by Christin Brown | Diciembre 20, 2019 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, Diciembre 20, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) issued the following statement regarding the School District of Philadelphia’s closures of Laura H. Carnell Elementary School and Alexander K. McClure Elementary School due to the detection of hazardous asbestos in the schools:
“I was disheartened and disturbed, but not surprised, to learn that hazardous asbestos has been detected at Carnell and McClure, both of which serve families of the 2nd Senate District. As a member of the Fund Our Facilities Coalition and through the diligent advocacy of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, I have become keenly aware of the pervasiveness of hazardous materials in public schools throughout the city and I remain committed to identifying resources that will enable the School District to eliminate the threats and protect the health of the people who occupy these aging facilities every day.”
“In addition, I will continue to fight for state legislation that will extend OSHA safety protections for state and local public employees, as well as all people who use our public buildings. It’s tragic that our schoolchildren and our dedicated educators cannot focus on the important work they do without fearing long-term and potentially fatal health complications. I commend the School District for taking swift action to close Carnell and McClure until the hazards are remediated. Yet, formulating, adopting, and funding a comprehensive plan to remediate ALL schools must be our top priority.”
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
por Christin Brown | 18 de diciembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
Filadelfia, PA, 18 de diciembre de 2019 - Los legisladores demócratas de ambas cámaras de la Asamblea General de Pensilvania evocaron a The Grinch y Scrooge para denunciar la inacción del liderazgo republicano de la Cámara sobre el Proyecto de Ley 79 del Senado, legislación que aumentaría el salario mínimo de Pensilvania a $ 9,50 por hora para enero de 2022.
Los senadores estatales Christine M. Tartaglione y Art Haywood, y los representantes estatales Patty Kim y Christopher M. Rabb fueron los anfitriones de la rueda de prensa. Patty Kim y Christopher M. Rabb organizaron la conferencia de prensa con el apoyo de sus colegas demócratas y el Secretario de Trabajo e Industria W. Gerard Oleksiak. Los cuatro legisladores han introducido legislación destinada a modernizar la Ley de Salario Mínimo de Pensilvania para reflejar el aumento de los costos de vida y criar a las familias en la Commonwealth.
El senador Tartaglione, principal promotor de la SB 79, leyó un pasaje del clásico del Dr. Seuss, "Cómo el Grinch robó la Navidad", mientras comparaba al presidente de la Cámara, Mike Turzai, con el infame personaje del poema.
"Hay literalmente millones de 'Whos' viviendo en cada ciudad, en cada pueblecito y en cada 'Whoville' a lo largo y ancho de esta gran Commonwealth", dijo el senador Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia). "A diferencia de las adorables criaturas del clásico del Dr. Seuss, su difícil situación no es nada para deleitarnos cada temporada navideña".
"Aumentar el salario mínimo ha sido una prioridad este año, y hemos fallado a los trabajadores de Pensilvania para aprobar este proyecto de ley", dijo el senador Haywood (D-Montgomery / Filadelfia). "Estoy aquí con mis colegas para seguir ofreciendo apoyo para aumentar el salario mínimo en Pensilvania y sacar a las familias trabajadoras de la pobreza."
El representante Rabb (demócrata de Filadelfia) amplió el tema navideño citando la novela de Charles Dickens "Cuento de Navidad", equiparando al presidente Turzai con Ebenezer Scrooge y advirtiéndole de que los espíritus de las Navidades pasadas, presentes y venideras pronto podrían hacerle una visita.
"Esta gente trabajadora no está pidiendo caridad", dijo el diputado Rabb. "Esta gente trabaja -trabaja duro- 40, 50 horas a la semana o más. Esta gente está sirviendo las cenas de Navidad, limpiando los hoteles en los que se alojan los familiares que nos visitan y asegurándose de que tenemos un lugar donde comprar gasolina, pilas y leche cuando todo lo demás está cerrado. Piden el salario justo por una dura jornada de trabajo que se han ganado y que se les debe".
"El modesto aumento en el proyecto de ley 79 del Senado haría una gran diferencia para tantas familias, especialmente las familias y los hogares encabezados por mujeres", dijo el Representante Kim (D-Dauphin). "Estoy triste, estoy decepcionado, pero también estoy dispuesto a luchar hasta que estas personas reciban el aumento que se han ganado".
El salario mínimo básico de Pensilvania se sitúa en el mínimo nacional de 7,25 dólares la hora y no ha aumentado desde 2009, cuando entró en vigor la tasa federal. Pensilvania promulgó por última vez un aumento de su salario mínimo el 9 de julio de 2006. Es decir, hace 4.910 días.
Con un fuerte apoyo bipartidista, el Senado aprobó por abrumadora mayoría el proyecto de ley SB 79 el 20 de noviembre. La legislación se trasladó a la Cámara para su consideración y se remitió a su Comité de Trabajo e Industria. Los líderes de la Cámara no han avanzado el proyecto de ley o programado para su consideración por el comité.
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by Christin Brown | Diciembre 16, 2019 | News Releases
The investment will help to provide more than 900 public school students with new learning and active play opportunities in a safe and secure outdoor environment.
Philadelphia, PA, Diciembre 13, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) was joined by State Rep. Jared Solomon at Carnell Elementary School today for the presentation of a $200,388 Pennsylvania grant in support of a new Green Playscape and Community Design project at the school.
Coordinated by the non-profit Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association, the project will transform a barren, asphalt-covered yard adjoining Carnell’s two instructional buildings into a vibrant recreational and educational space with a climbing wall, play surface and mounds, language path, basketball and soccer goals, and other interactive playground equipment.
“This Green Playscape project is a great example of the power of strong public-private partnerships to create positive change in our communities,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The investment we are making here today will help to create an attractive and useful recreational and learning space that will benefit thousands of children for many years to come.”
The grant was administered through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating in Philadelphia. OCCCDA Executive Director Pearl Wang-Herrera, Carnell Principal Hilderbrand Pelzer III, and Community Design Collaborative Director of Design Heidi Segall Levy took part in the check presentation ceremony.
“We are so thankful for the DCED LSA funding and are excited to transform the current empty asphalt lot to provide a playground to engage the 900 students at Carnell with creative activities and a safe environment,” Wang-Herrera said.
The conceptual plans include a centrally located mural on the ground and a walking path with images that celebrate the cultural diversity of the student population. Two basketball goals and two soccer goals will be installed with a 15-foot fence bordering the court. Recycled rubber surfaces and mounds will help to demarcate play areas dedicated to younger and older pupils.
In addition, a “rock” wall for climbing and surrounding play surface will enable students to strengthen their body coordination, while ADA-approved ramps and pathways will provide full accessibility to the facility. The total cost of the project will be about $1 million.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Diciembre 3, 2019 | News Releases
La inversión ayudará a New Kensington CDC a crear unidades comerciales y residenciales asequibles y orientadas al vecindario que revitalizarán el corredor comercial.
