I was amused by a recent TripAdvisor survey naming Pennsylvania the “most American state.” While the metrics used were silly — most RV parks, fast-food restaurants and the like — I still think the idea holds merit.

We’re the birthplace of America, after all. But more than that, we play a leading role in powering our country every day with Pennsylvania-made natural gas and oil.

Although we may not be as geographically large as other states, Pennsylvania is an energy powerhouse — ranking as the second-largest natural gas producer in the country, behind Texas. Plus, our vibrant natural gas and oil workforce is nearly 100,000 strong. The industry pumps money into our economy, reinvests in our communities ($279 million in impact taxes last year alone) and puts food on the table for families trying to achieve the American dream.

Without the industry and its workers, each one of our metrics on the TripAdvisor survey would plummet. Restaurants would become parking lots; RV parks would sit empty.

So, while I may poke fun at the survey’s methodology, I wholeheartedly agree with its conclusion. I’m proud of the role Pennsylvania has played and will play in powering America.

Pam Bryan

Squirrel Hill

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