Titusville, PA – Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson (R-Howard) announced that he had received a call from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) informing him that the Susquehanna Economic Development Association Council of Governments (SEDA-COG) Joint Rail Authority has been awarded $10 million from the DOT, through a competitive TIGER II grant.
The funding will be used to provide critical infrastructure improvements throughout the region on rail and highway corridors in order to assist with the expanded capacity needs presented by the Marcellus Shale economic boom. The project will take place in six counties, including Lycoming. In August 2010, Thompson along with Representatives Carney, Shuster and Senators Casey and Specter wrote the DOT in support of the project.
The letter stated, “The Authority's railroads provide a transportation alternative for this industry that will result in the removal of an estimated 57,600 trucks by the end of 2011 from the region's and nation's highway system, reducing the impact on our deteriorating roads and bridges, while at the same time decreasing maintenance costs. This reduction in truck traffic will also increase the overall safety for drivers.”
“I am happy to learn that the DOT has looked favorably upon this project. Marcellus Shale has brought a new dawn of economic prosperity to the region and through partnerships between federal, state, and local agencies the area can be better prepared for this rapid growth” said Thompson.
Lycoming County Commissioner Jeff Wheeland, upon hearing the news said, “I’m thankful for Mr. Thompson’s continued advocacy on behalf of Marcellus Shale development in Lycoming County. Mr. Thompson truly understands what this project means to job creation in the region.”
The Authority has experienced significant growth in the utilization of its railroads, which is directly attributed to the burgeoning Marcellus Shale industry. To meet this demand, the Authority proposed, through its TIGER ll grant application, to add 9.9 miles of new track for five of the Authority's short-line railroads. The project also includes construction of a new two-lane road that will provide direct access from Interstate 1-80 to the Williamsport Regional Airport and be collocated on one of the Authority's new rail bridges.
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Thompson Announces U.S. EPA Grant to the Galeton, Austin, Coudersport, Northern Potter and Oswayo Valley School Districts
October 4, 2010
Washington, D.C.—U.S Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $119,525 Environmental Education grant to the Galeton (lead organization), Austin, Coudersport, Northern Potter and Oswayo Valley School Districts, with their regional and commonwealth partners.
Thompson said “I was particularly pleased to learn that of 336 applications submitted to EPA, 34 requests were funded and that, of all submissions, the grant submitted by the Potter County consortium was ranked number one, throughout the country.”
According to David Wishard, Superintendent of the Galeton School District, the goal of this program is to “Improve 7th-12th grade students’ awareness of threats to the environment and natural habitats; enhance students’ knowledge and application of math, science and technology (MST) content as it relates to environmental concerns; and prepare district students to become environmental stewards as they monitor the water quality of rivers (Allegheny, Genesee and Susquehanna Rivers), streams, creeks and local aquifers in Potter County to determine the environmental impacts attendant with natural gas extraction from Marcellus Shale and other activities in the region.”
Thompson said, “Collectively, the five partner districts serve the entirety of Potter County, characterized by its more than one million acres of wilderness and more than 800 miles of streams. Communities must be knowledgeable about the quality of the local water sources that are critical to the habitat health of the area. Students will have a chance to do objective, scientific studies about the Marcellus and how the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection seriously is monitoring the environment related to gas extraction, and making sure companies are vigilant.”
Wishard and Superintendents Matthew Hutcheson (Austin), Alanna Huck (Coudersport), Scott Graham (Northern Potter) and Charles Wicker (Oswayo Valley) stated that: “EPA funding will make possible the integration of the Project WET curriculum and the Healthy Water, Healthy People (HWHP) water quality program into standards-based math, science and technology (MST) instruction to establish a formal environmental education curriculum that will improve the academic achievement of ±1200, 7th-12th grade students. Project WET will enable students to understand: the physical/chemical properties of water; the hydrologic cycle; the role of water in Earth systems; the cultural/social significance of water; the common methods of water/non-point pollution management; and the importance of environmental stewardship. Used in conjunction with Project WET curriculum, HWHP lessons will enable district educators to use nearby water bodies as living learning laboratories for understanding water quality issues. The proposed project also calls for participation of 35 district MST teachers will participate in 80 hours of professional development that will enhance their environmental education teaching skills and improve their content knowledge of water resource issues.”
