Dear Friends of Liberty,
All over the United States, Libertarians who conquered whatever ballot access hurdles they made third parties face, are now finding that they still have only a third-class status, with that status enforced by one group: the Media.
In Texas, James Werner, LP candidate for Governor, was denied access into a debate organized by Belo Corp. They allowed four people, including gadfly Kinky Friedman, to debate, so the old argument that "Three's a crowd" couldn't be used this time. He's now moving forward on a lawsuit.
Also in Texas, Bob Smither is running against a Democrat and a write-in Republican in Tom DeLay's former Congressional district. He's the only candidate on both the Special and General elections ballots. According to both MSNBC and the New York Times, Smither doesn't even exist, but the write-in sure does. Luckily, the locals do know he exists, because he's walking the district, working hard, and quickly gaining steam in that race.
In Washington State, Bruce Guthrie, the Libertarian candidate for U.S. Senate, mortgaged himself to the hilt to the tune of more than $1 million for his campaign to meet debate requirements, and while the Media sponsors did finally agree to let him debate, it was touch and go there for a while, they still wanted to deny him equal access. It took $1 million on the table to even raise the question of having a fair debate.
In Ohio, Gubernatorial candidate Bill Peirce's campaign staff, in response to the Media locking him out of the debates, has resorted to wearing chicken suits in order to get any sort of press attention at all.
In Connecticut, Phil Maymin, candidate for the 4th District's congressional seat, had a stellar showing in a three-way debate, but pollsters won't include his name in their polls since he's gotten very little media play. The Media ignores him, since they, in turn, claim that they have no polling data supporting him.
This trend continues all over the country, in almost every race where we have a stake. This isn't new, of course. In 2004, my friend, Michael Badnarik, Libertarian Presidential Nominee/Candidate (on the ballot in all states), partnered with Green Party Nominee, David Cobb. They got arrested the night of the second debate between Bush and Kerry, right in front of the debate hall in St. Louis. Still, none of the major media even covered the story. A search on CNN.com that same night found zero articles on "Badnarik", because they had never covered him or his campaign.
In Arizona, I'm (Barry Hess) in the debates, and I'm holding my own. Some say I've won both debates so far. It has become clear that my true opponent in this race is neither Janet (D) nor Len (R). It's the second hand reporting and coverage of the debates, primarily by the newspaper of record, the Arizona Republic, that distorts our message, and attempts to marginalize any prospect of 3rd party gains. But most importantly, poor coverage violates the inherent right of the voters to judge for themselves by having all of the facts to consider.
The AZ Republic wrote, "Don't blame yourself if you haven't heard of Hess or much about his politics." Somehow, it’s supposed to be our fault when they refuse to give fair and equal coverage to all candidates on the ballot. You see, since Libertarians stand on principles, and refuse to take so-called “clean” election funding (which is out of the pockets of taxpayers), we are not “legitimate” candidates, running "real" campaigns. Never mind that they ignore all of our outreach events (or report them as only taking place at "gun shows"). Never mind that they ignore endorsements, fund-raisers, press releases, and all of the other tools that we use, the same as the other candidates. Somehow we just aren't campaigning 'hard enough' for them to take notice.
The actions of the AZ Republic, a big corporate media player, owned by Gannett, are unconscionable.
Other Libertarian candidates across the state are also suffering at the hands of the Republic, including Richard Mack, who is the only anti-war candidate in that race for Senate. The same 'skewing' happened with some of the Republican Gubernatorial candidates in their primary. Some of those candidates are now openly endorsing me over the Republican who won the primary, and they are joining our complaint about media bias on the record, and on streaming video for all to see.
I'm tired of it, I'm sick of it, and I'm fighting back. Effective immediately, our campaign will be attacking public enemy #1, the true opponent of 'clean elections' and an informed electorate, the Arizona Republic and their biases in reporting the facts.
Today marks the start of a new Hess For Governor campaign fund raising effort to raise at least $25,000 to purchase radio and print ads specifically attacking the blatant and shameless media bias of the AZ Republic, Arizona’s "newspaper of record".
Proceeds from this fund raising drive will be used to purchase spots in reputable media sources that have fulfilled their civic and moral duty to completely, accurately, and fairly report on the race for Governor of Arizona. These funds will not be used to attack the position or programs of Governor Janet Napolitano (D) or Challenger Len Munsil (R). The ads will specifically target the media bias of the Arizona Republic, and how it has abused the right of the public to have all of the facts about all of the candidates; not just those that support the Republic's own editorial biases and its desire to steer government policy and public opinion.
