral arc of the universe is long. Our collective actions each day help to bend that arc towards justice.
Happy holidays good neighbor!
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Happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate! As we wrap up this eight-day festival, we wish you a Chanukah Sameach – a joyful Hanukkah filled with light, warmth, and togetherness.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. Families and communities celebrate by lighting the menorah, sharing traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot, playing dreidel, and coming together to honor this special time of year.
Whether you are lighting the menorah, enjoying time with family and friends, or reflecting on the values of hope and resilience, may the lights of Hanukkah continue to bring peace, joy, and inspiration to your home.
A few safety tips from PEMA:
???? Stay in the kitchen while frying food
↔? Keep things that can catch fire away from the stovetop
?? Put the menorah on a sturdy, flat surface
??? Keep open flames away from curtains, decorations, and anything else that can burn
?? Keep lit menorahs, matches, and lighters away from kids and pets
??? Blow out candles before leaving or going to sleep
More holiday safety reminders can be found here.
From all of us, Chanukah Sameach!
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This week we finished the 2025 legislative year with two more days of voting. Several bills passed the House, and a few are even heading to the Governor’s desk to become law.
To learn more about each of these bills you can click here and enter in either the description of the bill or the bill number.
Here’s a look at just a few of those bills that we considered this week:
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HB 150: Often called “Compassionate Release” offers a defined and functional pathway for incarcerated individuals who now have a significantly diminished ability to function due to a terminal illness or severe medical condition to petition the Court for release. This is not only the compassionate thing to do, but it is financially appropriate given the significant burden of such medical costs on the correctional system. I voted in favor of this bill that passed the House by a vote of 111-92. This bill now moves to the Senate.
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HB 274: This bill offers unemployment compensation eligibility to Pennsylvanians who must leave their jobs due to safety concerns related to domestic violence. Currently, individuals in a violent domestic relationship must consider the financial hardship of leaving a job and routine known to their abuser without being able to rely on compensation or unemployment benefits to assist in their transition. This bill would extend support to those individuals and help our neighbors prioritize themselves and families. I voted in favor of this bill that passed the House with a vote of 157-46. It already passed the Senate last week by a vote of 42-5 and now heads to the Governor’s desk to become law!
- HB 1957: This bill begins the process of amending the State Constitution to enshrine the reproductive protections that were previously codified federally under Roe vs Wade. With the Supreme Court kicking abortion policy to the states, it is time for PA to update our state constitution to match the protections that are already in law. Yes, abortion and reproductive justice remain the law of the land here in PA, but access is only defined in law where a simple majority in both chambers can bring about change. Enshrining access in the Constitution offers stronger protections from the Court system but also requires persistent legislative success over multiple years. This bill passed out of the House by a 102-101 vote. It will almost assuredly stall right in its tracks in the Senate.
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A Very Pennsylvania Christmas
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?? The first records of Christmas trees being cut for display comes from the 1820s in Pennsylvania’s German community, although trees may have been a tradition there even earlier. German immigrants are particularly credited with bringing many of the Christmas traditions still celebrated today to the US, including the decorated tree and the modern-day Santa Claus.
?? The festive tradition of hiding a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree has strong roots in Pennsylvania-Dutch communities. In places like Lancaster County, families would hang the pickle on Christmas Eve and the child who found it on Christmas morning got an extra gift — or the adult who found it got good luck for the year.
?? 6 Rockefeller Center Christmas Trees have come from Pennsylvania. The trees include: 1960 from Harford Township, 1974 from Lehighton, 1985 from Harveyville, 2011 from Mifflinville, 2014 from Danville, and in 2017 from State College. The tallest of these trees was the 85ft Norway Spruce from Danville!
??There are more than 1,400 Christmas tree farms in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania ranks 3rd in the nation for number of Christmas tree farms. These tree farms account for nearly 31,000 acres, and they produce about 1 million cut trees each year.
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Almost $2 Million in Grant Funding Coming to District
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I am proud to announce that; thanks to the Commonwealth Financing Authority we are approved for nearly $2 million in grant funding for projects in the 154th legislative district.
Money will be going to support the firefighters who protect us every day and to fund renovations to keep our community spaces thriving. I will keep pushing to make sure our community gets the funding it needs, and I am proud to back these outstanding projects!
The projects in our district that are supported by this funding include:
- $900,000 to support renovations to the La Mott Community Center in Cheltenham Township, including the installation of an ADA-compliant elevator.
- $850,000 to the La Mott Fire Company in Cheltenham Township to support a firehouse addition and renovation project for the nearly 70-year-old building.
- $100,000 to the Jenkintown Education Foundation to support stormwater protection improvements in Legacy Park.
- $63,070 to Cheltenham Township for the Greenway Master Plan in Parkview Park.
- $56,250 to the Cheltenham Township Community Development Corporation to complete a planning study to improve the Elkins Central commercial corridor.
