Dave Maloney and Dave Molony running for PA House seats
I received this amusing press release from the David M. Maloney for Berks 130th Campaign attempting to clear up some potential confusion about a candidate with a similar name running in a separate Legislative district.
Both are Republicans but Dave Maloney is seeking the nomination for the 130th District in eastern Berks County while Dave Molony is seeking the 133rd State House seat in Lehigh County and Northampton counties.
Here's the release:
Just when you thought all politicians were the same; one difference between Pennsylvania State Representative candidates in the 130th and the 133rd Districts could be ... vowels.
Dave Maloney of Pike Township and Dave Molony of Catasaqua, are running for State Representative in two different districts here in Eastern Pennsylvania.
"I met Dave at the House Republican Campaign Committee meeting last month. It will probably be some confusion when we both get to Harrisburg, but I've got a lot more hair than Dave," said Dave Maloney, Boyertown High School alum and former Oley Valley School Board member who is the 130th District candidate.
"We don't really think that the people in Berks and in Lehigh Valley will get confused. But I will say that we do expect to get right to work when we get elected in November and are sworn into the House of Representatives in Harrisburg in January of 2011," said Dave Molony, running for the 133rd.
Dave Maloney said he see the economy and jobs as the issues at the top of the list of concerns for people. "I have never seen business this slow, people hurting so badly. Harrisburg has to knock down all the barriers to letting companies do business and hire for new jobs." He added that he "supports all efforts to eliminate property taxes in Pennsylvania and bring real accountability to public schools."
"Governor Rendell's budget increase is over two billion dollars. At the same time more people are buying less and paying less income taxes because they are laid off or working part time. How does the governor expect to spend more money when the state has less to spend and a set of huge increases coming down the road from pensions and other promises Rendell made? We need the determination to make hard choices and say no to expanding government programs and spending. It is not possible to tax people into prosperity," Maloney said.
In the photo above, that's Dave Maloney on the left, Dave Molony on the right.
For more on Maloney's bid to replace incumbent state Rep. David Kessler, check out this article or visit Maloney's campaign Web site.
Molony is seeking to replace incumbent Democratic state Rep. Joseph F. Brennan. For more information on Molony, check out this article or visit his campaign Web site.
The latest farms to be preserved are located in Berks, Blair, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Cumberland, Juniata, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lycoming, Mifflin, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Union, Westmoreland and York counties.
Tom Caltagirone has spent the past 34 years in the Pennsylvania Legislature.
The Reading Democratic is planning to run for an 18th term in the state House in 2010.
If you like the way Harrisburg is run, then by all means, keep sending Caltagirone back to the Legislature. If you're tired of high taxes, uncontrolled spending and all the corruption, then stop returning the same people to Harrisburg.
Let's get real. If somebody hasn't done the job in 34 years, why should voters give them another two years?
Politicians are like diapers. They're full of doo doo and need to be changed frequently.
Gov. Ed Rendell has publicly stated that he wants state Rep. Mario Civera, a Republican from Delaware County, to resign his state House seat because he was elected to the the Delaware County Council last November.
Rendell doesn't think an elected official can serve two masters.
But Rendell has never said a word about state Rep. David Kessler, a Berks County Democrat who continues to serve on the Oley Board of Supervisors even after being elected to the House in 2006.
Is it fair for Kessler to hold a local office at the expense of the rest of the communities in the 130th House District?
Kessler brags on his Web site that he is currently serving his 15th year as a township supervisor in Oley, and is the board's chairman. How much power does one man need? There's nobody in Oley available to serve as a township supervisor if Kessler steps down?
There's no law that says a member of the state Legislature cannot hold two elected posts. But maybe there should be.
Reform candidate to challenge incumbent in 130th House Dist.
Two-term state Rep. David R. Kessler will face a Republican challenger in 2010.
David M. Maloney Sr. has announced he is seeking the Republican primary nomination to challenge Kessler, a liberal Democrat who won the traditionally Republican Eastern Berks County House district in 2006.
"As a patriotic Republican, I feel that 2010 will be a critical election year as we the people, rise up to stop expanding government and the over-reaching of the Democrats in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C.," Maloney said in a prepared statement.
Maloney has lived in rural Pike Township with his wife and four children for the past 30 years. He served on the Oley Valley School Board from 2005-09.
As a self employed carpenter for the past 25 years, Malone said he has seen "the effects of this down economy and the hindrance government has placed on job growth."
His platform includes getting government out of the way of creating jobs; the elimination of school property taxes; Personal property rights; reducing the size of government; and improving public school performance and accountability.
"I would work to reduce taxes and eliminate wasteful programs," Maloney said. "I believe the job of our elected officials is to serve and represent the people, not the people supporting career politicians. I approach this campaign with a servant's heart and a deep affection for the people I have lived with in this district from the time I was a young boy."
Since announcing his intention to run for the state Legislature, Maloney says he has been encouraged by the positive reception he has received from residents of the 130th District and "it has confirmed and reinforced my decision; a decision I made humbly and prayerfully."
Among Maloney's civic activities are serving on the "Victory Mile" committee at Boyertown High School, an American Cancer Society Relay For Life Team Captain, member of several area sports clubs and associations, and serving as a PIAA official.
Maloney will formally announce his candidacy before friends and supporters on Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 7 p.m. at the Multi-Service building in Boyertown.
Former state Rep. Dennis Leh, a Republican who held the 130th Dist. seat for 20 years, will serve as Maloney's campaign chairman.
The 130th District includes Amity Township; Birdsboro; Boyertown; Colebrookdale Township; Douglass Township; Earl Township; Exeter Township (Districts 01, 03, 06 and 07); Fleetwood; Oley Township; Pike Township; Rockland Township; Ruscombmanor Township; and Union Township.
Pennsylvania State Rep. Sam Rohrer, who is also a candidate for governor, will the guest speaker at the Winter Commencement at Albright College in Reading.
The school announced that 124 students from both Albright's traditional undergraduate program and Accelerated Degree Completion Program will receive diplomas at Albright College's Winter Commencement ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 19. Diplomas will be presented by President Lex O. McMillan III. The ceremony will be held in Memorial Chapel at 2 p.m.
