I just want to say thank you so much to everyone - family, friends and new acquaintances - that supported us and our latest endeavor in life; it was a great experience. Jennie and I met so many wonderful people that worked very hard in this race with us.
All I can say is that we continue to feel so blessed and accept everyday as a gift and look forward to opening that gift tomorrow- whatever it may bring.
We say congratulations to the Kiley family. They are very nice people; we have known them for many years. Good luck in November!
Ritchie Webb
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
Friday, May 16, 2014
Why Ritchie Webb is the person we need in Harrisburg
Memorial Day is a time to remember those who served our country with honor. The holiday weekend gives family and friends a chance to spend time together.
Recently I was trying to plan out what our family would be doing this Memorial Day weekend when I thought back to what we were doing last year. Instead of resting and enjoying some down time, my husband, Ritchie Webb, spent the entire weekend in negotiations with the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers.
I remember him apologizing to me for missing the time with family, explaining that he needed to do this for the good of the community. There was a chance to end the 5-year contract impasse and he had to try. And of course, we know the outcome . . . a signed contract with the NFT, and millions of dollars saved that could be reinvested into classroom education!
Now that is the kind of person we need in Harrisburg!
- Jennie Webb
Recently I was trying to plan out what our family would be doing this Memorial Day weekend when I thought back to what we were doing last year. Instead of resting and enjoying some down time, my husband, Ritchie Webb, spent the entire weekend in negotiations with the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers.
I remember him apologizing to me for missing the time with family, explaining that he needed to do this for the good of the community. There was a chance to end the 5-year contract impasse and he had to try. And of course, we know the outcome . . . a signed contract with the NFT, and millions of dollars saved that could be reinvested into classroom education!
Now that is the kind of person we need in Harrisburg!
- Jennie Webb
Kiley's PAC in violation of State campaign finance law
Middletown Democrats group not registered
By MICHAEL MACAGNONE, COURIER TIMES STAFF WRITER
A political committee raising money for Gina Kiley, a Democrat seeking her party’s nod in the 142nd House District primary Tuesday, appears to have done so without filing the appropriate paperwork with the state as required by Pennsylvania law.
Middletown United has previously raised funds for municipal candidates. It started working with Kiley, a Middletown lawyer, this spring, according to a campaign finance report filed last week with the Bucks County Board of Elections. However, the Pennsylvania Department of State, which handles campaign finances for state legislative races, said it has no record of the committee.
Committee Treasurer Harry Arnold, also the chairman of the Middletown Democratic Party and the 142nd District Democratic Party, said Thursday he was certain the group had filed all the necessary paperwork.
“If something wasn’t filed and it should have been, I’m sure it was an oversight,” he said. “We filed everything that we’re supposed to, that I’m aware of.”
After saying he would check on the paperwork and get back to a reporter, Arnold didn’t return follow-up calls for comment Thursday. Attempts to reach Kiley for comment were unsuccessful.
The committee doesn’t appear on the state’s list of political committees that have been registered to raise money for state candidates. Ron Ruman, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of State, said the online list was updated as of April 18. Even if the committee filed after that, it would still be in violation of campaign law.
Ruman also said all committees that expect or intend to raise more than $250 have to send a registration form to the state with information about their principal officers and contact information before they start raising money on behalf of a candidate.
The committee raised money for Kiley before April 18, including an April 8 fundraiser at the Middletown Country Club, according to its county filing. In total, the committee has raised more than $4,000 and spent more than $3,000 on behalf of Kiley’s campaign.
In addition, the committees have to file a candidate authorization form, which allows the committee to raise money. The most recent county authorization forms were for municipal races. The state did not have any records of Middletown United filing that for Kiley’s campaign.
The state’s records for Kiley indicate she received $262 in the form of in-kind donations from herself. There was no mention of any affiliation with or donations from Middletown United.
Ruman said the Department of State doesn’t have any punitive authority for campaign finance law violations, and would refer any cases with merit to the relevant district attorney or the attorney general.
Kiley’s primary opponent, former Neshaminy School Board President Ritchie Webb, has a bit more money on hand.
A copy of the hand-written financial filing provided by the committee, Webb For PA, stated the committee raised $9,763 and spent $4,171 between March 26 and May 6, leaving $5,592 cash on hand. States records showed Thursday that the report was still in data entry and not available yet on the state website.
The winner of the May 20 Democratic primary will face state Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Langhorne, in November.
The Democratic candidate who wins in Tuesday’s primary will face an uphill fundraising battle against Farry.
The most recent filing from Farry’s campaign available online — from the end of March — shows the incumbent had more than $100,000 cash on hand. The latest report, from the May 8 filing deadline, was also in data entry, according to state records.
Farry said his latest report would show he had about $118,000 in his campaign war chest. He said the amount reflects a “broad base of support” among his constituents and local business owners.
Webb acknowledged the gap is large, but said it wouldn’t last long after the primary ended and the party settled on a candidate.
“Bottom line is it will be a major hurdle. However with other people getting behind us and getting the support of Democratic party — and we think we will get the support of some moderate Republicans — we think we will be competitive,” Webb said. “It is a hard figure to ignore, but it is not insurmountable.”
By MICHAEL MACAGNONE, COURIER TIMES STAFF WRITER
A political committee raising money for Gina Kiley, a Democrat seeking her party’s nod in the 142nd House District primary Tuesday, appears to have done so without filing the appropriate paperwork with the state as required by Pennsylvania law.
