Wyoming

Elevation 8262.

Save our * (city, summer, steps, schools, stadium, ...)

The Pittsblog asks about the Iron City message, "Save Our City." I wrote, with typos over there and reposted:

On one level, I smile at the "Save Our City" campaign. At its most basic sense it is a call to "care." The Iron City Corporation trumpets a tune that gives a wake up to action in a civic sense. The message is less, "buy our beer" and more "we live here too." I think of the saving as a lifeguard who shows up at the swim pool guard chair and cares to insure that everyone is safe, alive, and healthy at the end of the day.

Too many corporations are worried too much about its own next customer, marketing its specific product. Meanwhile the marketplace is in a serious decline. The city is half of what it was. Those that are NOT here would have made for a larger, core customer base -- drinking a lot of beer.

Q: save if from what? My A: "rust, decline and apathy."

Tip: better to leave a message over on the Pittsblog and not here. And, Iron folks, it's better to bring a beer truck and not a case a beer to our family reunion next month -- along with a case of t-shirts.

Schools + County + City = hope = Formation of a new Pittsburgh Park District

The new plan that hit tonights TV news calls for our County Executive to form a charity to help to develop the parks. That approach isn't a ticket to success. Parks and kids shouldn't be with non-profit oversight.

Meet Up, 7 pm third Wednesdays - Beehive

Come to the Beehive on the South Side, now with a no-smoking room, breathing deeply, at 7 pm on Wed. Sept. 15. Ken is the new leader of the Pittsburgh's Weblogger group. Let's make some waves!

Community Technology Center Site Coordinator

Wireless Job for Peabody: JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
Title: Community Technology Center Site Coordinator
Salary Range: $28,000-$32,000 plus benefits package
Position Start Date: Fall 2004

Looking to trade links

Other networks and pointers are welcomed, as I'd love to get links for my blog elsewhere. You can link to your blogs, as well as other pages at my link center. Leads, please email me.

Homespun Bloggers Best Of Submission Tips

mudphud11-at-yahoo-dot-com

Remove the "X" parts and put in the correct HTML code, either quotes or the close the /A.

Join us on a hill walk on October 17, 2004

The South Side Slopes is full of interesting steps that snake through the urban neighborhoods. This non-competitive hike inclues a bit of history, entertainment and down-home-up-the-hill friends of all shapes and sizes. A two-for-$15 special goes to October 4.

Outreach

The time to network and extend in various fronts with others so as to build better solutions is here. Within the comments is a slice of some of these efforts.

Resignation chatter

PG coverage of resignation chatter

It is not worth the effort to offend Mr. Roddey, nor is it my duty to defend him either. Nonetheless, it would be great to see City Councilman, Jim Motznik, write a letter to Gov. Ed Rendell asking for help in getting the resignation of Tom Murphy.

To Jim's credit, he spoke of the resignation of Mayor Murphy, on the record, some weeks ago. His quote was something like .... "After we (City Council) passes this Act 47 plan (oversight), then we should ask for the resignation of Tom Murphy."

Like Luke's mention of resignation weeks before, the statement was stronger than double-speek, but not direct enough. Try this for blunt talk: Mayor Murphy should resign. The resignation would come for the good of the city. His time is finished as he can't get his agenda off the ground.

Yard Sign built with recycled electrons

Debate coverage and C-SPAN shows

C-SPAN's coverage of the first presidential debate is at 1pm ET Monday, September 6, 2004. The only two to show were Green Party Presidential Nominee David Cobb and Libertarian Party Presidential Nominee Michael Badnarik. It was held in New York City during the Republican National Convention.

Sunday, September 5, at 7:45 AM EST The program Washington Journal hosts Janet Brown, Executive Director, Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), for live call-in. Ms. Brown will talk by video link from Boston about the status and history of presidential debates. She will respond to telephone calls, faxes, and electronic mail from viewers.

The telephone numbers to call to find out why all the candidates are not being allowed in the debates are:

Washington Journal: Democrats (202) 585-3881

Washington Journal: Republicans (202) 585-3880

Washington Journal: Others (202) 585-3882

According to a recent Rasmussen poll, 68% of Americans want Michael in the debates - including 67% of Republicans and 64% of Democrats. Sadly, Ms. Brown, the CPD, George Bush, or John Kerry are in the minority and don't want democarcy for America.

People who don't care about open debates are careless people with democracy and don't care about the American people.

The Badnarik campaign footed the lion's share of the bill for the debate in NYC, as the Cobb campaign simply did not have enough financial resources to cover the expenses. To be clear, the Badnarik campaign was more than willing to help out our third-party brothers. Several Green Party members were more than generous to help defray the cost.

No Yard Signs

Another great reason to avoid YARD SIGNS comes to from Florida. Election day in Florida was Tuesday. Days later, Frances, a hurricane, arrived. The political signs stuck all around the state are sure to be fast-moving in-flight objects making life more dangerous, ripping down electrical, phone, cable lines and causing nasty property damage as they scrape and puncture.

I hate yard signs. I doubt I'll ever spend a nickle on yard signs in any campaign.

Pitt football

Ohio University visits Pitt for a football game on Sept. 11. See the comments for invite to the OU tailgate on the Gateway Clipper.

Pitt's first game of the season, slated for South Florida has been wash out due to Frances. The teams are slated to meet either Friday, December 3, or Saturday, December 4. Good decision.

Music is important -- but out of bounds

Music has a great place and role in all cultures, and one day I'll put more muscle into the S6 efforts. But is Slam Bush.net out of bounds?

Personally, I don't think it is wise to be so "negative" and "slam Bush." -- But I am all in favor of dissent and am also all in favor of good humor. We need to all 'lighten up.' So, in some ways, this is good. See the comment section for the details of an event in Pittsburgh with Sala Udin and Bill Peduto.

Linux in Government: Will Schwarzenegger Terminate Windows?

Linux in Government: Will Schwarzenegger Terminate Windows?: "Linux in Government: Will Schwarzenegger Terminate Windows?"

Four years ago, in my platform for Mayor, I pledged to make Pittsburgh an open-source leader. This plank is sure to surface in future campaigs as well. But now, the rest of the world has passed our ability to blaze new trails in these elements of technology. We can still lead, but perhaps not be the first. In 2000 and 2001 -- the concepts of open-source were original stump issues. In 2004 and 2005, others have worked on the issues and those efforts are sure to lend credit to the challenges at hand.

When we go to open source, we'll have better tools and save money. It isn't always as simple as the A-B-Cs. But, technology is something that can bring serious advantages to Pittsburgh's public landscape, if we have the leadership that gets it.

Not many political contributions are available from the poor children.. , but then one always has Microsoft.

Pens Practice Rink part of plan

PG reports Practice Rink for Pens part of plan

Kansas City Start coverage Kansas City.com/mld/kansascity/business/9567443.htm?1c on process for new arena for NBA / NHL

News flash: Tom Murphy, senior vice president of corporate communications at Sprint Corp. is named to the Kansas City planning committee for the development of a new, indoor arena there. Sprint has agreed to pay up to $2.5 million annually for the arena naming rights.

Closed door dealings, presentations stink

The city committee that will decide who will design the arena will conduct its interviews and deliberations behind closed doors.

“I don't want anybody to disturb the committee from paying close attention,” said Kansas City Councilman Terry Riley, one of the nine members. “We don't want anyone lobbying for one group or another. We want the best team for Kansas City.”

Assistant City Manager Rich Noll, who also is on the committee, said the decision to bar the public did not violate the Missouri Open Meetings Law.

“It is a working session,” he said. “There's no legislative activity going on and no public policy being addressed at that time.”

Closed South Side Indoor Ice Rink needs attention

If the Penguins want to have a practice facility, as they should, how about a look again into the now closed, indoor ice rink on the South Side. The rink is closed. The facility hosted Pens practices and had a rental connection when it was orginally covered. The NHL All-Stars held practices there.

Better yet -- a swim pool

Rather than putting in a practice ice, I'd love to see an aquatics complex within the scope of the new arena project. The Univ. of Florida has a 50-meter pool and diving towers within its basketball facility, tucked behind the stands. The spaces are not wasted around the edge of the arena.

When we visited China, I was impressed at the ongoing use of the space along the edge of the downtown stadium. Ballroom dancing, roller skate rink, and a casual dining area was put into action along the ramps and landings of the outdoor stadium. The indoor arena in China hosted a stock market. Photos pending.

Wasted Spaces

Sure, PNC Park hosted a concert that featured "The Boss." Other business events occur at PNC Park from time to time, and at The Great Hall in Heinz Field. But, these are too few and too far between.

Its great to see High School football games as part of the Rib Cookoff this weekend. Let's hold more regular events at these facilities. Why are we not playing scholastic soccer at Heinz Field on the other nights this weekend? Or, in the spring, when the demand on the field is less, we should have events with local teams.

We have public facilities and they should be used around the clock in other uses and around the calendar with other special events.

Bye-bye UV Loop

UV Loop Goes Bye-Bye -- PG coverage
The end of the road for the UV Loop is of little suprise to me. It was far too empty. Its course was bad as well. Sure, the support was amazing. But, it wasn't sustainable. It was a good idea that needed constant evolution.