Rohrer, who represents Berks County's 128th House District, will be the main commencement speaker, the school announced this week.
First elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1992, Rohrer is the ranking chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. He also serves on the House Finance Committee and previously served as the ranking chairman of the Game and Fisheries Committee and has spent 12 years on the House Appropriations Committee.
Best known as the architect and prime sponsor of the School Property Tax Elimination Act, Rohrer has earned statewide recognition as the champion for property tax reform.
He hopes to parlay that work in his bid for Pennsylvania governor in 2010.
Taxpayer Coalition Endorses Sam Rohrer For Governor
No surprise here. A coalition of nearly three dozen taxpayer groups has endorsed state Rep. Sam Rohrer, R-Berks, for governor of Pennsylvania.
Rohrer, who is seeking the Republican nomination for governor in 2010, has been the leading proponent of eliminating property taxes in Pennsylvania.
A member of the Legislature since 1993, Rohrer is the primary sponsor of House Bill 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act.
The Pennsylvania Coalition of Taxpayer Associations sees Rohrer's election as the best chance of killing the state's onerous school property tax.
From a press released issued by PCTA:
Rep. Rohrer has, through many legislative sessions, introduced the School Property Tax Elimination Act, legislation that would abolish school property taxes for all Pennsylvania homeowners and restructure a crumbling, antiquated education finance system. During the announcement of his candidacy on Nov. 17, Rep. Rohrer emphasized that school property tax elimination will be one of the five main planks of his campaign platform and a priority of his administration.
Rebecca Heller of The Patriot's Voice, one of the PCTA member groups, said, "Sam Rohrer is not just a candidate for Governor of Pennsylvania, he is a true statesman and patriot. Rep. Rohrer selflessly devoted many years of his life to work for the citizens in his district. I do not live in his district, but because of his initiatives, I have always felt he was "my" representative. His goals have always reached much further than district lines. We will work for Sam Rohrer as hard as he has always worked for us."
Joel Sears of the York County Taxpayers Council, a PCTA member group, added: "The first time I met Sam, I knew there was something special about him. He is a true servant of the public whose principles align him with the vast majority of Pennsylvanians, not just his constituents. His approach is tireless, independent of any special interest groups, and always focused on the 'rightness' of the outcome. I am proud and privileged to know Sam."
The Pennsylvania Coalition of Taxpayer Associations is an alliance of 35 grassroots taxpayer advocacy groups from across Pennsylvania that is dedicated to equitable education funding reform through the enactment of the School Property Tax Elimination Act. For more about PCTA's efforts, visit the group's Web site.
For more information on Rohrer's bid for for governor, visit his campaign Web site, www.samrohrer.org
State Rep. Curt Schroder has announced the endorsement of seven fellow state lawmakers representing portions of the 6th Congressional District.
"I am pleased and honored to have the support of colleagues who know me well and have worked with me on many efforts to improve our region" Schroder said in a release.
State elected officials supporting Schroder include:
State Rep. Tim Hennessey (PA-26) Chester County
State Rep. Chris Ross (PA-158) Chester County
State Rep. Sam Rohrer (PA-128) Berks County
State Rep. Jim Cox (PA-129) Berks County
State Rep. Doug Reichley (PA-134) Portions of Berks and Lehigh Counties
State Rep. Kate Harper (PA-61) Montgomery County
State Rep. Michael Vereb (PA-150) Montgomery County
Schroder said the endorsements are an indication that he is the only candidate with the right experience to step into the 6th District Congressional seat.
"The problems we face mean the next Congressman from the 6th District will need to be prepared to get to work from day one," Schroder said. "I look forward to working with these elected officials as well as leaders from across the district to restore economic prosperity in our communities and create jobs in Pennsylvania."
Curt Schroder was first elected to represent the 155th District of Pennsylvania in the State Assembly in 1994. He and his wife reside in East Brandywine Township with their two children.
Did Rep. David Kessler read the budget before voting on it?
State budget cuts will force the closing of the Daniel Boone Homestead in Berks County.
The most interesting part of this story is the fact that state Rep. David Kessler, a Democrat who represents part of Exeter, where the Boone Homestead is located, admits he didn't bother to read the state budget that he voted "yes" on. He simply did what Ed Rendell and the Harrisburg party bosses told him to do.
That budget has cut off funding for one of the area's best-run historical attractions.
When asked a very direct question about why he supported a budget that cut off funding to his own district, Kessler did his best to weasel out of answering it:
He said he could not answer whether he would have voted for the budget if he knew it meant the closing of the homestead.
"I need to dig in to what the numbers are and find out what we need to keep it open at some level," Kessler said.
Keep up the good work, Mr. Kessler. And voters in the 130th House District should remember how well Mr. Kessler represents their best interests when they go to the polls in May 2010.
Sam Rohrer to announce run for governor on Nov. 17
State Rep. Sam Rohrer is expected to announce his candidacy for Pennsylvania governor at a Town Hall Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Spring Township Fire Company in West Lawn, Berks County.
Rohrer sent the following e-mail today to potential supporters:
Over the past few weeks Ruth Ann and I, and our entire family have been weighing the decision to seek the Republican nomination for Pennsylvania Governor. We've approached it understanding the risk, but knowing fully the incredible need for leadership in our state and nation.
There have been few other moments in my lifetime when the collective call of duty has been greater, and the responsibility to act so urgent. More than winning elections for political parties or discovering a way for Republicans to reach a legislative majority, the 2010 campaign must be waged to give voice for the ideas and principles that matter most.
I want to personally invite you to a special Townhall on Tuesday, November 17 at the Spring Township Fire Department, 2301 Monroe Avenue in West Lawn, PA. I'm organizing this forum to announce the decision on the race for governor, and begin a statewide conversation about the challenges and real opportunities facing Pennsylvania.
We can change the direction of our state, but it will take all of us – "We the People!"
Rohrer, who has represented the 128th House District in southern Berks County since 1993, is best known for leading the fight to eliminate school property taxes in Pennsylvania. He has also taken the lead in the state's rights movement.