Middletown United has previously raised funds for municipal candidates. It started working with Kiley, a Middletown lawyer, this spring, according to a campaign finance report filed last week with the Bucks County Board of Elections. However, the Pennsylvania Department of State, which handles campaign finances for state legislative races, said it has no record of the committee.
Committee Treasurer Harry Arnold, also the chairman of the Middletown Democratic Party and the 142nd District Democratic Party, said Thursday he was certain the group had filed all the necessary paperwork.
“If something wasn’t filed and it should have been, I’m sure it was an oversight,” he said. “We filed everything that we’re supposed to, that I’m aware of.”
After saying he would check on the paperwork and get back to a reporter, Arnold didn’t return follow-up calls for comment Thursday. Attempts to reach Kiley for comment were unsuccessful.
The committee doesn’t appear on the state’s list of political committees that have been registered to raise money for state candidates. Ron Ruman, a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Department of State, said the online list was updated as of April 18. Even if the committee filed after that, it would still be in violation of campaign law.
Ruman also said all committees that expect or intend to raise more than $250 have to send a registration form to the state with information about their principal officers and contact information before they start raising money on behalf of a candidate.
The committee raised money for Kiley before April 18, including an April 8 fundraiser at the Middletown Country Club, according to its county filing. In total, the committee has raised more than $4,000 and spent more than $3,000 on behalf of Kiley’s campaign.
In addition, the committees have to file a candidate authorization form, which allows the committee to raise money. The most recent county authorization forms were for municipal races. The state did not have any records of Middletown United filing that for Kiley’s campaign.
The state’s records for Kiley indicate she received $262 in the form of in-kind donations from herself. There was no mention of any affiliation with or donations from Middletown United.
Ruman said the Department of State doesn’t have any punitive authority for campaign finance law violations, and would refer any cases with merit to the relevant district attorney or the attorney general.
Kiley’s primary opponent, former Neshaminy School Board President Ritchie Webb, has a bit more money on hand.
A copy of the hand-written financial filing provided by the committee, Webb For PA, stated the committee raised $9,763 and spent $4,171 between March 26 and May 6, leaving $5,592 cash on hand. States records showed Thursday that the report was still in data entry and not available yet on the state website.
The winner of the May 20 Democratic primary will face state Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Langhorne, in November.
The Democratic candidate who wins in Tuesday’s primary will face an uphill fundraising battle against Farry.
The most recent filing from Farry’s campaign available online — from the end of March — shows the incumbent had more than $100,000 cash on hand. The latest report, from the May 8 filing deadline, was also in data entry, according to state records.
Farry said his latest report would show he had about $118,000 in his campaign war chest. He said the amount reflects a “broad base of support” among his constituents and local business owners.
Webb acknowledged the gap is large, but said it wouldn’t last long after the primary ended and the party settled on a candidate.
“Bottom line is it will be a major hurdle. However with other people getting behind us and getting the support of Democratic party — and we think we will get the support of some moderate Republicans — we think we will be competitive,” Webb said. “It is a hard figure to ignore, but it is not insurmountable.”
Monday, May 12, 2014
Anonymous website criticizing Ritchie Webb taken down
By MICHAEL MACAGNONE, COURIER TIMES STAFF WRITER
A Courier Times article
An anonymous website criticizing Democratic primary candidate Ritchie Webb has been taken down, but he's still trying to find who was behind the site.
Webb, the former chairman of the Neshaminy School Board, is running against Gina Kiley for the Democratic nomination for the 142nd State House district race. She and her campaign staff denied any involvement with the site and said they didn't know about it until they were contacted by a reporter.
The site, ritchiewebb.com, first appeared last month and criticized Webb’s views and past statements. The site asked whether Webb was a "Folk hero or Fraud" and criticized him for his recent switch from the Republican party, his views on unions, abortion and the environment, among other issues. Webb said many claims on the site were false, including his views on Marcellus Shale drilling and the Paycheck Protection Act.
“At the same time, I’m troubled that someone would stoop this low to put something out like that,” Webb said. “And I think that it is just dirty politics.”
By Monday, the website had been replaced by a blank page.
The site’s domain name was registered through a third-party registry site, domainsbyproxy.com, which is meant to be anonymous. The site was first registered on April 1, according to register.com. The registration, through Godaddy.com, is still active through next year.
Lou Hornstein, Webb’s attorney, said the site was voluntarily removed after he contacted the anonymous registration website with a cease-and-desist letter. He also said he plans to find out who put the website up, through a lawsuit, if necessary.
“It was removed voluntarily, but Mr. Webb is still concerned and we plan to pursue it,” he said. “I plan to pursue it with (domainsbyproxy.com) in order to ascertain who put up the website.”
Representatives from the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers said the union's leadership wasn't involved with the website and didn't endorse it. Webb led the Neshaminy School Board through a contentious five-year contract dispute with the teachers’ union.
The winner of the May 20 Democratic primary will face state Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Langhorne, in November.
A Courier Times article
An anonymous website criticizing Democratic primary candidate Ritchie Webb has been taken down, but he's still trying to find who was behind the site.
Webb, the former chairman of the Neshaminy School Board, is running against Gina Kiley for the Democratic nomination for the 142nd State House district race. She and her campaign staff denied any involvement with the site and said they didn't know about it until they were contacted by a reporter.
The site, ritchiewebb.com, first appeared last month and criticized Webb’s views and past statements. The site asked whether Webb was a "Folk hero or Fraud" and criticized him for his recent switch from the Republican party, his views on unions, abortion and the environment, among other issues. Webb said many claims on the site were false, including his views on Marcellus Shale drilling and the Paycheck Protection Act.