Wishard also noted that: “At present, there are no environmental education classes in the districts nor is environmental education integrated into the districts’ PA standards based curriculum. On our own, our districts do not have the means to provide environmental education programs for our students and communities so we are most grateful for the EPA funding that will make possible this needed environmental education initiative.”
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Washington, D.C.—U.S Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today announced the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded a $119,525 Environmental Education grant to the Galeton (lead organization), Austin, Coudersport, Northern Potter and Oswayo Valley School Districts, with their regional and commonwealth partners.
Thompson said “I was particularly pleased to learn that of 336 applications submitted to EPA, 34 requests were funded and that, of all submissions, the grant submitted by the Potter County consortium was ranked number one, throughout the country.”
According to David Wishard, Superintendent of the Galeton School District, the goal of this program is to “Improve 7th-12th grade students’ awareness of threats to the environment and natural habitats; enhance students’ knowledge and application of math, science and technology (MST) content as it relates to environmental concerns; and prepare district students to become environmental stewards as they monitor the water quality of rivers (Allegheny, Genesee and Susquehanna Rivers), streams, creeks and local aquifers in Potter County to determine the environmental impacts attendant with natural gas extraction from Marcellus Shale and other activities in the region.”
Thompson said, “Collectively, the five partner districts serve the entirety of Potter County, characterized by its more than one million acres of wilderness and more than 800 miles of streams. Communities must be knowledgeable about the quality of the local water sources that are critical to the habitat health of the area. Students will have a chance to do objective, scientific studies about the Marcellus and how the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection seriously is monitoring the environment related to gas extraction, and making sure companies are vigilant.”
Wishard and Superintendents Matthew Hutcheson (Austin), Alanna Huck (Coudersport), Scott Graham (Northern Potter) and Charles Wicker (Oswayo Valley) stated that: “EPA funding will make possible the integration of the Project WET curriculum and the Healthy Water, Healthy People (HWHP) water quality program into standards-based math, science and technology (MST) instruction to establish a formal environmental education curriculum that will improve the academic achievement of ±1200, 7th-12th grade students. Project WET will enable students to understand: the physical/chemical properties of water; the hydrologic cycle; the role of water in Earth systems; the cultural/social significance of water; the common methods of water/non-point pollution management; and the importance of environmental stewardship. Used in conjunction with Project WET curriculum, HWHP lessons will enable district educators to use nearby water bodies as living learning laboratories for understanding water quality issues. The proposed project also calls for participation of 35 district MST teachers will participate in 80 hours of professional development that will enhance their environmental education teaching skills and improve their content knowledge of water resource issues.”
Wishard also noted that: “At present, there are no environmental education classes in the districts nor is environmental education integrated into the districts’ PA standards based curriculum. On our own, our districts do not have the means to provide environmental education programs for our students and communities so we are most grateful for the EPA funding that will make possible this needed environmental education initiative.”
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Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Thompson Rallies with Students for Education Rights
September 29, 2010 2:01 PM
Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today told a rally of a thousand students that, “You have every right to determine your own educational needs; you have every right to determine your future career path; and, you have every right to make your own destiny.”
Thompson joined his colleagues Reps. Rob Andrews (D-NJ); Alcee Hastings (D-FL); and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) at the foot of the U.S. Capitol in a bipartisan show of support for the students’ concerns about U.S. Department of Education proposed regulations on “gainful employment”.
If the “gainful employment” rules go into effect, they will eliminate access to higher education for as many as 400,000 students per year. These rules apply almost exclusively to the for-profit sector of higher education, while ignoring the same issues concerning student debt found at public and private non-profit institutions.
One of the requirements for for-profit institutions to participate in the federal student aid program is that they offer a course of study that leads to “gainful employment” in a recognized occupation. Despite over forty years of existing precedent, the Education Department is considering regulations to define “gainful employment” by establishing an arbitrary 12 percent debt-to-earnings threshold based on student debt for recent graduates of each program offered by the institution. One way of explaining that is a question posed by the Department: Are graduates with typical student debt able to repay their loans in ten years without taking 12 percent of the expected earnings in the occupation?
Once again, these new regulations do not affect public and private not-for-profit universities and colleges.
“The President has promoted a policy to have 5 million new college graduates by 2020,” said Thompson. “I commend the President for that goal, however, I have to stop and wonder how we’re going to achieve the mission if the Department of Education is going to put up road blocks—or—decide that you can only attend one type of school over another.”