After riding the UV Loop on a number of trips, mostly just for fun, I noticed how it wasn't effective. Same too with the new water taxi. A course re-do was needed. A few back and forth routes would have been much more productive. And, in turn, would have been sustainable. Some of the suggestions I made to the organizers at the outset of the UV Loop would have been significant. It needed 10 to 100-times the ridership, and the loop wasn't able to provide those passenger trips.

China and the Olympics

My pre-Olympic prediction that the Olympians from China would perform very well in Athens rang true. The strong medal winning performances by China and Japan make Beijing in 2008 something special. The I.O.C. President, Jocques Rogge was in agreement and spoke highly of Asian nation performances. The Athens Games is where Asia has awakened. He expects Asia to be a full strength for the Beijing Games.

The women's volleyball team from China held a practice before they played the US squad -- and they didn't even use a ball. The announcers watched the practice, 90 minutes, and not a ball to be found. Final game score, 25-18.

The divers from China are amazing. They took six out of eight gold medals. Photos from our trip are yet to go online. However, any of the 10-year old divers in Chengdu would have been able to breeze to a WPIAL diving title. And, there were 20 or more very talented, hard working kids in the pre-teen ages.

China got 31 gold in Athens, but had a goal of 20 and had 28 gold in Sydney. Japan had 16, making the best for them in 40 years. South Korea was 12th with eight golds.

Ping pong -- China got three out of four golds. After the games more ping-pong comes into the spotlight as a diplomatic tool for China and its neighbors.

In badminton, China got three of five golds.

China looms large in swimming, gymnastics, rowing, track-and-field, shooting, basketball and weightlifting. Ethiopians passed at the end of the 10K by said that they assumed they were a full lap ahead of the Chinese runner, Xing Huina (women).

Others to watch include South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan Indonesia. The South Korea women archers won an 11th straight gold -- completing a 20-year streak, unmatched in any other sport at the Olympics.

This blog

Readability and Attribution

The web's we weave are not always as visible and clear as they could or should be. In interest of time, fair use, and repetition, links to other articles are generally put within the rants that occur on this blog. I do a good bit of external linking on all of my sites.

From time to time I should thank, in public, the editors and writers of the PG and Trib. Of couse their conent is used most often for fodder to these fires. I do try to give them credit in each instance. I avoid academic footnotes, but should try to be less sloppy.

As I see clever and helpful writting, I often post a kind mention directly to the writers.

In the future, the aim is to use both the "blockquote and "ITALIC" formats to better isolate material that is lifted from the other sources.

First day of school

The kids are back to school, starting today. But, today also marks the first day South Vo Tech is empty. There was summer school.

Fifty percentage of all eleventh grade students score below proficiency in math in Pittsburgh Public Schools. For eleventh graders who scored below the proficient level of reading, there has been small improvement as the percentage decreased from 41 percent in 2002 to 39 percent in 2004.

The percentage of African Americans that scored below proficient in math is a staggering 82.5 percent in 2004 (virtually the same as the 82.7 percent in 2002 (but an improvement over the 84 percent in 2003)). The results are slightly better on the reading part of the test: 72.1 percent scored below proficiency in 2004. The group scored better than those who took the test in 2002 (74.1 percent), but not as well as those who took the test in 2003 (71.8 percent).

The students who are closest to graduating and entering the workforce and higher education are doing the worse.
Policy Brief in PDF formatted version from the Allegheny Institute

My suggestions: Split up the Pgh Public School District with one HORIZONTAL slice and a number of vertical ones for the K-8 levels. I'd love to see three to five new school districts come into formation. Each district with its own elected school board, superintendent and geographical area would be constructed for students from K to 8th grade. Then the existing PPS District would be city-wide and only need to focus on the education of the high school aged students.

I coached at New Trier High School, named at the time by Town and Country magazine, the very best public high school in America. It was. The New Trier school district is a 9-12 district. It has a number of other districts that feed into the high school. Each of the other districts, smaller, are able to focus upon the education of the younger kids, grades K-8.

Pittsburgh's Public Schools, as a district, is too big. It is too hard to get volunteers, focused attention on learning, and other challenges into solutions.

My kids are excited about the new school year. My hope is that everyone feels the same and that the desires to learn never fade. And, as a parent I know that I can best impact the kids in their youngest ages. And, when it comes to teaching higher level lessons, like those found in high schools, great teachers are necessary. We need to overhaul our approach to education in Pittsburgh, and a split in the district would be a great solution.

To hedge his adventure, our oldest boy did ask last night if it was still possible to take Semester at Sea. Not this year Erik.

Wearing blame IS productive

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/04246/372097.stm

Ed Rendell, PA's Governor, doesn't yet understand our situations.

PG article (link above) quote: "I know people think this city is crying wolf, but there's no question this city is out of money by December," Rendell said.

We are crying "wolf" and pointing fingers at Mayor Murphy. The city is out of money because the wolves ate it all! The city has been chewed into nothingness. The link between the call of wolf and the lack of funds might be lost with the Governor's understanding.

"We've been trying to point the finger of blame for over a year now. That's not productive. Regardless of who's to blame it's up to us [in Harrisburg] to solve this and give Pittsburgh the opportunity to get back on its feet financially."

Wrong. Going to the root of the problem is productive. Wearing blame and putting blame where blame needs to reside is critical to fixing our future. To be productive is to learn from history. To make the same mistakes again is what we all fear.

Harrisburg has a role in the solution, now that Pittsburgh is so far gone. However, it is NOT up to Harrisburg to solve this. Why give Pittsburgh an opportunity to get back on its feet financially when it will not come face-to-face with the necessary blame and will repeat the same tragic outcomes?

Summary:
It is one thing to be a big spender. However, it is another matter when the spending is illegal. And, when the plan to overspend breaks the city's charter, our law, not once, but for two years -- then we have a real problem and case of repeated mistakes. Mayor Murphy and the City Council passed budgets that were not legal -- TWICE in a row. This is sure to happen again.

The mayor and the city's leaders have yet to realize what they did is wrong the first time yet alone the second time. The third time is upon us.

Rendell repeated yesterday that some kind of state-approved tax reform is "absolutely essential" for the city.

What is really essential for the city, is the understanding that we can't sidestep blame. When Ed Rendell gives cover to Tom Murphy, again and again, we won't be able to heal. The healing begins as soon as Tom Murphy and his cronies go to the private sector.

Murphy's next spending plan is due to the board Sept. 22. Expect that the city won't be able to live within its means. We expect the wolf to bear its ugly head again to devour some more.

Great debate news in PA, finally

Debates for US Senate to be inclusive - PG article

PA will be treated to U.S. Senate debates with all the candidates. Great news.

Democratic challenger Joe Hoeffel has persuaded debate organizers to allow the Constitution Party's Jim Clymer to take part in the candidate forums set for Oct. 2 and 9. The debates' co-sponsors, which include the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania said Clymer and Libertarian Party candidate Betsy Summers will receive invitations to participate. Thanks Joe!

Originally, the debates, included only Specter and Hoeffel. Both the League of Women Voters and the PA Association of Broadcasters are known to often exclude candidates. Both got pulled out of another shameful moment by a candidate leader.

The talk of debate criteria is bunk. The only criteria that should be used at this point is the ballot itself. If a name is on the ballot, then the true criteria has been established. All debates should be opened to all candidates in a fair and even manner. The state's arcane election laws take a second seat to the state's bigots who host debates and don't include everyone from the outset.

From PG, link above: "We consented to the Hoeffel campaign: 'If you want Clymer in there, we'll stick him in there,'" said Richard Wyckoff, president of the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters.

I prefer that the president and the association consented to a sense of fairness, not to the Hoeffel compaign. Moment to moment justice is needed, especially with the watchdogs.

The story here isn't about any campaign trying to pull votes away from another. Rather, our shared well of democracy counts most of all. And, those who would choose to spoil our American landscape with lame journalism needs to be discounted by their peers, or in this case, just given a scolding for showing their true UN-Democratic colors at the outset.

Gag Orders for Men and Women in Blue

Being 'open' is a value that matters greatly. I hate to witness "closed society" methods.

The ACLU has threatened to sue Pittsburgh's police chief if he doesn't lift rules restricting the free speech rights of city officers. Officers can't speak to the media after disciplinary action, even after an internal investigation is finished. Only police management can address discipline.

The rules also bar officers or other employees from publicly criticizing superior officers or fellow employees and require officers or other employees to clear any critical comments through the chief's office.

The policy is vague, confusing and has a chilling effect on speech. Meanwhile, this blog is open to postings, even unsigned ones.

Phili set to clean our clocks

Phili, the city of brotherly love, home to fast Eddie, our urban counterpart to the east -- home region of two of my sisters is doing thing that sizzle past what we can muster in Pittsburgh.

Olympics to Phili in 2024

Wireless Society

Pittsburgh should and could take the leader's role in wireless access, if we get a mayor who cares in these matters. Our present mayor can't even get what is due to us as part of the Comcast Cable agreement.

Pittsburgh shouldn't put together a bid package for the Olympics. However, we should be a region that trains an Olympian or five. Plus, we do need to get that cooperative spirit flowing around here. We can't even host a marathon, yet Akron has two.

GOP Convention Schedule

Sent from a friend: Tonight's GOP Convention Schedule

Back from the beach

We did a lot of surfing at the beach, but didn't encounter anything like this. However, the Green Tree Great White Sharks ruled the summer swim league again in 2004. We'll need to update the final standings, but all went well with the team, our young swimmers, the coaching and such.