“At the same time, I’m troubled that someone would stoop this low to put something out like that,” Webb said. “And I think that it is just dirty politics.”
By Monday, the website had been replaced by a blank page.
The site’s domain name was registered through a third-party registry site, domainsbyproxy.com, which is meant to be anonymous. The site was first registered on April 1, according to register.com. The registration, through Godaddy.com, is still active through next year.
Lou Hornstein, Webb’s attorney, said the site was voluntarily removed after he contacted the anonymous registration website with a cease-and-desist letter. He also said he plans to find out who put the website up, through a lawsuit, if necessary.
“It was removed voluntarily, but Mr. Webb is still concerned and we plan to pursue it,” he said. “I plan to pursue it with (domainsbyproxy.com) in order to ascertain who put up the website.”
Representatives from the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers said the union's leadership wasn't involved with the website and didn't endorse it. Webb led the Neshaminy School Board through a contentious five-year contract dispute with the teachers’ union.
The winner of the May 20 Democratic primary will face state Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Langhorne, in November.
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
County Dems: 'Secretive' endorsement in Middletown violated rules
A Courier Times article
By MICHAEL MACAGNONE STAFF WRITER
The executive committee of the Middletown Democratic Party acted improperly when it endorsed Gina Kiley, who's seeking the party's nomination for the 142nd House District seat, according to the Bucks County Democratic Party chairman.
Chairman John Cordisco sent a letter to township party leaders, chiding them for holding a “secretive” endorsement meeting of fewer than 10 people -- including, he said, some who don't live in the 142nd District.
Kiley, an attorney, faces former Neshaminy school board president and recently registered Democrat Ritchie Webb in the primary. The winner will face incumbent Republican Frank Farry in the fall. The district includes Langhorne, Langhorne Manor, Lower Southampton and parts of Middletown and Upper Southampton.
“The actions you have taken run contrary to the rules and spirit of our organization. Each of our party organizations must strive to be as inclusive as possible.
Unfortunately, you have chosen a course of conduct that has been exclusive rather than inclusive,” Cordisco’s letter said.
Harry Arnold, chairman of the Middletown Democrats, said his group followed its bylaws and endorsed only in their municipality, as they are allowed to do. “Each individual municipality or borough (political party) can decide within their own little organization whether or not they are going to endorse a candidate,” he said.
Cordisco said every Middletown Democratic committee member who lives in the district -- not just executive committee members -- should have been allowed to vote on any endorsement -- and that could have included several dozen elected committee members.
“If four people in a municipality that large can decide who gets endorsed, (that) flies in the face of everything a democratic organization represents,” he said.
The endorsement can result in financial support from a committee and having the endorsement appear on a sample ballot given out to voters, Arnold said. Cordisco said the county's sample ballots are already being printed without the Middletown endorsement, and any ballots produced by a township party would have to be approved by him. Arnold argued that the Middletown Democrats who endorsed Kiley should have been allowed to put their endorsement on the sample ballots distributed to Middletown voters.
The township committee held an executive committee meeting to endorse a candidate on March 21, which Arnold said is allowed under its bylaws. Arnold said the committee notified all eight eligible members of the party's executive committee either through the mail or over the phone. Cordisco said not all the eligible executive committee members had been properly notified of the meeting.
Kiley said the controversy is distracting from the business of the campaign.
"It seems like it should be a moot point, because both of our names will be on the goldenrod (sample ballot) and I have not received a dime from the DPMT (Democratic Party of Middletown Township)" she said. "I would rather just get to the issues and put our focus there."
A statement from Webb’s campaign decried the endorsement, saying that it violated the spirit of an open primary.
By MICHAEL MACAGNONE STAFF WRITER
The executive committee of the Middletown Democratic Party acted improperly when it endorsed Gina Kiley, who's seeking the party's nomination for the 142nd House District seat, according to the Bucks County Democratic Party chairman.
Chairman John Cordisco sent a letter to township party leaders, chiding them for holding a “secretive” endorsement meeting of fewer than 10 people -- including, he said, some who don't live in the 142nd District.
Kiley, an attorney, faces former Neshaminy school board president and recently registered Democrat Ritchie Webb in the primary. The winner will face incumbent Republican Frank Farry in the fall. The district includes Langhorne, Langhorne Manor, Lower Southampton and parts of Middletown and Upper Southampton.
“The actions you have taken run contrary to the rules and spirit of our organization. Each of our party organizations must strive to be as inclusive as possible.
Unfortunately, you have chosen a course of conduct that has been exclusive rather than inclusive,” Cordisco’s letter said.
Harry Arnold, chairman of the Middletown Democrats, said his group followed its bylaws and endorsed only in their municipality, as they are allowed to do. “Each individual municipality or borough (political party) can decide within their own little organization whether or not they are going to endorse a candidate,” he said.
Cordisco said every Middletown Democratic committee member who lives in the district -- not just executive committee members -- should have been allowed to vote on any endorsement -- and that could have included several dozen elected committee members.
“If four people in a municipality that large can decide who gets endorsed, (that) flies in the face of everything a democratic organization represents,” he said.
The endorsement can result in financial support from a committee and having the endorsement appear on a sample ballot given out to voters, Arnold said. Cordisco said the county's sample ballots are already being printed without the Middletown endorsement, and any ballots produced by a township party would have to be approved by him. Arnold argued that the Middletown Democrats who endorsed Kiley should have been allowed to put their endorsement on the sample ballots distributed to Middletown voters.
