We’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. We’ve hoped and prayed for this. We’ve told stories of the last time this phenomenon occurred. Songs have been written about this moment and so many folks began to doubt whether it would ever come to pass, but it’s here.

The temperature is finally going to remain above freezing this week! Won’t he do it!

If you’re like me, you came into this winter with fond feelings of snow and don’t mind looking out the window at a winter wonderland. Also, if you’re like me what is left on your lawn and street is the dirtiest snow and ice with salt and asphalt and sticks and some sort of berries that the birds found and left everywhere and my car is filthy and the salt and grime rubs off on my suits every time I get in and out of the car and I’m TIRED of getting snow in my shoes. ARGH!

Warmer weather is coming ??. Please let’s make sure you still wear jackets, wash your hands and protect yourselves from unknowingly sick people that are coming out of hibernation.

If you’re a bit of a self-identified germaphobe, the state has a great dashboard offering weekly updates on respiratory virus conditions. Thank you to the team at the Department of Health!

Pitchers and catchers have officially reported to spring training for the Philadelphia Phillies, which can only mean one thing... Spring is around the corner! ?????

After a long winter, it’s a welcome reminder that warmer days, longer evenings, and baseball season are on the way. Whether you’re counting down to Opening Day or just looking forward to sunshine, this time of year brings a renewed sense of energy and optimism.

Here’s to brighter days ahead. ??????Click here for the Phillies 2026 Schedule. 

?? Pennsylvania produces more chocolate than almost any other state, making it one of the sweetest states for Valentine’s Day.

?? Stephen Whitman, a Philadelphia candymaker, began producing boxed candies in the 1850s that became popular gifts and helped pave the way for Valentine’s chocolate traditions in the U.S.

?? Groundhog Day was originally held on February 14th.

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and it is a perfect time to celebrate the people who make our lives brighter. Whether you are sharing the day with a partner, friends, family, or even taking a moment to treat yourself, there is always a reason to spread kindness and appreciation. Small gestures can make a big difference.

Sending a note to someone you care about, surprising a friend with a small act of thoughtfulness, or simply taking a moment to enjoy something that brings you joy are all ways to celebrate the day. Love comes in many forms, and this Saturday is the perfect opportunity to recognize them all!

My office loves helping constituents. If you or a loved one requires state assistance, give us a call! We can assist with:

• issues with state agencies
• SEPTA senior fare card
• birth & death certificate assistance
• PennDOT & driver license concerns
• property tax & rent rebates
• utility assistance
• unclaimed property
• SNAP & Medicaid issues
• state tax forms
• unemployment benefit issues
• community programs & resources
• disability placards & plates
• veterans' resources
• concerns regarding state roads
• and more!

Contact my office today to see how we can assist you! 

?? 215-572-5210

?? RepNelson@PAHouse.net

Last week in Harrisburg, the Pennsylvania House advanced several measures that recognize the history, service, and contributions of Black communities across our nation. I was proud to see strong bipartisan support for these efforts.

The House adopted House Resolution 401, which designates February 2026 as the 100th anniversary of Black History Month. Black History Month was first established in 1926 and later recognized at the federal level in 1976. As we approach both the centennial of Black History Month and the 250th anniversary of our nation, this resolution affirms a shared commitment to justice, equity, and the recognition that Black history is American history.

The House State Government Committee also advanced my bill, House Bill 1806, which would designate March 9 of each year as 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion Day. This bill honors the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed during World War II. Eighty-one of the 850 women who served were Pennsylvania residents when they enlisted. Their contributions, particularly those of Black women in the military, have too often been overlooked, despite their critical role in our nation’s success. House Bill 1806 now moves to the full House for consideration.

In addition, the House adopted House Resolution 413, introduced by Representative Aerion Abney, which commemorates the 50th anniversary of the closure of Freedom House Ambulance Service. Freedom House played a transformative role in emergency medical services and was recently highlighted in season one of the acclaimed series The Pitt.

I remain committed to ensuring that these stories, contributions, and legacies are recognized and honored in Pennsylvania and beyond.

The 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” marks 100 years of honoring, studying, and celebrating the history, culture, and contributions of people of African descent. This milestone year highlights the lasting impact of Black history observances in shaping identity, fostering pride, and strengthening our understanding of American history.

Montgomery County invites you to participate in two special events:

• February 18 | 12–1:30 p.m. – Virtual program

• February 25 | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. – In-person celebration featuring live performances and lunch at Science Center Building - Montco Cultural Center, 340 DeKalb Pike, Blue Bell, PA 19422 (Use the Morris Road entrance at 1313 Morris Road, Blue Bell, PA 19422) 

For questions, please email BlackHistoryMonthCommittee@montgomerycountypa.gov

This Presidents Day we take a moment to reflect on the leaders who have shaped our country and the ideals that continue to guide us today.