National Taxpayers Union smashes Tom Murphy

Politicians Increasingly Use Property Grabs to Pad Government's Bottom Line

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania -- Using subsidies and city-financed loans adding up to more than $50 million -- $150 for every person living in Pittsburgh -- Mayor Tom Murphy lured Lazarus and Lord & Taylor to relocate in the city. However, both upscale department stores closed before they even reached the sales target that would require them to start payments on their taxpayer- financed loans.

http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=35180

ntu.org

September 24 workshop @ school, family and community

Joyce Epstein, Director of the Center on School, Family, and Community Partnerships at John Hopkins University, will be facilitating a workshop in Pittsburgh on September 24, 2004 at the PFT (Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers Building) on the South Side. The workshop will be conducted from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There is no cost for attendance.
More at PPS.CLOH.Org.

Fat Lady Sings at North Side Amphitheater Plan

Trib coverage of A.I. policy.
PDF version of policy brief.
Comments in the Trib PM from 4 faces in the crowd

Is this another "done deal?" The design is bad. The plan is bad. This should not occur with PUBLIC funds. The land is already secured with public muscle. Do it on your own.

All the Kng's Men Could NOT put Humpty together again

Just as Humpty fell, so too went our city. Pittsburgh has stumbled. To fall is bad. But, dealing with that tumble is more telling. Pittsburgh can't get back up. Pittsburgh won't be able to fix itself with the help of all the king's horses and all the king's men. The present leaders, i.e., the king's horses and men, can't work together. Do they have the creativity needed in these times.

I've said, for years, that the king's resources joined with those of the people would make for much better solutions.

Mayor Murphy's veto on the City Council agreement with the I.C.A. (Intergov. Cooperative Agency) (one of the oversight boards) is telling. The Murphy VETO came at the final hour, just before the agreement would have been law. Murphy should have spoken sooner in the process about the amendments. And, furthermore, as soon as the legislation passed City Council in an 8-1 vote, Mayor Murphy should have made his veto known.

"Time is of the essence," said Councilman Alan Hertzberg, one of the five who voted to sustain Murphy's veto.

To Tom Murphy, who has had time pass him by, the rush to fix Pittsburgh is secondary to the rush to stand his ground.

Gov. Ed Rendell stepped into the dispute, pledging in a letter to lobby the Legislature to diversify the board.

Dear Gov. Rendell. Send the letter to lobby for diversity to YOURSELF. I've been harping that the ICA overvsight board mistakes would be repeated with the GAMBLING Panel for PA. Paid $145,000 per year, we see that diversity is expected with the appointment by Gov. Rendell of a women for the last slot, Mary DiGiacomo Colins, a former associate in the Phili D.A.'s office.

McCabe, the sixth member of the gambling board, has been called, Rendell made the final appointment in early September. Legislative leaders of both parties appointed four members. Rendell gets to pick three. Each of the legislative appointees has veto power over board actions. One of the seven appointees is a women. One is an African American. Five are white males.

"It's a moral issue," said Carlisle, who voted to override the veto. "I do want to see a woman on that board."

Take aim at the Gambling Board too. And, don't fuss after the train leaves the station. Don't take a lead from Tom Murphy, as he is always way behind the curve on everything.

Arguing to sustain the veto, Councilman Sala Udin warned his colleagues that they would alienate the governor if they insisted on keeping the amendments in the agreement. "I don't want to get in a fight with the primary friend we have in Harrisburg," Udin said. "We will need Gov. Rendell's support."

With friends like this, who needs enemies? Gov. Rendell is no friend to "democracy" nor "the people." If Gov. Rendell wanted to change the diversity on the oversight board, he could and would.

Shields punts on second down

Councilman Doug Shields, building on Udin's argument, cautioned that state legislators will refuse to give the city new taxation authority if council continues to squabble with the oversight board over the amendments. "We're not in the driver's seat anymore," he said. "We don't hold the cards to bargain."
Of course you don't hold the cards. Of course City Council is a short step away from meaningless. Of course Tom Murphy is powerless. However, to punt, or to give up, is hopelessness personified. Doing nothing insures nothing gets better. Will the downward spiral ever even slow when elected leaders not only squander the power that is their duty but prohibit others from doing somethig about this king and his court?

Swiftly, .... ROTFL

In a prepared statement, Murphy said, "It is my hope that council will move swiftly to adopt the new cooperation agreement, which will allow us to move forward in a cooperative spirit with the [oversight board]."

ROTFL = Roll On The Floor Laughing.

UN-democratic Democrats

Trib article
Tom Murphy is fighting to keep a question off of the ballot. He and his type don't want the citizens to make choices. The opinions and methods of self-determination -- yet alone the voice of the people -- seem to be meaningless to him.

On Monday, the city's leaders formally appealed a Common Pleas Court decision that allowed a union referendum on the Nov. 2 ballot. Murphy administration lawyers contended the referendum would violate the Act 47 plan, but Judge Eugene Strassburger ruled the city can only challenge the response times if and when voters approve the ballot question.

Firefighters' union attorney, Josh Bloom, said Murphy is trying "to find a loophole to gag the people's right to be heard on the matter of public safety."

The firefighters put their muscle behind efforts with signature collection. They have the "RIGHT" to get a ballot question before the people on election day. The move by the mayor to go to the courts is classic. He and the others who are in leadership roles don't want to be democratic. They don't act like Americans.

As for the question and the issue --- I'm not sure yet what to say. Research is needed. But, an appeal is still looming. In a certain way it makes sense to follow the story of supression now while there is still an a hope to foil the election day choices for the voters. But, once the appeal is resolved -- then it is due time to see the article on all the sides of the question and cover the issue as watchdogs should.

In other news, county executive, Dan O, (Dem) is locking horns with another Dem, County Council's Rich F. This is a power grab. They struggle for authority. Various roles from the different branches of government have been established for a reason. I don't need to see uncooperativeness going to the courts.

The county executive has a role. The county council has a role. The roles are not alike. The rules are clearly written and esablished. If there is some wiggle room -- work it out like leaders should. Don't sue each other. Fix the problem.

Leaders who can't lead -- should leave. Or, bicker. Go to court. Then welcome to the private sector on the next election day.

When Dems are undemocratic and when Dems are running to the courts at such frequent intervals -- then it is time for all the Dems in this city to "think again."

We can't reach our potential as a region when our dems in the executive office can't get along with the other dems in the other branch. Tom Murphy vetoed an 8-1 vote yesterday concerning the ICA agreement. Lead -- don't lurk and just suprise and bring suits. He is hopeless, and he can't lead -- rather -- LEAVE.

Highland Park's grandeur reborn as blood sucking worm

If the fountain at center of renovated entry to Highland Park is the best we can do, other than the merry-go-round slated for Schenley Park outside the main Oakland Libraries, then hell is at our doorstep.

In Highland Park, the past is present -- and I don't want to go there. The major projects at the RAD parks are jokes.

In the early 1900s, a grand Victorian entryway greeted visitors with imposing bronze sculptures, clustered Ionic columns, a fountain, reflecting pool and lush formal gardens. At that time, and for decades after, Highland Park also had segregated swimming pools. One pool for whites. One pool for colored. Fact. History.

Do these bone-headed leaders want to turn back the clock to that time as well?

Pittsburgh used to be the 4th largest city in the US. Did the garden party attitude make us flourish or is it what has pushed us to our decline?

The best we can do in our parks these days is to crave the 1930s with bricks and stone. On the North Side, the Riverview Park was slated to get and upgrade -- running water. That is right. A sink with a pipe to flow water and a real toilet that flushes. Such advancements in 2004.

If this is the most refreshing sign is a gush of sparkling water 15 feet in the air, then shame on us.

The water seen spouting comes from crews testing new pipes that have been laid. Union crews? Over the next few weeks, the fountain may be on or off, depending on the testing schedule.

Meanwhile, over the next few weeks, kids will be growing, all the time, never switching to off. We can freeze our city budgets, but we can't freeze our kids and tell them to wait.

According to city workers, no official opening has been scheduled yet. Furthermore, this is a project that has taken more than six years to come to testing stages. it has taken forever in terms of the live of a six-year old. Wait some more.

Can walkers, residents and passers-by in 2004 catch an early peek at a fountain that went to hell in 1930s?

So, we've driven our parks into the ground for say about 70 years. Hold the phone. We have had one-party rule in Pittsburgh for 70 years. So, the Dems have been in charge of the city for all this time and yet we LONG for a return to that era.

"It's beautiful," beamed Annette Marks, 67, a lifelong resident of the East End neighborhood that was laid out over 300 acres in 1778. "It's going to be just like it was."

The parks will be beautiful as soon as we break the rule of one party politics. And, as soon as we set new priorities that go beyond the brick top layer. As soon as we figure out that our kids can't be raised and made whole by only UNION workers -- and we engage all of the community -- then we've got hope for the future.

Some remember, goldfish in the pond. Now, one only needs to walk a quarter mile to the Highland Park Zoo and Aquarium and find sharks. We spent millions on places for our fish to swim, yet put $0 in the city budget for places for our kids to swim.

Anyone who wants to see goldfish -- go to the pet store and get some yourself. If you want more a more exotic fish experience, go to the zoo.