The township committee held an executive committee meeting to endorse a candidate on March 21, which Arnold said is allowed under its bylaws. Arnold said the committee notified all eight eligible members of the party's executive committee either through the mail or over the phone. Cordisco said not all the eligible executive committee members had been properly notified of the meeting.
Kiley said the controversy is distracting from the business of the campaign.
"It seems like it should be a moot point, because both of our names will be on the goldenrod (sample ballot) and I have not received a dime from the DPMT (Democratic Party of Middletown Township)" she said. "I would rather just get to the issues and put our focus there."
A statement from Webb’s campaign decried the endorsement, saying that it violated the spirit of an open primary.
A man of integrity, a history of accomplishment
A Courier Times Guest Opinion
By WILLIAM D. O’CONNOR
As a Democrat and former Neshaminy School Board director who served with Ritchie Webb, I can tell you why Democratic voters should support him in the May 20th primary for state representative of the 142nd District.
At one point during Ritchie’s term as school board president, he held a seven-seat majority, and he certainly did not need my support. Yet, Ritchie met with me to emphasize the importance of all nine of us working together for the good of the district, and how we should keep our emphasis on the students rather than party politics.
I have to admit to being a little skeptical, but Ritchie proved to be a man of his word time and time again.
When several board members pushed to award a no-bid contract to an under-qualified vendor who was a well-known campaign contributor to the GOP, Ritchie broke ranks with the Republicans and stood with me to oppose this political appointment. I remember once saying to him that he was going to catch a lot of grief from the local Republican power brokers over his opposition to the appointment, and he responded that it didn’t matter because it was the right thing to do.
These are just two examples among many of how Ritchie chose to do what was right rather than what was politically expedient. At a time when too many politicians focus on getting elected based on campaign rhetoric, Ritchie Webb is the only state representative candidate for the 142nd District with a proven record of achievement who served the people in his community rather than special interests.
While there are some in the Democratic Party who feel that Ritchie hasn’t proven himself to be a real Democrat, I wonder if maybe they are too fixated on party politics instead of doing what is right. Voters have a chance here of sending someone to Harrisburg who can make a positive difference in the lives of Pennsylvanians.
If you have any doubt regarding Ritchie’s integrity and sincerity, just look at how his campaign is run compared to that of his opponent, Gina Kiley. All of the statements and literature coming out of Ritchie’s campaign have focused on his accomplishments and his stance on the issues. By contrast, supporters of Gina Kiley have resorted to childish and underhanded tactics such as creating a website in Ritchie’s name, and spreading misinformation in a blatant attempt to misrepresent his views.
All we ask of voters is that they look above the dirty campaign tricks, and instead base their choice on a thorough evaluation of both candidates. Ask yourselves which candidate has the skills and experience to best represent the people of the 142nd District.
To learn more about Ritchie Webb, please visit our website at WebbForPA.blogspot.com or at Facebook.com/WebbForPA.
Our highest elected Democratic official in Bucks County, Diane Marseglia, supports Ritchie Webb. Three former and current Democratic Neshaminy School Board officials support Ritchie Webb. And on May 20th, we ask all Democrats to join us in sending a message to politicians in both parties that the status quo will no longer be tolerated.
It’s time to give the state representative job back to the people!
By WILLIAM D. O’CONNOR
As a Democrat and former Neshaminy School Board director who served with Ritchie Webb, I can tell you why Democratic voters should support him in the May 20th primary for state representative of the 142nd District.
At one point during Ritchie’s term as school board president, he held a seven-seat majority, and he certainly did not need my support. Yet, Ritchie met with me to emphasize the importance of all nine of us working together for the good of the district, and how we should keep our emphasis on the students rather than party politics.
I have to admit to being a little skeptical, but Ritchie proved to be a man of his word time and time again.
When several board members pushed to award a no-bid contract to an under-qualified vendor who was a well-known campaign contributor to the GOP, Ritchie broke ranks with the Republicans and stood with me to oppose this political appointment. I remember once saying to him that he was going to catch a lot of grief from the local Republican power brokers over his opposition to the appointment, and he responded that it didn’t matter because it was the right thing to do.
These are just two examples among many of how Ritchie chose to do what was right rather than what was politically expedient. At a time when too many politicians focus on getting elected based on campaign rhetoric, Ritchie Webb is the only state representative candidate for the 142nd District with a proven record of achievement who served the people in his community rather than special interests.
While there are some in the Democratic Party who feel that Ritchie hasn’t proven himself to be a real Democrat, I wonder if maybe they are too fixated on party politics instead of doing what is right. Voters have a chance here of sending someone to Harrisburg who can make a positive difference in the lives of Pennsylvanians.
If you have any doubt regarding Ritchie’s integrity and sincerity, just look at how his campaign is run compared to that of his opponent, Gina Kiley. All of the statements and literature coming out of Ritchie’s campaign have focused on his accomplishments and his stance on the issues. By contrast, supporters of Gina Kiley have resorted to childish and underhanded tactics such as creating a website in Ritchie’s name, and spreading misinformation in a blatant attempt to misrepresent his views.
All we ask of voters is that they look above the dirty campaign tricks, and instead base their choice on a thorough evaluation of both candidates. Ask yourselves which candidate has the skills and experience to best represent the people of the 142nd District.
To learn more about Ritchie Webb, please visit our website at WebbForPA.blogspot.com or at Facebook.com/WebbForPA.
Our highest elected Democratic official in Bucks County, Diane Marseglia, supports Ritchie Webb. Three former and current Democratic Neshaminy School Board officials support Ritchie Webb. And on May 20th, we ask all Democrats to join us in sending a message to politicians in both parties that the status quo will no longer be tolerated.
