The Pennsylvania Society meets every year for a weekend of dining, partying, networking and fundraising in … New York City.
The politically elite of the Keystone State spend big-money in the Big Apple on this annual gala where lobbyists host events geared to grab the attention, and attendance, of politicos.
The event began in 1899 when a transplanted Pennsylvanian invited a bunch of other transplanted Pennsylvanians to dine at the famed Waldorf-Astoria. Together they decided to form the Pennsylvania Society of New York. It was a way to bring together Pennsylvanians living in the Empire State.
The event has changed in meaning since 1899 and now is a place where Pennsylvanians in office, running for office, promoting a political agenda or just wanting to be seen can come and mingle with the political aristocracy of elected and appointed officials, lobbyists and fund-raisers.
There’s no begrudging Pennsylvania politicians of a weekend out and a chance to put on a tuxedo or a lavish gown, but many Pennsylvanians would be thankful if the event was held – well, here in Pennsylvania. If you don’t believe us, ask your constituents.
At a time when Pennsylvanians need jobs and the state’s businesses need customers, it would have been a noble gesture for Pennsylvania politicians to put their money where their paycheck comes from. Just say “No,” to the high-rollers who help finance the many parties and dinners unless the event is held in Pennsylvania.
There are plenty of fine hotels and restaurants in the Commonwealth. Our state may not have the glitter of the Big Apple, but with the state of our economy, elected officials should find another way to shine instead of basking in the glitz of Manhattan.
According to an article that appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer earlier this week, some who attend the event called such criticism tired, predictable and unimaginative. A state Representative from Southeast Pennsylvania was quoted as saying that Manhattan is a place where Democrats and Republicans can put party stripes aside and have a conversation about politics or policy without the distractions of the Capitol.
Excuse me – shouldn’t they be having conversations about politics and policy in Harrisburg and, while you’re at it, party stripes should always be set aside when doing the people’s business. Shouldn’t our federal elected officials be doing the same in our nation’s Capitol? Is that also tired, predictable and unimaginative criticism? Remember, it’s not who’s right – it’s what’s right!
For just one year, politicians, lobbyists and big-money backers could have stayed in Pennsylvania as a show of solidarity with the people. Just say “Thanks, but no thanks,” to the lobbyists and others who would try and buy your favor with imported caviar and Cristal champagne in the shadow of the Empire State Building. Spend 2012 in Pennsylvania (p.s. It’s an election year).
While booze flowed at the parties and eloquent food graced finely detailed dining tables, many Pennsylvanian’s bellied up to a bowl of watered-down soup for dinner on Saturday night. They are Pennsylvanians. Some of them voted for you in the last election.
With a simple gesture of respect for the times and the people of the Commonwealth instead of arrogance and indifference you could have insured their vote again.
Now, I’m not so sure.