I want to wish you a happy and healthy New Year. Sadly, my year has begun on a heartbreaking note with the passing of my father. While my family and I are grieving his loss, I have been touched by the countless phone calls, notes and even Facebook postings that people have left us. Tragic times like these are also a reminder of the love that surrounds us, and I’ve been reminded of my father’s far-reaching impact during his decades of public service. It’s comforting to know that he made a difference in this world, and I will continue to do my part as a Senator to make a positive impact as well.
 

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

Hardy Williams: Devoted Father, Public Servant

Philadelphia lost a great voice for civil rights, justice and the progress of all Pennsylvania citizens on Jan. 7 with the passing of my father, former state Sen. Hardy Williams.

Hardy Williams, 78, served the people of Pennsylvania for over 30 years as an elected official. In 1971, he was the first African-American candidate for mayor in Philadelphia to garner widespread public support. His efforts led to the election of other independent Democrats throughout the city. He served in the House from 1968 to 1982, then as senator from 1982 to 1998. When he retired from the Senate, I was honored and proud to succeed him.

My father was a man of great passion and commitment to the community and the people he served in his many roles. He was a civil rights leader, state senator, candidate for mayor and community organizer, but most importantly, he was a great father.

Last year, the Renaissance Advantage Charter School (RACS), which opened in 1999, was rededicated as the Hardy Williams Academy Charter School. The RACS leadership chose to rename the K-8 school, located in Southwest Philadelphia, after my father to recognize the local leader and help inspire students about their own potential to succeed.

My father was so proud of what this school had accomplished in such a short time. Even though he is no longer with us, I hope he will continue to inspire the students to work hard and achieve greatness.

He may be gone, but his legacy will live forever.
 

Help Needed for Haiti Earthquake Relief Efforts

The Jan. 12 earthquake that devastated the small nation of Haiti continues to impact 3 million survivors. Relief is coming in from across the globe, and the American Red Cross is providing the people of Haiti with basic necessities. However, disease and starvation threaten to overcome survivors, who desperately need food, water, clothing and medical attention.

American generosity has been outstanding so far, but the Red Cross needs our continued support.

Donations may be made on the American Red Cross Web site or by phone at 1-800-REDCROSS.

Cell phone users can also text “Haiti” to 90999 to make a $10 donation to support the American Red Cross Haiti relief efforts. Donations will appear on your monthly bill or be debited from a prepaid account balance.
 

Join Senator on a Barbershop Tour

The barbershop has been one of the cornerstones of our community for years. It’s a place that neighbors and friends come together to trade ideas, stories and traditions.

That’s why I’m inviting the public to join me on my first Barbershop Tour, which will take place on Thursday, Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. at Henry’s Hair Cuttery, 722 S. 52nd St. in Philadelphia.
I’m looking forward to folks sharing their thoughts on how I can better serve our community.

For more information, call 215-492-2980.
 

Public Invited to Energy Forum in Darby

I am partnering with Darby Mayor Helen Thomas and the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) to present a free energy conservation forum designed to give tips on how to save money on winter utility bills.

The forum will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 4 at Darby Borough Hall, 821 Summit St. in Darby. The event is free and open to the public.

Especially in the winter months, families have difficulty paying their utility bills. This forum will give residents and business owners valuable information on how to minimize those bills and stay safe and warm this winter.

Attendees will receive information on available programs and services to help keep winter utility bills low, as well as tips on how to be more energy efficient during the winter months and year round. Participants will also learn about Act 129, Pennsylvania’s mandatory energy use reduction initiative, and how they can help do their part to lower their own energy consumption.

Panelists include members of PUC, PECO, Aqua Pennsylvania Water and the Community Action Agency of Delaware County Weatherization.

For more information, contact the senator’s district office at 215-492-2980.