After three long and frustrating months, we still do not have a budget. I’m disgusted that it’s taking so long to reach a compromise. This impasse has affected Pennsylvanians of all ages and backgrounds, and I’m still concerned about the businesses and organizations that have already been affected by the legislature’s inaction. I also worry about a number of social services that may not be funded at the level that they need to be.

I will continue to fight to make sure that the necessary programs receive proper funding and we get a budget passed very soon.

In the meantime, 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

Arts Tax Would Only Burden Families and Hurt the Arts

Recently, the governor and the Democratic and Republican leaders of the Senate and the leaders of the House Democrats agreed to a budget plan that adds several new sources of revenue in a few ways, including placing a sales tax on arts and cultural organizations.

This is especially harmful to Philadelphia, which is home to major theaters, museums and a zoo, not to mention our numerous local community cultural organizations. Tourism and culture are major economic drivers in the city, and we’re essentially punishing our tourists and local residents while guaranteeing fewer admission sales at our local cultural exhibits. In addition, as the city prepares to raise its sales tax to 8 percent, it’s an increased burden on families who want to learn about and experience culture.

The House Democrats have since reversed their opinion on the budget agreement and want to remove the arts tax from the budget deal. I’m hopeful that my colleagues will see that this tax will be a major detriment to the arts across Pennsylvania.

N2N Festival a Big Success

This year’s Neighborhood to Neighborhood Street Festival was a wonderful day for local families. R&B singer Robin Thicke and many other performers entertained the crowd throughout the day.

A highlight of the Sept. 5 festival was honoring several local U.S. soldiers who recently returned from combat in Iraq. It was an honor to present them with Senate citations and see the crowd show their appreciation for these brave soldiers.

I want to thank everyone who attended and who helped make the day a complete success. For the last 20 years, this festival has been a great event to bring neighbors together for a fun-filled and peaceful day. I look forward to doing it all again next year. Click here to view more pictures from the event.

‘Walk the Walk’ for Your Health

Join state Rep. Ron Waters and me for the upcoming “Walking the Walk” Health Walk and Fair, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 10, rain or shine, at Laura Sims Skate House, 63rd and Walnut streets. There will be a warm-up stretch at 8 a.m., followed by the walk at 8:30 a.m. Participants can join in a 2- or 4-mile walk. The health fair will take place after the walk from 10 a.m. to noon, where there will be free health screenings, information, food samples, raffles, giveaways and a massage therapist.

No matter your age or fitness level, everyone can take part in this fun-filled day. It’s a great way to get out, get some exercise and get informed on living an active and healthy lifestyle, so I invite everyone to join me at this event.

Vendors are also welcome to sign up to participate in the health fair, free of charge.
Participants and organizations are encouraged to sign up in teams for the walk, and awards will be given to team winners. To sign up or for more information, contact the senator’s district office at 215-492-2980.
 

Enjoy a ‘Taste of the 8th’

In the coming months, I will be traveling the 8th Senate District to taste the wonderful flavors and cuisines found in our community.

Please join me on Monday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. as I dine at the Gold Standard Cafe, 4800 Baltimore Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. 19143.

You’ll be able to support a local business, sample free food, meet neighbors and have dinner. Contact the district office at 215-492-2980 to sign up.

If you’re a restaurant owner and would like me to visit your establishment, or if you want to suggest your favorite restaurant, please contact our office. Restaurants selected will be highlighted in future newsletters.