What gurgles again might speak with forked tounge.

"They're bringing it all back, reverting to what we had originally. It's going to do a lot for this neighborhood." --- what about the segregated swim pools? is that next on the to-do list?

Or, really, what could happen -- Oxford Development can build a sports complex in the burbs -- such as in Monroeville and Cranberry. Coaching shouldn't happen in Highland Park -- as the local swim team needs to have its rates doubled, (really).

The reflecting pool did get mentioned in the Park's Master Plans -- and the swim pool got ignored, other than as a place for selling refreshments.

Financial assistance also came from Allegheny Regional Asset District funding earmarked to aid the city's parks. We need to "think again" about the RAD funds for the city parks. Those funds have been a major waste. The RAD tax should be eliminated.

The project will cost about $700,000 -- and it cost about that much to run the swim pools in 2004.

"...It seems a little impractical to use funds when the city could be doing other things."

Phase two of the project, more horticultural work, won't happen if I'm elected. The rainbow of seasonal color, will be seen in our kids and the opportunities presented to them to work upon -- not in the dirt. The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, a group working with the city and Highland Park community groups to rebuild the park, should be NUKED and folded into the new Pittsburgh Park District.

As the temperature steamed toward 86 degrees, the fountain was one of the coolest spots at the park yesterday -- if you don't count the swim pool.

"It is certainly tranquil," said Marette Simpson, a minister from Monroeville, jogging past the babbling fountain on her 3-mile run. "I'm ready to take a dip in it." My point exactly.

Original article by edyer@post-gazette.com.

Heart breakers and silver liners

Lauryn Williams, you go girl. The silver medal was a fantastic. The heart breaking part of the story is that she will return to Miami -- the city she now calls home.

Do get that degree in finance. By all means, graduate. Sadly, here it is again. Our most talented youth must leave Pittsburgh to flourish. Our regional brain and talent drain is still a big monkey on our backs.

This issue, the youthful exit from the Pittsburgh region, ranks high among all issues. Our debt is high too. And, the fact that our latest fixes are lame (tunnel under the Allegheny River for light-rail service to the lower North Side) compounds the steepness of the climb ahead.

but the linkage can't be ignored. The youth are going to leave when the debt soars. Debt is but a burden on today's youth. And, let's fix matters today by giving the shaft to the kids of today -- by closing recreation centers and swim pools.

The kids are getting more than zilch. They are getting the debt and the closed door treatments.

L.W. speaking about the 2005 World Championships is quoted to have said, "It's going to be great," she said. "I can't wait." All in due time. Great athletes excel in the management of time, space and relationships.

Bush Olympic Ad

Bush Olympic Ad
The ad is okay. It is a stretch to say that democracy is spreading like a sunrise. We do have two other nations in the Olympic Family who are what they are. But, look at things a little bit further into history.

In 1976 South Africa was not permitted to send its athletes to the Olympics. Meanwhile, a young swimmer, Jonty Skinner, held the world record in the 100-free -- establishing the new mark in Phili of all place. Since I'm name dropping on the blog, Skinner's book, Tide Teamwork, was the first book I published. Now, South Africa's conditions are different. Plus, the men's 400 freestyle relay from South Africa is second to none. And, South Africa might be hosting the Olympics in the near future.

I think it is fair to celebrate the arrival of athletes into the Olympic Games -- from all the corners of the world where there are some serious hurdles for participation.

Should that celebration be part of a political advertisement is a good topic for debate among those with little else to worry about -- or -- for those of those nations mentioned. So, it is fair ground to ask the athletes from Iraq and Afganastan what they think about the add. But, humanity and sports questions should come first.

Local slant

Not many words would need to change to get that ad positioned for Pittsburgh. In 1972 there were 40 democracies in the world. Well, we could turn back the clock in Pittsburgh and say there were 600,000 residents. Today we are half of what we were.

Then you could say, in 2003, Pitsburgh had 19 recreation centers. Today there are none. (whatever the number is as this is a moving target) And, in 2003 there were 32 swim pools in Pittsburgh, in the summer of 2004 we had 15. Mayor Murphy, we hired you to operate our facilites and manage our shared spaces. You shuttered them. Our chance for hope isn't re-opening Lord & Tayor nor Lazarus -- but working with communities, parks, parents, coaches and kids --- to make better lives for us all.

Water Polo -- shooting at the keeper

The Russian goalie seemed to be a target of the US men's squad in Saturday's action at the Olympic aquatic venue. The shots from the US side were not crisp. Aim for the back of the net!

I was able to work with Coach Monte Nitzkowski as he authored a book text book, US Tactical Water Polo, published in 1994 by my indie, small press. I gave away more books on water polo in PA than we sold here.

From the bio link above, you can get two sections of the book in PDFs: the first 24 pages, 158k, and chapter 5, (pages 119 to 180), 365k.

Notice the work with fonts and the technical delivery with the publishing elements within the book. Polo has plenty of Xs and Os to describe, (i.e., hole defender, etc.). Every graphic and every statement in that 375 page book was reworked in these efforts. Even as publisher I've had some amazing fan mail from readers of that book from around the world. One coach read the book three times, start to finish, and took his team from last to first place in one season. This book was and is the best ever for the sport of polo.

We do need to get more and more into water polo in western PA. This winter the kids at Fox C. played some polo and we injected it into one AM practice per week in November and December. Plus, we had a join polo practice around Christmas with Carrlington HS. Back in the early 90s as I was working on the book and coaching at Plum HS, we started polo and played 2 nights per week. One night was for older folks and was co-ed. Great fun.

WPIAL or city HS swim coaches wishing to have a dedicated session or three on water polo, any time of the year, give me a call and I'll come out with the balls, caps, and understanding of the game to lead a mini-clinic.

The NA HS coach, Mr. C.S., credits water polo for great advancements to the overall swim program's performance. The NA girls team went to states last fall.

Highland Park Pool is a great place for water polo. The deep end is perfect.

Pittsburghers of the year

Our sprinter, L. Williams sped into the 100-meter final today behind Yuliya Nesterenko of Belarus. Perfect so far. Both two-time winner, Gail Devers, and gold-medal favorite, Christine Arron, of France were eliminated.

Perhaps Williams will get 30-under-30 awards this year. She is a mover and shaker.

The Pittsburgher of the year -- in the running -- the gent who donated to get dad to Greece to she his daughter in her finest hour.

USA Basketball Team -- shoots a brick in first game

The first game, and the first basketball competition -- the Dream Team -- shot a brick. It was an upset as historic as it was inevitable, reported Sports Illustrated. Beaten soundly, dominated. Now it is time to "bounce back."

Puerto Rico, homeland of a Pittsburgh hero, Roberto Clemente, is much like a 52nd state. So, the sting of loss might be easier to shrug away.

Great PG article about the Clemente Sports City Dream is a great read.

What will be reported in Pittsburgh and around the nation when the mayor's office goes to someone who is not of the old-school democrats' clan? Historic, inevitable?

The bigger they are, the harder they fall. Does Tom Murphy have the swagger in political circles that matches that of the NBA stars in an Olympic Games?

Trivia quiz: the mason artwork appears on the side of the building. What one? Where?

Update:

The USA squad was 2-2 in pool play and US players still expected to win the gold medal. Meanwhile, parties broke out in the streets in Lithuania. The US squad (if you can call them a team) departed Athens in the semi-final round. Argentina deserved to win.

Elephant mascots, death, tour, uploads

Wondering minds need to know about this recently uploaded image. The GOP mascot is an elephant. Tomb mention too???





Grant, 6, Erik, 9, and I are pictured above. This is one of the 125 slides in Erik's presentation given at his school this year upon our return from China.

Enjoy the PDF or HTML version.

Old news for clarity - bio notes for Mark Rauterkus

Old article: "Mark Rauterkus, a South Side resident and former swimming coach, also has stated he will run for mayor.

Since the record has been wrong before, here is a refresher on some facts that the journalists often miss.

Correct:
stay-at-home father, registered Republican, not sure about running as a Republican (again), but certain to not run as a Dem, two sons.

'We need new direction from Grant Street. We don't have a holistic approach to our leadership,' Rauterkus said.

Grad of Ohio University (not OSU) with a degree in journalism and went to grad school (no master's degree earned) in physical education at Baylor University.

Rauterkus has worked several years as a swimming coach and instructor. He has coached at Green Tree, Canon-McMillan High School, Plum High School, Fox Chapel Area High School, and New Trier Swim Club in Illinois.

My birth: May, 1959, year of the rooster!

Mike, I guess my "under the radar approach" is working

Mike Seate's column

If you'd really like to talk about the Mayor's race, in a serious way, then let me know. I'd be glad to meet with you.

Four years ago, I announced my intention to run for the office of Mayor, around August 22. Throughout the next four months, I worked and attended more than 100 community meetings / interactions. This sechedule included time at Three Rivers Stadium, gate C, prior to a STEELER Game, with a Trib photographer there on assignment. Nothing ever ran in the newspapers despite repeated calls to the Trib editors.

On New Year's Day, 2001, Josh P., then 18, sent out an email press release saying he was running for Mayor. Josh and I had met and talked on a few instances and with other issues. Both of us helped the Greens in 2000.

Starting then, I got to ride Josh's coat tails in terms of getting coverage from the Pittsburgh media outlets.