If Rohrer decides to enter the 2010 Republican Primary, he will face a crowded field that already includes Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett and Congressman Jim Gerlach, R-6th Dist.
Rohrer announced the Town Hall Meeting at http://samrohrer.org/, which will probably turn into his campaign Web site after Nov. 17.
Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati has appointed Sen. John C. Rafferty, Jr., (R-44) to chair the powerful Senate Transportation Committee.
Rafferty, who has served in the Senate since 2003, replaces former Sen. Rob Wonderling, who resigned earlier this year.
"I look forward to using this new position to help improve our transportation system, which is crucial to protecting public safety and also expanding our economy," Rafferty said in a written statement. "Transportation issues affect every resident in Pennsylvania, whether it involves a daily commute to work or a bus ride on the public transit system or the movement of goods. Our goal is to have a modern, efficient system that meets the needs of its users."
Scarnati said Rafferty was chosen because of his knowledge of the issue and his interest in taking on new transportation challenges.
"As a member of the committee, John demonstrated a broad understanding of the major issues we are facing regarding transportation, and as chairman I know he will work well with the members, the House and the Administration to improve our vast transportation network," Scarnati said in a written statement.
Rafferty's Senate district stretches across Montgomery, Chester and Berks counties. His elevation to the chairman's seat should help move Southeastern Pennsylvania transportation projects to the front-burner.
U.S. Senate candidate Pat Toomey and Pennsylvania Supreme Court candidate Joan Orie Melvin will the guests of honor at the annual picnic hosted by the Berks County Republican Party.
The event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Cacoosing Meadows Park, Reedy and State Hill roads, Spring Township.
In addition to meeting the candidates, there will be food, entertainment and refreshments. (Committeepeople, YR's, McCain/Palin Volunteers and candidates are asked to bring a covered dish.)
For more information, visit www.berksgop.org or call the party headquarters at 610-374-1100.
Anyone familiar with the Crowne Plaza Reading Hotel (formerly a Sheraton) knows it's not exactly a "hotel resort" but then again it's up to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board to decide if the owners qualify for the state's remaining Category 3 slots license.
Rep. David R. Kessler is in his second term representing the 130th House District in Berks County. Kessler, a Democrat, was elected to the House in 2006.
His first major vote of 2009 will be on Gov. Ed Rendell's $29 billion budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year. The only way to balance Rendell's budget is through major tax increases. Rendell's current budget is expected to finish $3.2 billion in the red but he still wants to spend more of your money next year.
Kessler campaigned on the promise of reducing property taxes but he is being pressured by Rendell and the Harrisburg party bosses to raise taxes on his constituents to continue the out-of-control spending in the State Capitol.
If you live in the 130th House District -- the townships of Amity, Colebrookdale, Douglass, Earl, Exeter (PART, Districts 01, 03, 06 and 07), Oley, Pike, Rockland, Ruscombmanor and Union and the boroughs of Birdsboro, Boyertown and Fleetwood -- you need to remind Rep. Kessler that if he votes to raise your taxes in 2009, he will not receive your vote in 2010 when he seeks re-election.
Jerry Knowles was sworn-in today as the newest member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
Knowles won a special election last month to fill the remainder of Rep. David Argall's term in the 124th House District after Argall was elected to the state Senate.
The 124th District covers parts of Schuylkill and Berks counties.
Knowles is a former police officer. He served on the Tamaqua Borough Council and eventually as mayor of Tamaqua. He also served six years as a Schuylkill County commissioner and worked for 10 years on the House staff and as director of special projects for Rep. Argall.
With that kind of background, expect Knowles to hit the ground running.
The addition of Knowles gives Republicans 99 seats in the 203-member House.
First it was YouTube, then Twitter and now Facebook.
Politicians continue to take advantage of the latest social networking platforms to spread their message.
U.S. Congressman Joe Pitts, who represents Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District in parts of Berks, Chester and Lancaster counties, is never shy about the latest technology.
From Pitts' office:
Washington – Congressman Joe Pitts (PA-16) announced today the launch of a page on the popular social networking site Facebook. The page, which can be found here, will provide Rep. Pitts an opportunity to better communicate with his constituents.
Congressman Pitts' statement follows:
"Facebook has become an increasingly popular way for people to keep in touch with one another. With this new page, I am pleased to have yet one more way to communicate with the people I represent about my work on their behalf. I encourage constituents to stop by and find information about bills I have introduced, video of speeches I have delivered on the House floor, pictures from events I have attended in Pennsylvania and more."
Knowles takes early lead in race to replace Argall
Republican Jerry Knowles is leading Democrat Bill Mackey in both Schuylkill and Berks counties in a special election to fill the 124th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
The seat became vacant when longtime Rep. David Argall was elected to the state Senate earlier this year.
Only a few precincts have reported, but Knowles is ahead by a comfortable margin in both counties.
Knowles, 60, is a former Schuylkill County commissioner. Mackey, 65, has failed in two previous tries against Argall to win the 124th seat.
Even if Knowles wins, Democrats will still control the House by a 104-99 margin.
I stopped by two voting places today in Berks County and there was not a single person in line at either polling site. (No, I wasn't trying to vote twice. The second site was a library that I frequent.)
Not only could I not find any voters, but there was only one candidate outside the first polling site handing out literature and no candidates at the second location.
The chairmen of the Democratic and Republican parties in Berks were quoted in a newspaper last week expecting a high turnout. Not sure what they were smoking. I think this will be one of the lowest turnouts in primary history in Pennsylvania.
I have a theory about the dismal turnout. So many people are disgusted with the way last November's election turned out that they are soured on voting. Not just the Republicans who supported McCain, but a lot of people who voted for Obama are feeling like they were scammed by the "hope and change" candidate.
The newest member of the Pennsylvania Senate wants to give Pennsylvania voters an opportunity to have a say on property taxes.
Property tax reform has been debated the Legislature for more than 30 years without any results. Efforts to eliminate property taxes have stalled in both the House and Senate, with legislative leaders reluctant to change the current system of funding public education.
Sen. David Argall, R-29th Dist., wants to give taxpayers a chance to tell lawmakers exactly what they want done with property taxes.
