Ronks – Republican Gubernatorial candidate Tom Corbett spoke about the important part that tourism plays in Pennsylvania’s economy as he toured The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn.

“Tourism is one of our state’s leading industries. It employs nearly 40,000 people here in Lancaster County generating $1.8 billion dollars in revenue each year,” said Corbett. “It is time for the state to be a partner in facilitating job growth and encourage industries, like tourism, to continue to expand and support family sustaining jobs across the commonwealth. The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn is a great success story.”

With the wealth of resources around Pennsylvania, Tom Corbett feels the commonwealth has so much to offer, especially for future generations.

“For far too long, our young people have been leaving the state to look for jobs elsewhere, we can’t let that happen,” said Corbett, “That is why I am running for Governor, so our children and grandchildren don’t have to go out of state to find work because they will have greater opportunities here.”

Tom Corbett is determined to revitalize Pennsylvania’s economy. He knows people around the state have been hit hard by the recession and our unemployment numbers are far too high. But with every challenge comes great opportunity and Corbett’s plan will work to get our economy back on track.

“The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn is a great example of how business can thrive, even in a tough economy,” said Corbett. “It has expanded by renovating a new restaurant area, creating even more jobs right here in Lancaster County.”

Tom Corbett has been personally visiting companies like The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn to learn firsthand the issues facing business owners. He has discussed with business leaders and employees the importance of keeping jobs in Pennsylvania and making sure we see growth in our jobs market. 

“I believe it is time to restore the commonwealth’s rightful position in the global marketplace by partnering with business leaders to build job creation policies that will secure Pennsylvania’s future,” said Corbett.

As Tom Corbett has traveled the state, he has detailed separate aspects of his seven-point economic development and jobs plan, which includes:

• Expanding Pennsylvania’s Economy Through Innovation
• Reforming Pennsylvania’s Jobs Climate
• Strengthening Pennsylvania’s Regional Economies
• Growing Small Business in Pennsylvania
• Harnessing Entrepreneurial Leadership from Higher Education
• Developing a World-class Workforce
• Expanding Pennsylvania Worldwide

The Hershey Farm Restaurant and Inn has been an important part of PA Dutch Country’s tourism industry since 1975.  It sits on 23 picturesque acres and attracts people from all over the world. The business is family owned and includes a motel, a 650 seat restaurant, a gift shop, an outdoor market and walking trails. It employs over 145 people during peak season and is looking to expand in the near future by adding more rooms, retail space as well as a pool and splash park.

 To learn more about Tom Corbett’s plan to revitalize Pennsylvania’s economy and jobs climate visit www.tomcorbettforgovernor.com.

###