More Trib coverage was spent on coverage of those NOT running for mayor than the individuals and issues who spoke with positive actions and real solution discussions.

The illustration of captain and a sinking ship fits. Well done there.

The "I told you so" gang -- however -- was more with fellow naysayers and less to do with Doug Shields and Bob O'Connor, guys who have been on the watch for many turns in the downward spirals.

D.Q.ed and whistleblowers

Aaron Peirsol, US backstroke star, coached by David Salo, Ph.D., of Irvine (yeah Nova) was outspoken about the fly kicking going on in the 100 breast from the gold-medalist from Japan, Kosuke Kitajima. In the 200 breast, the swimmer from Japan kept fair under the water, and still won.

Peirsol gets serious props from me for speaking up when he did and as loud as he did. Being a whistleblower isn't easy. And, he didn't have a personal stake in the breast events. Peirsol is a backstroker. Well, then again, there is the Medley Relay yet to occur. But, he went out on a limb to raise a stink when conventional wisdom and the coaches of the squad did nothing.

By the way NBC payed good attention to the flap -- after the award's were given. But, from my living room in Pittsburgh I could easily spot the extra liberties taken underwater by the swimmer from Japan, and a couple of others. So, the watchdogs, the broadcasters, could have been more aggressive on the coverage the the stroke as the race unfolded and heats were conducted. So, Rowdey gets a B+ for the the attention to the flap, but it was a little late.

Then in the finals of the 200 backstroke, Peirson got nailed for an illegal turn. Is this were they retired figureskating's French Judge?

After the appeal got into high gears, the D.Q. was erased. (I have yet to see the race.)

Peirsol was more than two seconds ahead of the silver medalist. When the D.Q. was flashed on the scoreboard, the crowd began to boo. Still standing on deck, the 21-year-old Californian shrugged his shoulders in disbelief.

"It sounds pretty bogus to me," Peirsol said. "I don't know what it is and I've got to go figure it out."

FINA overturned the disaqualification in 30 minutes time, just before the medal ceremony.

Goddard of the UK was second much off the race, only to get passed by two at the end. He slapped the water in disgust. He was edged out for a medal by 20-hundredths of a second after Peirsol's win was restored. With grace, the US squad has done little or none of those types of outbursts.

In the 100 back, Peirsol took the gold and fellow US teammate, Lenny Krayzelburg, got fourth. Lenny had won both the 100 and 200 in the Olympics in 2000. Furthermore, both are friends and now swim with the same club team and are coached by David Salo. David's team put six swimmers on the USA squad. The club's web page has the clever slogan, "Sent Six!"

The frst lesson here ---- it is okay to speak out. Speak out in times when it might come back to harm you as well. When you are at the top of your game, and when you are right, it is okay to speak out. We need more to do so.

The next lesson has to do with backlash. When bad things happen -- good officials, good people with power, need to go out of their way to make sure things are straight. The Olympic officials missed a bit in the 100 breast. I expect some officials were with a big blush -- if not red faced. A couple might have been flat out angry -- as seen in the D.Q. of Peirsol. But, it didn't stick.

US Women's Volleyball Spiked

The US Women's Volleyball team -- 6 on 6, indoors -- are in an uphill battle in Pool B. The team lost a match to a squad who had yet to win a game in its past two encounters.

In the past, my indie small press published a number of books on volleyball. The bulk of those titles now form an E-book collection on volleyball and are on the web in PDF format for gratis downloads.

The 2004 Men's USA's Olympic Coach, Doug Beal, has been a by-line author in the volumes found in the link above.

Western PA has great tradition in high school volleyball.

Fresh Ideas for Just Harvest Silent Auction Contributions

The annual dinner for a non-profit group, Just Harvest, is looking for exciting donations for a highly anticipated Silent Auction. Their search for fresh new donations hit a motherload with creativity here. Can you donate something too?

It can be a weekend at a country home, a painting, knitting lessons. Do you know a local sports figure that would be willing to give lessons, do you have a clothing store where you can donate an outfit or maybe a local television or radio personality that's willing to tape an outgoing message on someone's answering machine? No matter how big or small it will help to raise money to fight hunger in our communities.

If you have a donation please contact or have the donor contact Shauna at (412) 431-8960 or mail to her at Just Harvest, 16 Terminal Way, 15219.

My offerings are expected to include:

One hour of help and hand-holding to establish your own blog and web/email space.

Two hours of badminton instruction, play, games with equipment provided by Coach Mark at a local park or your facility / function (schedules permitting).

Thirty minute private swim lesson at the Oliver Bath House in public swim time (schedules permitting) -- if the pool reopens.

Other ideas welcomed. These above are rather "tame."

The wind in Athens isn't always from Mother Nature

in the past, I've been hard on NBC's coverage of the Olympic Games, I've been critical. In 2004, NBC's efforts have been better than expected. However, as a whole, trash talk isn't just of the realm owned by the USA Men's Basketball Players. The overall tone of the coverage from the print journalists is now 'officially' making my skin crawl.

Steve Rushin, of Sports Illustrated:

" ... The Olympics have more down time than federal prison...."

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/olympics/2004/writers/08/17/oly.downtime/index.html

In another story, Frank DeFord asked if Michael Phelps would be in wrestling and other sports for the duration of the games.

How many stories of empty seats do we need to endure? Sports Illustrated's Jon Wertheim headline: Empty Olympics stands lead to lack of excitement and lousy television. Frankly, the TV is fine.

Perhaps, the fans are interested in wading past the mud so easily flug by the journalists. So, perhaps, we've got a man bites dog story unfolding. Clueless journalists might be jumping on the wrong bandwagons.

Negativity wants to rule the day. This negativity, (U.S. boxing hasn't been competitive for several Olympics -- as lead by Richard hoffer) does nothing but illustrate lazyness from writers. Case in point: Don't tell how poor the boxers are going to do until after you've introduced the individuals and perhaps the coaches.

New Bio and Eco Lab in Hill District

bio lab Volunteer!

Political Victory in Allegheny County for voter database access

The county voter database has been opened at a reasonable price. This makes for a major victory for open government. Thanks to David Tessitor. and the ACLU for bringing the case against the elections department before a judge. If you missed the news, catch it at 9x9.CLOH.Org/departments/politics.

Celeste Taylor, formerly of the NAACP and Good Schools PA, said she'll be down at the county offices to pick up her copy tomorrow.

Home team is golden

Mens Springboard Syncro Diving --- wow! Greeks get wet and soak in the victory.

The Greek's won. A number of other teams tanked. Nice event for spectators, even with a half-time show.
ATHENS — After four days of Olympic competition, Canada can lay claim to a bronze medal in diving and the fool in the pool.

Now security is going to a higher level.

Men's 200 meter freestyle FINALS

This is going to be great. Watch Michael Phelps on his turns. He'll stay in the steamline longer and have a more explosive push-off. If he takes the gold, he'll need to cook off those walls.

Ian has better distance per stroke.

What a race. Can't wait.

Badminton, Costas called it a CULT Sport

We are going to see plenty of badminton in the Olympics, said NBC's Bob Costas as the opening parade of athletes was being conducted. Great!

But Bob also said that badminton was a "cult sport." Hold the phone. Badminton is great. It is great in the backyard, and, it is great as a real sport too.

When we went to China, we got into badminton, big time. At our 4th of July party we set up five courts in our local park. At our family vacation / reunion, we set up a court and wore out the grass with four continual days of play.

If you want to play some badminton, post your comments below. We'll be playing again real soon.

Furthermore, he mentioned badminton and tied it to another CULT sport, the winter sport of CURLING. Hey, he is hitting too close to home. I love curling too. I was slightly involved in the formation of the young Pittsburgh Curling Club. It meets throughout the winter months and is a lot of fun. I have pitched the idea of turning the now closed, indoor ice rink on the South Side, located behind South Side Hospital, as a curling center.

Humm. Why not make the closed ice rink a curling center in the winter and a home for power badminton in the summer.

This reminds me. I did offer to help coordinate the badminton competition for the 2005 Senior Games to come to Pittsburgh. The badminton and volleyball will be played at Pitt's Cost Center. A sponsorship of Sports Court has been established to get the flooring. It would be great to get that flooring into the now closed ice rink, before and after the event.

Ruffle feathers. Play badminton.

In case you missed it: Call me a snob or enthusiast, but what was that word within the NBC News Coverage from Aug. 15, 2004 about badminton?

Pittsburgh's Marathon Dies

Marathon article in the Post-Gazette with "post-it comments" from Mark Rauterkus

Our marathon-running Mayor, Tom Murphy, is at the helm of the city as the Pittsburgh Marathon dies. He can't advance his own agenda, yet alone now, run in a marathon in a city that he claims as his primary residence.

I have plenty to say about the Marathon in Pittsburgh.

In the end, once we establish a new Pittsburgh Park District, we'd be much better along.

Furthermore, when I'm mayor, I'd re-establish the Pittsburgh Marathon -- but do it in a much different manner and style. There is no way we should spend $1-million to host a marathon.

The Marathon saga, woven with the Great Race, makes another great example of the lack of cooperation from the administration, the lack of creativity, and fumbles of leadership.

Open Debates . Org

Go to http://opendebates.org/ and sign the petition.

