Special Election in the 195th State House

There are three special elections on Tuesday, August 11th, to fill spots left when three state representatives resigned.  The Inquirer had a nice article outlining the three races and the candidates for each ("'Sting caused 2 of 3 vacancies on Tuesday's special election ballot," by Chris Brennan, 8/09).

I wanted to say a bit about the 195th district.  The paper says it has a 13-1 Democratic advantage.  Democrat Donna Bullock formerly worked for City County President Darrell Clarke.  She's a lawyer and has a really nice campaign website:  http://www.donnabullock195.com/

The Republican candidate, Adam Lang, whose site (http://www.adamlang.com/195th/) could look a little snazzier since he's a computer guy, shouldn't be written off, though.  Lang has been an active participant in his community for several years and is well-known in the area.    He's low-key, even-keeled, and has a great sense of humor.  To be honest, he's my favorite city Republican.

Regardless of who you vote for, if you live in the 195th, please go out and vote.  

Leanne Krueger-Braneky Wins

The Philly.com website is reporting that Leanne Krueger-Braneky won the special election for the 161st state house district.

Who is Leanne Krueger-Braneky?

Leanne Krueger-Braneky ran for the 161^st state house district in 2014 and lost by almost 2,700 votes (2,696 to be exact)(Scala, 6/28/2015).  Her Republican rival, the incumbent, won, and was sworn in to his second term in January.  In April, however, he announced that he was resigning at the end of the that month.  The special election to replace him is next Tuesday, August 4^th.  She is running again as the Democratic candidate.

The 161^st district includes all of Brookhaven, Rose Valley, Rutledge, Swarthmore, and parts of Aston, Marple, Nether Providence, Newtown, Radnor, Ridley, Springfield and Upper Providence.   She won Swarthmore by a large margin and won Nether Providence and the district’s part of Springfield by a slim margin.   Hacket won in Ridley Township, Aston, Brookhaven, Rutledge and Rose Valley (Logue 11/05/2014).  While Democrats have a slight lead in overall county voter registration, in the  161^st there are 5,000 more GOP registered voters than Democrats (Scala 6/28/2015).  This doesn’t take into account independent voters, those not registered with any particular party.

Krueger-Braneky was praised by the Delaware County Daily Times, although they eventually endorsed Hackett.  Regarding the special election Phil Heron  wrote “I wish they could just hand her the seat now” (Heron, 4/12/2015).  Alas, democracies don’t work that way.

She grew up in New Jersey and did the sensible thing by attending the state university (Logue 10/27/2014).  In her first job after college she was the after school specialist for the American Red Cross of the Susquehanna Valley, developing programs and services for children.  She was one of three staff people to be granted the Spirit of Excellence Award that year (“Volunteers, 10/24/2000) .  After a year or so, she returned to college for a master’s degree in Urban Economic Development from Eastern University.   In 2001 she married Rev. David Braneky.  Together they led cultural studies trips to South Africa for a year and then settled in the Philadelphia area.  She wrote an article on her visits to South Africa and how they changed her thinking on collaboration and sustainable living.  She was especially inspired by the way the use of water affected people’s lives (Krueger-Braneky, 2005)

For the next eight years she worked as the executive director of the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia, the first person hired for that position.  When Krueger-Braneky was hired SBN had fewer than 100 fee-paying members and an annual budget under $100,000.  In 2012 membership was 450, with a budget of $500,000 (Mastrull 12/17/2012).  Again taking a sensible approach she followed the philosophy that if a sustainable business doesn’t make money it won’t stay in business (Mastrull 5/30/2011).  She tackled issues like green infrastructure, stormwater, a city land bank, and supporting small business and the local economy.  This involved creating partnerships, persuading elected officials,  talking with chambers of commerce, and even working with the White House.  These are all skills that a state representative needs.

In 2011 the SBN issued a report on small businesses in Philadelphia and what can be done to help them (http://www.sbnphiladelphia.org/images/SBN_TCB_11_23.pdf), with nine specific issues identified and tangible steps listed for each.  A year later a follow up was issued giving the status of each step (Mastrull 11/26/2012).   In addition to the land bank, another suggestion that was implemented was a tax credit for sustainable businesses (Mastrull 5/30/2011).