“I represent a very rural district in Pennsylvania,” Thompson told the rally. “Many of my constituents don’t have access to a community college and live a significant distance from universities. Many proprietary schools have sprung up out of necessity.”
The effect of these regulations will be that student choice will be limited, because for-profit institutions may not be able to continue offering certain programs, to ensure the proposed debt-earnings-ratio.
“Many students in Pennsylvania choose these schools because of their convenience. They realize that career colleges offer course work of all types and work to accommodate the busy schedules that we all have. They realize that life does not just stop for four years—so you can go to school. And they realize these institutions will give them the skills they need to enter the work force and earn a decent living,” added Thompson.
In May, Thompson joined 9 members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation in sending a letter in opposition to Education Secretary Arne Duncan on this issue, requesting that the Department vacate the proposed changes. In August, the Department of Education released a formal proposal. Since, Thompson has joined with several of his colleagues on the House Education & Labor Committee in submitting formal comments in opposition to the rules as proposed.
This week, the Department of Education, due to extensive public comment, has decided to move the scheduled publication date of the rules from November 1, 2010, to July 1, 2011.
Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today told a rally of a thousand students that, “You have every right to determine your own educational needs; you have every right to determine your future career path; and, you have every right to make your own destiny.”
Thompson joined his colleagues Reps. Rob Andrews (D-NJ); Alcee Hastings (D-FL); and Brett Guthrie (R-KY) at the foot of the U.S. Capitol in a bipartisan show of support for the students’ concerns about U.S. Department of Education proposed regulations on “gainful employment”.
If the “gainful employment” rules go into effect, they will eliminate access to higher education for as many as 400,000 students per year. These rules apply almost exclusively to the for-profit sector of higher education, while ignoring the same issues concerning student debt found at public and private non-profit institutions.
One of the requirements for for-profit institutions to participate in the federal student aid program is that they offer a course of study that leads to “gainful employment” in a recognized occupation. Despite over forty years of existing precedent, the Education Department is considering regulations to define “gainful employment” by establishing an arbitrary 12 percent debt-to-earnings threshold based on student debt for recent graduates of each program offered by the institution. One way of explaining that is a question posed by the Department: Are graduates with typical student debt able to repay their loans in ten years without taking 12 percent of the expected earnings in the occupation?
Once again, these new regulations do not affect public and private not-for-profit universities and colleges.
“The President has promoted a policy to have 5 million new college graduates by 2020,” said Thompson. “I commend the President for that goal, however, I have to stop and wonder how we’re going to achieve the mission if the Department of Education is going to put up road blocks—or—decide that you can only attend one type of school over another.”
“I represent a very rural district in Pennsylvania,” Thompson told the rally. “Many of my constituents don’t have access to a community college and live a significant distance from universities. Many proprietary schools have sprung up out of necessity.”
The effect of these regulations will be that student choice will be limited, because for-profit institutions may not be able to continue offering certain programs, to ensure the proposed debt-earnings-ratio.
“Many students in Pennsylvania choose these schools because of their convenience. They realize that career colleges offer course work of all types and work to accommodate the busy schedules that we all have. They realize that life does not just stop for four years—so you can go to school. And they realize these institutions will give them the skills they need to enter the work force and earn a decent living,” added Thompson.
In May, Thompson joined 9 members of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation in sending a letter in opposition to Education Secretary Arne Duncan on this issue, requesting that the Department vacate the proposed changes. In August, the Department of Education released a formal proposal. Since, Thompson has joined with several of his colleagues on the House Education & Labor Committee in submitting formal comments in opposition to the rules as proposed.
This week, the Department of Education, due to extensive public comment, has decided to move the scheduled publication date of the rules from November 1, 2010, to July 1, 2011.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Thompson Receives Endorsement from NRA - PVF
Sept 20, 2010
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Glenn 'GT' Thompson received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund.
"On behalf of our nearly four million members, the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund endorses your candidacy for reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in the fifth congressional district of Pennsylvania. Based on your solid pro-gun voting record and your support on gun issues in Congress, you have earned an "A" rating from the NRA-PVF in this election," stated Charles H. Cunningham, Director of Federal Affairs.
