Anne's Arts & Activities Blog

Harrisburg – Noting the passing today of U.S. Rep. John “Jack” Murtha, Governor Edward G. Rendell today said all Pennsylvanians should be sad at the loss of this “uber-congressman.” “Pennsylvania has lost one of its greatest citizens,” Governor Rendell said. “Congressman Murtha impacted the entire state, not just his congressional district, in ways that almost no individual has. He did so much for so many of us throughout the commonwealth. “He was also the best friend and supporter of our military and the men and women who risk their lives for our country. He worked tirelessly to ensure that our military had the resources it needed to do its job effectively and that our service men and women had every piece of equipment necessary to protect them. He had the courage and integrity to make sure the military was on the right track and he was not afraid to raise questions. “He will be sorely missed by every citizen of the commonwealth,” the Governor said. “Midge and I extend our deepest sy...

Ten-year-old Becky Boucher, of Hatboro, Montgomery Co., joins Governor Edward G. Rendell as guest of honor in the lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree in Harrisburg. She and her mother, Wendy Boucher, were joined via satellite by First Lady Judge Marjorie O. Rendell and pediatric cancer patients at Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital to lead the countdown to light the tree. Becky is a fifth-grade student at Upper Moreland Intermediate School. In 2007, Becky was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a common type of bone cancer. She is currently an outpatient in the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. "The First Lady and I always look forward to this special time of year when we all come together to celebrate the magic of the season," Governor Rendell said. "While it is a time of much joy and celebration, it can be a difficult time for many families. I ask all Pennsylvanians to take a moment to remember the true meaning of Christmas and keep in mind those less fortunate tha...