In 2013, after eight years at SBN, she moved to a related national organization, the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (Logue 10/27/2014).  The organization website (www.bealocalist.org) now lists her as Senior Director of Strategy and Development.  It includes a long biography listing, among other things, her invitations to speak to the White House Business Council, and her role and Senior Fellow of the Environmental Leadership Program.

She and her husband have one child, a son.

Sources:

Heron, Philip E. “Letter from the editor:  State Rep. Hackett returning to his roots,” Delaware County Daily Times 4/12/2015

Krueger-Braneky, Leanne, “Connected by a glass of water,” In Business 27 #6 (Nov/ Dec 2005) p. 30

Logue, Tim, “Hackett holds on to 161^st legislative district post,” Delaware County Daily Times 11/05/2014

Logue, Tim, “Hackett, Krueger-Braneky square off in 161^st district,” Delaware County Daily Times 10/27/14

Mastrull, Diane, “City a bit better at helping small firms,” Philadelphia Inquirer 11/26/2012

Mastrull, Diane, “Greening of business – now a decade old, a network that helps small Philadelphia firms thrive while practicing sustainability intends to keep it growing,” Philadelphia Inquirer 5/30/2011

Mastrull, Diane, “Leader of small-business network heads to new challenge,” Philadelphia Inquirer 12/17/2012

Scala, Kristina, “Mullen gets backing in 161^st district race,” Delaware County Daily Times 6/28/2015

“Volunteers get Red Cross award,” Lancaster New Era 10/24/2000

Painter Thank You

A note from Mark Painter in the inbox:

The election is over and we're winding down the campaign. We came up short, but we fought the good fight and I'm proud of the effort we made. And with the Thanksgiving holiday upon us, there's no better time for me to say "Thank you" to all my friends and supporters for all you did for my campaign. I said from the beginning there was no way I could do all this on my own. How lucky I am that so many of you stepped up and helped us put together a strong campaign. It was all that I could have hoped for, and for that I am truly grateful. All of you will be in my thoughts this Thanksgiving. And I wish you and your loved ones the best of holidays.

Yours truly, Mark Painter

Krueger-Braneky Opens Campaign Office

Leanne Krueger-Braneky opened a campaign office in Swarthmore on July 4th.  She is the Democratic candidate for the 161st state house district, which includes Aston, Brookhaven, Nether Providence, parts of Ridley Township, Rose Valley, Rutledge, part of Springfield and Swarthmore.

Leanne has advised the White House Business Council on the needs of small businesses.  For eight years, Leanne served as the first Executive Director of the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN), creating a 500-plus member business organization working to build a just, green, and thriving economy in the Southeast Pennsylvania five-county region.  The SBN was named Regional Economic Development Program of the Year by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission in 2011.

  

Philadelphia NOW Endorses Jared Solomon in 202nd House District

Philadelphia NOW has endorsed Jared Solomon for State Representative in the 202nd district.

Nina Ahmad, Ph.D., President of Philadelphia NOW, issued the following statement on the group's endorsement: “Jared Solomon is unequivocal in his support for women’s rights -- especially about economic empowerment and crafting meaningful legislation to quell domestic abuse and sexual assaults. Given the current repressive environment in the Pennsylvania Legislature and its ”War on Women”, Philadelphia NOW is focused on endorsing candidates, such as Solomon, who support women’s rights without regard to political expediency. As a lawyer and community organizer, Solomon has a record as an advocate for more accessible healthcare, sound educational reform and immigrant rights.”

Jared Solomon accepted the endorsement stating: “I was raised by a single mother. I understand women’s economic security is fundamental to women’s rights. There is a movement afoot nationwide and in Pennsylvania to deprive women of their rights. I will fight to safeguard their rights including access to reproductive healthcare. I am honored and humbled to receive the endorsement of Philadelphia Chapter of NOW. Knowing their history and legacy of fighting for women’s rights, I will honor this trust placed in me and pledge to be an advocate, an ally and fight for women’s rights on all fronts.”

Keystone Progress PAC Endorses Billy Smith

from the inbox:

The Keystone Progress Political Action Committee (KP PAC) announced today that it is endorsing Billy Smith in the 164^th Legislative District.