Senate Bill 818 and House Bill 637 would allow voters to decide between the current property tax system and the three most popular property tax replacement proposals in the General Assembly, based on the number of co-sponsors for legislation in the House and Senate, Argall said at a press conference Monday.
The property tax proposals would be placed on the November ballot. Voters would then be given the opportunity to choose between the three proposals or leave the current property tax structure intact, Argall said.
"I have introduced legislation that would allow voters to bring real property tax reform, through the touch of a button in the voting booth in November," Argall said.
While the referendum is non-binding, it should show legislators who have consistently opposed property tax reform that most Pennsylvanians support some form of property tax relief, said Rep. Tom Quigley, R-146th Dist., who is a co-sponsor of Argall’s bill in the state House.
Co-sponsors of Argall's legislation in the Senate include: Sens. John Rafferty, Michael Waugh, Michael Brubaker, Kim Ward, Richard Alloway and Rob Wonderling.
Co-sponsors in the House include: Reps. Matthew Baker, Robert Belfanti, Kerry Benninghoff, Karen Beyer, Paul Clymer, Thomas Creighton, Garth Everett, Richard Geist, Jaret Gibbons, Keith Gillespie, Mauree Gingrich, Robert Godshall, Neal Goodman, Seth Grove, Sue Helm, Tim Hennessey, David Hickernell, Scott Hutchinson, Rob Kauffman, Mark Keller, Sandra Major, Bob Mensch, David Millard, Thomas Murt, Donna Oberlander, Scott Perry, Jeffrey Pyle, Tom Quigley, Mario Scavello, John Siptroth, Timothy Solobay, Curt Sonney, Rosemarie Swanger, W. Curtis Thomas and Randy Vulakovich.
Argall is the newest member of the state Senate, which has a 30-20 Republican majority. Argall, who spent 24 years in the House, was elected in March to fill the Senate seat formerly held by the late James J. Rhoades.
Sam Rohrer new GOP House Finance Committee chairman
The odds are good that property taxes will again be a priority in the state House of Representatives.
Rep. Sam Rohrer (R-Berks), who has led the fight to eliminate the state's onerous property tax, has been named the new Republican chairman of the House Finance Committee.
Rohrer takes over the chairmanship from former Rep. Dave Argall, who recently vacated his House seat after he won a special election to fill a vacant seat in the Pennsylvania Senate.
"I am honored to become the new Republican House Finance Committee chairman," Rohrer said in a statement. "In our current economic situation, I am fully aware of the heavy responsibility that this position entails. I pledge to work tirelessly in order to get Pennsylvania's financial house in shape, and ensure that the interests of the taxpayers of this Commonwealth are fully represented in all fiscal and tax policy bills that come to my committee."
The Finance Committee deals with revenue issues and determines where money is available for use for state appropriations, Rohrer said.
"Before we decide how to spend taxpayer dollars, we need to know where those dollars are coming from and the impact on the taxpayer and economy those taxes will create," Rohrer said. "We can only spend what we have, and I will take my role very seriously in making sure that our spending does not outstrip the tax revenue that the Commonwealth will raise. I feel privileged to work on such an important component of our government and I will fight for the rights of our taxpayers across the Commonwealth. As we deal with tax codes changes, serious pension shortages and declining revenue for the state, we must understand that our fiscal decisions are going to impact not just this generation, but generations to come."
Rohrer has served in the state House for the past 12 years and has a statewide reputation as the champion for eliminating property taxes. More recently, he has also taken up the cause of supporting the 10th Amendment, which limits the federal government's authority over states.
Rohrer has served as the Republican chairman of the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee since November. He previously served as the chairman for the House Game and Fisheries Committee, and as a member of the Education Committee, as well as a 12-year member of the House Appropriations Committee.
For more about Rohrer, visit his legislative Web site, www.samrohrer.com
Two leading conservative state lawmakers are inviting all Pennsylvania residents to attend a rally Monday in Harrisburg to defend the state's sovereignty from continued encroachment from Washington.
Politicians in Washington, D.C., have been exerting undue influence on the states and it's time for them to stop, say Rep. Samuel E. Rohrer (R-128) and Sen. Mike Folmer (R-48), both of whom represents portions of Berks County.
The rally, which is free and open to the public, is scheduled for noon Monday in the Capitol Rotunda. For more information or driving directions to the state Capitol, Rohrer's Web site at SamRohrer.com
"If you think the size and scope of the federal government has far exceeded our Founding Fathers' intentions, then we hope you come out Monday to support our cause," Rohrer said in a statement. "For too long, Congress and the president have been encroaching on policy areas that ought to be decided by the states. This rally is the equivalent of posting a 'no trespassing' sign."
Rohrer has introducing a resolution in the state House of Representatives to defend Pennsylvania's sovereignty under the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which reads:
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.
Folmer will introduce a sister resolution with language identical to Rohrer's in the Senate.
"When our country was founded, our Fathers envisioned a form of government in which the federal government served as an agent of the states – not the states serving as an agent of the federal government," Folmer said in a release. "Today, federal legislation and funding compel states to serve the federal government, a total reversal of the structure originally intended. This rally seeks to remind federal officials of their constitutional limitations while affirming Pennsylvania’s 10th Amendment rights."
The lawmakers' resolutions are part of a larger national trend of state lawmakers who are reasserting the sovereignty of their independent states under the 10th Amendment.
At the rally, Rohrer and Folmer will be joined by lawmakers from other states who have introduced similar measures in their own state legislatures.
With the exception of a few left-wing bloggers who thought the Democrat in the race had a chance, Republican state Rep. David Argall easily won a special election Tuesday to fill the vacant 29th District Pennsylvania Senate seat.
The only surprise was the margin of victory. Argall trounced his Democratic opponent by a margin of nearly 2-1. "The numbers are much better than we had anticipated," Argall told The Pottsville Republican.
The seat was left vacant when incumbent Republican Sen. James Rhoades was killed in a car crash last October. Rhoades won re-election in November, forcing a special election to fill the seat.
Unofficial returns show Argall, who represents the 124th House District, with 62.4 percent of the vote to 37.6 percent for Democrat Stephen Lukach Jr., who is the current Schuylkill County Clerk of Courts.
