
Lack of budget irritating
It’s the start of a new fiscal year, and once again, Pennsylvania is without a budget. As a result, many state employees likely will see their paychecks delayed, even though they’ve done their work on time. Pennsylvania’s residents and state employees deserve better. At least this year, in the midst of the worst recession since the Great Depression, Gov. Ed Rendell isn’t being as crass as threatening to furlough some workers and close down state parks and some other services. That being an improvement shows just how much these workers were used as pawns in the past. Still this doesn’t mean money in the bank for tens of thousands of state employees, who will receive only partial pay on July 17 and July 24, unless a budget is adopted quickly. After July 24, there won’t be any paydays until legislators and the governor sign off on a new spending plan. And that isn’t expected soon.
» Full StoryBill Bettwy cartoon
Reform may hurt Medicaid
So determined are President Barack Barack Obama and liberals in Congress to pass a massive health care bill that they may well have forgotten to ask themselves whether the ends justify their means.
» Full StoryFireworks pose real danger
One of the most cherished Fourth of July traditions is fireworks shows. There will be plenty of them throughout our area. They will add much to the celebration of Independence Day.
» Full StoryTrio leave mark on pop culture
Pop culture suffered a triple blow last week with the deaths of three icons — Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson.
» Full StorySenate proposal no cure
Members of the Senate are being asked to vote on a health care bill that will be exceedingly costly for taxpayers in general — and that will increase the cost of medical treatment for tens of millions of Americans.
» Full StoryEditorials Poll
Should Pennsylvania legalize casino table games such as blackjack and poker?