KP PAC is the political action committee of Keystone Progress.  Keystone Progress is a multi-issue progressive organization with over 200,000 members.  This is only the third endorsement by the progressive organization since it began making endorsements earlier this year.

The following is the endorsement announcement from KP PAC:We are honored to announce that the board of directors of the Keystone Progress Political Action Committee (KP PAC) endorses Billy Smith for State Representative in the 164th district.

We are proud to be able to make this endorsement because of Mr. Smith’s clear support for progressive values, including civil rights, workers’ rights, voting rights, protecting our environment, supporting public education and affordable health care.  These are the values that our members want to see championed in Harrisburg.  We believe that Billy Smith is the best candidate to assure that working families in the 164th Legislative District will have a strong, progressive voice in the House of Representatives.We look forward to working with Billy Smith as the next State Representative from the 164^th district.

Jared Solomon's Plan for Seniors

from the inbox:

On Monday, March 24, 2014, Jared Solomon, candidate for State Representative in Pennsylvania’s 202^ndDistrict, unveiled his plan to assist seniors living in the Northeast.

“The Northeast has long been a great place to retire and I want to keep it that way,” said Jared Solomon.  “I have already laid out plans for some of the major issues like reducing crime and improving our commercial corridors, and there are additional issues specific to our seniors that need to be addressed.  I intend to be a Representative who will take action for our neighbors, and that begins with our seniors.”

Lower Property Taxes

While some programs like LOOP assist in lowering property taxes for a select few, I believe we must ultimately keep taxes in check for all of our longtime property owners. Right now, most changes to the tax code need to go through Harrisburg, which is why tax reform can take so long. When I go to Harrisburg, I will go with the clear purpose of helping put more money in the hands of our residents-- and less in the greedy legislators' pockets. 

Keep Medicare and Medicaid intact

While Medicare and Medicaid are federal programs, the state administers how many of the benefits are allocated.  In Harrisburg, I’ll fight against Republican efforts to effectively “voucher” our health system instead of providing the necessary services.  I will also fight to keep our local healthcare providers going strong, and make sure locations like the 10^th District Health Center and Jeanes Hospital are getting the necessary resources from government.

Reduce Crime

In February, I unveiled a plan to tackle crime both locally and citywide. Reducing crime in the Northeast is a priority of all of our residents, but it is of particular importance to our vulnerable senior population.  In addition to the issues identified in the crime plan, I will work in Harrisburg to strengthen our elder abuse laws create a local task force to assist seniors with quality-of-life issues.

Transportation Funding

Last year, SEPTA’s CCT Connect (aka ParaTransit) provided nearly 2 million rides to senior and disabled residents. Why some legislators from the far right have attempted cut transportation funding, this subsidy is vital to keeping our seniors safe and mobile. As a legislator, I’ll work across the aisle to secure this funding and collaborate with healthcare providers locally to create better access to doctor’s offices, so we can reduce any misuse of our first responders.  

Retirement Planning

Planning for retirement should begin long before reaching age 65.  As a State Representative, I will host regular retirement planning seminars to encourage our residents to plan ahead. The Philadelphia region is a center for many retirement planning companies whose knowledge and expertise can be capitalized on to assist our residents.  

Pennsylvania NOW Endorses Billy Smith in 146th District

from the inbox:

March 20th, 2014 - On Thursday, the National Organization for Women (NOW) announced their  endorsement of Billy Smith's campaign for State House.  NOW is at the forefront of supporting and protecting women's rights across Pennsylvania.  "Pennsylvania NOW endorses the candidates we know will fight for the women of the Commonwealth every time.  In this race, that's Billy Smith." The only candidates that NOW considers are feminist leaders and strong supporters of women's rights issues. "I am humbled by the support of the National Organization of Women.  As the son of a single mother, who was also raised with the help of my single grandmother, I am keenly aware of the struggles and gains that women have endured and made to attain gender equality.  I am forever in debt to the amazing women in my life for helping me become the man that I am today.  I've always stood with women and will continue to do so as a member of Pennsylvania state legislature." This is a tremendous development for the Smith campaign; NOW rarely endorses men over women and only does so when the male candidate is far and away more progressive on women's rights issues.  With the endorsement of NOW, Margo Davidson must begin to answer the question: Why are women abandoning her campaign?  The next two months  will continue to show a complete erosion of women support for Margo Davidson's campaign; her hostile votes to close abortion clinics and drain money from public schools have alienated progressive women in the 164th and has resulted in a surge of support for Billy Smith from progressive women's organizations who recognize his unequivocal commitment to women's rights. 