Filadelfia, PA, 3 de diciembre de 2019 - La senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) entregó hoy una subvención de $150,000 de Pensilvania a New Kensington Community Development Corporation (NKCDC) para ayudar a la organización sin fines de lucro a reurbanizar dos escaparates anteriormente vacíos en 2513-15 Frankford Ave. Las propiedades colindantes se convertirán en espacios comerciales y residenciales asequibles y orientados al vecindario que revitalizarán el corredor comercial circundante.
La subvención se concedió a través del programa Local Share Account del Departamento de Desarrollo Económico y Comunitario (DCED), un fondo que distribuye una parte de las tasas por licencias de máquinas tragaperras pagadas por los casinos que operan en la ciudad de Filadelfia. El senador Tartaglione visitó las nuevas oficinas de New Kensington en Ruth Street para hacer entrega de la subvención al director general, Félix Torres-Colón, y a otros funcionarios de New Kensington.
"Durante más de 30 años, New Kensington CDC ha hecho un trabajo tremendo facilitando y supervisando la revitalización del corredor de Frankford Avenue. Se trata de una zona que atravesó tiempos difíciles debido al declive de la industria local, pero que ahora vuelve a crecer gracias a sus esfuerzos", declaró el senador Tartaglione. "Esta financiación estatal contribuirá al renacimiento local aportando espacio comercial y residencial asequible a la avenida, junto con puestos de trabajo y comercio".
"NKCDC está muy emocionado de recibir esta subvención Local Share de Pennsylvania DCED", dijo Torres-Colon. "Cuando este año trasladamos nuestras oficinas a Orinoka Civic House, en Somerset Street, vimos la oportunidad de hacer otra inversión en nuestro antiguo espacio de oficinas de Frankford Avenue". En su plan de barrio, los residentes de East Kensington pidieron un desarrollo que promoviera los negocios locales y mantuviera la asequibilidad. Estamos deseando crear espacios comerciales y apartamentos de alquiler que se sumen al animado y transitable barrio de Frankford Avenue."
NKCDC adquirió las propiedades de Frankford Avenue a la ciudad de Filadelfia a finales de los años ochenta. En aquel momento estaban vacíos. La organización sin ánimo de lucro estableció allí sus oficinas y llegó a tener 25 empleados. A principios de este año, NKCDC completó la reconversión de un antiguo molino en las calles Ruth y Somerset en Orinoka Civic House. Las oficinas del CDC se encuentran ahora allí, junto con 51 apartamentos asequibles.
El restablecimiento de las propiedades de Frankford Avenue como edificios de uso mixto, comerciales y residenciales, restaurará su uso original y será coherente con el plan Philadelphia2035 Comprehensive Plan for the River Wards de la ciudad. El proyecto hará que las propiedades sean totalmente compatibles con la ADA, proporcionará viviendas asequibles muy necesarias y ampliará el comercio del vecindario al tiempo que crea nuevos puestos de trabajo.
NKCDC, que gestiona el corredor y lo mantiene en virtud de un contrato con la ciudad, comercializará los nuevos locales comerciales entre posibles inquilinos y apoyará a los nuevos negocios a medida que crezcan con la comunidad. Para más información sobre el NKCDC, visite nkcdc.org.Frankford Avenue Storefronts, Senadora Christine Tartaglione, Subvenciones
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 27, 2019 | News Releases
After delivering the Local Share Account grant to Impact Services Corp., the senator and State Rep. Angel Cruz served Thanksgiving meals to formerly homeless local veterans.
Philadelphia, PA − Noviembre 27, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) and State Rep. Angel Cruz delivered a $427,479 grant from Pennsylvania’s Department of Community and Economic Development to Impact Services Corp. today in support of the nonprofit organization’s renovation of a former Kensington textile mill into a community gymnasium and multi-use campus.
The 12,000-square-foot gymnasium project is part of a $30 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Downs Carpet Mill on the corner of ‘A’ and Indiana streets. Impact Services’ longterm plans for the site – which is part of its “Hope Park Focus Zone” – also include 48 affordable housing units, 60,000 square feet of commercial space, a community center, a health center, and a business incubator. Impact Services already provides housing and supportive services for formerly homeless veterans on-site.
“This project has the potential to completely transform this block and the surrounding neighborhood into a social, cultural, and economic destination. So I was thrilled to help Impact Services secure this major state funding,” Senator Tartaglione said.
“I am pleased that DCED awarded a grant for this project because it is much-needed for the community,” Representative Cruz said. “And I hope to continue supporting the redevelopment of this site.”
“This development is an example of what becomes possible when neighbors and government come together to strengthen a neighborhood,” Impact Services CEO Casey O’Donnell said. “We are grateful that state officials share in the vision and are making the needed investment.”
The grant presented by Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz will specifically be used for site preparation, utility separation, demolition of non-historic buildings, heating, air conditioning, and bathroom upgrades. The overall redevelopment project is detailed in Impact Services’ “Heart of Kensington” neighborhood plan and involves the entire 140,000-square-foot former mill. Information about the plan is available at www.impactservices.org/neighborhoodplan/.
The Hope Park Focus Zone contains some of Philadelphia’s most-active blocks for drug activity and crimes. The presence of vacant buildings and lots throughout the area contribute to the drug and crime problems. Yet, the vacancies also provide “clean slate” opportunities for redevelopment.
Impact Services has been working in the Kensington neighborhood since 1974 to help residents get job training, reenter the workforce, find housing, and build the community. In the last two decades, the agency has developed a specific focus on building a continuum of services including housing for homeless veterans. The agency offers transitional and permanent housing for about 200 veterans in two large facilities and several scattered sites.
The grant presented by Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz today was administered through DCED’s Local Share Account program, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating within the City of Philadelphia.
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-5330440 or mailto:[email protected].v
por Christin Brown | 20 de noviembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
Harrisburg - 20 de noviembre de 2019 - Hoy, la senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia), se unió al senador estatal Art Haywood (D-Montgomery/Filadelfia), la representante estatal Patty Kim (D-103), el representante estatal Chris Rabb (D-200) y la organización de defensa State Innovation Exchange (SiX) para una conferencia de prensa. Este evento de medios de comunicación fue en respuesta a la aprobación del Senado de la legislación para aumentar la tasa de salario mínimo a $ 9.50 en enero de 2022.
"Cualquier aumento del salario mínimo es un paso en la dirección correcta, pero el proyecto de ley aprobado hoy por el Senado está muy por debajo de lo que los trabajadores de Pensilvania necesitan y merecen. Este no es el proyecto de ley por el que he estado luchando. No es el proyecto de ley que mis colegas en el Senado y la Cámara han estado luchando por", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Y no es el proyecto de ley que los trabajadores han estado luchando. Los trabajadores de Pensilvania merecen más. Debemos seguir luchando por más y no pararemos hasta conseguirlo".
