Hi Folks,
We hope this February edition of District Deliberations finds you all doing well. The author Gabriela Alemán wrote that “In February, nature reminds us that even in the coldest moments, beauty can still flourish.”
Though the shortest month of the year, this February has seemed much longer, simulating an unpredictable roller coaster ride of twists and turns affecting the very foundations of our Republic. We find ourselves in unchartered territory as we confront an unconstitutional presidential impoundment of $2.1 billion of pre-approved Congressional funds promised to all Pennsylvanians. Were it not for Governor Josh Shapiro fighting back with legal action, our state would be without much needed funds that are meant to help our schools, our seniors, our first responders, our roads and bridges, our Commonwealth. As of this writing, major pre-approved transportation grants ($700 million) for our roads, electric charging stations, and public transportation projects, remain arbitrarily frozen. These aren’t Democrat roads and bridges or Republican roads and bridges. These are all Pennsylvanians’ road and bridges. This unconstitutional impoundment is unacceptable. As our Governor stated, “A deal is a deal” and if you are going to break it, expect Pennsylvania to fight back.
I urge all of you to reach out to your U.S. congressional elected representatives to urge them to fight for what is promised and owed to us. This illegal and unilateral presidential action taken in the cold of winter should remind us all of past struggles against autocracy. As we approach our 250th anniversary as a Nation the eyes of the world and our forefathers are upon us. As such, let us keep in mind that Pennsylvania is and remains a cradle of liberty and democracy that should warm the heart of any freedom loving person present and past. With that said, this edition of District Deliberations takes special notice of Governor Shapiro’s heroic stand on behalf of all Pennsylvanians. (Please see Fighting Back for Pennsylvania section below.)
This cold February is not all gloom and doom, and I am happy to report that you will find some “beauty” despite the chill of a challenging February. In keeping with Black History Month, this issue of District Deliberations features hometown heroes Mother Lenore Meeks, celebrating her 100th birthday and recognizing her extraordinary contributions to her church and community. We also have the pleasure of recognizing the West Chester (PA) branch of the NAACP as our Hometown Hero organization for its unwavering dedication to civil rights, advocacy, and community empowerment for over a century.
This issue also includes information on the Governor’s proposed budget, a salute to the Eagles and their fans, two major community grants we were able to obtain totaling $795,000, REAL ID deadline and helpful information, PA House of Representatives’ College Scholarship Program opportunity, open enrollment for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the St. Agnes Day Room dilemma resolution, and of course the wise whelps of wisdom from our official mascot, Penny the Pup.
Folks, as always, we are thankful for the opportunity to serve you and look forward to any questions or concerns you may have. We wish you, your families, and friends a safe, healthy and warm March. Until our next issue, Stay Well, Stay Safe, and Stay Strong.
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Chris Pielli
Pennsylvania State Representative House District 156
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St. Agnes Day Room Continues its Mission
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I am extremely happy to hear that Chester County Health Department officials and the good folks of the St. Agnes Day Room have come upon a working solution to enable the Day Room staff to continue their 32-year-old mission of providing refuge and support to many who have nowhere else to turn. As a previous program director for homeless veterans, I learned firsthand that these dedicated volunteers have worked strenuously to help alleviate the dangerous rise of food insecurity in our community, helping folks not only survive but succeed.
Since learning about this months-long issue, I have met with both the St. Agnes Day Room staff and county officials several times in hopes of coming to a resolution acceptable to both parties. I commend their hard work and thank them for overcoming any obstacles that delayed the continuation of the Day Room’s valuable mission to our community.
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Fighting Back for Pennsylvania
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I stand with Governor Shapiro as he fights back against an arbitrary and unlawful of impoundment of funds promised and owed to Pennsylvania. This $2.1 billion is used to help our schools, our seniors, our first responders, our roads, our bridges and so much more. This unconstitutional impoundment is unacceptable. As our Governor stated, “A deal is a deal” and if you are going to break it, expect Pennsylvania to fight back. I urge all of you to reach out to your elected U.S. Congressional representatives to urge them to fight for what is promised and owed to us.