Lump Camp takes another holiday

The summer's schedule has been full of highs and lows -- by design. We've come to perfect the concept of LUMP CAMP. Simply put, lump camp is when you sit around and do nothing. Act like a lump.

For me, lump camp means fussing on the web, writting, reading, playing, going to the park with the kids. Even going swimming is a bit beyond the true spirit of lump camp. We will get to Ream Pool one of these days.



For the boys, they get to play. And, as a special twist, about three weeks ago we put in a new rule. No TV. We unplugged the boob tube. It isn't going back unless we are watching the Olympics.

Today, as the photo show, we had a rebel with crafts in our midst, an out-of-town relative. Foiled.

So, the plan calls for some really easy days because there rest of the summer has been full of wild adventures and travels.

We went to China for five weeks.

Then to DC and played basketball on the mall with the Harlem Globetrotters.

Two weeks of scholars camp for Erik.

Music camp for a week for half-days.

A trip to Chicago, staying at Hamburger University.

Three days at Kenyon College for Summer Insititute, a church camp.

A week at Virginia Tech for SUUSI, our favorite summer church camp.

Five days in eastern PA at a state park for a family reunion, saying at the Weisel Hostel.

Zoo camp for a half-day for both boys.

Trip to Maine and Boston.

Trip to Montana, yet to occur.

Time will tell if I get all of these photos online.

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I'm not sure, yet, if I want to put the subscribe buttons on the main blog home page. So, for now, it goes within one article.

An interface to the other email subcription services is brewing, some how, some way.

Mailman at Rauterkus.com

CLOH.Org contact sign-up

Sports Scribes, Coverage, Journalists, -- Olympics in 2004

"Athens, in many ways, resembles a police state this week," Wise said. "You can't walk around without seeing scores of young Greek men with automatic weapons affixed to their waists."

Sure, there will be tension this week. It will be interesting to see if the USA squad stays within the rows as it enters the stadium for the opening parade. But, the humanity can still make for a buzz that is easily able to overcome the automatic weapons.

"We've had State Department briefings," said Terry McDonell, the managing editor of Sports Illustrated. "If the unthinkable happens, we have to be ready to be able to explain it and be inside the news."

Sportswriters and editors get annoyed when they hear suggestions that their beat isn't newsy in the first place. Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, some in our sports departments are very happy to say that they are covering ENTERTAINMENT, not sports, not life, not news. And, when it comes to the harder, more interesting, more newsworthy elements -- they take a pass.

Sports are GAMES of TIME, SPACE and RELATIONSHIP. All elements matter in sports. Meanwhile, entertainment is like a movie in a cinema that can be played over and over again, in any place, in any time. Staged entertainers can use lights and really move one's emotions and build a following and toy with 'relationships.' But, that isn't sports. The distinctions are clear to people with real understandings of sports.

Sportswriters are professional reporters. They need editors who are real journalists too, even with a city beat.

Pittsburgh is a sports town -- despite the sports departments in the newspapers. The coverage is frail in certain areas. Steelers talk is always going to rule the day, but, the spectrum is wide and the day is long.

"Our strategy is to do the unusual, a story about someone unexpected who wins a medal and get the back story on an unexpected hero," Hoenig said.

For those of sports, this is not unusual. It is expected. Bring it on.

Drugs & Olympics

The drug wars happen in sports too. So, there are two wars on drugs today, one in society and another in sports. With both, as is the case in all wars, the media gets twisted and manipulated. Furthermore, those in various camps are often cluess as to what the others are doing.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/olympics/2004/track/08/13/greek.sprinters.ap/index.html

In the story above, my hunch about the Greeks pulling a clever trick seems to be off the mark. It would NOT have been much of a suprise me to see them step out of the hospital to light the torch at the opening. Something is still unsaid.

LA Times reported on Monday, day 3 of the games:

Off the field, the International Olympic Committee canceled a hearing for a second time with Greek sprinters Costas Kenteris and Ekaterini Thanou, who missed a drug test before the Games and have been withdrawn by the Greek Olympic Committee pending a hearing with the IOC. Kenteris and Thanou were accused of failing to report for a drug test.

New Jersey: Former Jersey City Mayor Bret Schundler

The resignation sets the stage for a shift of focus in the Garden State. There is still more limelight to be given to the to scandals of the outgoing Governor. However, the questions of who will be the next elected governor become more pressing.

I'm pulling for the former Jersey City Mayor, Bret Schundler. Bret, a Republican and fiscal conservative, won my attention as he was a mayor in a town that was overwhelmed with Dems. The landscape in Jersey City is even worse than what we face in Pittsburgh. One party rule was everywhere. Corruption came with that there as well.

Bret's story is one that Pittsburghers should study. Bret will be running for the head spot in NJ as Pittsburgh seeks its way in the 2005 mayors race. So, we share a common time-line.

Big events often happen in sets of three. Resignations happened with governors in CT and NJ. The third could be, in our wildest hope, that of Tom Murphy, mayor of Pittsburgh.

Olympics: Phelps and Spitz

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2004/olympics/2004/swimming/08/13/bc.eu.spt.oly.swm.phelps.relays.ap/index.html

Word has begun to leak about the swimmers' relay selections for the USA Men in Athens. This is the story within the story around the swim pool, until the real splashing begins.

The coach, Eddie Reese, has a puzzle to handle. He is well suited to make the right decisions. He is fantastic. He is cool. He is above all the pressure. Everyone else outside of that circle of the squad now in Athens is but a pea-brain in these matters.

Coach knows best. Period.

Furthermore, don't rush these decisions. People don't need to know in advance, as things could change. The athletes need to prepare the best they can, and things will flow from there.

I love Michael's approach. He is going for ONE gold medal. That's the best approach. His coach too, Rob B., is great and knows best. Wonderful coaching and approach.

Meanwhile, the media needs to appreciate the quest and the voyage, as well as the team dynamics. I hope the press and broadcasters allow the stories to unfold and don't become the story themselves. No need to hype a slant at the Olympics. Just get out of the way and tell it straight.

I'm going to be glued to the tv starting tonight for the opening and the lighting of the torch. I could post a million times here, or else, make a new blog. I'm not sure what to do.

Actions on Friday the 13th

http://pctv.cloh.org/scoop/keith-and13x3.html

Rip, Weap, Pray

We're just back from a family vacation. Our gang gathered for five days in Eastern PA at a state park with lots of swimming, kayak, fishing and plenty of together time.

Sadly, the vacation for the Leech family of the Pittsburgh / Fox Chapel went with a tragic ending. Swimming and beach play clashed with a rip tide and the father, Tony, age 44, (same as me), died.

Sons, ages of 11 and 10, got caught in a rip current off the beach on the Pacific. Leech and a local resident went into the surf to save the boys. Three survived.

This past winter it was my great pleasure to coach and interact with a swimmer on the varsity team at Fox Chapel Area High School. Her uncle was taken. In these times, my family and I pray for all in the Leech family. Such a tragic loss.

A Trib article, Rip currents: An uncertain threat makes for a meaningful content for a family huddle.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/search/s_207382.html

About Mr. Leech: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/trib/pittsburgh/s_207386.html

In the weeks to come, our family will be headed out for another swim in the ocean. This painful loss will press on our minds, always. My, how conditions can swirl and things are never again the same.

Welcome to the neighborhood

Move over Cheesecake Factory.
A new, indie, Cinci-based bookstore is to come to the South Side. Welcome to the hood.

Pgh Biz Times article

The city-wide literacy figures, however, are something to ponder. Bet the sales are less than third best in the chain. Time will tell.

What jerk would go ahead and change a petition question?

Trib News

A petition was circulated. People signed it knowing that what they signed would HOPEFULLY be put upon the ballot in November.

Only a complete jerk who was trying to submarine the democratic process would CHANGE the ballot question.

Now the Mayor's office has grounds to fight to get the ballot question removed from the ballot. The question isn't the same. People didn't sign for something else.

Furthermore, any group that goes to the effort of putting a petition drive together should have a well crafted, meaningful question to propose to the citizens and to the voters. They must have their reasons, right?

I really think we need to have MUCH MORE ACCOUNTABILITY as to WHO were the ones to change the question as it headed to the ballot. Names, offices, phone numbers.

"The (county) election department counted the signatures when the petition was filed and they appeared to be OK," said Al Opsitnick of the Allegheny County law department. "But we rephrased the question because it was not clear that the Home Rule Charter would be amended."

In court papers filed by the city, officials argue that the "county does not have the power to cure a fatal flaw in the question presented to the electorate for signature."

Was it Al's decision? Is Al a jerk or what?

Mistakes: Being Very Anxious

We don't have a convention center hotel in Pittsburgh, but those hopes are being revived by the probable slots parlor that seems to be in Pittsburgh's future. The slots revenue could bridge fiscal gap, a $34 million gap. So, once again, the marketplace in Pittsburgh becomes a slave to bogus spending with lots of zeros in the price tag.

PG news:

"We're very anxious to get the project moving," authority Executive Director Mary Conturo said.

Citizens --- talk like that above makes me scared. There is good money going after bad money. And, the leadership in this town is anxious to spend more and spend it quickly.

Friday's meeting will be the first between the authority and Forest City, the firm selected by Mayor Tom Murphy and former Allegheny County Chief Executive Jim Roddey in April 2003 to build the hotel.