"Hoy he votado a favor de aumentar la tasa del salario mínimo a 9,50 dólares en un período de 24 meses. Sigue sin haber cambios en el salario de propina para los trabajadores de restaurantes, no hay ajuste anual del coste de la vida con la inflación, y mantiene la prohibición de que las ciudades aumenten su propio salario mínimo", dijo el senador Haywood. "El cambio de 7,25 a 9,50 dólares da a los trabajadores con salario mínimo un aumento de 4.680 dólares. Continuaré los esfuerzos en mi distrito para aumentar el salario mínimo a 15 dólares la hora empresa por empresa y bloque por bloque hasta que haya un salario justo."
"Después de casi una década de Pennsylvania a la zaga de los estados vecinos, los republicanos están finalmente reconociendo que nuestro salario mínimo actual es nada menos que un salario de pobreza. Sin embargo, su respuesta a H.B. 1215 y S.B. 79 es una contrapropuesta inadecuada a la sustancia de un salario justo. Es similar a mantener el cuchillo económico en el costado de los trabajadores pobres, pero buscando elogios por sacarlo una pulgada", dijo el representante estatal Chris Rabb. "Más del 40% de la mano de obra de Pensilvania está trabajando en empleos de salario mínimo. Debemos asegurarnos de que los trabajadores puedan mantener adecuadamente a sus familias luchando por un salario digno mientras rompemos el azote de la pobreza."
"Según una encuesta encargada por State Innovation Exchange (SiX) y realizada por TargetSmart, los votantes de Pensilvania apoyan una amplia gama de políticas en el estado para aumentar los salarios, fortalecer nuestra democracia, reformar el sistema de justicia penal y proteger el medio ambiente", dijo la Directora de Pensilvania para State Innovation Exchange (SiX), Nikkilia Lu. "El 62% de los votantes apoya aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania a quince dólares la hora en los próximos cinco años".
Esta legislación está pendiente de votación en la Cámara de Pensilvania.
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por Christin Brown | 20 de noviembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
El proyecto de ley 79 del Senado propone elevar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania a 9,50 $/hora para 2022.
Filadelfia, PA, 20 de noviembre de 2019 - Mientras el Senado de Pensilvania adoptaba su legislación para aumentar el salario mínimo del estado por primera vez en 13 años, la senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) instó hoy a sus colegas a seguir trabajando para lograr una tasa más alta que permita a los trabajadores mantenerse a sí mismos y a sus familias.
El proyecto de ley 79 del Senado propone aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania de 7,25 dólares la hora a 9,50 dólares en cuatro incrementos que concluirán el 1 de enero de 2022. El aumento beneficiaría directamente a unos 385.000 trabajadores con salarios bajos. La legislación pasa ahora a la Cámara de Pensilvania para su examen.
"La Asamblea General no ha aumentado el salario mínimo de Pensilvania en más de 13 años, por lo que cualquier aumento es un paso en la dirección correcta", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Si bien este no es el proyecto de ley por el que he estado luchando, o el proyecto de ley por el que los trabajadores de bajos salarios de Pensilvania han estado luchando, es importante que hagamos todo lo posible en este momento para ayudar a las personas a poner comida en sus mesas, poner un techo sobre sus cabezas y educar a sus hijos."
En marzo, el senador Tartaglione presentó el proyecto de ley 12 del Senado, que propone aumentar el salario mínimo a 12 dólares este año y a 15 dólares en 2025. El SB 12 está a la espera de que el Comité de Trabajo e Industria del Senado tome una decisión.
La última vez que la Asamblea General votó a favor de aumentar el salario mínimo fue en 2006, cuando una ley presentada por el senador Tartaglione elevó la tasa de 5,15 a 7,15 dólares. El salario mínimo subió a 7,25 dólares en 2009, de acuerdo con la ley federal.
Desde entonces, los seis estados limítrofes de Pensilvania y 29 estados de todo el país han adoptado suelos salariales superiores al mínimo federal.
"Mediante la adopción de SB 79, hemos hecho una declaración de que somos capaces de trabajar juntos para avanzar en la legislación que proporciona a los trabajadores de bajos salarios de Pensilvania con un alivio muy necesario y muy esperado", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Animo a nuestros homólogos en la Cámara para apoyar este proyecto de ley y espero con interés trabajar en la legislación adicional que continuará el progreso que hemos hecho hoy aquí."
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
por Christin Brown | 19 de noviembre de 2019 | Salario mínimo, Comunicados de prensa
Mientras avanzaba en el Senado un plan de salario mínimo de 9,50 $/hora, el proyecto de ley enmendado incluía también una moratoria sobre los cambios en las anticuadas normas de pago de las horas extraordinarias en Pensilvania.
Filadelfia, PA, 19 de noviembre de 2019 - La senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione (D-Filadelfia) votó ayer a favor de aumentar el salario mínimo de Pensilvania de $ 7,25 por hora a $ 9,50, al tiempo que renovó su llamado a un aumento mucho mayor en el mínimo estatal.
Durante una reunión de la Comisión de Trabajo e Industria del Senado, los miembros votaron unánimemente a favor de remitir una versión ampliamente modificada de la SB 79 de Tartaglione al pleno del Senado para su consideración. Hoy, el Comité de Asignaciones del Senado también aprobó el proyecto de ley con dos votos en contra del panel de 24 miembros. El pleno del Senado puede votar sobre el proyecto de ley tan pronto como mañana.
La legislación propone aumentar el salario mínimo a 8,00 dólares el próximo 1 de julio, y en 50 centavos cada seis meses hasta que la tasa llegue a 9,50 dólares el 1 de enero de 2022. Además, en virtud de una enmienda impulsada por los republicanos, el proyecto de ley impediría al Departamento de Trabajo e Industria actualizar las normas estatales sobre el pago de horas extraordinarias hasta el 1 de enero de 2023. Bajo las reglas actuales, los empleadores pueden negarse a pagar horas extras a cualquier empleado que gane más de 23.660 dólares al año en salarios regulares.
"Con uno de cada ocho habitantes de Pensilvania viviendo en la pobreza, y uno de cada cuatro viviendo casi en la pobreza - a pesar de nuestra tasa de desempleo históricamente baja - simplemente no puedo alejarme de una legislación que podría proporcionar a nuestros trabajadores pobres al menos algún alivio ... incluso el nivel mínimo de alivio", dijo el senador Tartaglione.
En otro proyecto de ley, el SB 12, el senador Tartaglione ha propuesto aumentar el salario mínimo a 12 dólares este año y a 15 dólares en 2025. Esta ley, presentada en marzo, está pendiente de aprobación en la Comisión de Trabajo e Industria.
"Nada me gustaría más que votar a favor de la legislación que proporciona un aumento justo a los trabajadores con salario mínimo de Pensilvania", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Nada me gustaría más que darles el aumento que llevan esperando 13 años, un aumento que necesitan y merecen desesperadamente".
"Del mismo modo, me gustaría ver a la Commonwealth adoptar normas sobre las horas extraordinarias que garanticen a todos los residentes de Pensilvania un día de pago honesto por un día de trabajo honesto. Lamentablemente, el proyecto de ley drásticamente modificado que se votó en el Comité de Trabajo se ha quedado muy lejos de estos objetivos dignos."