Cunningham goes on to say "As a member of Congress, you have demonstrated a proven and consistent commitment to our Second Amendment rights. You signed the pro-gun congressional amicus brief in the McDonald case, arguing that the Second Amendment guarantees a fundamental right that protects all Americans. We also appreciate your cosponsorship and support for legislation to force much-needed reform at the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Finally, we appreciate your cosponsorship of the national Right-to-Carry reciprocity bill which would allow any person with a valid concealed firearm carrying license or permit to carry a concealed firearm in other states."
Congressman Thompson is most appreciative of this endorsement.
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Washington, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Glenn 'GT' Thompson received the endorsement of the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund.
"On behalf of our nearly four million members, the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund endorses your candidacy for reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in the fifth congressional district of Pennsylvania. Based on your solid pro-gun voting record and your support on gun issues in Congress, you have earned an "A" rating from the NRA-PVF in this election," stated Charles H. Cunningham, Director of Federal Affairs.
Cunningham goes on to say "As a member of Congress, you have demonstrated a proven and consistent commitment to our Second Amendment rights. You signed the pro-gun congressional amicus brief in the McDonald case, arguing that the Second Amendment guarantees a fundamental right that protects all Americans. We also appreciate your cosponsorship and support for legislation to force much-needed reform at the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Finally, we appreciate your cosponsorship of the national Right-to-Carry reciprocity bill which would allow any person with a valid concealed firearm carrying license or permit to carry a concealed firearm in other states."
Congressman Thompson is most appreciative of this endorsement.
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Thursday, September 23, 2010
Mifflin County Industrial Development Authority to Receive Grant
September 22, 2010
The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded a $457,500 grant to the Mifflin County Industrial Development Authority (MCIDA) which will translate into 50 new jobs at Kardex USA, announced U.S. Representative 'GT' Thompson.
"Kardex USA is an existing tenant in the Plaza. These funds will mean jobs to the Lewistown area. The money comes from the Economic Development Administration's (EDA) Community Trade Adjustment Assistance Program, which is designed to increase competition and create jobs to bolster the local economy. The funds will allow Kardex USA to expand production, hire additional employees and begin exporting its products abroad," said Thompson.
Kardex USA manufactures machinery for logistics and material retrieving systems.
Gary Oden, Chairman of the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation, said "The Plaza has been a source of employment for years. We appreciate the EDA support that will allow us to continue to improve the Plaza for new and expanding employers."
Construction on the improvements should begin in the Spring 2011. MCDIC is contributing $152,000 to be combined with the EDA grant.
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The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded a $457,500 grant to the Mifflin County Industrial Development Authority (MCIDA) which will translate into 50 new jobs at Kardex USA, announced U.S. Representative 'GT' Thompson.
"Kardex USA is an existing tenant in the Plaza. These funds will mean jobs to the Lewistown area. The money comes from the Economic Development Administration's (EDA) Community Trade Adjustment Assistance Program, which is designed to increase competition and create jobs to bolster the local economy. The funds will allow Kardex USA to expand production, hire additional employees and begin exporting its products abroad," said Thompson.
Kardex USA manufactures machinery for logistics and material retrieving systems.
Gary Oden, Chairman of the Mifflin County Industrial Development Corporation, said "The Plaza has been a source of employment for years. We appreciate the EDA support that will allow us to continue to improve the Plaza for new and expanding employers."
Construction on the improvements should begin in the Spring 2011. MCDIC is contributing $152,000 to be combined with the EDA grant.
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Congressman 'GT' Thompson Receives Endorsements
August 26, 2010
The Board of Directors of the Wholesaler-Distributor Political Action Committee (WDPAC) has voted to endorse the candicacy of US Congressman 'GT' Thompson.
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The Board of Directors of the Wholesaler-Distributor Political Action Committee (WDPAC) has voted to endorse the candicacy of US Congressman 'GT' Thompson.
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Thompson receives "Friend of the Farm Bureau" Award
September 17, 2010
U.S. Congressman Glenn 'GT' Thompson received notification that he has received a "Friend of the Farm Bureau" award due to his support and voting record regarding issues selected by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors.
Local constituent and Farm Bureau member John Painter of Tioga County, will be presenting the award to Thompson.
Thompson is a member of the House Agriculture Committee.
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U.S. Congressman Glenn 'GT' Thompson received notification that he has received a "Friend of the Farm Bureau" award due to his support and voting record regarding issues selected by the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors.
Local constituent and Farm Bureau member John Painter of Tioga County, will be presenting the award to Thompson.
