Don't lose voice in Harrisburg

This is a crucial period for Southwestern Pennsylvania in terms of representation in Harrisburg and Washington. There will be a tremendous void left by the untimely death of Congressman John Murtha and the retirement of Sen. Barry Stout, two highly respected and influential public servants. We lose their experience which took decades to develop. We lose their voices.
In terms of our "being heard," the silence may become deafening. This is not to disparage those good people who plan to run for these offices, but it is the nature of any system that the job is learned and prestige earned through years of experience.
For this reason, I reiterate my belief that we still need Bill DeWeese to continue to be our voice in Harrisburg. Despite his exposure to the forces of the wider world around him, he has adhered to that which his parents, Vic and Dotty, constantly reinforce: Remain faithful to your roots.
Through decades of honing the capabilities of his office, Bill has helped leverage funds that have aided his constituency in a multitude of ways. This is not to itemize the contributions received in the 50th District. The summary and important facts are that approximately $275 million have been brought to the district.

It is probably human nature that we don't miss what we have until it's gone. But for me, having grown up in Fredericktown in Washington County, having coached in Fayette County, and having loved my life in Greene County, my roots here are deep. I just do not want to lose the assistance that we've relied on for many years.

Our representation should not be influenced by political games and machinations. Bill DeWeese has had an honorable career dedicated to serving the best interests of those he has represented.

Rudy Marisa

Waynesburg

(Observer Reporter)