Transition news continues, with this week’s committee chair assignments making waves. The Turnpike Commission backs down. Specter talks legacy, with some hints about his forthcoming book. And PoliticsPA’s ups and downs is up for today. Have a merry Christmas, and see you next week.

PoliticsPA Reports

PoliticsPA: The Hill’s omission of Tom Marino evokes campaign memories.

PoliticsPA: Check out this week’s up and downs.

PoliticsPA: In case you missed it, here are Pennsylvania’s top 30 politicos under 30.

Today’s Headlines

Inquirer: Specter not ready to tell all… yet

AP: Without state law, Pa. towns tackle anti-gay bias

New York Times: Alabama town’s failed pension is a warning; Philly is cited as an example in the story (h/t PhillyClout)

Tribune-Review: State Rep. Metcalfe to chair house committee

Heard in City Hall: Philadelphia halts Sheriff’s sales again

Philadelphia Gay News: Philly LGBT leaders cheer repeal of DADT

Patriot News: Liberal midstate radio host puts his money where his mouth is

Patriot News: Corbett inaugural music chosen

Post-Gazette: Turnpike backs down, decides to print new tolls

Inquirer: Neighboring casinos not too sad about Foxwoods losing license

Times-Tribune: Mayor Doherty vetoes $74.9 million Scranton budget

Times-Herald: Hoeffel recuses himself on DA waiver

Today’s Opinions

Newsworks: Shake it off, Tom Corbett

Inquirer: Here’s one to privatize Pa. liquor stores

Times-Tribune: Productive lame ducks