Argall received 20,786 votes and Lukach finished with 12,551.
Argall is a 13-term state House member and former House Republican Whip. He gave up his leadership post to run for the Senate.
Another special election will be held to replace Argall, who also won re-election last November. That special election will most likely be held during the scheduled primary election on May 19, with party leaders choosing candidates for the ballot.
The 29th District includes parts of Schuylkill, Monroe, Carbon, Lehigh, Berks and Northampton counties.
Argall's victory gives Republicans a solid 30-20 majority in the Pennsylvania Senate.
For more on the special election, check out The Clarke Report, Schuylkill County's best political blog.
U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, who represents Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District, announced today has formed an exploratory committee to run for governor of Pennsylvania in 2010.
In addition to filing the necessary paperwork establishing a committee to help him raise money, Gerlach also launched a new Web site, www.GERLACHFORPA.com
"We are taking this process one step at a time," Gerlach said in a statement. "At this early stage we are very excited about the support we've received, and that's why I've decided to move forward with the exploratory committee. Although this isn't a declaration of my candidacy, it will allow us to ratchet up our travel around the state to speak with political, business and community leaders, help our 2009 statewide judicial candidates, conduct polling and determine if there is a clear path to victory. I suspect that by late spring we'll know whether to formally move forward with a campaign for governor."
Gerlach said his decision to take the next step toward the governor's mansion came after discussions with longtime friends, supporters, family members and political leaders across the state.
"I believe Republicans in Pennsylvania are looking for a winner and a leader who has the experience and ideas to solve the problems faced by the taxpayers, families and seniors of Pennsylvania," Gerlach said. "The exploratory committee and I are dedicated to the governing principles of smaller and smarter government, creating good paying jobs, ensuring retirement security, cutting government waste and no new taxes."
Gerlach spokesman Mark Campbell said his boss has shown he can attract voters in a highly-contested part of the state.
"Congressman Jim Gerlach is a proven winner, surviving two Democrat wave elections in one of the most difficult congressional districts in the country and winning this past fall with his largest margin of victory ever," Campbell said. "Gerlach also earned more votes in his district than any other Republican candidate on the ballot. All this despite an overall net gain of 50,000 Democrat registrations and President Obama carrying the top of the ticket with 59% of the vote."
Gerlach has been one of the few bright spots for Republicans in Pennsylvania, holding the 6th District seat despite major efforts to unseat him by the Democratic Party.
In 2006, after national pundits counted him out and Democrats spent $7.3 million to defeat him, Gerlach won by 3,000 votes in the same year Democrat Gov. Ed Rendell carried Gerlach's district with 66% of the vote, Campbell notes.
Does Gerlach have a chance? Gerlach is well known to voters in the nine counties in the Philadelphia and Allentown TV media markets, which accounted for nearly 40% of all votes cast in the last gubernatorial election, Campbell says.
And remember that little-known congressman from Erie by the name of Tom Ridge? He ended up winning two terms as Pennsylvania governor.
Gerlach will continue to operate his congressional fundraising committee until a final decision is made on his 2010 statewide bid, according to his staff.
Gerlach has said he will run for only one office in 2010, so it's likely he will give up his Congressional seat.
Sen. John C. Rafferty Jr., R-44th, presided as Senate President for the day during the recent swearing-in ceremony for 24 new state Senators in Harrisburg.
It was one of the biggest box-office hits of 2008, but you probably never heard of the movie because of its Christian-based themes.
Produced for $500,000, the film "Fireproof" grossed $33 million at the box office, making it one of the most profitable films of the year.
It's still playing in some theaters, but you have an opportunity to see the movie for free thanks to a Berks County church.
Exeter Bible Church, located off Route 422 near Birdsboro, is offering a free screening of "Fireproof" on Sunday, Jan. 11, at 6 p.m. The film is rated PG.
The church is also planning to launch a "Fireproof" Group Study on Jan. 25 through March.
Here's a synopsis of the film from the church's Web site:
Capt. Caleb Holt lives by the old firefighter's adage: Never leave your partner behind. Inside burning buildings, it's his natural instinct. In the cooling embers of his marriage, it's another story. After seven years of marriage, Caleb and Catherine Holt have drifted so far apart that they are ready to move on without each other. Yet as they prepare to enter divorce proceedings, Caleb's dad asks his son to try an experiment: The Love Dare. While hoping The Love Dare has nothing to do with his parents' newfound faith, Caleb commits to the challenge. But can he attempt to love his wife while avoiding God's love for him? Will he be able to demonstrate love over and over again to a person that's no longer receptive to his love? Or is this just another marriage destined to go up in smoke?
If you're like me and have a stack of old political lawn signs sitting in a corner of the basement, somebody can take them off your hands and put them to good use.
Do you have used yard signs and posts sitting in your garage or basement? Are they in fair to good condition? Then we would love to have them.
Donate them to WalkBikeBerks today! Call 610-779-9702 to speak to our President, Michele Barrett.
Rather than filling our landfill with used yard signs, allow us to recycle them.
We need whatever you have -- political campaigns, yard sale, real estate, or advertisements -- no matter the message or design, we can use your yard signs now. We will spray paint the signs and use them to promote our own campaigns* -- BIKE TO WORK (May) and INTERNATIONAL WALK TO SCHOOL DAY (October).
A bill sponsored by state Sen. John Rafferty Jr., R-44th Dist., to reduce the number of inspections for equipment used by police officers to catch speeders will save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.
The bill has passed the House and is on its way to Gov. Ed Rendell's desk.
The bill amends the Vehicles Code to change the calibration testing requirements for radar guns utilized by the Pennsylvania State Police and police car speedometers for state and local police departments, according to a release from Rafferty's office.
Under the current system, radar guns and all police car speedometers must be tested every 60 days. Under the new legislation, the time requirement is moved to once a year.
State police should realize a savings of up to $420,000 a year, according to Rafferty. Local police departments across Pennsylvania should also see hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings, too, Rafferty says.
"With a looming budget deficit, every little bit of saving for the taxpayers must be looked at," Rafferty says. "I'm happy to assist both the state and local municipalities with this savings to their budgets."