It’s time to give the state representative job back to the people!
Friday, May 2, 2014
The Issues
There are many important concerns facing Pennsylvanians every single day. As your State Representative, Ritchie Webb will work to represent you on these and other important issues:
Education Funding
In the ten years that I was on the Neshaminy School Board, unfunded state mandates were a major issue. Since special education is always underfunded, I would work to change the current funding formula. Money (tax dollars) is a limited resource that must be spent wisely. We should engage the people who work with our children daily; the people who run our schools - teachers, superintendents, etc. - for advice on what they think should be a priority in education spending.
State Pension Plan
The state pension plan is currently $50 billion in debt, and is yet another example of state mandates without funding. Our state and school employees deserve and expect their retirement plan to be solvent when they retire. However, the state's current answer is to increase the contribution rates for school districts so much that local school districts will be forced to cut our children's programs or substantially increase taxes on homeowners.
I would look to fund PSERS using an extraction tax on gas companies and possibly changing the structure of our retirement plan for future new hires.
Extraction Tax (Marcellus Shale)
I favor an extraction tax. This money could be used to pay for monitoring of drilling to assure safety and possibly used to help offset some future PSERS contributions that, otherwise, will be paid by homeowners.
Fracking
Pennsylvania has over 6,000 wells currently and more in the future. I am very concerned about the safety of our water supply and the chemicals used in the extraction of gas, which is why I am not in favor of drilling in the Delaware River Basin, as it is the source of drinking water for millions of people. The gas companies must be completely transparent in disclosing what they are injecting into the ground, without relying on the "Trade Secret" exemption.
Abortion Rights
I have five children and unborn life is very precious to me; however, I remember when abortions were performed in back rooms and alleys by unqualified people, risking the lives of many women. I do not want my daughter or granddaughter to ever be put in that position; therefore, I believe it is a woman's choice.
Paycheck Protection Act
I am a member of PSEA and currently hold the position of treasurer with an Act 93 group. I pay my PSEA dues via payroll deduction every pay period. The Paycheck Protection Act is a way for the camel to get his nose under the tent, leading to the real motive behind this act: Creating a Right-to-Work state.
I oppose the Paycheck Protection Act.
Voter Rights
Like most Americans, I support the right of all legal citizens to vote in elections. While I sympathize with those who want some sort of voter identification to help prevent improper voting, the current efforts do more to disenfranchise legitimate voters than they do to prevent the fraudulent ones.
I cannot support any voter ID law that suppresses or hinders the rights of legitimate voters.
Municipalities Not Having to Advertise Meetings in Newspaper Anymore
Not everyone has access to a computer, especially our seniors. I would oppose changing the current requirements.
Receiving Gifts
I would refuse all gifts regardless of size.
Monday, April 28, 2014
Marseglia: Webb is a Democrat
An article appearing in LevittownNow.com . . .
Dozens of supporters crowded the Penndel Fire Company Saturday night to support Democratic Candidate Ritchie Webb Sr. for State Represenative in 142nd district.
Bucks County Commissioner Diane Marseglia attended the campaign event.
Marseglia addressed the issue of Webb running as a Democrat.
“Mr Webb is a Democrat. Always knew he was a Democrat in his heart,” said Marseglia.
She explained why she’s endorsing Webb in his campaign to represent the redistricted 142nd, which will cover Langhorne, Lower Southampton, Upper Southampton and part of Levittown.
“I came to the Neshaminy School Board last year about the Sanctuary Room and the need to take care of our teenagers who are struggling and he (Webb) understood and worked with me on it with me.” she said
The Sanctuary room is a program offered to the NHS students dealing with social and or emotional challenges. The Bucks County Commissioners helped to secure funding for the program to bring it back for students, according to the county website last year.
Marseglia said Webb helped to meet with county officials to develop a partnership for a way to help the kids and develop the Sanctuary Room without complete reliance on Neshaminy Taxpayers.
“We were able to work together on something important for both us and taxpayers, and more importantly the students” she said.
Marseglia, the top female Democrat at the county level, has been criticized for her helping to recruit Webb and endorsing his candidacy as Democrat.
Webb Supporters sign up to volunteer for his state house run.
Credit: Jeff Bohen LevittownNow.com
Webb has been attacked for his choice to run as a Democrat by supporters of his opponent attorney Gina Kiley, who lives in Middletown. Webb has said he’s not a beholden to party, but to the constituents of the district.
Webb has been called “a wolf in Democrat’s clothing” in an op-ed run penned by Suzi Drake, a member of the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers Union (NFT), in March.
Webb said Saturday night after the campaign event: “I think I’m a moderate and when people check my voting record I’ve always been a moderate and if you checked my voting record on the school board there have been times I’ve sided with a democrat against Republicans. ”
Webb drew a picture of contrast between his experience in local government and as a business owner with his primary opponent Kiley.
“I’ve been responsible for putting together big budgets while serving as Neshaminy School Board President and that’s something that comes with experience, he said.
“No disrespect to my opponent, but she doesn’t have that experience to offer voters,” he said.
Webb said depicting him some kind of of Tea Party candidate is factually incorrect. “I vote on issues not based on party politics,” he said.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Webb critic failed to reveal union membership (Courier Times Guest Opinion, 4/4/2014)
Suzi Drake’s March 11th letter “Wolf in Democrats’ Clothing” seeks to discredit Ritchie Webb as a candidate for state representative by using wild and unfair accusations. What Ms. Drake didn’t tell you is that she is a member of the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers (NFT) which was in a five-year contract battle with the school board. The NFT had refused to pay toward health care and sought to increase their existing pay and perks during the worst recession in our lifetime. During this lengthy contract battle, Ms. Drake showed her unwavering support of her union’s unaffordable demands by bringing the battle to the students and their parents by working to contract, picketing at Back to School night, and striking.