Thompson is a member of the House Agriculture Committee.
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Congressman 'GT' Thompson Receives Endorsement of National Right to Life
August 30, 2010
The National Right to Life Political Action Committee, with pleasure, endorsed Congressman 'GT' Thompson for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives. They commended Thompson for his 100% pro-life voting record during the 111th Congress.
The endorsement letter, signed by Executive Director David N. O'Steen, states "We are especially appreciative of your opposition to the massive health care legislation that was recently enacted (H.R. 3590) - legislation that will provide government funding for health plans that pay for abortion on demand, and will promote the rationing of lifesaving treatments."
Thomopson's pro-life record earned him the support of voters who are concerned with the right to life and with the protection of the most vulnerable members of the human family.
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The National Right to Life Political Action Committee, with pleasure, endorsed Congressman 'GT' Thompson for re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives. They commended Thompson for his 100% pro-life voting record during the 111th Congress.
The endorsement letter, signed by Executive Director David N. O'Steen, states "We are especially appreciative of your opposition to the massive health care legislation that was recently enacted (H.R. 3590) - legislation that will provide government funding for health plans that pay for abortion on demand, and will promote the rationing of lifesaving treatments."
Thomopson's pro-life record earned him the support of voters who are concerned with the right to life and with the protection of the most vulnerable members of the human family.
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Friday, September 3, 2010
Save America's Free Enterprise Trust Endorses Congressman GT Thompson
August, 2010
NFIB's political action committee, SAFE (Save America's Free Enterprise) Trust has endorsed Congressman 'GT' Thompson's re-election.
"Your election is not only critical to the small-business owners in your district, but also to protecting free enterprise across America. On behalf of all NFIB members, thank you for your service and congratulations on earning the endorsement of small business."
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NFIB's political action committee, SAFE (Save America's Free Enterprise) Trust has endorsed Congressman 'GT' Thompson's re-election.
"Your election is not only critical to the small-business owners in your district, but also to protecting free enterprise across America. On behalf of all NFIB members, thank you for your service and congratulations on earning the endorsement of small business."
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Fraternal Order of Police Tri-City Lodge No. 50 Endorses Thompson
US Congressman Glenn 'GT' Thompson has received an endorsement from the Fraternal Order of Police, Tri-City Lodge No. 50. The Lodge represents 128 police officers from Franklin, Oil City, Grove City, Titusville, Sugarcreek Borough, Emlenton, Polk, Venango County Sheriff's Office and the University of Pittsburgh at Titusville.
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Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Thompson Leads Effort Requesting President to Award Medal of Freedom to Joe Paterno
Washington, D.C.—U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, today sent a letter to President Barack Obama with 17 additional bipartisan signatures to ask that Joe Paterno be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
“The Medal of Freedom has always stood for those who make a contribution to making our nation a better place to live,” said Thompson. “I believe Joe Paterno represents an ideal of what student and college athletics should be.”
“Rarely has the award been made to someone who has personified sportsmanship on the field of play and academic achievement in the classroom,” Thompson wrote in the letter. “It is our hope, that this year the Medal of Freedom does just that by honoring Joe Paterno for his contribution to the coaching of football, his commitment to the academic integrity of the young men under his charge, and his deep dedication to education in general.”
The letter was signed by 16 other Representatives from Pennsylvania and one from Virginia, Rep. Frank Wolf, who wanted his signature to reflect that he is a Penn State Alumni, “Class of 1961”.
Thompson listed Paterno’s many accomplishments in the letter. “He has amassed nearly 400 wins, more than any other coach in Division I history. His program has never been on probation. There has never been an accusation of corrupt recruiting and, in what is depressingly rare, his players stay in school and graduate.”
The letter also mentions Paterno’s strong support of the Pennsylvania Special Olympics and his fundraising and donations to libraries and need-based scholarships for Pennsylvanians.
It concludes: “As Joe Paterno prepares for his 45th year as head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, we as Members of the Pennyslvania Congressional delegation are nominating him for the Presidential Medal of Freedom and ask that you give serious consideration to awarding it to him.”
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“The Medal of Freedom has always stood for those who make a contribution to making our nation a better place to live,” said Thompson. “I believe Joe Paterno represents an ideal of what student and college athletics should be.”