Now is the time to step up to the plate. We need to send a strong message to Big Media that we aren't afraid to go after them directly, and no longer play along, just waiting for them to throw us a bone once in a while.
On Nov 7th, every voter in Arizona will have three choices for Governor, not two.
Our goal: We will make sure they know which reporters can count to 3, and who just stops at 2.
(Sometimes, they'll count to 2.1, or 2.5, and then tell us we're lucky they even
mentioned us)
If you want to know what sort of radio and print ads we'll run, it'll be that simple a message:
We trust the voters to count to 3, but the Arizona Republic stops at 2. Wonder why?
If you are not convinced, go to the website and watch the two debates so far, and then compare what you see in the debates to the reporting the AZ Republic and others have done about it. Then please donate so we can go on the offensive against the real enemy of Libertarians and Democracy: Media Bias.
Help us send a strong message to the Media giants that "We're mad as hell. We're not going to take it anymore!" Donate. Even a small donation will go a long way in paying for print and radio ads. If you'd like to donate matching funds, please let us know. We know that the community can generate major funds when the cause is a good one.
As always, I remain at your service--
Barry Hess, Vice Chair of the Arizona Libertarian Party, and Candidate for Governor in Arizona
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Somehow, it’s supposed to be our fault when they refuse to give fair and equal coverage to all candidates on the ballot
Got a great email from another Libertarian in a campaign, Barry Hess, of Arizona. He's hacked off, as I have been for years, about the piss-poor media coverage and how they've grown fond pulling the wool over the eyes of the consumers and voters. (Blogmaster edited the text, slightly.)
Millcraft may get $11M in funding - Pittsburgh Business Times:
Millcraft may get $11M in funding - Pittsburgh Business Times:This is bad government.
Bob O'Connor said that the project wouldreceive no public subsidy. So then Fast Eddie, Gov. Ed Rendell, says otherwise. Bang, we're out $11-million!
And, the $11-million is only the start.
I don't have a favorable look upon future state investment for our downtown. I hate it because that means the free market is going to get put into the back seat and nothing else is going to happen, unless it comes with state money.
The price of downtown property just went up with bone headed statements like this. The people who are sitting on property just to speculate on them now don't need to sell them. They can wait it out and make a killing once the state enters the scene with a big old check.
Meanwhile, downtown slids deeper and deeper into its funk. Meanwhile, worthy projects elsewhere don't get attention.
Downtown is an anchor, a weight, a drag on the entire region. And this money means that the weight just got a lot bigger. The burden for picking our selves up with self reliance just exited the scene, if Ed Rendell keeps his job.
Ed wants to be important. I want the marketplace to be more important.
The state should see to it that there is a reliable funding stream for mass transit, not a bailout for some downtown building speculator.
Millcraft just arrived on the scene. Millcraft gets the upside from government money. Meanwhile the bill goes to the taxpayers. Meanwhile, the downward spiral that is downtown won't change.
With Bob O'Connor's approach, we had hope. He said no to eminent domain. Bob O'Connor said we'd take the fix up in baby steps without big development dollars flowing there from public sources. Bob's approach had merit and was a big change from the boneheaded deals of Tom Murphy.
Now Ed Rendell comes along and screws it all up.
Yes, downtown is important. But, it is important enough to leave government the hell out of the way.
When Millcraft gets this state money, it means that there will not be more oganic re-development with housing because property owners will sqat longer on low performing assets, waiting a generation or more for the big-fat government check.
Furthermore, we should never be in a conversation that talks about subsidized housing for rich people.
It would be better to take that $11-million and make a fix-up program for home-owners with low interest loans to get new roofs, sidwalks, porches, furnances, and such.
Spread the money around so no one person gets access to more than a $5,000 loan -- that gets paid back. That is what the URA used to do all the time. Then the purpose of the URA and government changed, for the worse, to become some mega developer for projects that always seem to fail.
Here is another idea: Take the $11-million and use it to cover this year's cash shortage associated with the new Convention Center. The Convention Center has a huge operational cost that is not being covered. The Convention Center has a bit of debt for the building of that 'white elephant' structure. The Convention Center's needs are now spilling over to gobble up $2-million from the RAD Funds. The RAD funds go to pay for Regional Assets, such as library costs.
