Pennsylvania Society Meeting

The annual  Pennsylvania Society mega weekend meetings political feeding frenzy  (since 1898!)  was held in NEW YORK CITY this past weekend.  Is it any wonder we have such antiquated liquor and malt beverage laws and crumbling infrastructures and vague leadership when big meetings of all Pennsylvania politicos and labor leaders and special interest groups and lobbyists meet in another state to discuss the future of our state.  There are no inns in Philadelphia or Pittsburgh or heaven forbid, our capitol where rooms and meeting spaces and food and drink could generate revenue in our state (it was suggested by then Gov Rendell that between $20-$40 million is spent in NYC during the event)?  Only budget cuts come from out elected officials yet having the meeting in one of the most expensive cities in the world is acceptable?  As my eighty something mother would say, "have they no shame?"

Governor Corbett is quoted as saying, "this is a chance for a lot of people to remind me of what their interests are and for me to give them an open ear, and to listen to them."  And I am left wondering just who are these people?  Unless you are an elected official or lobbyist or head a special interest group or a labor leader, I don't think you get the ear of the governor.  Unless you are a dialed in politico, best keep your thoughts to yourself. 

But putting access, or lack thereof, to the governor aside, let's return again to the venue and ask loudly to every elected Pennsylvania official, why do you meet in New York City and not in our commonwealth?  Perhaps if the meetings were held here, voters and regular folks could remind the governor of their interests.

Along with Governor Corbett was a host of notables: Senator Robert Casey was there as well as Mike Turzai (of failed photo ID guaranteeing the state would vote for Romney fame), U.S. Reps  Pat Meehan, Charlie Dent, Jim Gerlach, Allison Schwartz, Philadelphia Mayor Nutter former Governor Rendell and a host of other state officials.  All good Pennsylvanians spending their money in New York City while deciding the fate of our commonwealth. 

Am I the only one confused with this?