Protesters storm Marcellus Shale Lobbying Firm

[PA Democrat]

HARRISBURG -- Environmentalists and laborers joined forces Wednesday to bring the fight over state funding to a three-story brownstone that is home base for lobbyists representing the Marcellus Shale Coalition.

About 250 of them marched eight blocks then streamed into former Gov. Tom Ridge's lobbying firm to deliver this message: It's unconscionable for current Gov. Tom Corbett to slash education funding and lay off state workers when energy companies aren't paying taxes on the natural gas they extract.

Clutching protest signs and chanting slogans, the activists marched into the Ridge Policy Group offices, a block from the Capitol. Pouring through the door, they began taking over rooms and stairwells, demanding that someone from the lobbying firm speak to them.

Upstairs floorboards creaked and groaned under feet that stomped in rhythm to a cacophony of chants, some emitted over bullhorns.



Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11069/1130937-454.stm#ixzz1GCH4By4T

[Divernan]

1. Shale coalition willing to pay taxes - Corbett not pushing for it

"Mark Campbell, a partner in the firm and Mr. Ridge's one-time chief of staff, told protesters that the shale coalition already has said it would support a reasonable severance tax. He said he couldn't answer any other questions but promised to tell his clients the group wanted to speak with them."

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11069/1130937-454.stm#ixzz1GCQ1aEJc

[blue neen]

2. Unbelivable. How stupid can Corbett be?

The shale coalition is already used to paying in other states!

[Divernan]

5. They've doubtless already struck a deal with Corbett & the GOP legislature

And he'll announce it like it's some great accomplishment on his part. The longer he can delay on that, the more profit for the Frackers. Bet that staffer gets in BIG trouble for letting that cat out of the bag.

[Lugnut]

6. He's not stupid.

He's bought and paid for very richly.

[blue neen]

3. I wonder how we can get info from these groups about when they are staging protests.

It would be good to know! ;)

[Divernan]

4. I'll have to check with the Sierra Club

Since I can't deduct my monthly donation to them because they are politically active, I want to see some political activity in PA.