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Hometown Heroes - Mother Lenore Meeks and West Chester (PA) NAACP
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This February, our Hometown Heroes are Centenarian and Civic Leader, Mother Lenore Meeks; and the West Chester NAACP.
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Mother Lenore Meeks – Centenarian and Civic Leader
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This month, we proudly honor Mother Lenore Baxter Meeks as our Hometown Hero for her unwavering faith, service, and lifelong dedication to the West Chester and Coatesville communities.
Mother Meeks, alongside her late husband, Elder Jacob Meeks, co-founded Mount Carmel Church of God in Christ in 1962, making history as the first Black church built in West Chester in over a century. Her leadership and devotion have shaped Mount Carmel into a cornerstone of faith, unity, and service, touching countless lives throughout the years.
On February 15, 2025, Mother Meeks celebrated her 100th birthday, surrounded by family, friends, and community leaders. It was a privilege to attend and join Representative Dan Williams in providing her a citation from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to her church and community
Even at 100, she remains a beacon of love and faith, continuing to serve as the District Missionary of the Coatesville District and representing the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of COGIC.
Her steadfast commitment to ministry and service is an inspiration to all. Whether through spreading the gospel or providing guidance and support to those in need, Mother Meeks embodies the very best of our shared values.
We celebrate Mother Lenore Meeks for a century of faith, leadership, and service. Thank you, Mother Meeks, for being a Hometown Hero!
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West Chester (PA) Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)
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This month, we proudly recognize the West Chester (PA) branch of the NAACP as our Hometown Hero for its unwavering dedication to civil rights, advocacy, and community empowerment for over a century.
Founded in April 1919, just a decade after the national NAACP was established, the West Chester branch began with 88 men and women committed to the fight for racial justice. One of their first priorities after World War I was advocating for returning Black veterans, ensuring they were considered for jobs and opportunities when political patronage was distributed.
Beyond its early efforts, the West Chester NAACP has maintained a strong and lasting partnership with the Charles A. Melton Arts & Education Center, formerly the West Chester Community Center. This relationship has fostered generations of leadership, education, and cultural enrichment in the community.
For over 100 years, the West Chester NAACP has been a voice for justice, working tirelessly to promote equality, engage with local leaders, and support initiatives that uplift the community. Their dedication to civil rights and advocacy continues to inspire and create positive change. I've been a proud member and supporter of the West Chester branch and will continue to support their critical mission.
We celebrate the West Chester NAACP for their commitment to justice, their deep-rooted history, and their continued efforts to build a better future for all. Thank you for being our Hometown Hero!
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Gov. Shapiro delivered his budget proposal this month. Simply put, his budget means better jobs, health care, education, and economic security for all Pennsylvanians. Our public schools will continue to see increased funding while we reform charter schools to save taxpayer money. Last year we saw historic increases in childcare tax credits and this budget proposal follows up with $55 million worth of incentives to make sure that we hire more childcare workers. In this era of proposed federal tax cuts for billionaires while cutting long standing programs for hard working families, we need a budget that looks out for the middle class and their future. As such, I look forward to working with my colleagues and the Governor to ensure a better Pennsylvania for everyone. To learn more about the budget click here.
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Eagles are 2025 Super Bowl Champs!
Congratulations to our Super Bowl LIX Champion Philadelphia Eagles!
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The Eagles put up an all-star showing in the Super Bowl, crushing the Kansas City Chiefs in a stunning 40-22 victory. Quarterback Jalen Hurts proved all of his doubters wrong with a stellar performance that has earned him not only the Super Bowl MVP, but has also cemented him as an Eagles legend. Not one to hold the spotlight, Hurts has demonstrated the value of teamwork with this team, reminding teammates like Saquon Barkley, AJ Brown, and Cooper DeJean how much their contributions mean to the team’s success.
The victory parade following was, as expected, a spirited celebration of the team with city officials estimating more than over a million fans in attendance (Including my CSA and resident office Eagles super-fan, Matt DeWese!) A big shout out to the folks at SEPTA for their professionalism and efficiency in making sure every fan using their services arrived at the parade safely and efficiently.