The 60-day testing requirement was established in 1961, and has not been changed to keep up with the new technology standards, Rafferty says. Some states have established a standard for such testing at two-year intervals, he said.
As an example of the savings, each radar calibration test costs $82 every 60 days with over 850 radar guns used by the State Police – not to mention the cost of manpower to package and ship these guns every two months for testing, Rafferty said.
Attorney Gretchen Sterns, a Republican from Schuylkill County, has made it official. She is a candidate for the vacant 29th state Senate District seat won by Sen. Jim Rhoades, who was killed in a car crash last month. A special election will be held in 2009 to fill Rhoades' seat.
From a press release issued by Sterns:
Democrats now control the White House, oversized majorities in both houses of Congress, the Governor's mansion, and the State House, and they seek to complete their dominance by taking control of the State Senate.
If recent elections have taught us anything, it's that the voters are hungry for candidates who hail from outside the political class, with whom they can identify, who they believe understand the challenges they face, and who are disconnected from the failed economic policies of Governor Rendell.
As a middle-class mother who grew up on a farm and works full-time to make ends meet for my family, I will speak credibly and articulately to the issues affecting the hardworking people of our region: the economy, taxes, and health care.
If Republicans are to retain Sen. Rhoades' seat and regain the taxpayers' trust, then we must turn the page from overspending, tax increases, and scandal – and put forth a new, energetic leader committed to the principles upon which America – and our Party – we're founded: 1) limited and ethical government; 2) low taxes; and 3) personal responsibility.
To this end, I officially declare my candidacy for the vacant 29th Senate District seat.
For more on the 29th District Senate race, check out The Clarke Report.
Most people have a campaign sign or two on their lawn, but this Berks County homeowner has put a lot more work in her display, decorating her front yard with life-size cardboard cut-outs of candidates and other assorted characters. The woman behind the display is Reading-area artist Vickie Rhodier, whose political cartoons have been featured on this blog.
Business groups endorse in SE PA Legislative races
The board of directors for SEPAC, the Political Action Committee from multiple chambers of commerce in Southeastern Pennsylvania has announced its endorsements for the Nov. 4 election.
Endorsements are based on the candidate's voting records and positions on business issues, SEPAC board chairman Ken Russell said in a written statement.
"The candidates endorsed by SEPAC recognize the needs of businesses in Southeast PA and across the Commonwealth.," Russell said. "They understand what is required to improve the business climate in Pennsylvania, including addressing increasing healthcare costs, the lowering of business taxes, putting an end to overreaching business regulations and promoting sound energy policies."
SEPAC members represent the Delaware County, Main Line and TriCounty Area Chambers of Commerce (which has members in Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties.)
"These three chambers of commerce represent over 5,000 members across four counties, and are the premier business advocacy organizations within Southeastern Pennsylvania," Russell said. "Our Board feels a thriving economy impacts the residents, municipalities, and institutions of the area, as well as all of Pennsylvania. Support of pro-business policies will go a long way towards keeping Southeastern Pennsylvania a great place to live, work, and raise a family."
ENDORSED CANDIDATES FOR GENERAL ELECTION 2008
William Adolph (R), 165th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Steven Barrar (R), 160th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Guy Ciarrocchi (R), 157th District – Candidate for State House of Representatives
Mario Civera (R), 164th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives Michael Gerber (D), 148th District - Incumbent, State House of Representatives Richard Gokey (R), 130th District – Candidate for State House of Representatives
Timothy Hennessey (R), 26th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Thomas Killion (R), 168th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Lynne Lechter (R), 149th District – Candidate for State House of Representatives
Bob Mensch (R), 147th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Nicholas Miccarelli (R), 162nd District - - Candidate for State House of Representatives Nicholas Micozzie (R), 163rd District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Duane Milne (R), 167th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives Thomas Quigley (R), 160th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives Douglas Reichley (R), 134th District - - Incumbent, State House of Representatives
Michael O'Pake (D), 11th District - - Incumbent, State Senate
Dominic Pileggi (R), 9th District - - Incumbent, State Senate
Future of 29th Senate District tied to John McCain
Hank Clarke has an interesting post today at The Clarke Report about the future of the 29th state Senate District in Pennsylvania.
Longtime state Sen. James Rhoades was expected to win re-election on Nov. 4, but Rhoades died over the weekend in a car crash.
His name is on the ballot and if Rhoades wins, a special election will be held early next year to fill the seat. The candidates for the special election will be determined by a nominating process involving all the counties that make up the 29th District -- Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe, Northampton and Schuylkill.
There is a chance that Schuylkill County may not get to pick the candidate unless John McCain wins the county by a large margin, Clarke says.
From Clarke's post:
So, this means that even though Schuylkill County has the largest area geographically in the district and holds 60% of the district’s voters, we are NOT guaranteed a majority of the delegates. Without a big showing for John MCCain on Nov. 4th, another county like Carbon or Monroe that have well organized get out the vote efforts could sneak in and steal enough delegates to nominate an non-Schuylkill County politician.
The bottom line is: If you want to keep the 29th District Senate seat in Schuylkill County hands and maintain the influence that comes with having a senator live here, Skooks need to get to the polls on Election Day and punch their ballot for John McCain.
The best way to ensure a good showing for McCain here is to volunteer your time NOW and on Nov. 4th. McCain headquarters needs people to make phone calls on behalf of Sen. McCain to family members and friends. The national campaign needs people to canvass neighborhoods handing out fliers. The local party needs people to monitor the polls and hand out schwag to voters on Election Day. We would appreciate ANY time you can give to help us get out the vote for Sen. McCain.
With less than three weeks to go until Election Day, Republican Congressman Jim Gerlach (PA-6th District) is sitting on a $700,000 campaign war chest.
That doesn't bode well for his Democratic challenger, Bob Roggio, whose campaign has failed to catch on with voters in Gerlach's suburban SE Pennsylvania district.
Gerlach, who is seeking his fourth two-year term in the House of Representatives, has just launched a district-wide television campaign highlighting his independent record in Congress.