The bid process, the open evalution, the design contest, the competitive call --- all happened when?

Forest City and the Sports & Exhibition Authority are nearly a year behind schedule in breaking ground for the hotel, originally planned for fall 2003, and still have not finalized a formal development agreement for the project.

Wrong! The hotel is five years late. It should have been done along with if not BEFORE the convention center. This isn't one year. The convention center should NOT have been built without the hotel. We've got a WHITE ELEPHANT on our hands now. Prior planning fumbles can't be sugar coated into some simple one-year blunder. This has been a long-term, repeated, warned of blunder.

"It's just an organizational meeting to get the project moving forward again," she said.

Another great reason why Mayor Tom Murphy should resign. His agenda is stalled. He can't do even what HE wants to do. Pittsburgh can't heal itself with him in office.

Still, the fact the authority and Forest City are talking again is good news to many local tourism officials who believe the lack of a headquarters hotel is preventing the convention center from reaching its full potential.

This might be good news for the tourism officials -- and it is BAD news for the locals. The local tourism officials can all fit within a parked taxi cab in Pittsburgh. Local blood suckers might make for a better description.

Members of the Greater Pittsburgh Hotel Association have been split on the need for a new hotel, however, with proponents believing it will help bring more conventions into town and opponents fearing it will create a glut of rooms and drive down rates.

Even those in the industry -- not local tourism officials -- are split on the hotel's merits. We have a real hospitality trade. We have a real B to B infrastructure and trade show marketplace. But, what we also have is a small minority of folks who are quick to be on the take.

Old News: The lack of hotel space near the convention center has been an impediment to some groups considering Pittsburgh for conventions.

[412] Welcoming the HOPE of Olympic FEATs --- and join casual chatter at a blog

Hi All,

The Olympic flame sparks to life in Athens in a matter of hours. I love
these times as the world gets a single focus to celebrate humanity. It would
be great if everyone with a weapon or in war could take a vacation from the
fighting.

Violence has hit hard in our areas too, sadly. There is much to do.

It seems to me that if we were spending more time in efforts to create
literate Olympians, every week, we'd be much safer, stronger, and smarter in
our quests to know ourselves and our communities.

Today's invite and personal plea: Please visit and comment at:

http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/

You too might consider starting your own blog. Then we can link their
feeds in a hub in the weeks to come.

Stay safe. And GO OLYMPIANS!



Ta.

Mark Rauterkus http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/
xCoach at Rauterkus.com http://CLOH.Org http://Rauterkus.com
412-298-3432 = cell

Getting Volunteers for Community TV Efforts

If you'd like to be part of a new class of recruits to become a "PRODUCER" at our COMMUNITY TV STATION, PCTV 21, then contact me. Mark@Rauterkus.com

Tour Invites Expected

On the advice of a blast email reader, we'll be setting up a tour or two of the PCTV 21 Studios. A simple, short show-and-tell can be organized before we get into the education and details of being a volunteer for full productions.

Thanks for the consideration. This will be a lot of fun.

To Few Olympians in Western PA

To few -- PG Article

We have two in Athens. That is a sad statement for both the region and city. In 2000, we had five. We should have dozens.



I don't agree with Dejan, the writer, that we have "an abundant, varied selection of athletic programs at the formative levels and beyond." We are failing our kids, ourselves and our stretches to world-wide performances.

Perhaps those that are closest to the issue who struggle for a definitive answer are fooling themselves.

Pitt has a rising NCAA Division I program, but it lacks a track that can host a meet. Finishing in the middle of the pack in the Big East and fielding Olympian are not so similar. Good point to make that NONE on Pitt's track team come from the city league.

One city league facility, South Stadium, has a track. But, there isn't a program there that uses the facility. And, no public uses occurs at the stadium. If we have facilities and no access -- we don't have facilities. Just as with the Rec Centers. They are there -- but not open. So, first things first.

Yes, we do have some problems within the coaching ranks in the region too. You can't expect coaches to flourish when given so many challenges that have nothing to do with the athletes and the sports challenges.

"Healthcare Not Warfare" - Rally on Aug 15

www.healthcarenotwarfare.org

Running on empty

By December, the city is projecting a cash shortfall of $8.8 million, said the budget director. The City Controller's office said the shortfall could be up to $12 million.

The budget director said, "When we see this picture, we just don't sit back." Meanwhile, the city's reserve fund had been in past years as great as $80-million. That fund balance has dropped by $20-$30 million each of the past few years. Now it is running to empty.

Fear not. The city is not hiring. Many are retiring. Attrition is high.

Sala's first line of questions was to the timing of additional borrowing. The slogan "tax-and-spend Democrats" won't fit any more. Rather the new slogan needs to be "borrow, spend and beg" -- and in that order.

"We know that 2005 will bring a balanced budget," said the budget director. To bad the last two years saw illegal budgets.

Every year for at least the next three year, Pittsburgh will need a tax note at the start of the year to borrow some $30-million.

The hole that Mayor Murphy and the others in leadership positions have been digging is very deep. And, the real digging has yet to end.

South Side Summer Street Spectacular Sucks

The South Pittsburgh Reporter newspaper on the 2004 event: "It's the worst thing that South Side ever came up with," citing the "nastiness, urine, and puke."

Seniors, especially, suffer as they are fearful of leaving their homes.

You've got until August 13, 2004 to fill out a five question survey from the South Side Local Development Company. Like they didn't even plan this years event until June. Rush to give that feedback.

Residents' Survey

Business Survey

The event should be terminated. There are many other, better things that should be done. Frankly, I'd love to see the field used as a ballfield.

The South Side Spring Sports Showcase should occur with partnership of Pitt. Pitt's spring football game should be played at South Stadium. A parade should go from UPMC's football facility to South with players, coaches, tailgaters, and other sports activities throughout the neighborhood.

Football Fumbles with City League out of sync with WPIAL

My rant is a follow up to the call to merge with City League with the WPIAL and the spledid story in the Trib.

Mt. Washington's REAMS swim pool - opening

Citiparks has some 16 swim pools that did NOT open this summer. These are mostly outdoor, neighborhood pools that were opened last summer until mid August. In August 2003 a major ax swing shut down most of the pools and closed the Recreation Centers.

One of the now closed pools, in Mt. Washington, next to a Rec Center, is about to re-open. Thanks to a lot of pushing and pulling by some locals and community folks -- money has been raised, water has been flowing, and the grounds are ready for patrons.

REAM pool had its big, grand opening on August 6, 2004.

Learning of the terms of the deal will be interesting. Happy swimming. Photos soon.

Fire Response Time on Ballot - show for PCTV?

So, the firefighters got a petition together and a question seems to be on the ballot for November's election. Well done. I love it when issues are put to the people for a vote. Democracy (with a small "d") rules.

A pending idea is floated at S6, my special events sub-site. Read it there and react if you can.

http://S6.CLOH.Org/whynot/fire-response-show.html

US Senate Race goes five ways -- it seems??

PG article

Thanks for doing the whole story in the story of Specter and Hoeffel debates. Seems that the two men are going to have two debates. But, the race is larger than just a D and R. I'm glad you, Jeffrey Cohan, and the PG made mention of Jay Russel of the Libertarians.

But, the Constitution and Reform parties made a submission of signatures to get candidates on the ballot -- but -- what are the names of these men and/or women?

Please cover the entire story. Our democracy (small "d") depends on the watchdogs doing their jobs to the fullest.

And, when are we going to hear about others beyond Nader who have gotten onto the ballot for the President? I've asked Tom Barnes -- and don't have a reply yet.

$15,000 for Highland Park fountain

City council voted to spend $15k on the entrance and fountain at Highland Park. This is a turn-back the clock upgrade to make the entry like it used to be near the turn of the century -- not 2000 but 1900. That's a great example of how Pittsburgh's leaders sum up the progress in our parks today.

X-Game, Dirt Biker

http://pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/sports/nationalsports/s_206486.html

The photo in the Trib on Aug. 4, 2004, page C13, of the X-games athlete, Chris Doyle of Plum, on an airborn bike, without a helmet is shameful. The photo editors, photojournalist and athlete should be scolded.

Good to see the coverage in the paper. Good luck in the games. But, athletes and media pros need to be responsible to the physical body and only loosers are wreckless.

The headline, Taking to the air, might be fitting. Going to the air isn't the hard part. The trick is landing. Good to see the photo off of the web site already.

Wylie Ave deal -- typical smoke and folly

So, let's have a public authority own the land and the developer own the buildings. Then we ask for a PILOT (payment in lew of taxes).

Sala, it is underhanded to have the land owned by someone and the building by another. That is underhanded and underfooted and under the foundation junk wrangling.

The sweetheart deals are deals that are not freemarket deals. The well of the marketplace has been tainted with poor deals in the past. Real development and real prosperity would flow into Pittsburgh once City Council stands up to these lame efforts.

"It is a new day!" said Councilwoman Carlise. However the old way of thinking came when it was time to vote. This 9-0 means more of the same.

Another one bites the dust - PDP boss departs

Ms. Geyer, head of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, (PDP), is leaving town with no major disappointments during her tenure. Accomplishments include bike racks, new trash cans and a back alley facelift.

Fifth - Forbes failures and the lack of a downtown grocery store .... ho hum.

The PDP can go away, along with its executive director.