Taking out her frustrations on school children — is that really the example Suzi Drake wants to set as a model Democrat?
Another thing Ms. Drake conveniently leaves out of her letter is that eventually the NFT had to concede to the school board’s offer, and this resulted in savings of millions of dollars to the bottom line. Now this money can go toward classroom education, possibly toward the funding of a full-day kindergarten program next school year. All this was accomplished by Ritchie Webb and the school board without a tax increase to burden Neshaminy homeowners.
For the 10 years that Mr. Webb was on the Neshaminy School Board, he was the voice of reason working with members from both parties for the good of the community. Throughout his tenure, he never allowed his membership in the Republican Party to interfere, and he will never do so as a Democrat.
His voting record and accomplishments on the Neshaminy School Board speak for themselves. Ritchie Webb is all about doing the right thing and he is greatly disappointed with the Republican Party in Pennsylvania for not doing the right thing, in particular the Pennsylvania School Employee Retirement Fund (PSERS), which will have a direct financial impact on every school district and taxpayer if not addressed.
Mr. Webb also believes that Harrisburg has failed its citizens by raising the gasoline tax and not doing enough to stimulate the economy to create jobs during a time when people are struggling to make ends meet.
Ms. Drake tries to spin that Mr. Webb is a business person with connections to the billionaire Koch brothers and other extreme conservatives, but nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, as long as I have known him, he has worked a full-time job, and along with his wife operated a small catering business (now closed), tax service and food safety training service in his spare time. I’m not sure why a good work ethic doesn’t fit in with Suzi Drake’s core values, but I believe voters will see Mr. Webb’s hard work as a strength instead of a weakness.
Ritchie Webb comes from a very humble background, from the hills and hollows of West Virginia, the son of a union coal miner (something he is very proud of). He is the father of five children, two of which are union workers, including myself, a dues paying member of the Carpenters union, Local 1462. Mr. Webb is the treasurer of a PSEA meet-and-discuss group, and his union dues are deducted from his paycheck (which is something Ms. Drake falsely accuses him of opposing).
No doubt people like Suzi Drake want to paint Ritchie Webb in a bad light because he doesn’t serve their special interests. I believe the community knows Ritchie Webb as someone who will fight for taxpayers and their families. As for me, I am proud to call him my Dad.
Aaron Webb, Lower Southampton
Member of Carpenters Union Local 1462
Taking out her frustrations on school children — is that really the example Suzi Drake wants to set as a model Democrat?
Another thing Ms. Drake conveniently leaves out of her letter is that eventually the NFT had to concede to the school board’s offer, and this resulted in savings of millions of dollars to the bottom line. Now this money can go toward classroom education, possibly toward the funding of a full-day kindergarten program next school year. All this was accomplished by Ritchie Webb and the school board without a tax increase to burden Neshaminy homeowners.
For the 10 years that Mr. Webb was on the Neshaminy School Board, he was the voice of reason working with members from both parties for the good of the community. Throughout his tenure, he never allowed his membership in the Republican Party to interfere, and he will never do so as a Democrat.
His voting record and accomplishments on the Neshaminy School Board speak for themselves. Ritchie Webb is all about doing the right thing and he is greatly disappointed with the Republican Party in Pennsylvania for not doing the right thing, in particular the Pennsylvania School Employee Retirement Fund (PSERS), which will have a direct financial impact on every school district and taxpayer if not addressed.
Mr. Webb also believes that Harrisburg has failed its citizens by raising the gasoline tax and not doing enough to stimulate the economy to create jobs during a time when people are struggling to make ends meet.
Ms. Drake tries to spin that Mr. Webb is a business person with connections to the billionaire Koch brothers and other extreme conservatives, but nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, as long as I have known him, he has worked a full-time job, and along with his wife operated a small catering business (now closed), tax service and food safety training service in his spare time. I’m not sure why a good work ethic doesn’t fit in with Suzi Drake’s core values, but I believe voters will see Mr. Webb’s hard work as a strength instead of a weakness.
Ritchie Webb comes from a very humble background, from the hills and hollows of West Virginia, the son of a union coal miner (something he is very proud of). He is the father of five children, two of which are union workers, including myself, a dues paying member of the Carpenters union, Local 1462. Mr. Webb is the treasurer of a PSEA meet-and-discuss group, and his union dues are deducted from his paycheck (which is something Ms. Drake falsely accuses him of opposing).
No doubt people like Suzi Drake want to paint Ritchie Webb in a bad light because he doesn’t serve their special interests. I believe the community knows Ritchie Webb as someone who will fight for taxpayers and their families. As for me, I am proud to call him my Dad.
Aaron Webb, Lower Southampton
Member of Carpenters Union Local 1462
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
A Message from Ritchie Webb
After I retired from the Neshaminy School Board, I fully intended on taking some time off before deciding what I wanted to do next. But in the days following my departure, I became angry and frustrated all over again when I picked up the newspaper and read how local school districts were cutting programs and closing school buildings because they lacked funding or they could no longer afford their staggering share of the State pension fund for teachers (PSERS).
We dealt with these issues as best we could on the school board, but these are matters to be fixed at the state level. Education funding and the pension crisis have been unresolved issues for years, yet for some reason our elected officials in Harrisburg do little more than talk when it comes to fixing these problems.