From the Jim Gerlach for Congress Committee:
The campaign of Congressman Jim Gerlach will file its quarterly finance report Wednesday with the Federal Election Commission, showing nearly $2.2 million raised for the cycle, $300,000 of which was raised recently, and over $700,000 available for the final three weeks of the campaign. The campaign also launched a new television advertisement district-wide.
The television ad running on network and cable highlights the Congressman's long record of being rated one of the most independent Republicans in Washington by two non-partisan publications, National Journal and Congressional Quarterly.
The ad also contrasts with Bob Roggio, who stated earlier this year that the very first thing he would do in Congress is repeal tax cuts that have saved Pennsylvania families over $2,000 per year, a disastrous economic policy during a recession and economic downturn.
Second, despite "candidate" Roggio claiming that the environment is a top priority, the ad informs voters of official Environmental Protection Agency records filed by Roggio's company between 1989 and 1996 showing that the corporation released over 245,000 pounds of toxic chemicals into the air.
Finally, "candidate" Roggio says he wants to bring jobs to Pennsylvania. The problem is, numerous press reports beginning in 1995 show that Roggio's company accepted millions in corporate welfare and tax breaks to close its Pennsylvania plant and move over 500 jobs out of state.
With 30 days to go before the Nov. 4 election, the McCain Campaign opened a Berks County headquarters Saturday afternoon.
Berks County GOP Chairman Mark Gillen was on hand to open the headquarters at 5001 Perkiomen Ave. (Route 422 west) in Exeter Township.
The grand opening celebration ran from 3 to 5 p.m., with a steady stream visitors stopping by to pick up campaign signs, bumper stickers and literature for the McCain/Palin ticket as well as other GOP candidates, including Congressman Jim Gerlach, Steve Fuhs, running for the 11th state Senate District, and Dick Gokey, a candidate for the 130th state House District.
Gillen said the office will be staffed seven-days-a-week from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Election Day.
Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to stop by the office to sign up.
During a pep talk to volunteers, Gillen predicted McCain will surprise conventional wisdom (and the polls) by winning the presidency.
Gillen also announced that the Berks County office has free tickets to attend a Road to Victory Rally with John McCain and Sarah Palin scheduled for Lehigh Univeristy in Bethlehem on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Doors open 10:30 a.m.
Several GOP volunteers also discussed a growing problem of campaign sign thefts in Berks and Chester counties.
Berks Republicans are also promoting the party's annual "Berks GOP Newsmaker Dinner," scheduled for Friday, Oct. 17, at The Inn at Reading. The speaker hasn't been announced yet, but the entertainment will include country star Pat Garrett singing his tribute to Sarah Palin, "Moose Shootin' Mama."
Anyone interested in attending the dinner can call 610-374-1100.
The Antietam School District has the highest tax rate in Berks County.
The Antietam School District is one of three Berks districts that failed to make adequate yearly progress in the PSSA tests, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
One of the other failing districts, Reading School District, is the biggest recipient of state aid in the county.
I can't wait to see how school administrators are going to spin this one. Every year, they say they need to raise property taxes so the "children can get a better education."
Pennsylvania keeps pouring more money into public schools that are failing. The state's own tests prove it.
If you've ever been to the City of Reading, you can't miss the distinctive Pagoda that sits atop the mountain overlooking the city.
The landmark structure, which can be seen for miles, celebrates its 100th birthday on Friday, Aug. 8, and the city and volunteer organizations are planning a big birthday bash.
From the celebration committee:
A full schedule of events is planned – beginning with a centenarians' birthday breakfast bash Friday morning and ending that evening with an unprecedented fireworks extravaganza with the Reading Phillies at First Energy Stadium and along the length of Skyline Drive.
The R-Phils are hosting their own unique Pagoda birthday party before and during the game against the Erie SeaWolves.
The Pagoda's history will be feted Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Among the activities are a Japanese Zen Buddhist blessing and dedication with pilgrimage to the 18th-century Japanese bell on the observatory floor, a variety of proclamations and gifts to the Pagoda, birthday cake and a "Happy Birthday" rendition led by the Berks Children's Classical Chorus.
The party continues Saturday with a full day of events at the Pagoda and a special play and Ringgold Band concert at City Park. A shuttle provided by the Manor at Market Square will transport partygoers between City Park and the Pagoda. Both days will feature live broadcasts by WEEU radio personalities.
On Sunday, everyone can help create a Pagoda mural during second Sunday activities at the GoggleWorks. And, throughout the weekend, members of the Pagoda Writers Group will be on hand to collect thoughts on the Pagoda for a special centennial book to be published in time for the holiday season.
"This will be an exciting weekend for Berks County," said Reading Mayor Tom McMahon. "While we will celebrate the future with the opening of the IMAX theatre in downtown Reading and a major economic development announcement by Gov. Rendell, we will also honor our past with the centennial celebration of the Pagoda and set the stage for its preservation.
"Everyone is invited to the party – and everyone can celebrate even if it's simply enjoying the spectacular fire works from your own backyard."
All events at the Pagoda and City Park are free. Tickets remain available for the R-Phils game Friday evening. Refreshments will be available for purchase at the Pagoda Café.
Volunteers are still needed on site at the Pagoda on Friday and Saturday.
To volunteer, contact Cindy Heminitz in the mayor's office at 610-655-6320 or Linda Kelleher in the City Council office at 610-655-6204.
"We're looking forward to a birthday party that will make history," said Cindy Kauffman, Reading special events coordinator and Pagoda manager. "The Pagoda belongs to everyone and we want all the citizens of Berks County to share in this special day."
The celebration is sponsored by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 743 and the City of Reading.
Berks County is inviting the public to attend a tax forum on Monday, July 28, from 7 to 9:15 p.m. at the Berks County Agricultural Center, Route 183, Bern Township.
The forum on local taxation and tax fairness issues is being sponsored by the Berks County Commissioners, Penn State Cooperative Extension/Berks County and County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.
Admission is free but pre-registration is preferred.
To register or for more information call 610-378-1327.
U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach has fought three tough campaigns to win Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District.
Gerlach, seeking his fourth two-year term, has a special incentive to win re-election in November.