Our city: a time of JEOPARDY

www.Post-Gazette.com/pg/04216/355666.stm

The College Championship shows are to air from the Petersen Event Center, one of Oakland's finest food courts. Its grand prize is $100,000.

Quiz, Answers, Comments, -- all welcomed.

Quiz Utility at CLOH.Org

You can roll your own quiz for placement on the web at the URL above.

Wishing again for a MN political landscape

Those open-minded folks in MN are at it again, freethinkers making their points, based upon what and how one thinks -- not based upon a lockstep of mental numbness and norms established by some conformity.

St. Paul Mayor Randy Kelly (a DEMOCRAT) Endorses President Bush

snips of news... St. Paul, MN -- In a remarkable show of support, St. Paul Mayor, Randy Kelly announced his endorsement for the re-election of Bush-Cheney.

Democrat Senator Zell Miller (D-GA) stated, "I am really pleased Mayor Randy Kelly has joined me in the effort to re-elect George W. Bush. Mayor Kelly knows, as I do, that George W. Bush represents the values of America's heartland. President Bush is a man Democrats and all Americans can rely on to stand by his commitments to fight terrorism and support our troops. The President is also making sure that working people keep more of their hard earned money and send their kids to schools that give every child a good start in life. These are values that my fellow Democrats and all Americans can support."

"Mayor Kelly today again proved what I have long known: he is a fine man, whose first priority is not partisanship, but the wellbeing of St. Paul and the entire nation. Mayor Kelly recognizes that jobs are being created and that tax cuts have stimulated that job growth. He has done the same for St. Paul. He also understands that we are engaged in a war on terror and now is not the time to change horses in mid-stream. The mayor has never been afraid to reach across party lines to get things done. I applaud him for following his conscience and his concrete convictions. This is bipartisanship at its finest,” stated Bush-Cheney '04 Minnesota Campaign Co-Chair Senator Norm Coleman.

Kelly concluded, "With just over 90 days left before the election I feel extremely confident that the message, priorities, and policies of President George W. Bush will better serve America and the people of Minnesota over the next four years."

The point of this story is to show that people elsewhere break ranks. People in power, even mayors, can endorse candidates of other parties. In Pittsburgh, we are too old school. In Pittsburgh, our "lockstep style" is a turn off. In Pittsburgh, those who break ranks are forced to vote with their feet and leave town. Pittsburgh is half of what it was because of the culture that demands lockstep actions. As we shrink in our freedoms and are held back by past anchors, our local dispair will sustain.

What elected DEM in the city would endorse a Republican?

The conventional wisdom and standing joke is that the devil himself could get 100-percent support and endorsements with local Dems. Could that be true? I have heard variations on the same story many time on the streets in Pittsburgh.

However, it was very interesting to note that Al Fondy of the Teachers Union passed an endorsement of Senator Spector, R, -- for re-election of his umpteenth term with a huge campaign war-chest. How can that be explained? Perhaps it is don't back the looser? Perhaps it is don't buck the establishment?

On the flip side, there are a number of GOPers who would and do endorse Dems. Jim Roddey won't help a Republican candidate. Western PA's Barbara H supported the Dem for PA Gov. while she was holding state office as a Republican.

KQV voters had it right in poll about paying for conventions

The Libertarian Party asked the Republicans and Democrats to pay for their own conventions. The Libertarians say the Republicans and Democrats each receive $14.5 million from the Federal Election Commission. Security costs add another $25 million. Taxpayers foot the bill for nearly $40-million for each event.

Do you agree with the Libertarians that the Republican and Democratic parties should pay the full cost of their conventions?

Results: 90 percent of the voters did agree with the Libertarians.

Get the data at http://www.kqv.com/phonepoll.php?vo=9

Afterschool Funding as Campaign Issue

Candidates for school superintendent, mayor, Congress and even President are vowing to increase funding for afterschool programs in recognition of the importance of the issue and its appeal to voters.

Support for afterschool makes good political sense. A poll conducted for the Afterschool Alliance last fall found that nine in ten voters (94 percent) agree there should be some type of organized activity or place for children and teens to go after school every day that provides opportunities for them to learn. The poll found that support for afterschool was strong across all demographic and party lines.

U.S. Conference of Mayors

In a measure of the growing support, the bi-partisan U.S. Conference of Mayors rallied behind afterschool programs in June, 2004. At their 72nd annual meeting, the mayors passed a resolution calling on President Bush to increase funding for the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) afterschool initiative to $2 billion next year.

The resolution urges federal, state and local governments to increase their investment in afterschool programs because afterschool programs "provide a way for communities to reduce the risk of youth involvement in crime, violence, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and gangs" and "enhance the physical, social, emotional and moral development of youth."

Kerry Proposal

John Kerry recently unveiled a plan that would provide full funding for the 21st CCLC initiative. The "School's Open 'Til 6" plan would significantly increase funding for afterschool programs, keep schools open later, and offer reliable transportation so children can get home safely.

Senator Kerry also pledged to fully fund the "No Child Left Behind Act," which would increase afterschool funding from its current $1 billion level to $2.5 billion in 2007. This would give afterschool opportunities to 3.5 million students - a significant increase from the 1.4 million children currently served by federally funded afterschool programs.

"Increasingly, candidates from both political parties recognize that afterschool is a winning issue because there is a compelling and urgent need for safe, reliable afterschool care," Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Judy Y. Samelson said. "Today in America, one in three middle school students care for themselves after school. With juvenile crime spiking between 3 and 6 PM, we all benefit when youth are in safe, learning, supervised activities."

Support from Senator Dole

In another noteworthy move, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole (R-NC) wrote a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee leaders in July urging them to increase funding for afterschool programs in Fiscal Year 2005.

"My request for a modest ten percent increase of $100 million would allow 140,000 more youth - 3,200 in North Carolina - the opportunity to participate," the Senator said in her letter. "It is a step in the right direction... I believe that an investment of $1.1 billion for the 21st CCLC Program is the right thing to do for our communities, for working families, and for children throughout America."

"Senator Dole has demonstrated that she is a true champion for children by asking for an increase in federal afterschool funding next year," Samelson said. "Afterschool funding has been stalled at $1 billion for four years, and millions of children are missing out on the learning opportunities and other experiences these programs provide. As an important new voice, Senator Dole's actions have helped to raise the level of debate on this vital issue in the Senate."

More information on how afterschool advocates can raise the issue in the context of elections, in a nonpartisan way, at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org. Click on the "2004 Elections Guide" button on the upper right.

Bloggers: The New Media Or A Fad?

Neither. Bloggers are "new media" and hardly a fad. But, it isn't really new. We've been blogging for years.

Big Media Tried To Steal Bloggers' Thunder at DNC

Blogging Has A Role In National Debate, But It Isn't Journalism

This blog, by the way, has as its principle author an old-school J-School grad. I have a BSJ degree in Journalism from Ohio University. So, blogging can be done by journalists and can be real journalism too.

Bloggers Make Their Presence Felt At DNC and the GOP Invited Bloggers to its convention.

GOPers in Pittsburgh get nods for various roles

Ron Hicks, a Republican committee member from the South Side, as Solicitor to the County Republican Committee. Ron has assembled a team of twelve Assistant Solicitors who-were they to join forces-would be one of the most formidable law firms in the city. This legal team played a critical role in the GOP's only statewide victory in the last two years when
they worked diligently on the re-count in Susan Gantman's ultimately successful campaign for the Superior Court.

Ted Owen of Pine will head the Leadership Committee, a group established under our bylaws to ensure that party officers benefit from the insights and experience of other party leaders and elected officials.

The single most important aspect of our work is the development of strong local committees, and it is appropriate that our newly elected Vice Chairman, Dave Majernik, will chair our committee development committee with the able assistance of Dave Weinstein from White Oak. Both have proven track records as the leaders of committees that have shown how to win local
elections even in solidly Democratic areas.

You can't win elections without raising money, and I am pleased that David Jason of Scott has agreed to head our Finance Committee. He brings an innovative approach to this important role, and he will be ably assisted by the committee's vice chairman. John Rangos.

Lou Nudi will chair a committee to review the county party's bylaws and propose any changes they believe to be necessary. A number of local committees have asked that we offer a "modular" set of bylaws they can adopt after making any changes their own circumstances may warrant.

Next year, there will be a minimum of six vacant seats on the Common Pleas Court bench. I have appointed a distinguished lawyer and long-time Republican activist, Woody Turner, to head a committee to interview and screen potential candidates. Last year, Jill Rangos showed that it is possible for a Republican to win one of these seats, and she is today the only Republican on the county bench here. We can elect one or more Republican judges next year, but only if we recruit candidates of the highest caliber to carry our party's banner.

Finally, I have asked Marcy Reed to head a candidate development committee to recruit and work with potential candidates for important city and county offices.

FUND-RAISER FOR JOE PETERS

One of the most important positions to be filled in this year's election is Auditor General. It is vital that we elect a Republican to rein in the spending excesses of Governor Rendell and the Democrats in Harrisburg. I am organizing a fund-raiser for Joe Peters which will be held on Thursday, August 19 at Wildwood Golf Club from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Melissa Hart and Tim Murphy have agreed be our special guests, and nearly every Republican representing our county in the state Senate and House will serve on the host committee. For RCAC members, tickets are $75 per person. We have more information about this event in next week's update.