McKenzie Announces in 150th House District

from the inbox:

West Norriton Commissioner David McKenzie today announced his candidacy to represent Montgomery County’s 150^th House District.

Having focused on creating jobs, passing a balanced budget, and advocating for hard working families while serving as Commissioner, McKenzie wants to use his experience to address the failed leadership coming out of the Capitol.

“Throughout my career I have been a passionate advocate,” McKenzie said, “whether fighting on behalf of victims of crime, giving a voice to those canine souls forced to live in the deplorable conditions of puppy mills or working hard for the citizens of West Norriton. Governor Corbett and the state legislature have failed Pennsylvania and it’s time for a change.  We need proactive state legislators who work to create real jobs, invest in education, protect women’s rights and promote sensible solutions to address the Marcellus Shale situation. I will serve the constituents of the 150^th with the same passion for advocacy I have brought to West Norriton and that I displayed during my time as a prosecutor.” 

McKenzie recently received the unanimous endorsement of the Montgomery County Democratic Committee.  “David is a wonderful candidate and we look forward to supporting his campaign to win the 150^th House District,” said Chairman Marcel Groen.  “He is hard-working, dedicated, and compassionate,” Groen added. 

McKenzie founded and is the owner of the McKenzie Law Firm, P.C., based in Fairview Village.  His legal career began as a Deputy District Attorney at the Dauphin County District Attorney’s Office following his graduation from law school. During his tenure McKenzie’s special assignment was the Juvenile Section where he witnessed first-hand how positive reinforcement and quality education could change the direction of a child’s life.

In 2008 McKenzie joined the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture serving as Assistant Counsel.  Following the passage of the Rendell Administration’s historic Pennsylvania Dog Law, McKenzie was tapped to become the lead prosecutor of violations committed under that law, fighting Pennsylvania’s notorious puppy mills.

McKenzie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Franklin & Marshall College and received his Juris Doctorate from the Dickinson School of Law.  He is married to his college sweetheart Chrissy, and they live in West Norriton with their 2-year-old son.

Billy Smith Endorsed by Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania PAC

from the inbox:

Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania PAC announces its endorsement of Billy Smith in the race for House District 164. The Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania PAC is the electoral arm of Planned Parenthood in Pennsylvania.

“The Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania PAC is thrilled to announce its endorsement of Billy Smith for Representative,” said Sari Stevens, Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania Advocates and PAC. “Billy is a strong advocate for women’s health and rights, and will fight for women’s access to birth control, preventive health care, and reproductive rights in the Legislature.”

The Pennsylvania legislature continues to introduce legislation that threatens Pennsylvanian women’s access to healthcare. A true advocate in the 164th House District in Pennsylvania would help to ensure that women continue to have access to a full range of reproductive health services, including abortion services.

“We are extremely disappointed by current 164th District Representative Margo Davidson’s votes on SB 732 and HB 818,” said Stevens. “We have faced unprecedented attacks here in Pennsylvania straight out of the Tea Party playbook, and Representative Davidson voted for two such attacks that are now law in Pennsylvania after being an endorsed candidate in 2010.” SB 732 became Act 122, forcing all surgical abortion providers to become Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (ASFs), limiting access to safe, legal abortion in Pennsylvania, and causing facilities to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars for no reason related to improving patient safety. HB 818 became Act 13, banning individuals from purchasing insurance coverage of abortion services with their own private dollars through the new Health Care Exchanges, even in a medical emergency.

“Given the relentless attacks we continue to see, it is clear that we need true advocates for women’s health in Harrisburg, and we are confident that Billy is exactly the kind of candidate we need.” said Stevens.

Ian Thomas Runs in 168th

Ian Thomas is collecting signatures to be the Democratic candidate for the 168th state house district (Upper Providence, Media, Chester Heights, Newtown Twp, Middletown Twp, Edgmont Twp, Thornbury Twp, and part of Marple Twp).