These grants come from the Local Share Account, which supports projects in the public interest that improve the quality of life for citizens in the community.
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Office Closure for the Holidays
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My office will have limited hours and staff next week due to the holiday. Please refer to the graphic for those hours and call ahead for assistance.
I want to wish you a happy holiday season!
Whether you’re celebrating Festivus, Christmas, Hannukah or Kwanzaa (or nothing at all), I hope you’re able to enjoy the holiday festivities and spend quality time with your loved ones. ?? ??
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This Sunday, December 21st, marks the first day of winter, bringing shorter days, colder temperatures, and the potential for snow and ice across our area. As we head into the winter season, it’s a good time to check on neighbors, especially older adults and those with disabilities, make sure your home is properly heated, and prepare for winter weather by stocking essentials and reviewing travel safety tips.
If you or someone you know needs help with heating costs, food assistance, health care, or other basic needs this winter, resources are available through state and local programs. Our office is here to help connect you. Give us a call!
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With winter weather approaching, it’s important to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel whenever possible. Staying off the roads during snow and ice helps keep you and your family safe and allows road crews to do their work more effectively.
If travel is unavoidable, taking a few extra precautions can make a big difference.
?? Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready, keep your gas tank at least half full, and carry a winter emergency kit and a charged cellphone.
?? Drive slowly, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden stops or starts. Be especially cautious on bridges, ramps, and roads that may look wet but are actually frozen.
??? State law requires headlights to be on when windshield wipers are in use, and all snow and ice must be cleared from your windows, mirrors, lights, hood, and roof before driving.
?? Never use cruise control on snow-covered roads, avoid plow lines and snow emergency routes, and let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
?? If you become stranded, it’s safest to stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
Preparing ahead of time and adjusting your driving habits can help keep everyone safer throughout the winter season. For more winter safety tips, check out PennDOT's dedicated webpage.
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Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy holiday season. As we take time to celebrate with family and friends, please note that our office will be closed from noon on Wednesday, December 24 & Thursday, December 25, but will reopen on Friday, December 26, with limited staff.
As you celebrate, we encourage everyone to keep safety top of mind. A few quick reminders:
??Keep live Christmas trees well-watered and at least three feet from heat sources
?? Inspect holiday lights for damage and avoid overloading outlets
?? Turn off decorative lights when leaving home or going to sleep
More holiday safety reminders can be found here.
We hope you have a joyful and safe holiday season. As always, we’re here to help and look forward to serving you in the new year.
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Still Shopping for Gifts?
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Find the perfect holiday gifts right here in Montgomery County!
From local wine and baked goods to maple syrup, wool products, honey, and even holiday hayrides, Montco farms and makers have something special for everyone on your list.
Support local this season and discover unique gifts and experiences across our communities. The Montgomery County Planning Commission created a helpful guide to all the spots you can visit!
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Not Feeling the Holiday Spirit? You Aren't Alone.
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The holiday season can bring a mix of emotions, and for many people it can be a difficult or isolating time. Support is available for Pennsylvanians who are struggling with their mental health, substance use, or feelings of loneliness, and help is accessible 24 hours a day.
Anyone experiencing emotional distress, mental health challenges, or thoughts of self-harm can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This free, confidential service is available 24/7 and connects individuals directly with trained mental health counselors. Support is also available for people who are concerned about a loved one, as well as for veterans and Spanish-speaking callers.
Pennsylvania also offers mental health and substance use resource guides that can help individuals find screenings, treatment providers, housing and trauma supports, county assistance offices, and help applying for benefits. Additional free resources are available to connect people with longer-term mental health support in their local communities.
For those seeking help with substance use or recovery services, the PA Get Help Now helpline is available at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). This confidential, 24/7 hotline connects callers to treatment and recovery resources in their area and can also help identify funding options. Pennsylvanians can also use Treatment Atlas to search for and compare substance use treatment facilities based on location, services, and insurance accepted.
Naloxone, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, is widely available in Pennsylvania. Residents can obtain naloxone at local pharmacies without a prescription or have it mailed to their home after completing a short training. Carrying naloxone can save a life and is an important way to support friends, family members, and neighbors.
Older adults and individuals with disabilities who may be feeling isolated or disconnected can receive support through the PA Link to Aging and Disability Resource Centers by calling 1-800-753-8827 or visiting carelink.pa.gov. Pennsylvania’s Area Agencies on Aging also offer virtual and in-person programs focused on wellness, social connection, and healthy aging.
Families caring for children when parents are unable to do so can contact the KinConnector helpline at 1-866-546-2111 or visit kinconnector.org for guidance, emotional support, and help navigating available resources.
People with intellectual disabilities or autism can access tools and tips designed to help manage holiday-related stress, including strategies for sensory challenges, setting expectations, using coping skills, and prioritizing self-care. Additional resources are available at myodp.org and paautism.org.
