It’s MLK weekend, 2026!
We often think of MLK’s legacy as a civil rights champion, an advocate for economic justice, and a powerful organizer with a vision for an inclusive nation. What has hit me the most this year, is how much of the legacy of Dr. King is really due to a dedication to continuous learning and an openness to being inspired.
Dr. King was born into a multi-generational family of black pastors and learned at the feet of such men of influence. His philosophy of non-violent protest and civil disobedience was influenced by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. King’s commitment to activism and selfless, courageous leadership was supported by his mentor, Benjamin E. Mays. Even his name, Martin Luther King Jr. is a reflection of lifelong learning by his father.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15th, 1929, in Atlanta Georgia. Actually, to be even more accurate, Michael King Jr. was born on January 15th, 1929. Dr. King’s given name was Michael, after his father. In 1934, King Sr. was on a multinational trip with fellow Baptist leaders and, while in Germany, was deeply inspired by the writings of theologian, Martin Luther that he changed his name and that of his 5-year-old son.
The point of it all? I’m going to honor Dr. King’s legacy this year by being more open to life-changing inspiration. I will go deeper into the people, ideas or places that seem to pique my curiosity or speak to my soul.
How will you honor Dr. King in 2026?
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Drum Roll Please!!! ?? After a weeklong wait, our new Betta's name is...
MONTGOMERY ALPHA BETTA!!! ??
Also known as Monty to his friends. Thank you to Linda Bartley for the suggestion! (Leah had to add the Alpha Betta part).
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Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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Our office will be closed Monday, January 16th in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We will reopen on Tuesday, January 17th for regular walk-in hours at 9:30a.m. Thank you for understanding.
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The 2025 Property Tax / Rent Rebate Program is open NOW! The program supports homeowners and renters across Pennsylvania. This program provides a rebate ranging from $380 to $1,000 to eligible older adults and people with disabilities age 18 and older.
This program is supported by funds from the Pennsylvania Lottery and gaming. ?
A reminder that it’s necessary to apply for a rebate every year because eligibility is based upon annual income and property taxes/rent paid in the prior year (2025).
Contact our office for help TODAY! 215-572-5210 or RepNelson@PAHouse.net! You can also file online at mypath.pa.gov.
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NEW! Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit
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With tax season right around the corner, take a moment to use the Department of Revenue's handy calculator at pa.gov/WPTC to see if you’re eligible for the Working Pennsylvanians Tax Credit. ??
This is a NEW credit available this year that could put up to $805 back in your pocket, helping workers keep more of what they earn. Beginning with the 2026 tax season, the credit will provide $193 million in relief to 940,000 working Pennsylvanians.
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PECO Relief fund EXTENDED!
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PECO is expanding its Customer Relief Fund to help more customers manage higher winter energy costs.
?? $2.5 million will be administered by United Way starting March 2, 2026, bringing total assistance to $12.5 million over the past year.
? Eligible customers can receive a one-time $750 credit on their PECO bill.
Click here for more information on eligibility requirements.
Apply for the grant here. Please note that you will be prompted to create an account with Submittable / The United Way of Greater Philadelphia.
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on township events & updates
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on active state programs
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Driver License & Photo Centers Closed
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All PennDOT driver license and photo centers, including PennDOT's full-service center in Harrisburg, will be closed Saturday, January 17, 2026, through Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
Online services will still be available at pa.gov/dmv.
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NEW! Retired Persons Registration Income Limit Raised
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Good news retirees! PennDOT just raised the retired persons vehicle registration income limit to $30,778.
Eligible retirees can qualify to pay $12 for their vehicle registration.
To qualify for Retired Status Vehicle Registration, you need to:
- Be retired and receiving Social Security, SSI payments, retirement benefits, or other pensions and annuities.
- Your total income should be $30,778 or less, including income from business, rental, and unemployment.
- You must be the main driver of the vehicle you're registering, unless you're mentally or physically incapable.
- Your vehicle must weigh 9,000 lbs. or less.
Note: Only one vehicle per qualified applicant may be registered for the retired status fee.
Contact my office (215-572-5210, or RepNelson@PAHouse.Net) if you have any questions or to apply.
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Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit
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PA’s Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit can deliver between $600 and $2,100 to help eligible Pennsylvanians with child and dependent care costs.??
The Child and Dependent Care Enhancement Tax Credit that is available to Pennsylvanians is based on the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit. That means that taxpayers must receive the federal credit to also be eligible for the state credit in Pennsylvania. The state credit is equal to 100 percent of the federal credit, meaning:
- The maximum credit will be $1,050 (one child/dependent) or $2,100 (two or more children/dependents?).
- The credit cap phases down as income levels increase.
- The minimum credit will be $600 (one child/dependent) or $1,200 (two or more children/dependents), provided expenses are at least $3,000 per child/dependent.
With tax season right around the corner, learn more about eligibility and how you can benefit when you file your PA tax return.
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2025 State Tax Forms Available at My Office
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My office now has Pennsylvania state tax forms available for pickup. Online forms will be available soon. If you need help finding the right form or have questions, staff are happy to assist. Come on by!
As you’re making a plan to file your taxes this year, remember that you can file your PA Personal Income Tax return online for free through myPATH. It’s secure, fast, and user-friendly. Learn more at revenue.pa.gov/PIT and file directly at mypath.pa.gov.
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Montgomery County’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count:
How You Can Help
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Montgomery County’s 2026 Point-in-Time Count (PIT) is happening on January 22!
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., Your Way Home volunteers will be across Montgomery County connecting with and counting individuals experiencing homelessness.
This important effort helps better understand community needs and secure vital funding for homelessness services and programming.
You can support this work by donating survival items through the Your Way Home Amazon Wish List. Every item makes a difference.
If you have questions or would like to learn more, please email yourwayhome@montgomerycountypa.gov.
Thank you for supporting our community.
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Congratulations! You've reached the end of the weekly email. This is our new trivia and fun fact section.
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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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