Pennsylvania Makes Top Ten List Of US States Reducing Oil Dependence

This should make us all proud.  Pennsylvania was ranked 7th out of the 50 states for doing the most to reduce our dependence on oil.  Because Pennsylvania funds public transit systems (like PART and SEPTA) and because of setting renewable fuel standards we earned high marks.  California ranked number 1 while Alaska was number 50.  Pennsylvania drivers spend 3.4% of their income on gas, which is the 8th lowest percentage in the country!

If you would like to read the report in its entirety you may click on this link: http://www.nrdc.org/energy/states/files/Fighting%20Oil%20Addiction_NRDC_Nov%202010.pdf

Blight Eradication In Wilkes-Barre Neighborhood

After some legal wrangling, three blighted properties on Monroe Street in Wilkes-Barre were demolished.  The blighted properties became dumping grounds and the neighbors were bothered by noxious odors for several years.  There have also been multiple fires (arson) at the site over the last two-years which have been a great concern for neighbors. 

Blighted, and in this case vacant, properties are magnets for vandalism, squatters, dumping and rodents.  These properties were jeopardizing the stability of an otherwise nice neighborhood.  Repeated fires also created serious safety hazards for neighboring residents.  Another issue here, there is an $18,000 tax lien on the property, which is still owned by Christopher Street Realty.  The city is being reimbursed for the demolition of the derelict properties.

Kudos to Wilkes-Barre for taking the necessary steps to demolish these blighted properties and making this neighborhood safe and healthy once again!

Pelosi Seeks Minority Leader Spot In New Congress

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70-year-old Nancy Pelosi, former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives is seeking to retain her control over the Democratic Party in the House by being elected Minority Leader.  Pelosi was the first woman to ever hold the position of Speaker of the House.

Pelosi’s bid is being met with some resistance by members of her own party.  Some feel she serves as a symbol of all that contributed to the Democratic Party losing control us the House in last Tuesday’s election.  Republicans were voted into office in record numbers.  Pelosi wants to make sure Republicans do not undo her health care legislation.

Pelosi said she will run for Minority Leader if she feels she has the votes necessary to be elected.

State Store Sale And Privitization On The Agenda For Corbett

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Governor-elect Tom Corbett (R) is going to try and get Pennsylvania out of the liquor store business.  Two other governors have tried and failed, however, the new power shift in Harrisburg may finally enable this measure to go through.  House Bill 2350 will be reintroduced.  Estimates put the sale of the stores at $2 billion dollars.  It is also hoped to substantially reduce the number of Pennsylvania residents, who live near bordering states, from purchasing alcohol outside of Pennsylvania.