For Pennsylvanians struggling to meet basic needs during the winter months, assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, LIHEAP, and cash assistance are available year-round through COMPASS. Help is also available through both our office and the County Assistance Office for individuals who need in-person support.
No matter what you or a loved one may be facing this season, help is available and you do not have to navigate it alone. Click here for more resources.
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PECO Customer Relief Fund
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Having trouble making ends meet and need a little help with the bills?
The PECO Customer Relief Fund (CRF) provides a one-time grant of $750 to customers who qualify. Apply ASAP or by Wednesday, December 31, 2025 -- First-come, first-served. (May close early if money runs out.)
* One-time grant up to $750.
* Grants will appear in qualifying customers’ bills as credits.
Note: To apply for PECO’s program, you will need a free Submittable account.
ELIGIBILITY
* Current PECO residential electric and/or natural gas customer.
* Owe up to $2,500 (or, with customer co-payment, can bring the balance down to $2,500).
* No theft-of-service charges on PECO account in past 12 months.
* Household annual income between 151% & 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
If your annual household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level, visit peco.com/help for information on other programs.
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SEPTA Weekday Mid-Day Bus Substitution Alert
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SEPTA just let us know that from Monday, January 5 through Friday, April 3, 2026, there will be mid-day weekday shuttle buses replacing train service on the Fox Chase Line while crews perform continuous welded rail renewal.
- Inbound (toward Center City): Shuttle buses will leave Fox Chase Station 28 minutes earlier than the regular train schedule. Trains will depart 5 minutes after the bus arrives at Wayne Junction. (No bus connection for Train 817.) Riders should plan for an additional 30–35 minutes of travel time. Buses will be marked “Rail Shuttle.”
- Outbound (toward Fox Chase): Shuttle buses will depart 5 minutes after train arrival at Wayne Junction, serving all stations along the line. Riders should plan for an additional 35–40 minutes of travel time.
What to Expect: Between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., SEPTA’s Track Department will be installing and adjusting new Continuous Welded Rail, which will provide a smoother and more efficient ride for passengers. Work will move along various points of the line throughout the day.
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Adults with ADHD Online Supports Group
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Join BuxMont CHADD by Zoom to meet with other adults with ADHD. Discuss challenges, successes and solutions. This meeting is a casual conversation with our tribe. If you want to contribute to the conversation, feel free, if not, feel comfortable just listening.
Members share, ask questions and have a few laughs while learning about ADHD/ADD.
Register here to receive Zoom link. ??
To learn more about BuxMont CHADD click here.
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Montco Recorder of Deeds Holiday Donation Drive
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Our office is participating in the Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds’ Veterans Holiday Drive.
We are collecting hats, shirts, gloves, scarves, new underwear, small hygiene products & women’s hygiene products, laundry detergent pods, non-perishable food items, and individually wrapped snacks through December 31st.
Please consider donating to help local veterans!
Call us at (215) 572-5210 or the Recorder of Deeds at (610) 278-3289 for more information.
You can drop off at our office, 115 E. Glenside Ave, Glenside or at their office in Norristown.
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LIHEAP is Accepting Applications
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The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps Pennsylvanians stay safe and warm during the cold months. From December 3, 2025, through April 10, 2026, households can apply for a one-time cash grant ranging from $200 to $1,000 to help pay heating bills, with the payment sent directly to the utility provider or fuel company. If your household is experiencing a heating emergency, you may also be eligible for additional crisis funds.
Eligibility is based on household size and income, and both renters and homeowners can apply. You do not need to be enrolled in another public assistance program or have unpaid heating bills to qualify. Household size includes all people living in the home, including children, relatives, and unrelated individuals who share expenses. Annual income from all household members is considered when determining eligibility.
Applications for LIHEAP can be submitted online, by mail, or in-person at your local county assistance office, and applicants must provide a recent heating bill and proof of household income. Our office can also assist with your application. Additional documentation may be needed for non-U.S. citizens, households where heating is included in rent, or households with income below basic living needs. After applying, you will receive written notice of eligibility and your grant amount, usually within 30 days. LIHEAP benefits must be applied for each year, with pre-season notifications sent to previous recipients.
For households experiencing a heating crisis—such as broken equipment, lack of fuel, or imminent utility shutoff—crisis grants provide assistance quickly, typically within 10 business days. If you haven’t received a standard LIHEAP benefit this year, you must apply for the program to be considered for crisis assistance. Those who have already received LIHEAP benefits should contact their local County Assistance Office if a heating emergency arises.
You can learn more, apply online, or track your application status at trackmybenefits.pa.gov
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Harrisburg Office
325 Irvis Office Building
PO Box 202154
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1079
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Glenside Office
115 East Glenside Avenue
Suite 8
Glenside, PA 19038
(215) 572-5210
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