Pennsylvania is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Its assets include scenic beauty, historical significance, traditions of independence and freedom, both urban and rural settings, and affordable housing.

Pennsylvania is the Keystone State, emphasizing its vital and strategic role in early America, and was the second state to ratify the constitution. Its founder, William Penn, came here to offer religious freedom to all. Philadelphia boasts the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The turning point of the American Civil War took place in the south central town of Gettysburg.

The Allegheny, Appalachian, and Pocono mountain ranges provide stunning natural beauty and are home to the second-largest population of white-tailed deer in the U.S. State forests comprise over two million acres, and there are 116 state parks. Major river systems, including the Ohio, Allegheny, Delaware, and Susquehanna, provide recreational opportunity. Lake Erie borders in the northwest.

From Philadelphia in the east to Pittsburgh in the west, Pennsylvania’s cities each have a distinct flavor. Major ones include Erie, Allentown, Reading, Scranton, and Lancaster. The capitol building at Harrisburg is one of the most beautiful in the nation, with a magnificent dome, sculptures and paintings. Harrisburg’s Mayor Reed has been honored for rejuvenating the city, which now boasts a baseball club, Civil War museum, new hotels, nightclubs, and outdoor cafes.

But Pennsylvania is perhaps best known for its rural areas, farms, and small towns. Pennsylvania Dutch country in Lancaster County, settled by Amish, Mennonite, and other German immigrants, is known world-wide. Perry County, dotted with dairy farms, still has no traffic signal in its borders. Hershey, Chocolate Town, has become rightfully famous as a tourist attraction. In fact, hundreds of small towns are the foundation of the state.

• The emphasis on education has been strong.
  A current Costing-out Study will provide data to help equalize opportunity
  for all children. Under Governor Rendell, education funding has increased.
• The climate provides four distinct and memorable seasons.
  Spring and autumn bring breathtaking beauty.
• Housing is abundant and very affordable.
  Compared to most large urban areas, our choices are remarkable.
• Pennsylvania has the 6th largest gross state product in the U.S.
  It is also the 6th most populous state.
• Fishing is abundant in the 4,000 miles of cold water streams as well as the rivers.
  The brook trout is native to the state. Hunting is widespread for small game and deer.