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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Ronald G. Waters |
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PLBC continues with forums on inclusive use of federal stimulus funds
HARRISBURG, April 27 – The Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus held its third forum last week to make sure that minority- and women-owned businesses receive a fair share of the federal stimulus money that's headed to Pennsylvania.
The forum was held April 20 in the Forum Building. State agencies attended to provide the audience members with information on how to gain access to infrastructure projects in the state. Among the participants were Linda Thompson, Harrisburg City Council president; Rep. Vanessa Lowery Brown; Rep. Joseph Preston; Department of General Services Secretary James P. Creedon; and Michael Bell, executive director of Mayor Nutter's Economic Opportunity Cabinet in Philadelphia.
"The federal stimulus money will help Pennsylvania rebuild its infrastructure and create jobs. Through these forums, we're trying to inform women and minority business owners about the opportunities," said Rep. Ronald G. Waters, chairman of the PLBC.
"The opportunities are limitless," said Bell, one of the presenters. "So citizens of the state should avail themselves and take full advantage of the information and the help there is available through the PLBC and Department of General Services."
Lexie Heitzman agreed. She was one of the members of the public who attended to learn more about the federal funding Pennsylvania is receiving.
"This was very informative. The speakers and the representatives made it clear that they were accessible. Hopefully they come through with their promises," Heitzman said.
Waters said that the PLBC has additional forums planned in other parts of the state:
· Erie: Booker T. Washington Center, 8:30 a.m. April 30
· Lehigh Valley: Lehigh University, 3 p.m. May 6
· Chester: Chester Fine Arts Center East, 6 p.m. May 28
Additional details will be released when available. Registration for each forum can be done in advance online at www.dgs.state.pa.us. For more information, call 717-772-6955 or contact Akeela Roland at aroland@pahouse.net.
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