Ian’s bio, from the inbox:

Ian Thomas takes pride in healing. Through hisdegree in Biology (2004 - Cum Laude) from Rollins College, he has sought tounderstand how to heal our ecosystem during his work in an Ecology Lab studyinginvasive species at the USDA in Fort Lauderdale and ourselves in a Genetics Labat the Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, PA. Realizing his passion for connecting with people more directly, Ian has moved forward to heal our bodies through massage (Healing Hands Massage) and the educational wounds that keep students from learning as he tutored at Delaware County Community College.   

             As Ian engaged in studies towards a master’s degree in secondary education toteach Biology, he became more aware of the structural damages that exist in oureducational system. This has driven him to run for office again. Ian is stillcommitted to the progressive issues with which he ran on in his 2008 election,which focused on Single Payer Healthcare, Living Wage and a SustainableEnvironment. Once elected to represent us in Harrisburg, Ian’s studies ofNonviolent Communication and Restorative Practices will aid him in healingPennsylvania.

A Few Notes on the Sims / Cohen Situation

You may have read a story in the Inquirer, "Rookie Philly legislator says long-timer is losing it," by Chris Brennan (2/26/2013), in which State Rep. Brian Sims suggested that State Rep. Mark Cohen is not adequately doing his job as the leading minority Democrat on the State Government Committee.   Sims also states that Cohen misses meetings or is late on a frequent basis.

The story found Rep. Sims's comments on his Facebook page.  They are still there as I write this.  Neither Sims nor the paper article mentions the fact that transcripts of committee meetings are on the state legislature's web site.  I checked them.  Before stating what I found, in full disclosure, let me say two things:

1) To state it in the softest terms, I think it would be wonderful if State Rep. Cohen retired, having served his Philadelphia district for over 40 years now.  He could live in the Harrisburg house he has bought with the per diems he is paid by the state for days he has to come to Harrisburg on state business.  (The house he has at times forgotten to pay property tax on.)  He could read all those books he bought with state money.

2) It has been brought to my attention in the past that information found on the state's web site cannot always be taken at face value.  As I have found, and  as Dave Davies at Newsworks wrote recently, one example is the state's campaign finance reports -- those are often filed in paper and an outside contractor retypes the information, a process that could easily lead to errors.  So while I am confident that I am reporting what I found, I cannot guarantee that what I found is correct.

That being said, I looked at all the available transcripts for the State Government committee.  One meeting per month is listed.  The transcripts for March through July, 2013, are provided; there is a search form for more recently months.

For March through November State Rep. Cohen is listed as being in attendance.  He also makes one or more comments.  Some of these comments are made early in the meetings; in other meetings his remarks show up much later in the transcript.  As for the coherence of his remarks, well, that is in the eye of the beholder.  Since I am not inclined to view Rep. Cohen in the best of lights, my views may not be unbiased.  In December, 2013 Rep. Cohen is listed as attending but not remarks are given for him.  The January, 2014 meeting is described as "informal" and no transcript is provided.  No transcript is yet available for the February meeting.

I encourage interested readers to do their own checking on the state's website to verify my findings.

Sean Sullivan in the 175th

Sean Sullivan is running a primary campaign in the 175th state house district against an incumbent.  The 175th is in Philadelphia and contains the Queen City, Old City, Chinatown, and Kensington neighborhoods.   The district is currently represented by Michael O'Brien.

Sullivan's website, www.sullivan4pa.com has a number of issue statements and policy papers.

Krueger-Braneky Announces State House Race

from the inbox:

Swarthmore businesswoman Leanne Krueger-Braneky on Tuesday formally announced her candidacy for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in the 161st Legislative District. Krueger-Braneky, Director of Fellowship and Alumni for the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE), is a nationally renowned economic development professional who specializes in socially responsible business practices. In announcing her first bid for public office, Krueger-Braneky cited the need for greater investment in public education, job creation and support for small and locally-owned businesses.

 "The residents of the 161^st District are being hurt by the policies of Governor Corbett and the Republicans in Harrisburg,” the 37-year-old Krueger-Braneky said. “Our current elected officials are failing us. We need new leadership to ensure a fair, sustainable public education funding formula and real support for local business in order to create jobs and make our economy work for the people of Delaware County and the rest of the Commonwealth.” 