En junio de 2018, el Departamento de Trabajo e Industria propuso nuevas normas sobre horas extras que elevarían el umbral de pago de horas extras. Después de un largo período de comentarios públicos, una propuesta de reglamentación modificada se encuentra ahora ante un panel regulador estatal. Según el plan, los trabajadores que ganan menos de $ 45,500 al año en salarios regulares tendrían derecho al pago de horas extras.
Sin embargo, los republicanos del Comité de Trabajo enmendaron el SB 79 para bloquear los cambios en las normas hasta 2023. En virtud de la nueva normativa federal, el umbral aumentará a 35.568 dólares a partir del 1 de enero de 2020. Pero eso excluirá a más de 80.000 trabajadores de Pensilvania que ganarían la protección de pago de horas extras en virtud de las normas propuestas por el estado.
Mientras tanto, unos 385.000 trabajadores con salarios bajos de Pensilvania se beneficiarían directamente de un salario mínimo de 9,50 dólares. Esa cifra palidece en comparación con los más de 1 millón que se beneficiarían de un mínimo de 12 dólares o los 2 millones que se beneficiarían de un mínimo de 15 dólares.
Actualmente, Pensilvania tiene un salario mínimo inferior al de sus seis estados limítrofes y se encuentra entre los 21 estados, en su mayoría meridionales y rurales, en los que sigue vigente la tasa federal de 7,25 dólares. El proyecto de ley SB 12 pondría a Pensilvania a la altura de Maryland, Nueva Jersey y Nueva York, que ya han aprobado leyes que establecen un salario mínimo de 15 dólares.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 15, 2019 | News Releases
Funding from Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program will support the construction of a new welding lab and expansion of an academic excellence center.
Philadelphia, PA − Noviembre 15, 2019 – State Senators Christine Tartaglione and John Sabatina visited Father Judge High School today to present the school’s leadership, supporters, and students with a $1.5 million state redevelopment grant to assist in the construction of a state-of-the-art welding lab and the expansion of an academic excellence center at the Northeast Philadelphia school.
Dozens of enrollees in Father Judge’s welding program enthusiastically joined a ceremonial check presentation. The funding was awarded to the Friends of Father Judge High School, Inc., through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, which supports organizations in their acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civc, recreational, and historical improvement projects.
“I was honored to advocate for this funding on behalf of Father Judge because of the high-quality education that the school offers to residents of the 2nd Senate District and the entire Philadelphia region,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program and the academic excellence center are perfect examples of the school’s innovative approach to preparing students for academic success and for prosperous careers.”
“It’s an honor to be able to assist Father Judge High School as it continues to expand its educational opportunities to students from our community,” Senator Sabatina said. “As a graduate of Father Judge, I take great pleasure in seeing the school grow into one of the premier high schools in Philadelphia.”
“As the Chairman of the Friends of Father Judge, I am excited about the possibilities the $1.5 million RACP Grant will provide for current and future Crusaders,” said William St. Clair, IV. “We are extremely grateful to Senator Christine Tartaglione and Senator John Sabatina for supporting our application and believing in our vision to provide expanded academic enrichment as well as career and technical pathways for students.”
Welding is the first of several career pathway programs at Father Judge that will provide enhanced career training and prepare students for in-demand, family-sustaining jobs of the present and future. Together, these programs comprise Father Judge’s Career Technical Education Academy, which is dedicated to a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum.
“Due to the nation’s tight labor market, there is a high demand for all skilled trades. And welding is at the top of the list,” Senator Tartaglione said. “The welding program at Father Judge is giving local students a big advantage that they will use in the coming years to secure lucrative, family-supporting jobs.”
The Father Brisson Center for Academic Excellence at Father Judge was founded in 2003 to assist students with vital reading and math skills and to prepare them for state and national performance series testing. The RACP grant will allow the school to reconfigure and expand the center to serve a growing demand for academic support.
Collectively, the renovations are expected to create dozens of new construction jobs and 10 permanent full-time positions at Father Judge, which serves about 1,200 students representing 29 different ZIP codes in Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, and Delaware counties.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Noviembre 15, 2019 | News Releases
The community improvement, economic development, and neighborhood revitalization awards will support projects in communities throughout the 2nd Senate District.
Philadelphia, PA, Noviembre 15, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that five community organizations in the 2nd Senate District have been awarded grants totaling $882,477 through the Department of Community and Economic Development’s Local Share Account program.
The recipients include Oxford Circle Christian Community Development Association ($200,388), Impact Services Corporation ($427,479), New Kensington Community Development Corporation ($150,000), Frankford Community Development Corporation ($54,610), and Mayfair Community Development Corporation ($50,000).
“I am thrilled that I was able to help each of these beneficial community organizations to secure the crucial funding they need to make neighborhood improvements that will improve the lives of the people of the 2nd District,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I have developed strong relationships with each organization and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of their efforts.”
Oxford Circle CCDA will use its funding to support the Green Playscape and Community Design project at Laura H. Carnell Elementary School. The project will upgrade an entrance gateway, walkways, and fencing, while building out a quiet recreation area within the schoolyard with benches and pave markings. Another play area will be created in front of the school with a new play surface, equipment, and recreational mounds, along with a retaining wall and decorative fencing.
Impact Services will apply its new funding to redevelop a portion of a former textile mill at ‘A’ and Indiana Streets in Kensington into a 13,000-square-foot community gym. Renovations will cover site preparation, utility separation, demolition of non-historic buildings, heating, air conditioning, and bathroom upgrades. This project is part of a 140,000-square-foot redevelopment of the former mill site.
New Kensington CDC will apply its grant to develop two commercial storefronts and three apartments in vacant properties at 2513-15 Frankford Avenue. The project is projected to create six new jobs and to provide affordable rental properties for local businesses and residents.
Frankford CDC plans to use its grant funding to renovate a blighted home at 4633 Paul Street, which is the only blighted property on the block as a result of a fire there several years ago. The renovations will be focused on the third floor and will relieve community safety issues.
Mayfair CDC will apply its grant funding to the purchase and clearing of a vacant, overgrown, and debris-strewn lot at 7315-33 Crispin Street (rear). The work will include removal of overgrown trees and foundation stabilization. Potential future uses of the site include a community park with storage units for local businesses and non-profits that conduct public events nearby, as well as a community garden to benefit Feast of Justice, the local food pantry. Income from storage units will provide maintenance funds and revenue for Mayfair CDC.
All five grants were administered through DCED’s Local Share Account program, which distributes a portion of slot machine license fees paid by casinos operating with the City of Philadelphia.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Octubre 10, 2019 | News Releases
El Mayfair Community Center estaba abarrotado de residentes mayores y sus cuidadores, que recogieron información significativa sobre multitud de productos y servicios.
Filadelfia, PA, 10 de octubre de 2019 - La senadora estatal Christine Tartaglione proporcionó a los adultos mayores del noreste de Filadelfia y a sus cuidadores recursos para abordar una multitud de temas vitales al concluir hoy su serie Senior Expo 2019.