The $11-million is nothing but the rich getting richer. And, the overall project will suffer. And, we've already given some serious money and benefits to the developer with cheap sales prices.
Plus, it is not as if this area has been neglected. The Lazarus and Lord & Taylor and numerous parking garages have been funded with serious investments. Now we're tossing good money after bad deals of the past. But the city and state will get the same failed outcomes.
The poison was about to come out of the system -- and leave it to Rendell to really screw it up.
I am firmly convinced that the state investment in this project is going to make for critical injury to Pittsburgh and the state. Investing this type of money in this type of project is a boneheaded deal.
To heal the city and the region, we must "Lay The Shovel Down." We must "Think Again."
And, what really hurts, is that Bob O'Connor had gotten that message. Bob wasn't going to cook up a deal with these types of funds to cause such harm to us all.
I have no confidence in the sitting governor nor in Millcrafts ability to own all of downtown. Nor do I want that to occur.
High rise living in the city should not come with public money.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
WPXI.com - News - Injury On Rugby Field Leads To McCandless Teen's Death
WPXI.com - News - Injury On Rugby Field Leads To McCandless Teen's Death Victim Suffered Concussion 1 Week AgoOuch. This is too much.
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
Save the date. Do you think the PA House will give us any gambling reform by then?
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board Category 2 – Pittsburgh
Monday, November 20 – beginning at 9:00 a.m.
• Station Square Gaming, LP
• Isle of Capri
Tuesday, November 21 – beginning at 9:00 a.m.
• PITG Gaming, LLC
State gives $25 million for Point State Park work
State gives $25 million for Point State Park workSigh.
I love parks. I've done a lot of study of urban parks. I'm making some educational videos on parks now, even.
Today I couldn't bring myself to going to this event. I felt that I might have needed to have cooled off with either a swim in the fountain or a jump into the river.
Point State Park was closed for the September Great Race -- because of a facelift. That already started.
This is a joke. The money won't come as we don't need to pave the sidewalks in gold, just to make it a 'golden triangle.'
The new park next to the new underwater tunnel next to the the new T-stop (subway) with a glass roof....
"Lay the Shovel Down."
Their crap isn't going to help our quality of life in the city.
Switch from Adelphia to Comcast brings outages for Internet customers
My web services have been slow, very slow.
Switch from Adelphia to Comcast brings outages for Internet customers ... their cable TV works just fine but their Internet service is nowhere to be found.Meanwhile, in MN, the e-democracy debate put forth this very issue (broadband) as the second question for all of the candidates to address. I have not heard any talks about broadband in the PA election, other than the tax break given to Comcast because Rendell does a post-game football show in Philly.
Google to combine spreadsheets and word processing | TG Daily
Just the other day I blabbed about WRITELY, a document editing software utility that runs on the internet and allows for group work on documents in a word processor interface. Well, it seems that the tool is now with a new name and sibling for spreadsheets.
Google to combine spreadsheets and word processing | TG Daily Google is expected to introduce today a hybrid version of its online spreadsheet and word processing applications today. As such, Writely, the company Google acquired for online word processing, will lose its original name in favor of the new title 'Google Docs'. The new software, Google Docs & Spreadsheets, will offer an integrated version of the two free online services.
Since one of the key features is online collaboration with other people, the big advantage to Google Docs & Spreadsheets could be that document originators can more easily configure user access to their slate of files. Previously, there was no integration between the two, leaving users to set sharing capabilities for both Writely and Google Spreadsheets separately.
Goodell, Ravenstahl to attend W&J homecoming - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Have a good time.
Open container -- expect to spend the night in jail.
Pee in public -- expect to have your semester come to a grinding conclusion, without grades.
Deface private or public property -- expect to pay for the damages, give up your student ID, do hours of community service, and pick a new college for next year.
Burn a sofa -- transfer to Morgantown.
Miss recycled trash pick up days by more than 12 hours, find a new apartment as the landlord is going to eject you after a neighorhood complaint.
Can't park your car in a responsible way, turn over the keys and take the bus until you graduate.