Leanne has received national attention for her work in economic development, advising the White House Business Council on the needs of local businesses.  For eight years, Leanne served as the first Executive Director of the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia (SBN), creating a 500-plus member business organization working to build a just, green, and thriving economy in the Southeast Pennsylvania five-county region. Leanne’s efforts to reshape economic development practices were recognized when SBN was named Regional Economic Development Program of the Year by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission in 2011.

 “As a parent, I want the same thing for my son that everyone wants – good schools and a safe and healthy environment.  Governor Corbett and the House Republicans have cut millions from public education while handing out tax breaks to large, out-of-state corporations. Delaware County has the highest asthma hospitalization rate among the four counties outside of Philadelphia while the State has gutted environmental protection over the last three years.  I will make sure Harrisburg fights for our children’s future instead of helping make millionaires richer.”

 Leanne holds an MBA from Eastern University and a Bachelor’s from Rutgers University.  She is also a BALLE Local Economy Fellow, a Senior Fellow of the Environmental Leadership Program and a 2009 Pennsylvania Fellow of the Center for Progressive Leadership.  Among the honors and recognitions she has received are: 40 Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council; Next Generation of Leadership Rising Stars; and the Green Power Award from Citizens for Pennsylvania’s Future.  Leanne lives in Swarthmore, PA, with her two-year-old son Wendell and husband David Braneky and is a proud member of the Swarthmore Co-Op.

 The 161^st Legislative District includes Aston, Brookhaven, Nether Providence, parts of Ridley, Rose Valley, Rutledge, part of Springfield and Swarthmore.

Jared Solomon Update

A note from Jared Solomon's state house campaign:

Late last week we filed our first campaign finance report for Jared’s campaign for State Representative in the 202^nd District.  Nobody loves the idea of having to raise money for campaigns, but it is an essential part of any campaign. Well, today, I am pleased to tell you—because of you—we far exceeded the expectations, with over 450 individual donors to our campaign!  Not only that, but we have now built a 30-1 fundraising edge over our opponent, who has been holding his place office for over 40 years.

Brian Sims Endorses Jared Solomon

from the inbox:

On Thursday, February 6^th 2014, State Representative Brian Sims endorsed Jared Solomon for State Representative in Pennsylvania’s 202^nd District.

"The issues of our time are too important to let broken politics paralyze our state government,” said Rep. Sims. “Representing the people of Pennsylvania in the legislature is an incredibly serious job which requires effective leaders like Jared Solomon who have a record of bringing people together.”

Sims, elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 2012 as the Commonwealth’s first openly LGBT legislator in its history, noted the importance of electing strong leaders who will help Philadelphia regain its political prestige.“Philadelphia has lost its voice in the capitol, and if we are going to get it back, we must elect energetic leaders like Jared Solomon to the State House,” said Sims. “I need a colleague like Jared Solomon in Harrisburg, who my colleagues and I can rely on to work hard to move our Commonwealth forward.”

Solomon, who has built an aggressive campaign on the theme of taking action, spoke about the importance of Representative Sims’ support. “It’s an honor to have the support of one of the trailblazers in the next generation of leadership in Philadelphia and Harrisburg,” said Solomon. “Representative Sims has demonstrated that the status quo can be overcome by hard work and integrity—two things I vow to bring to this campaign.  From Castor Avenue to the Capitol Building, I intend to work with Brian to get Pennsylvania on track.”

Representative Sims’ endorsement of Jared Solomon follows the endorsement of Admiral Joe Sestak, the highest ranking military official ever elected to Congress. Since announcing his candidacy before a packed house on December 8^th, Solomon has held a series of “community dinners,” engaging hundreds of 202^nd District voters.  Solomon also announced his campaign raised over $65,000 in its first finance report—an unprecedented amount for Democratic challengers in the 202^nd District.

“This is not just a standard endorsement,” said Sam Shoap, campaign manager for Friends of Jared Solomon. “This is the building of a movement of the next generation of courageous leaders.”

