State Senator Mike O’Pake, the longest-serving member of the legislature, passed away Monday in Reading. His colleagues and paid their respects. In other news, Rendell gave Corbett the ‘state of the state,’ Governor Rendell complains loudly about the Eagles game postponement, and times are looking grim for the LCB. And President Obama has some kind words for Michael Vick.

Reading Eagle: “He Was an Icon in Berks County”

PoliticsPA Reports:

PoliticsPA: Official statement from the office of Senator O’Pake.
PoliticsPA: Senate leadership comments on the passing of Senator O’Pake.
PoliticsPA: Prospective GOP 2012 AG candidate directs major drug bust.

Monday’s Headlines:

Inquirer: Rendell gives Corbett the ‘state of the state’ – info on the workings of state government.
AP: Corbett faces uphill battle with health care costs and budget deficits.
Patriot News: Corbett working with lawmakers under investigation – it’s likely to get awkward.
Post-Gazette: Budget shortfalls could put some District Court offices on the chopping block.
Fox 29: Rendell Eagles rant makes national news.
Fox 29: Mayor Nutter defense NFL decision to postpone Eagles game.
Politico: Analysis of congressional seat losses due to redistricting features Rob Gleason and Jim Burn.
Altoona Mirror: Preservation Pennsylvania worries wind turbine threatens Bedford historic district.
Times Tribune: Stimulus funds continue to pay to winterize homes in NEPA.
NBC 10: Obama praises Eagles for giving Vick a 2nd chance.
Tribune Review: Health care law may put the pinch on state budget by limiting Medicare cuts.
Patriot News: The weather outside is frightful – stiff wind blows train cars into Susquehanna River.
Inquirer: Exploring the impact of the Marcellus gas drilling boom in Towanda, Bradford County.
Daily News: City cuts the Mummers a cost break.
Times-News: Erie County Council approves new plan to store records.

Monday’s Opinions:

Inquirer Editorial: It’s time to privatize PA’s liquor stores.
Daily News: We’ll miss Senator Specter’s clout and courage.
Tribune Review Editorial: Burden is on Democrats to prove science behind climate change.
Patriot News: Wants you to submit your ideas for New Years resolutions for Governor-elect Corbett.