Summer is winding down, but unfortunately the state Capitol is still working to produce a solid 2009-10 Pennsylvania budget. The governor recently passed a minimum budget that allows state workers to receive paychecks again and keeps basic government operations running. However, funding for important state entities and programs, including hospitals, early education centers and veterans homes hangs in limbo. I share your outrage for this lengthening budget impasse and I assure you that I will keep you informed with the latest developments.

On a positive note, the end of summer signals the annual Neighborhood to Neighborhood Street Festival. It’s an event I look forward to every year, and I hope you’ll join me in this fun-filled celebration.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please contact me. You can find my contact information online at my new and improved Web site, www.senatoranthonyhwilliams.com, which recently relaunched to provide you with all the latest information in a user-friendly format.

Sincerely, ANTHONY H. WILLIAMS PA SENATE - 8TH DISTRICT

N2N Festival to Feature R&B Singer Robin Thicke

State Sen. Anthony Williams and the West Philadelphia Coalition of Neighborhoods and Businesses invite the community to the 20th annual Neighborhood to Neighborhood Street Festival.

This daylong free event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 5 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at 50th Street and Baltimore Avenue.

Enjoy a free, fun-filled family event, featuring children’s rides, food, music, vendors, resource information and much more.

R&B singer Robin Thicke will entertain the crowd, as well as Jeff Bradshaw & Brass Heaven, Carol Riddick, Black Ice, and Hezekiah. Participants can also join in karaoke with DJ Kev and line dancing with Tina & Co.

For entertainment updates and vendor information, go to www.n2nfestival.com.
 

Hundreds Turn Out to Build New Playground

On Aug. 6, state Sen. Anthony Williams joined more than 350 volunteers at Build Day, a large one-day event to build a brand-new state-of-the-art, 2,500 square foot playground at 47th and Sansom streets in the Walnut Hill community in West Philadelphia.

“Despite the rain, everyone joined together to complete this playground, which local children can enjoy for years to come,” Williams said. “This is a result of true community partnership and involvement and thanks to the efforts of all the volunteers and contributors, our children will benefit. It was a great day for Walnut Hill.”

The Senator's district office was able to secure food and beverage donations from local area businesses for all of the volunteers. The playground was funded through a $61,000 grant from the Home Depot Foundation, along with significant contributions from local partners, including the Enterprise Center Community Development Corporation and the Walnut Hill Community Association.