Jed Grobstein Runs for 157th

from the inbox:

Jed Grobstein today announced his bid for the Democratic nomination to the State House in the Pennsylvania 157th, saying “Warren Kampf has taken our residents for granted for far too long. Pennsylvania needs smart, proactive leadership in Harrisburg, and not just a gaggle of Corbett yes-men. As a teacher in the South Bronx, I learned how to listen, how to be a problem-solver, and how to bring people together, and I think we need more of that in Harrisburg.”  

Grobstein’s campaign, Jed for PA House, filed its 2013 annual report showing that it had raised more than $40,000 in just eight weeks. The campaign also reported having more than $51,000 on hand.

Grobstein noted that Warren Kampf “has worked with Gov. Corbett to cut $1 billion from education, and to make it more difficult for mothers to receive the health care they need. He unconditionally refused to support a bipartisan transportation bill and attempted to deny funding to critical transportation infrastructure, bridges, highways and our own Paoli Transportation Center.”

Grobstein served as a math teacher and a Democratic organizer, and he is proud to be running for office less than a mile from his childhood home. While teaching math in the South Bronx, Grobstein worked as the chairman of his department and founded the advocacy organization ‘Keep Our Schools Alive’ to encourage parents, students and teachers to participate in their school’s governance. 

A graduate of Conestoga High School in Berwyn and Pomona College in Los Angeles, Grobstein received his Masters in Education from City College in New York. Teaching in the South Bronx, Grobstein served as chair of his Math Department and worked to develop new curriculum for the classroom while integrating assessment and instruction. 

When New York City began closing high schools in 2009, Grobstein organized and founded ‘Keep Our Schools Alive’ (KOSA) to encourage stakeholders, parents, students and teachers, to participate in the city’s decision-making process. KOSA argued that the school closings were arbitrary and that the city had failed to engage essential stakeholders. The State Supreme Court agreed, and in 2010 it reversed the city’s decision, saying that the Department of Education had failed to gather sufficient community input.

Grobstein returned to Pennsylvania at the end of 2010 to pursue a career in the United States Marine Corps. When a shoulder injury prevented him from enlisting, Jed accepted a staff position with Organizing for America on President Obama’s re-election campaign. Following that election Jed served as campaign manager for Delaware County’s Democratic slate and produced historic gains in a county long known for its Republican dominance. 

Please visit www.JedforPAhouse.com for more information.

Jared Solomon Update

from the inbox:

 Jared Solomon’s campaign for the 202^nd Legislative District has continued to gain momentum.  On January 15, 2014, nearly 100 Northeast Philadelphia residents attended a community dinner held at Casa Brasil on Buselton Avenue in Lower Northeast Philadelphia.

“The feedback we’ve gotten to these dinners—and this campaign-- is nothing short of amazing,” said Jared Solomon. “Since announcing my candidacy just over a month ago, the response has been overwhelmingly positive.  We’re already hitting the streets with dozens of volunteers a week, and hearing directly from the voters.  It’s very clear—our volunteers are ready, our donors are ready, and the voters are ready.  They want action, and we are going to bring it.”

The event at Casa Brasil is part of a series of “community dinners” the Solomon campaign is hosting throughout the 202^nd District. This free dinner gives residents an opportunity to hear from Jared about the issues in an informal setting—without costing taxpayers a single dime.

Fundraising has also proved incredibly successful for the campaign.  Though only officially a candidate for less than a month prior to the filing deadline, Friends of Jared Solomon raised over $65,000 from more than 450 donors in 2013.   

“The most impressive part of Jared’s fundraising is the diversity of donors,” said George Matysik, Campaign Chair for Friends of Jared Solomon.  “Jared’s not just relying on a few special interest groups to fund this movement—he has over 450 people investing in this campaign.  Hundreds of Northeast residents are already investing time and money in Jared’s campaign because they are ready to bring a new day to Northeast Philly.”

More Solomon Articles

More news coverage of Jared Solomon's campaign for the 202nd state house seat:

Solomon makes House candidacy official

By Tom Waring and Andrew Miller, 12/12/13, Northeast Times

Nuestros vecindarios de vuelta

By El Sol Latino Newspaper, 12/12/13

Pols on the Street: Two hot legistlative races in 174th, 202nd

By Joe Shaheeli, 12/12/13, Philadelphia Public Record

Civic group leader announces candidacy

By Tom Waring, 12/4/13, Northeast Times