I am tired of politicians getting elected on promises they never keep.
I am fed up with politicians crowing about meaningless legislation they have proposed while the really important issues are ignored.
I am sickened when I hear stories of how residents cannot afford to live in their homes.
I couldn’t sit back anymore. It was time to do something. This is why I decided to run for State Representative.
And this is why I am asking for your support.
On Tuesday, May 20th, I am asking for your vote in the Democratic primary. I want to bring my leadership skills and track record of working across party lines to Harrisburg so that together we can make a difference.
Running a campaign for a state-level office isn’t cheap. And as one of my campaign advisors keeps reminding me, we angered all the special interests while we were fixing things in Neshaminy so you know we won’t be getting donations from them! So unfortunately, I must also ask for your financial support.
At the top right portion of this website you will see the ways that you can contribute to my campaign. I know how tight money is these days, and I don’t make this plea for your support lightly. But Harrisburg isn’t going to fix itself, and so I am asking for your help so that I can help you.
In the weeks leading up to the May 20th Democratic primary, I encourage you to take a close look at the candidates, the issues they support, and the experience they bring to the table. Once you consider all these factors, I am both hopeful and confident that you will agree that I am the best candidate to represent the people of the 142nd Legislative District.
Thank you for reading, and THANK YOU for your support!
Ritchie Webb
We dealt with these issues as best we could on the school board, but these are matters to be fixed at the state level. Education funding and the pension crisis have been unresolved issues for years, yet for some reason our elected officials in Harrisburg do little more than talk when it comes to fixing these problems.
I am tired of politicians getting elected on promises they never keep.
I am fed up with politicians crowing about meaningless legislation they have proposed while the really important issues are ignored.
I am sickened when I hear stories of how residents cannot afford to live in their homes.
I couldn’t sit back anymore. It was time to do something. This is why I decided to run for State Representative.
And this is why I am asking for your support.
On Tuesday, May 20th, I am asking for your vote in the Democratic primary. I want to bring my leadership skills and track record of working across party lines to Harrisburg so that together we can make a difference.
Running a campaign for a state-level office isn’t cheap. And as one of my campaign advisors keeps reminding me, we angered all the special interests while we were fixing things in Neshaminy so you know we won’t be getting donations from them! So unfortunately, I must also ask for your financial support.
At the top right portion of this website you will see the ways that you can contribute to my campaign. I know how tight money is these days, and I don’t make this plea for your support lightly. But Harrisburg isn’t going to fix itself, and so I am asking for your help so that I can help you.
In the weeks leading up to the May 20th Democratic primary, I encourage you to take a close look at the candidates, the issues they support, and the experience they bring to the table. Once you consider all these factors, I am both hopeful and confident that you will agree that I am the best candidate to represent the people of the 142nd Legislative District.
Thank you for reading, and THANK YOU for your support!
Ritchie Webb
Friday, March 28, 2014
Frank Farry is worried about tanning beds causing cancer but thinks a medical waste incinerator within minutes of several schools and millions of people is ok
Tanning bill the wrong focus (Bucks County Courier Times editorial, 3/28/2014)
State Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Middletown, is sponsoring a bill to regulate the indoor tanning industry. Many states already have such laws; Pennsylvania is not among them. Farry wants to protect young people from the serious hazards of overexposure to ultraviolet light, which can lead to premature aging of the skin and, more seriously, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
The bill would prohibit anyone 16 and under from using commercial tanning equipment that emits ultraviolet light; 17-year-olds would need parental permission before hopping on a tanning bed.
Given what’s known about the deleterious effects of ultraviolet rays on the skin — whether from the sun or man-made sources — Farry’s legislation is not a bad idea. Sensible regulation no doubt could have some positive health benefits. If nothing else, the rules would send a message that forcing a tan very often produces unpleasant long-term consequences.
That said, we would suggest the people of Pennsylvania would be much better served if Rep. Farry and his colleagues focused their attention — and the limited time remaining before they scatter for their biennial electioneering — on more pressing matters. Things like a law banning lawmakers from receiving gifts — all gifts, not just cash. Or facing instead of ignoring the impending pension catastrophe that threatens financial ruin for school districts and municipalities. Or addressing property taxes. Or placing limits on campaign contributions. Or assuring that social service agencies receive the funding they need. Or making higher education more affordable.
There are many, many issues that cry out for legislative remedy. And so little time to achieve anything — maybe only the next couple of months. When June rolls around, lawmakers will be focused on the budget. Then will come summer vacation. Then, if history is any guide, only a few session days interrupting what for many representatives and senators will be nonstop campaigning until November.
Lawmakers don’t have the luxury of debating relatively minor bills while matters of extreme urgency are begging for their attention. Pennsylvanians will survive an unregulated indoor tanning industry. But they might be consumed by the pension avalanche or a crushing tax structure. Or by their own elected representatives who base their decisions on the gifts they receive and not what’s best for the people they were elected to serve.
State Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, Middletown, is sponsoring a bill to regulate the indoor tanning industry. Many states already have such laws; Pennsylvania is not among them. Farry wants to protect young people from the serious hazards of overexposure to ultraviolet light, which can lead to premature aging of the skin and, more seriously, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
The bill would prohibit anyone 16 and under from using commercial tanning equipment that emits ultraviolet light; 17-year-olds would need parental permission before hopping on a tanning bed.
Given what’s known about the deleterious effects of ultraviolet rays on the skin — whether from the sun or man-made sources — Farry’s legislation is not a bad idea. Sensible regulation no doubt could have some positive health benefits. If nothing else, the rules would send a message that forcing a tan very often produces unpleasant long-term consequences.