“Rarely has the award been made to someone who has personified sportsmanship on the field of play and academic achievement in the classroom,” Thompson wrote in the letter. “It is our hope, that this year the Medal of Freedom does just that by honoring Joe Paterno for his contribution to the coaching of football, his commitment to the academic integrity of the young men under his charge, and his deep dedication to education in general.”
The letter was signed by 16 other Representatives from Pennsylvania and one from Virginia, Rep. Frank Wolf, who wanted his signature to reflect that he is a Penn State Alumni, “Class of 1961”.
Thompson listed Paterno’s many accomplishments in the letter. “He has amassed nearly 400 wins, more than any other coach in Division I history. His program has never been on probation. There has never been an accusation of corrupt recruiting and, in what is depressingly rare, his players stay in school and graduate.”
The letter also mentions Paterno’s strong support of the Pennsylvania Special Olympics and his fundraising and donations to libraries and need-based scholarships for Pennsylvanians.
It concludes: “As Joe Paterno prepares for his 45th year as head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, we as Members of the Pennyslvania Congressional delegation are nominating him for the Presidential Medal of Freedom and ask that you give serious consideration to awarding it to him.”
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Congressman talks security
By Nick Manella
Collegian Staff Writer
A group of approximately 40 students and community members heard firsthand about the threats presently plaguing America and those still looming on the horizon, from Congressman Glenn Thompson on Monday night.
The congressman, who represents 17 counties including Centre County, spoke for 90 minutes and answered audience questions about national security threats the United States face in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
Thompson (R-Pennsylvania) described himself early when he said, "I commit myself to being dedicated to making the U.S. the safest, most prosperous nation in the world."
He specifically mentioned five threats: food security, the national debt, border control, energy dependency and terrorism.
On the subject of terrorism, Thompson detailed the shift in danger from foreign attackers to domestic ones, quoting fellow congressman Peter King (R-New York) that, "more threats are currently from people living [in the United States] than overseas."
Thompson also addressed economic issues, including the growing national deficit. He said that "my generation is providing yours with a legacy of debt."
The crowd was largely appreciative of Thompson's presentation, giving him a standing ovation at the end of the question and answer segment.
Will Begley (freshman-business administration) thought Thompson responded well to intuitive questions by the audience and was eloquent.
Michael Stanowski (freshman - engineering) appreciated having a politician come in to speak to students in an intimate setting. "This is stuff we're gonna have to learn about someday," he said.
Sean Carr (freshman-liberal arts) agreed, and thought more discussions like Thompson's would help young people become active in politics.
"The fact is there's a big difference between seeing someone on TV and actually being able to see them in person," Carr said.
The Young Americans for Freedom club sponsored the discussion.
By Nick Manella
Collegian Staff Writer
A group of approximately 40 students and community members heard firsthand about the threats presently plaguing America and those still looming on the horizon, from Congressman Glenn Thompson on Monday night.
The congressman, who represents 17 counties including Centre County, spoke for 90 minutes and answered audience questions about national security threats the United States face in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
Thompson (R-Pennsylvania) described himself early when he said, "I commit myself to being dedicated to making the U.S. the safest, most prosperous nation in the world."
He specifically mentioned five threats: food security, the national debt, border control, energy dependency and terrorism.
On the subject of terrorism, Thompson detailed the shift in danger from foreign attackers to domestic ones, quoting fellow congressman Peter King (R-New York) that, "more threats are currently from people living [in the United States] than overseas."
Thompson also addressed economic issues, including the growing national deficit. He said that "my generation is providing yours with a legacy of debt."
The crowd was largely appreciative of Thompson's presentation, giving him a standing ovation at the end of the question and answer segment.
Will Begley (freshman-business administration) thought Thompson responded well to intuitive questions by the audience and was eloquent.
Michael Stanowski (freshman - engineering) appreciated having a politician come in to speak to students in an intimate setting. "This is stuff we're gonna have to learn about someday," he said.
Sean Carr (freshman-liberal arts) agreed, and thought more discussions like Thompson's would help young people become active in politics.
"The fact is there's a big difference between seeing someone on TV and actually being able to see them in person," Carr said.
The Young Americans for Freedom club sponsored the discussion.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Thompson Gets Big Win in Decision to Reject Tolling I-80
April 8, 2010
Washington, D.C. – A final decision by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) rejected the PA Turnpike Commission’s third application to toll Interstate 80. U.S. Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, led the fight against tolling I-80 and applauded the decision.