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$700K in Infrastructure Grants to My District
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After years of dangerous flooding on Montgomery Ave, I’m happy to have worked with Senator Comitta to obtain much needed funding for West Goshen Township's stormwater and pedestrian project. This project will greatly mitigate flooding, making our local residents and businesses safer.
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Nearly $100K in Fire and EMS Grants to My District
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It is easy for us to take our local emergency services for granted. The fact that we can dial 911 and get help in minutes requires an immense, constant effort by first responders and other staff. Lives are undoubtedly saved every day because of their work.
However, despite the ever-higher demand in a growing community like ours, these services remain chronically underfunded by our government. That is why I am proud to announce that over $95,000 in state grants have been brought into our district for fire companies and emergency medical services:
- Fame Fire Company of West Chester, First West Chester Fire Company, and Good Will Fire Company each received $16,322 in Fire Grants.
- Good Fellowship Club of Chester County received $15,000 in EMS Grants.
The Goshen Fire Company received a total of $31,322! This was made up of $16,322 in Fire Grants and $15,000 in EMS Grants.
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REAL ID Deadline Coming Up!
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To get your REAL ID, go to a DMV with proof of your identity and 2 documents proving your PA residency.
For identity, you must show a birth certificate (with a raised seal) or a valid passport. In addition, you must show your social security card.
For residency, you must show two of the following: A current PA driver's license/ID card, a current PA vehicle registration, proof of insurance, bank statement, W-2 form or pay stub, tax records, or a lease agreement/mortgage document.
Finally, if your name has ever been legally changed (due to marriage or otherwise), you must show proof. You can do this with a certified marriage certificate or a court order.
My office can help if you have any questions about REAL ID, or need any assistance in obtaining a birth certificate, driver's license, photo ID, or vehicle registration for proof of identity. Please call (610) 696-4990 and my staff will be glad to assist you.
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PA House of Representatives Scholarship Program
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Applications are currently being accepted for the PA House of Representatives Scholarship Program. The Program – administered through The Foundation for Enhancing Communities – is for graduating high school seniors who reside in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. TFEC awards two four-year scholarships to high school seniors each year. The award consists of the value of one semester of tuition at the State System of Higher Education for each of four years. Students must maintain eligibility criteria in all four years to receive the ongoing award. Note: No public revenue funds the program.
Please consider sharing this opportunity with those who may be eligible.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Graduating high school senior
- Legal Residency in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
- Attendance at a PA college, university, or career school as a full-time student
- Academic achievement (minimum 3.0 cumulative high school GPA)
- Commitment to community and leadership qualities
- Extracurricular activities
- Financial need
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Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is Now Open
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LIHEAP is now open for 20and accepting applications!
The current deadline to apply is Friday, April 4, 2025.
A LIHEAP cash grant helps pay your heating bill. You can receive from $200 to $1,000 based on your household size, income, and fuel type.
The cash grant is a one-time payment -- it's yours until the grant money runs out. The grant will be sent directly to your utility provider or fuel company to be credited on your bill.
Please note: LIHEAP is sometimes extended beyond the original deadline (currently April 4, 2025), but don't wait -- find out if you qualify and start receiving this benefit!
Learn more and apply here: Apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) | Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Please feel free to contact my district office staff for assistance with applying for LIHEAP or other state benefits like SNAP, Medical Assistance, etc.
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District Office:
121 West Miner Street
Suite 1E
West Chester, PA 19382-3236
M-F 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Office Email: RepPielli@pahouse.net
Phone: (610) 696-4990
Fax #: (610) 738-2163
Staff Members:
Julie K. Mesaros, District Office Director
Matthew DeWese, Constituent Services Advisor
Ryan DeStefano, Constituent Services Advisor
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Pennsylvania State Capitol
115-B East Wing
Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 705-2075
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District Office
121 West Miner St., Suite 1E
West Chester, PA 19382
(610) 696-4990
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