Gerlach has dedicated his campaign to his mother, Helen, who recently passed away.
From Gerlach's campaign Web site:
"To Mom: This Campaign's For You!"
"As many on our campaign team know, my mother, Helen Gerlach, passed away on May 14th at the age of 79. For those who knew her, she was a vibrant and energetic individual absolutely passionate about politics and public service. For the past 14 years, she worked as a legislative assistant for Pa. State Senator Mary Jo White in NW Pa. And, boy, did she enjoy the work of helping constituents, representing Mary Jo at community events and visiting young children in local schools. In fact, she was so committed to her work that she did not take one sick day during those 14 years until just 3 days before she passed. But that was Mom- thoroughly committed and dedicated to whatever she did.
And that certainly describes Mom in her family life. Widowed at age 32 with 3 kids age 7, 5 and 6 weeks, she refused welfare and went to work raising us with the values of honesty, determination, perseverance, and personal responsibility. Through her work ethic and on a shoe-string budget, she managed to raise us in a loving and nurturing home, take us on a week's vacation every year, and even put us through college. Her approach was to raise us with "love, roots and wings" and she accomplished that to the highest level. And she continued, in later years, to provide that same nurturing and support to her 8 grandchildren and 3 step-grandchildren.
To many in NW Pa., and her colleagues in Harrisburg, Mom was known as "The Helenator" for her dogged determination to help constituents and her "can do" spirit.
As my dear friend Hud Voltz put it when he learned of her passing: "She rode high in the saddle, with her boots on, and packin' plenty of heat!" Did she ever! But that "heat" was really just a powerful combination of love, commitment to family, compassion for her fellow human beings, a terrific sense of humor, and sheer willpower.
So as my family and I continue to mourn the loss of this unbelievable individual, our grief is balanced with our recognition of how God has blessed us in allowing us to share our lives with her. And as one who has the honor to serve fellow citizens as their elected representative, I constantly strive to exercise her essential qualities of fairness, decency and common sense..
So for what Mom meant to me, her family, and her community, I would like to dedicate the remainder of this campaign to her!
An Associated Press-Yahoo News poll released Monday says that 9 in 10 Americans have been hit hard by skyrocketing gas prices and have had to adjust their lifestyle because of the high costs of gas.
That 10th person must be one of those well-to-do Barack Obama supporters. Or it might be Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi who gets to shuttle around the country on a taxpayer-paid airplane.
Democrats still don't get it about gas prices, which have risen 50 percent in the past six months.
Further proof that Democrats are clueless when it comes to the plight of working Americans comes in the form of a radio ad sponsored by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee that makes a joke out of high gas prices.
The ad buy features a comedian imitating President Bush and joking about gas prices.
U.S. Rep. Jim Gerlach, a Pennsylvania Republican, issued a statement Monday saying the suffering of American families is not a laughing matter.
"Pennsylvania families' real pain and suffering over high gas prices isn't funny and isn't a joke," Gerlach said in a written statement. "The DCCC just doesn't get it - $4.00 gas is really hurting America's working families and political jokes like this won't hide their Party's inaction on this issue, or lower the price of gas. Bi-partisan solutions are needed, and needed now."
In a national radio address over the weekend, Gerlach noted that Democrat plans to raise taxes on oil companies will only raise gas prices for families even higher, since higher taxes get passed through to consumers, according to his campaign staff.
Gerlach stressed innovation, conservation, and most importantly, increasing our own domestic energy supply through safe off-shore drilling, says the Jim Gerlach for Congress Committee
Gerlach's press release also offers this stunning fact: Gas prices have increased 75% since Democrats took control of Congress, and the energy package referenced in the DCCC attack ad was the exact same one supported by Barack Obama and half of the Democratic leadership in the House in 2005. Democrats and Republicans need to come together in a bi-partisan effort to lower gas prices.
"My opponent opposes off-shore drilling and believes we need to tax consumers further," Gerlach said. "That 'head-in-the-sand' energy plan will push gas prices dramatically higher tomorrow and in years to come. At the end of the day, I think we can both agree that making jokes about gas prices during these tough times is inappropriate, and I call on my opponent to publicly condemn the DCCC ad."
Dennis Baylor, an independent candidate for Pennsylvania's 29th state Senate seat, filed a lawsuit Monday in Federal District Court to stop the Pennsylvania's Department of State from denying what Baylor says is his First Amendment rights of "Free Speech" and "Association."
The deadline for independent and third-party candidates to file nominating papers for the November election is Aug. 1. Baylor is challenging how the state assesses the validity of the signatures on petitions to access the November ballot.
While Republicans and Democrats have to gather fewer signatures to get on the ballot and hold "invitation only" primary elections to select candidates, independent and third-party candidates are at a disadvantage in Pennsylvania, which has some of the most restrictive ballot access laws in the nation.
Baylor charges in his complaint (Docketed at CV-08-1060) that the State Department's practice of not "officially" recognizing third party candidacies until the Aug. 1 deadline for them to file petitions to access the ballot, is discriminatory, and amounts to giving the major party candidates an impermissible head start in political races.
Baylor also claims that the pervasive practice of gerrymandering legislative districts unconstitutionally burdens First Amendment rights of "Association" by geometrically expanding the media markets a candidate must reach due to the fracturing of "communities of interest."
It's a long shot, but Baylor has little to lose. The deck is already stacked against independent and third-party candidates.
A copy of Baylor's complaint is posted on his blog.
The 29th Senate District covers all of Schuylkill County and parts of Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, Monroe and Northampton counties. The incumbent is Republican James Rhoades, who has held seat since 1981.
Tony Phyrillas is the city editor and political columnist for The Mercury, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning daily newspaper in Pottstown, Pa. Phyrillas has won several national and state awards for his columns. Phyrillas has been featured on National Public Radio (NPR) and in The New York Times and is a frequent commentator on radio and television programs. He co-hosted "Talking Politics with Tony Phyrillas & Mike Pincus" on WPAZ 1370 AM.
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I received this amusing press release from the David M. Maloney for Berks 130th Campaign attempting to clear up some potential confusion about a candidate with a similar name running in a separate Legislative district.
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