Los residentes mayores llenaron ansiosamente el gimnasio del Centro Comunitario Mayfair para conocer a docenas de vendedores y recopilar información importante sobre atención médica, seguros, finanzas personales, vivienda, planificación de la jubilación, protección al consumidor, servicios para veteranos y muchos otros temas relevantes. El evento fue la tercera y última Senior Expo de 2019 del senador Tartaglione, tras las exitosas sesiones en el St. Anne's/26th District PAL Center el 19 de septiembre y en el Lawncrest Recreation Center el 3 de octubre.
"Siempre espero ver grandes multitudes en Mayfair y esta vez no me han decepcionado", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "En esta comunidad están ocurriendo muchas cosas estupendas. Los residentes mayores desempeñan un papel importante en todo ello. Estoy agradecido de que los mayores sigan mostrando tanto entusiasmo por la Expo y de que mis socios vendedores sigan ofreciendo productos y servicios de gran valor."
El senador Tartaglione recibió a los invitados en la puerta principal con apretones de manos, abrazos y bolsas de regalo. En el interior, los visitantes se mezclaron con profesionales de empresas privadas, organizaciones sin ánimo de lucro y organismos públicos mientras llenaban sus bolsas con tarjetas de visita, folletos, bolígrafos, caramelos y algunos premios exclusivos.
Un vendedor repartió rascadores de espalda y otro, calmantes para el estrés con forma de pie. También se obsequió a los invitados con cajas de almuerzo.
"Mi objetivo es que cada Senior Expo sea a la vez informativa y divertida", dijo el senador Tartaglione. "Lo más importante es que las personas mayores puedan conocer cara a cara a muchos proveedores diferentes bajo un mismo techo y de forma gratuita".
Aunque la serie Senior Expo 2019 ha concluido, el público puede mantenerse informado sobre todos los eventos futuros de la senadora Tartaglione visitando regularmente www.senatortartaglione.com y siguiéndola en Facebook, Twitter e Instagram. Para los servicios constituyentes, póngase en contacto con las oficinas del distrito de la senadora en 215-533-0440 (1061 Bridge Street) o 215-291-4653 (400 West Allegheny Avenue).
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Octubre 9, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Octubre 9, 2019 – Tomorrow will be the last opportunity for older Philadelphians and their caregivers to take part in State Senator Christine Tartaglione’s 2019 Senior Expo series as the senator will host her final expo of the year at Mayfair Community Center. The event is the third in Senator Tartaglione’s popular annual series and will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. News media coverage is invited and encouraged. Great photo and video opportunities will be available.
Date/Time: Jueves, Octubre 10, 2019; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Octubre 3, 2019 | News Releases
Hundreds of seniors and their caregivers joined more than 50 vendors at the Lawncrest Recreation Center to exchange information about vital programs and services.
Philadelphia, PA, Octubre 3, 2019 – Hundreds of Northeast Philadelphia-area senior citizens and their caregivers joined State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione for her Senior Expo today as she brought the annual event series to the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time in its more than 20-year history. Eager attendees collected valuable information from more than 50 vendors about topics ranging from health care to financial services to crime prevention.
The event was the second of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos following a kickoff session at St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center on Septiembre 19. The third and final session will be held on Octubre 10 at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. There is no charge to attend or participate. All visitors receive a free boxed lunch.
“This was the first time we’ve held a Senior Expo at Lawncrest, so I was very happy to see the enthusiastic community response,” Senator Tartaglione said. “I think seniors really appreciate being able to get information and sound advice about so many important topics, all under one roof.”
The varied lineup of vendors included agencies from the health care and insurance sectors, banking and financial services, adult day care, retirement communities, consumer advocates, assistive technology providers, veteran services providers, state and local police, public utilities, and elected officials from the federal, state, and local levels. Many attendees also took advantage of the opportunity to get a free flu shot. So did Senator Tartaglione.
“Flu shots are a great way to prevent seasonal illness and to promote public health,” Senator Tartaglione said.
The senator will host her third and final Senior Expo of 2019 on Jueves, Octubre 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No appointments or reservations are needed to attend. For the latest news about Senator Tartaglione, visit www.senatortartaglione.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For constituent services, call the senator’s district offices at 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Octubre 2, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Octubre 2, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to take part in her next Senior Expo tomorrow at Lawncrest Recreation Center. This is the first time in the 15-year-history of her annual Senior Expo series that it will be held at Lawncrest. This is the second of three expos for 2019. The event will present information about senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The final Senior Expo will be held on Octubre 10 at Mayfair Community Center.
Jueves, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Jueves, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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If you would like more information about this topic, please contact William Kenny at 215-533-0440 or [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Septiembre 19, 2019 | News Releases
St. Anne’s/26th District PAL was the setting for the first of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos. Vendors delivered vital information to improve the lives of older adults.
Philadelphia, PA, Septiembre 19, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione’s annual Senior Expo was a huge hit among the older adults and caregivers of the Port Richmond area, who gathered at the St. Anne’s/26th District PAL Center and collected valuable information about topics ranging from health care to financial services to crime prevention.
Today’s event was the first of the senator’s three 2019 Senior Expos. Upcoming sessions are planned for Lawncrest Recreation Center on Octubre 3 and Mayfair Community Center on Octubre 10. There is no charge to attend or participate. All visitors receive a free boxed lunch. More than 60 public and private-sector agencies and organizations participated in today’s event, which attracted hundreds of seniors and their caregivers.
“This is the second consecutive year I have held a Senior Expo at St. Anne’s, and the public response continues to grow,” Senator Tartaglione said. “It just goes to show that senior citizens are very interested in learning about ways to improve their quality of life, and that we have many organizations that are committed to helping our older relatives and neighbors to navigate life’s challenges.”
Senator Tartaglione thanked all of the partners and vendors who made the event possible. The lineup featured agencies from the health care and insurance sectors, banking and financial services, adult day care, retirement communities, consumer advocates, assistive technology providers, veteran services providers, state and local police, public utilities, and elected officials from the federal, state, and local levels.
“My goal for every Senior Expo is to provide visitors with a full array of services and information under one roof,” Senator Tartaglione said. “We want to create a one-stop shop where folks can get answers to all of their questions, and where they can get plenty of sound advice about often-difficult topics. I’m certain that we accomplished that here today.”
Senator Tartaglione will host her second 2019 Senior Expo on Jueves, Octubre 3, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue. The third 2019 Senior Expo will be on Jueves, Octubre 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street. No appointments or reservations are required to attend. Contact the senator’s district office at 1061 Bridge Street, 215-533-0440, for information about participating as a vendor.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Septiembre 3, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA, Septiembre 3, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione invites older Philadelphians and their primary caregivers to her annual Senior Expo series in the coming weeks. The senator will host the Expos at three community venues in the 2nd Senate District, including the Lawncrest Recreation Center for the first time!
All three events will present information about many senior-oriented programs and services offered by public agencies and private providers. The Expos will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join Senator Tartaglione and dozens of presenters on the following dates at the corresponding locations:
Jueves, Sept. 19: St. Anne’s Parish-PAL Center, Memphis and Tucker streets.
