WHEREAS, Margaret “Marge” Tartaglione was born and raised in Philadelphia, where she and her husband Eugene built a loving family, raising five children. A proud matriarch, Marge was deeply devoted to her children-including State Senator Christine “Tina” Tartaglione-and to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her personal and professional lives reflected a lifelong commitment to service, strength, and loyalty; and
WHEREAS, Marge Tartaglione served as Chairwoman of the Board of City Commissioners for four decades, overseeing elections in Philadelphia and ensuring the integrity of the City’s democratic processes; and
WHEREAS, Known for her fierce independence and commanding presence, Marge was a trailblazer for women in politics at a time when few had a seat at the table, earning admiration as a politician who spoke her mind and fought persistently for her constituents and committee members; and
WHEREAS, As the longtime Democratic Leader of the 62nd Ward in Northeast Philadelphia, she was a fixture in her community and hosted political meetings in her Oxford Circle home that became known for their intensity, honesty, and community focus; and
WHEREAS, Marge Tartaglione mentored generations of political leaders, opened doors for women in public service, and remained a steadfast advocate for neighborhood-level concerns, from potholes to public safety, always delivering on her promise to serve people; and
WHEREAS, Her legacy continues through her family and the countless Philadelphians whose lives she touched through her work, leadership, and unrelenting dedication to public life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Renames the Wissanoming Recreation Center to the “Margaret Tartaglione Recreation Center” to commemorate the life and service of Marge Tartaglione-a groundbreaking public servant, political icon, and tireless champion for the people of Philadelphia.
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