That said, we would suggest the people of Pennsylvania would be much better served if Rep. Farry and his colleagues focused their attention — and the limited time remaining before they scatter for their biennial electioneering — on more pressing matters. Things like a law banning lawmakers from receiving gifts — all gifts, not just cash. Or facing instead of ignoring the impending pension catastrophe that threatens financial ruin for school districts and municipalities. Or addressing property taxes. Or placing limits on campaign contributions. Or assuring that social service agencies receive the funding they need. Or making higher education more affordable.
There are many, many issues that cry out for legislative remedy. And so little time to achieve anything — maybe only the next couple of months. When June rolls around, lawmakers will be focused on the budget. Then will come summer vacation. Then, if history is any guide, only a few session days interrupting what for many representatives and senators will be nonstop campaigning until November.
Lawmakers don’t have the luxury of debating relatively minor bills while matters of extreme urgency are begging for their attention. Pennsylvanians will survive an unregulated indoor tanning industry. But they might be consumed by the pension avalanche or a crushing tax structure. Or by their own elected representatives who base their decisions on the gifts they receive and not what’s best for the people they were elected to serve.
Typical politician (Courier Times letter to the editor, 3/28/2014)
I find it interesting that after being in office for five years state Rep. Frank Farry wants to work with the Neshaminy School District now that former board president Ritchie Webb is a viable candidate for his seat.
Ask Frank where he was when Neshaminy needed his guidance and support during the tumultuous years of dealing with the teacher's contract when assistance was sought from Harrisburg?
Lisa Ann Deon
Langhorne Borough
Monday, March 24, 2014
Democrats should rejoice
A Bucks County Courier Times editorial (2/28/2014):
It’s easy to criticize politicians, what with the gridlock in Washington and the snail progress is harnessed to in Harrisburg. That both situations are driven by divisive party politics grows skepticism about our leaders’ priorities and withers hope for the future.
So it is a joyful reprieve when there is good news to report. Such was the case this week.
If you’re not, you should be aware that this year’s elections include all of Bucks County’s state legislative seats. The good news is that voters in the very populous 142nd Legislative District (Middletown, the Langhornes and Southamptons) will have top quality candidates to choose from — not often the case in legislative races. Too often, one party or the other cannot muster a challenger to take on an incumbent. Nearly as often and more concerning is the entry of candidates who don’t have a clue.
That’s not the case this year. Democrats should rejoice that former Neshaminy School Board President Ritchie Webb will seek their party’s nomination in the primary election to run against incumbent Republican Frank Farry in the fall. This endeavor required Webb to change parties, a decision made easy by his political pragmatism and moderate views.
“I’ve always tried to come out and say pretty much what I think is correct, whether it aligns with the Democrats or the Republicans,” Webb said. There’s no doubt about Webb’s candor and his dedication to transparency. We can vouch for that. He was the school board’s lead negotiator through five contentious years of contract talks with the Neshaminy teachers union, a painful process punctuated by two strikes.
Webb would not yield on costly issues, while keeping the public informed throughout what normally is a secretive process. The union finally agreed to a contract that will save taxpayers millions.
To be clear, this is not an endorsement but a welcome embrace of a contest that will give voters a chance to decide between two quality candidates, should Webb get the Democrats’ nod.
Webb to challenge incumbent Frank Farry
From the Bucks County Courier Times (2/27/2014):
Ritchie Webb seeks to challenge State Rep. Frank Farry
By Christian Menno Staff writer
Former Neshaminy school board President Ritchie Webb confirmed Wednesday he will run as a Democrat in the May primary in an effort to face off against state Rep. Frank Farry, R-142, in November’s general election.
The lifelong Republican said he was recently approached by Democratic officials to see if he had any interest in running for the position.
“I had to give it a lot of thought in a short amount of time but I asked myself if I could help the school districts and the state (if elected) and I thought that I could so I said yes,” Webb said. The move to switch political parties was something Webb, 60, said he was OK with, adding that he’s “always been a down-the-middle person” during his time on the school board from December 2003 through 2013.
“I’ve always tried to come out and say pretty much what I think is correct — whether it aligns with the Democrats or the Republicans. The bottom line is the Republicans already have a candidate and he will receive the endorsement and all the financial support and benefits of being the endorsed candidate,” Webb said.
He added that the GOP does not typically host open primaries, with the resources usually going toward the endorsed candidate.
Farry announced that he will seek re-election last month during a press conference that featured several Republican officials. He has held the seat since the 2008 election.
When reached for comment Wednesday, Farry said he is “looking forward, as this race moves forward, to talking about the legislation that we’ve passed to make our community a better place and our efforts to create more jobs.
“I will reserve comment on Ritchie’s recent revelation that he has become a Democrat,” Farry added.
Farry, a Langhorne resident, works as an attorney and serves as chief of the Langhorne-Middletown Fire Co. He served as assistant township manager in Middletown from 2000 to 2008.
Webb, who lives in Middletown, currently works as Bristol Township School District’s food service director. He also operates a tax and accounting business and a food safety training business.
He became the face of the school board during the contentious, five-year-long contract dispute with the Neshaminy Federation of Teachers which was eventually settled last June. Because of recently approved redistricting, the 142nd will soon be comprised of Langhorne Borough, Langhorne Manor, Upper Southampton, Lower Southampton and a portion of Middletown. It will no longer include Hulmeville and Penndel.
Welcome to Webb for PA
Welcome to the official website for the campaign to elect Ritchie Webb as State Representative for the 142nd District!
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