Jueves, Oct. 3: Lawncrest Recreation Center, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue.
Jueves, Oct. 10: Mayfair Community Center, 2990 Saint Vincent Street.
For Information (public): Call 215-533-0440 or 215-291-4653 (Spanish).
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Agosto 27, 2019 | News Releases
HARRISBURG, Agosto 27, 2019 – After a months-long review of a sexual misconduct complaint against a former Pennsylvania House member, a Dauphin County grand jury has called for the Pennsylvania Legislature to create a new, independent Office of Legislative Responsibility to create a centralized reporting system for victims to report sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
Among other things, the grand jury recommended the new independent office be led by a qualified investigator, have subpoena power in consultation with the district attorney in the relevant jurisdiction and have authority to investigate any alleged misconduct, not limited to sexual harassment or assault.
Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus have welcomed this idea and plan to move forward when the legislature returns in Septiembre.
“Women in the capitol deserve to be safe, to feel safe, to be heard, and to be respected,” said Sen. Larry Farnese (D-1). “We must act swiftly and stand together to enact these policy changes to create a better working environment for everyone in the Capitol.”
“To protect the safety of all individuals in and around the Capitol, as well as those who interact with the General Assembly anywhere throughout the Commonwealth, we must empower and encourage victims to report alleged incidents of harassment and misconduct as soon as possible,” said Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-2). “By creating an office dedicated to investigating these incidents independently, we will be sending a powerful message that the Pennsylvania Legislature takes all allegations seriously and that every voice will be heard.”
“This process has revealed the deficiencies in policy and reporting that has failed to keep women safe in and around the Capitol for years,” said Sen. Judy Schwank (D-11). “It is time that we take this conduct seriously and create a reporting process that affords victims the opportunity to come forward in safety and with dignity. It is time for today’s legislative leaders to lead the way in creating a path forward to ensure that the workplace is a safe place for all.”
“The findings of the Grand Jury Report reiterate what we already know and what the #MeToo Movement has made clear for years: there can be no tolerance for workplace harassment. Period,” said Sen. Maria Collett (D-12). “Our General Assembly needs to hold itself to the highest standards and lead by example by implementing and improving the procedures in which we address all claims of workplace harassment by adopting these recommendations. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature as we take up this issue when we return to session.”
“Having an independent office as a central reporting and investigation unit makes some sense,” said Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-18). “It will help ensure consistency and efficiency in all caucuses and both Chambers.”
“As a career public servant, I believe that members of the General Assembly should be held to the highest standards of ethics and behavior to uphold the public trust,” said Sen. Pam Iovino (D-37). “The establishment of the Office of Legislative Responsibility will serve to ensure that public trust. An independent office will secure credible due process for all victims, regardless of gender, as well as all accused.”
“Our current system of reporting and investigating claims of workplace harassment is woefully inadequate and, in many cases, damaging to the very people it is designed to serve,” said Sen. Lindsey Williams (D-38). “We need to take this opportunity to implement the Grand Jury’s recommendations and create a system that ensures all victims and witnesses alike are protected from retaliation and encouraged to report instances of workplace harassment.”
“The recommendations of not pursuing criminal charges in this incident is a direct example of how the “justice” system and old boys club enable rape culture and abuse of power in our government,” said Sen. Katie Muth (D-44). “How many more of us have to be harassed, bullied, assaulted, and raped before real accountability is enforced? The recommendations made by the grand jury should’ve been mandated decades ago. Until there is true, unbiased, outside oversight of the members of the General Assembly, the current system of internal regulation and self-policing will continue to cause more harm, corruption, and wasted taxpayer dollars on salaries for predators and those that enable them.”
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by Christin Brown | Agosto 22, 2019 | News Releases
Children of the 2nd Senate District frolicked in the summer sun with music, face painting, and refreshments. They took home free backpacks and school supplies, too.
Philadelphia, PA, Agosto 22, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione concluded her 2019 Community Picnics on a high note today as local school children flocked to Wissinoming Park for the third and final gathering of the annual summertime series.
Senator Tartaglione distributed close to 1,000 backpacks stuffed with school supplies during the series, which included picnics at Fairhill Square Park on Agosto 8, Lawncrest Recreation Center on Agosto 15, and today’s event in Wissinoming. Numerous sponsors and vendors teamed with the senator to make the picnics, supportive, informative, and fun for all the families who participated.
“We’ve been doing these Community Picnics for 15 years and they seem to grow bigger and bigger each year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “No matter what type of school your child attends, education can be a financial challenge. My goal each year is to make attending school a little easier for the kids and their families while giving them one more chance to enjoy the summer before classes begin.”
Wissinoming Park provided an ideal venue. With DJ Carlos Sanchez providing a danceable soundtrack, children beat the heat in the park’s new water spray area. The youngsters eagerly visited the face painting booth and the fingerprinting table staffed by the 15th Police District. Some of the kids and many of their parents also tested out one of the city’s new touch-screen voting machines, courtesy of the City Commissioner’s Office.
A host of sponsors, both longtime and new, made the picnics possible: Acme of Oxford Avenue, Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, Altrusa International of South Central PA c/o Bobbi Wertz-Hoy, America Health/Keystone First, Coca-Cola Bottling Company, Dietz & Watson, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Giant Supermarket, Hyperion Bank, La Fortaleza, Laundry Café, UFCW Local 1776, Ray Pastrana, Philadelphia Pharmacy, Plaza Allegheny, ShopRite-Harbison & Castor, ShopRite-Oxford & Levick, ShopRite-Zallies, Tom Walter on behalf of the late Jeanne M. Walter, and the 26th Police District.
This year’s vendors included Aetna Better Health of PA, All American Home Care, America Health/Keystone First, Brightside Academy, City Commissioner’s Office, West Kensington Ministry/DJ Rev. Adan Mairena, DJ Carlos Sanchez, Hyperion Bank, The 6th Man Project, 25th Police District, 26th Police District, 2nd Police District, and 15th Police District.
Senator Tartaglione will move indoors for her upcoming Senior Expo series in Septiembre and Octubre. The events will be held at St. Anne’s Parish, Lawncrest Recreation Center, and Mayfair Community Center. Dates and times will be announced. For information, follow Senator Tartaglione on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Agosto 16, 2019 | News Releases
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Agosto 16, 2019 – State Senator Christine Tartaglione handed out free backpacks and back-to-school supplies to more than 400 appreciative children at the Lawncrest Recreation Center yesterday as she hosted a Community Picnic at the bustling neighborhood playground for the first time in the 15-year history of her late-summer event series.
Youngsters and their caregivers enjoyed Dietz & Watson hot dogs, Philly Pretzel Factory soft pretzels, Philadelphia Water Ice, and DJ music. A Face painting booth, child fingerprinting, a coloring book contest, and a basketball raffle kept the excitement going throughout the four-hour picnic. The picnic also benefitted from a special contribution by Altrusa International, a nonprofit community service organization that donated books for each child to take home with them as part of its ongoing commitment to youth literacy.