Our office will be closed on Monday, February 16th in observance of the holiday. If you need assistance, be sure to check out my self-service page!

I encourage you to use the long weekend to spend time with loved ones, enjoy your community, and take a moment to appreciate the history and values that make our nation strong.

We look forward to serving you when we reopen and hope you have a safe and meaningful Presidents Day.

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may be detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), assistance is available from the Office of Congresswoman Madeleine Dean. With a signed privacy waiver, Congresswoman Dean’s office would be able to assist with getting key information about a person’s case following an arrest.

Without this waiver, Congresswoman Dean’s office is legally unable to ask questions, request information, or assist in any matter involving ICE, including issues related to detention or incarceration.

What this waiver does:

• Authorizes Congresswoman Dean’s office to communicate with ICE on your behalf only if assistance is requested.
• Allows her office to receive key information following an arrest—including the person’s current location, case status, and details surrounding their case.

What this waiver does NOT do:

• It does not allow the office of Congresswoman Dean to act in any legal capacity to represent someone in court.
• It does not share your information with ICE unless you specifically request it.
• It does not guarantee a specific outcome of the case.

The completed waiver would need to be received by the office of Congresswoman Dean before enforcement action is taken.  The signed privacy release will be stored securely by Congresswoman Dean’s office and will not be shared with ICE unless you request her assistance following an arrest.

You can download and complete the DHS/ICE Privacy Waiver (Form 60-001) here.

Once completed, the form should be submitted directly to Congresswoman Madeleine Dean’s office to be kept on file in the event that it is needed.

We have also uploaded the form on my own site, along with further immigration resources. 

New "Spring" SEPTA Schedules for Bus and Metro begin Sunday, February 22 and
Monday, February 23.

The updated schedules can be found on SEPTA's website here. 

Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded! 

The Montgomery County Office of Public Health partners with Impact Teen Drivers to administer an evidence-based educational program that aims to reduce car crashes.

Did you know? 

• The #1 killer of young people in America is distracted and reckless driving. 
• Almost 4,000 teens lose their lives every year and 400,000 are seriously injured in car crashes. 
• 50% of teen driving fatalities are passengers when being driven by another teen driver. 

Learn more about teen driver safety and take Impact Teen Drivers’ interactive modules here.

This prestigious scholarship was named after Mr. James R. Roebuck- former member of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus (PLBC) and champion for education. Mr. Roebuck served in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1985- 2020 and served as chair of both the House Education Committee and the PLBC.

Successful applicants will receive a $1,500 scholarship made possible by the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus Foundation for educational purposes. ?? Students are encouraged to use the scholarship award for tuition, fees, books, or school-related supplies and equipment.

Applicants must be a:

1. Resident of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
2. Person of color
3. Graduating high school senior or current undergraduate college student

The Deadline for registration is 5pm on Friday, February 20, 2026. Applicants are responsible for submitting all material to the PLBC on time. Incomplete applications will not be evaluated.

Apply now!

For survivors of sexual assault, the process of healing can sometimes be isolating. That is why the Victim Services Center of Montgomery County is hosting a virtual support group so that survivors can connect with others who are dealing with trauma.

• Confidential and provided with HIPAA-compliant technology
• Open to ages 18+, all genders welcome
• Free interpreter services
• Meets 6:30 to 8 PM on Tuesdays from March 3rd to April 7th, 2026

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual violence, I encourage you to explore this resource. You are never alone.

Love is in the air! ?? Extend some Valentine’s Day love to the earth and the natural resources we enjoy all year long.

Here are some tips to help limit your environmental impact this Valentine’s Day from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources!

?? Consider a live potted plant vs a traditional bouquet

?? Make your own cards from paper you already have

??? Ditch the disposables

?? Plan a date and enjoy the outdoors at one of Pennsylvania's 124 state parks! 

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources conserves and sustains Pennsylvania's natural resources for present and future generations' use and enjoyment, including state parks and forests. Check out this interactive map to discover state park, state forest, geology information, and more! ???

Did you know? Pennsylvania's state parks cover over 300,000 acres across the Commonwealth and have NO ENTRANCE FEES! Plan your visit this year! ??

Show your pup some love this Valentine’s Day by making sure they’re licensed.

Dog licenses:

• Help lost dogs get home faster
• Are required by PA law
• Support animal welfare efforts

More information about dog licenses can be found here.

?? Need help applying? Our office can assist!

Harrisburg Office

325 Irvis Office Building

PO Box 202154

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1079

Glenside Office

115 East Glenside Avenue

Suite 8
Glenside, PA 19038
(215) 572-5210

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