Act 44 (House Bill Number 1828) was signed into law in September 2009 by Governor Rendell. Amongst many other items, Act 44 included the tolling of I-80. “It is clear that the US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood followed the letter of the law in making this decision,” said Thompson. “Act 44 never met the criteria set by the federal law.” Federal tax dollars were used to construct I-80. Funds from tolling the Interstate were slated to be used for other roadway and bridge projects. Pennsylvania lawmakers would have essentially been breaking federal law that states fund coulds only be used for I-80 and no other roadway projects.
“I would be remiss not to thank the grassroots coalitions who have worked tirelessly to fight this recent proposal and put an organized voice to the countless Pennsylvanian’s opposed to the efforts to toll I-80,” Thompson stated.
A bi-partisan effort, Thompson was also joined by three of his colleagues who represent the I-80 corridor: Representatives Kathy Dahlkemper, D-Erie, Paul Kanjorski, D-Nanticoke and Chris Carney, D-Dimock.
A victory for Thompson and a victory for the citizens of Pennsylvania’s 5th district. Thompson stated “A victory, yes, but the battle is far from over. Thanks to Act 44 the Turnpike Commission is up to its eyeballs in debt because of the borrowing done based on the premise that I-80 would be tolled. In light of this announcement, I call on our legislative leaders in Harrisburg and all members of the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation – including those seven who sit on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, to come together to find viable and sustainable solutions to our highway and transit funding. The future of Pennsylvania’s transportation system depends upon it and the taxpayers deserve as much.”
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Washington, D.C. – A final decision by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) rejected the PA Turnpike Commission’s third application to toll Interstate 80. U.S. Congressman Glenn ‘GT’ Thompson, R-Howard, led the fight against tolling I-80 and applauded the decision.
Act 44 (House Bill Number 1828) was signed into law in September 2009 by Governor Rendell. Amongst many other items, Act 44 included the tolling of I-80. “It is clear that the US Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood followed the letter of the law in making this decision,” said Thompson. “Act 44 never met the criteria set by the federal law.” Federal tax dollars were used to construct I-80. Funds from tolling the Interstate were slated to be used for other roadway and bridge projects. Pennsylvania lawmakers would have essentially been breaking federal law that states fund coulds only be used for I-80 and no other roadway projects.
“I would be remiss not to thank the grassroots coalitions who have worked tirelessly to fight this recent proposal and put an organized voice to the countless Pennsylvanian’s opposed to the efforts to toll I-80,” Thompson stated.
A bi-partisan effort, Thompson was also joined by three of his colleagues who represent the I-80 corridor: Representatives Kathy Dahlkemper, D-Erie, Paul Kanjorski, D-Nanticoke and Chris Carney, D-Dimock.
A victory for Thompson and a victory for the citizens of Pennsylvania’s 5th district. Thompson stated “A victory, yes, but the battle is far from over. Thanks to Act 44 the Turnpike Commission is up to its eyeballs in debt because of the borrowing done based on the premise that I-80 would be tolled. In light of this announcement, I call on our legislative leaders in Harrisburg and all members of the Pennsylvania Congressional delegation – including those seven who sit on the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, to come together to find viable and sustainable solutions to our highway and transit funding. The future of Pennsylvania’s transportation system depends upon it and the taxpayers deserve as much.”
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Monday, March 22, 2010
Wellsboro Man Named Vice Chair of Agriculture Dairy Advisory Commission
Washington, D.C. - Congressman 'GT' Thompson wants to help dairy farmers. To that end, he nominated Erick Coolidge of Wellsboro to the newly created Dairy Advisory Commission which is a part of the US Department of Agriculture. In January 2010, Coolidge won the position.
Coolidge is a fourth generation dairy farmer with nearly 45 years of experience and serves as Tioga County Commissioner.
The newly created commission will address issues in the milk pricing system, dairy farmer profitability and will provide suggestions to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.
Coolidge looks upon this position as a priviledge and hopes to make positive changes quickly.
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Coolidge is a fourth generation dairy farmer with nearly 45 years of experience and serves as Tioga County Commissioner.
The newly created commission will address issues in the milk pricing system, dairy farmer profitability and will provide suggestions to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack.
Coolidge looks upon this position as a priviledge and hopes to make positive changes quickly.
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