“Lawncrest is a vibrant family community with many dedicated leaders and volunteers. I was thrilled when they asked me to host one of my Picnics at the rec center. And the public response was outstanding,” Senator Tartaglione said. “These events are a great opportunity for folks to meet their neighbors in a purely social setting and to help their kids get a head start on the upcoming school year. Lawncrest took full advantage of those opportunities today.”
The Lawncrest event followed Senator Tartaglione’s successful picnic on Agosto 8 at Fairhill Square Park in North Philadelphia. The third and final picnic of 2019 is scheduled for Jueves, Agosto 22, at Wissinoming Park. All activities will be set up around the park’s multi-purpose building on Cheltenham Avenue, between Frankford Avenue and Charles Street. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult and obtain a ticket from the senator’s table to receive a backpack.
Each backpack comes stuffed with pencils, erasers, notebooks, and other school supplies.
“The start of a new school year can be a serious financial burden for many parents. I hope these backpacks and supplies make the transition from summer to fall easier for local families,” Senator Tartaglione said.
Many longtime partners and some popular new ones teamed up with the senator to make the event possible. All-American Home Care provided the child face-painting station, while the Philadelphia City Commissioner’s Office showed off its new touchscreen, paper-ballot voting machines. Hyperion Bank, Brightside Academy, Fortaleza Rehabilitation and Wellness, and Oak Street Health were among the participating vendors.
“I look forward to seeing the families of Wissinoming and neighboring communities at Wissinoming Park next week,” Senator Tartaglione said.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Agosto 8, 2019 | News Releases
Music, face painting, hot dogs and the senator’s back-to-school backpack giveaway made it a special occasion for local children and their caregivers.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Agosto 8, 2019 – State Sen. Christine Tartaglione’s Community Picnic was a huge hit with the children and their families who gathered at Fairhill Square Park today to delight in free music, hot dogs, soft pretzels, water ice, face painting, and the senator’s popular back-to-school backpack giveaway. Hundreds of youths walked away wearing new school bags on their shoulders and smiles on their faces.
The event was the first of the senator’s three annual Community Picnics in her 2nd Senate District. The next two will be held on Agosto 15 at Lawncrest Playground and on Agosto 22 at Wissinoming Park. All three events last from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Each child may receive one backpack.
“This is a great time of year to be a youngster in the 2nd District and it’s a pleasure for me too. I really enjoy mingling with the children and their families while helping them ease the costs of the upcoming school year,” Senator Tartaglione said. “When we give each child a backpack filled with supplies like pencils, erasers, and notebooks, it means they will have the tools to succeed during the upcoming school year.”
Many longtime partners and some popular new ones teamed up with the senator to make the event possible. Picnic-goers enjoyed Dietz & Watson hot dogs, Philadelphia Water Ice, and soft pretzels from the Philly Pretzel Factory. All-American Home Care brought its child face-painting station, while the 26th Police District conducted child fingerprinting.
The Philadelphia City Commissioner’s Office showed off its new touch-screen, paper-ballot voting machines, and the folks from Hyperion Bank handed out lollipops along with information about their financial services. Brightside Academy was on hand to inform parents about their child daycare programs.
Senator Tartaglione is looking forward to the next Community Picnic at Lawncrest Playground, 6000 Rising Sun Avenue, on Agosto 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Children wishing to get a free backpack must first visit the senator’s table to obtain a ticket from a staff member.
"Invito a todo el mundo a unirse a nosotros de nuevo la semana que viene. Es una gran oportunidad para conocer nuevos amigos y disfrutar del verano una vez más antes del nuevo curso escolar". dijo el senador Tartaglione.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Julio 30, 2019 | News Releases
During a public information session hosted by the legislators, Medical Marijuana experts shared information about the potential benefits of the alternative medicine.
Philadelphia, PA, Julio 30, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione and State Representative Angel Cruz welcomed dozens of constituents to the senator’s district office in Fairhill today to share valuable information about Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana program and to help folks access the potentially life-changing medicines.
Senator Tartaglione and Representative Cruz partnered with the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, known as Philly NORML, for the four-hour event, which was also attended by a physician from Medically Assisted Recovery Services, along with representatives from Hemp Health Labs and Herbology, a company that operates nine licensed medical marijuana dispensaries across the state.
“I truly hope and believe that the information we shared here today will help members of the community who are struggling to cope with many different medical conditions and those who seek access to a safe, non-addictive, and legal way to relieve their symptoms,” Senator Tartaglione said. “Opioid use disorder is a major public health crisis across Pennsylvania and especially in the 2nd Senate District. Medical marijuana offers people an alternative, whether they have cancer, glaucoma, autism, chronic pain, or any of more than 20 different diagnoses.”
“We had a packed house, which is a sign that people need more information and are looking for ways to get help with chronic medical conditions,” Representative Cruz said.
The list of eligible conditions continues to grow. Earlier this month the Pennsylvania Department of Health added anxiety and Tourette syndrome to the list. The Commonwealth is one of just three states to allow medical marijuana prescriptions for anxiety.
Robert Rudnitsky, executive director of Philly NORML, said that public events like today’s information session help to shed light on the state’s medical marijuana program, break down the stigmas often associated with the substance, and educate people about marijuana’s medical uses.
“My goal is to remove the negative stigmas and have people know this is an alternative to the traditional pharmaceuticals,” Rudnitsky said. “It’s safe with minimal to no side effects, and for many people it’s an effective way to treat their ailments.”
Todd Eachus, managing partner for Hemp Health Labs, said that events like this provide “remarkable access for products that people really need to relieve their symptoms. The healthcare community knows so little of this because it has just emerged, but it’s not going away.”
Information about the Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Program is available online by visiting www.health.pa.gov. Each week in Philadelphia, Philly NORML hosts a series of state medical marijuana card registration events. For a listing, visit www.PhillyNORML.org.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Julio 15, 2019 | News Releases
Philadelphia, PA, Julio 15, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) is pleased to announce that seven elementary schools within the 2nd Senate District have been selected to receive federal funding to provide students with fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day.
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will distribute almost one-quarter of a million dollars to the seven schools in the form of grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP). The program’s goals are to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expanding the variety of fruits and vegetables students experience, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, and positively impacting students’ health. FFVP was first implemented in Pennsylvania in 2004 and expanded to all 50 states in 2008.
“Good nutrition is critical for young scholars so that they arrive in class ready to learn,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This program provides children with healthy food options and teaches them how to eat balanced meals.”
Schools that receive grants are required to spend the majority of the funds to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables. They also must provide nutrition education to students. Funding priority is given to schools with the highest rates of students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals.
“Children are better prepared to learn when they have access to healthy food choices during the day,” Governor Tom Wolf said. “By expanding breakfast programs, offering reduced-price meals, and providing fresh produce, we’re improving the conditions to help students succeed.”
“Fresh fruits and vegetables provide vital nutrients to growing children,” Education Secretary Pedro A. Rivera said. “These grants are another way to help address food security in our schools while also providing an opportunity to teach students how to make smart and nutritious choices.”
More than 220 elementary schools from across the Commonwealth were chosen to receive grants totaling $5.5 million. In the 2nd Senate District, seven schools received $228,332 in grants, including Pan American Academy Charter School, Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School, Visitation BVM School, Mastery Charter School-Smedley Elementary, William Cramp School, Lewis Elkin School, and Fox Chase School.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
by Christin Brown | Junio 24, 2019 | News Releases
Harrisburg, Pa. − Junio 24, 2019 − Members of the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus today jointly sent a letter to Governor Tom Wolf requesting a disaster declaration for gun violence in the Commonwealth.
“We believe it is necessary to raise the public’s awareness of the massive loss of human life and the suffering inflicted on affected family, friends and neighbors where this tragedy is unfolding daily,” they wrote. “Just as you have signed six disaster declarations to provide every tool at the Commonwealth’s disposal to combat the opioid epidemic, the death toll and impact from illegal guns should merit immediate and coordinated attention.”
Specifically, a disaster declaration could do the following:
- Establish a task force led by the Department of Health to create and implement a public health framework for addressing gun violence
- Establish a command center in the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to coordinate state and local law enforcement response
- Enhance the Joint-Local State Firearm Taskforce through additional personnel and funding to take illegal guns off the street
- Expand information gathering and sharing between all levels of law enforcement and community groups
- Increase law enforcement presence, both local and state, in targeted areas where gun violence is most prevalent
- Expedite and expand grants and other funding sources for community groups and nonprofit associations with a proven record of violence reduction and prevention
- Provide additional state resources for behavioral and mental health
- Bringing to bear the significant wealth of knowledge and experience in the Departments of Health and Human Services to provide de-escalation and de-confliction training throughout the community
- Require the Pennsylvania Department of Education provide training and professional development on trauma-informed education
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by Christin Brown | Junio 10, 2019 | News Releases
Pennsylvania State Senator Christine Tartaglione Receives Honor
Philadelphia, PA − Junio 10, 2019 − Marsy’s Law for Pennsylvania, which is aimed at providing equal rights to crime victims in Pennsylvania by ensuring constitutional protections, announced that State Senator Christine Tartaglione has been presented the Guardian of Victims’ Rights Award.
The Guardian of Victims’ Rights Awards are presented to people who have served as advocates and ambassadors for crime victims across the state, working to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect. Sen. Tartaglione is one of the co-sponsors of Marsy’s Law legislation, which is seeking an amendment to ensure that the Pennsylvania Constitution enumerates rights for victims of crime.
“The Guardian of Victims’ Rights Award is a tremendous honor and I am very thankful to Marsy’s Law for PA and all of your partners for choosing me to receive it,” Sen Tartaglione said. “The issue of victims’ rights is very important to me and to the constituents of the 2nd Senate District. Acts of crime can be very traumatic to victims and their families, but the pain does not stop with the act itself.”
The award was recently presented to Sen. Tartaglione on Junio 10 during a meeting with Marsy’s Law for Pennsylvania and Jennifer Storm, Commonwealth Victim Advocate.
Although the state constitution enumerates rights for individuals accused and convicted of crimes, Pennsylvania is one of only nine states that does not afford the same protections to crime victims. Rep. Sheryl Delozier (R-Cumberland) recently introduced House Bill 276 for Marsy’s Law, which was approved by the House of Representatives on Abril 8, 2019. Sen. John Sabatina (D-Philadelphia) is sponsoring the bill in the Senate during this legislative session.
For the state constitution to be amended, legislation must pass in two consecutive legislative sessions before being added to the ballot for voter approval. During the 2017-18 legislative session, Marsy’s Law passed unanimously in the state Senate and House.
“Victims shouldn’t have to relive the trauma each time they go to court, and they shouldn’t have to live in fear not knowing if their tormentor may be walking free,” Sen Tartaglione said. “Just as our state Constitution protects the due process rights of the accused, it should protect the rights and the peace of mind of those who have been victimized through no fault of their own.”
by Christin Brown | Mayo 23, 2019 | News Releases
As part of a statewide “RealJobs RealPay” Day of Action, the senator visited La Barberia in Suburban Station and highlighted the benefits of raising the minimum wage.
Philadelphia, PA, Mayo 23, 2019 – State Senator Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia) today led Pennsylvania legislators on a tour of a successful Philadelphia business that chooses to pay its employees a far, living wage, rather than Pennsylvania’s outdated minimum wage.
The visit to La Barberia, a full-service barber shop inside Suburban Station, was one of many events held across the Commonwealth in conjunction with the “RealJobs RealPay” day of action. Senator Tartaglione and her colleagues seek to heighten awareness about the need to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage and showcase businesses that understand the interdependent relationship of higher employee wages, satisfied customers, and financial success.
Senator Tartaglione is the prime sponsor of Senate Bill 12, which proposes to raise Pennsylvania’s minimum wage for the first time in a decade. The legislation calls for an increase from $7.25 per hour to $12 this year, and additional annual increases that would lead to a $15 minimum wage by 2025.
“Many entrepreneurs are proving that taking care of your employees goes hand-in-hand with taking care of your customers and taking care of your bottom line,” Senator Tartaglione said. “This formula works, no matter where you do business: whether it’s in the heart of a major city, in the suburbs, or in Pennsylvania’s beautiful rural communities.”
La Barberia has locations in Philadelphia and in Jenkintown, Montgomery County. Owner Michael O’Connor said: “We know that by paying fair wages, our employees are happier and they stick around, providing the great service that keeps our customers coming back and recommending us to others. When the minimum wage goes up, businesses will see costly turnover go down.”
Pennsylvania’s minimum wage is also the federal minimum, which was last raised in 2009. Pennsylvania lawmakers last acted to raise the state’s minimum wage in 2006. Since then, all six of Pennsylvania’s border states have raised their minimum wages above the federal minimum. In all, 29 states mandate wages greater than $7.25.
At 40 hours per week for 52 weeks, the minimum wage converts to annual earnings of just over $15,000 a year, which is below the federal poverty level for a family of two, such as a single parent and child. Among those who would benefit directly from Senator Tartaglione’s minimum wage legislation, 61 percent are women, 55 percent work full time, and 24 percent are parents.
In Philadelphia, 35 percent of workers would benefit directly. In dozens of Pennsylvania’s rural counties, more than 40 percent of workers would benefit. Statewide, more than 1.1 million workers would benefit directly from a $12 minimum wage this year, while another 500,000 would get raises as pay scales rise. A $15 minimum wage would directly benefit 2 million Pennsylvania workers.
“Higher wages put more money into workers’ pockets. Seeing as workers are consumers too, they will be able to spend more at the businesses they patronize,” Senator Tartaglione said. “In turn, businesses will grow and be able to employ more people.”
For more information about minimum wage and businesses that choose to pay fair, living wages, visit RealJobsRealPay.com.
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Si desea más información sobre este tema, póngase en contacto con William Kenny en el 215-533-0440 o por correo electrónico en [email protected].