Goodell, Ravenstahl to attend W&J homecoming - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Roger Goodell, commissioner of the NFL, and Luke Ravenstahl, mayor of Pittsburgh, will be among the more than 1,000 alumni at Washington & Jefferson College's Homecoming festivities this weekend. Goodell (class of 1981) and Ravenstahl (2003) will serve as honorary co-captains at the Presidents' 2 p.m. football game against Westminster. As part of pregame activities, Ravenstahl and Goodell will be joined by W&J president Tori Haring-Smith for the coin toss. Ravenstahl, 26, was the starting W&J placekicker for three years, and he still holds the school record for career field goals made and most consecutive extra points.Perhaps Luke can test drive his speech on how to behave in a community while attending college. Then he can deliver that to the college kids locally after he has worked out the bugs in the talk and associated, ramped-up enformcement issues.
Open container -- expect to spend the night in jail.
Pee in public -- expect to have your semester come to a grinding conclusion, without grades.
Deface private or public property -- expect to pay for the damages, give up your student ID, do hours of community service, and pick a new college for next year.
Burn a sofa -- transfer to Morgantown.
Miss recycled trash pick up days by more than 12 hours, find a new apartment as the landlord is going to eject you after a neighorhood complaint.
Can't park your car in a responsible way, turn over the keys and take the bus until you graduate.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Times Leader | 10/05/2006 | State high court upholds Romanelli ruling
Good news honny. I don't have $900,000 in debt. Times Leader | 10/05/2006 | State high court upholds Romanelli ruling But first, there’s the matter of finances. He said he owes around $100,000 to his lawyer, but the lower court opinion also left him owing roughly $900,000 in legal fees. About $90,000 is court costs, he said, and the rest is owed to lawyers for Bob Casey Jr., the state treasurer and Democratic hopeful for U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum’s seat. Undemocratic democrats are the slime of the earth.
USA Swimming Names Coaches for Pan American and World University Games
Lane 9 News Archive: USA Swimming Names Coaches for Pan American and World University Games Leading the U.S. men's team at the 2007 Pan American Games will be University of Southern California Head Coach Dave Salo. Salo, who has coached Olympic medalists such as Lenny Krayzelburg, Gabe Woodward, Aaron Peirsol, Amanda Beard and Jason Lezak, took over at USC after serving as head coach of the Irvine Novaquatics from 1990 to 2006. Salo also served as the head coach for the United States men's teams at the 2005 World Championships and the 2001 Goodwill Games and was an assistant coach for the 2004 men�s Olympic Team, the 2003 World Championships team, and the 2002 men's Pan Pacific Championships team. In addition, Salo was a women's assistant coach at the 2000 Olympics and the 1999 Pan American Games.
Today's Erik's Birthday -- and Tomorrow is National Pee Outside Day
Erik is 12 today. He has his own blog, but I'm not sure he has ever seen it. http://eRauterkus.blogspot.com.
It is a good thing he came out on the 10th, and not the 11th, as he'd be sharing his birthday with an activity that is very common around here (on the South Side).
Plus, he took more than 36 hours to arrive. Holding off to the 11th would have been, out of the question.
It is a good thing he came out on the 10th, and not the 11th, as he'd be sharing his birthday with an activity that is very common around here (on the South Side).
Plus, he took more than 36 hours to arrive. Holding off to the 11th would have been, out of the question.
Pee Outside Day, From Uncyclopedia
A national holiday to many residents of Pennsyltucky, Pee Outside Day was started many years ago by a group of pseudo-shaolin monks located in the major metropolitan area of Nachos Grande. One day when watching Double Indemnity, Ron (known to some as 'Roy the Short,' even though his first name is Ron) got up and decided he wanted to relieve himself in the parking lot of the local Burger King.
On the way there, the group of 15 came upon a drowning bus of orphan seals. How they were drowning, the world will never know. The point is that Ron and all of his buddies got together and saved those seals. Tickertape parades and random acts of mollusc-chucking ensued. After this, Ron and his crew proceeded to Burger King and did what they came to do. Word of the monumental event spread and earned a place as a shining moment in Pennsyltucky's history.
Fun Facts
'Pee Outside Day' was originally called 'Save Orphan Seals Day,' but was changed to be more politcally correct, since some seals said it was offensive that they would want to be saved.
Source: http://uncyclopedia.org/wiki/Pee_Outside_Day
Government FINALLY Infringing on our Freedoms
For years I've heard liberals complain that the George W. Bush administration is infringing on our freedoms, yet no tangible evidence has ever been produced.
However, there is freedom infringement in local government: these incredible, dare I say illogical, un-American smoking bans.
I have NEVER smoked a cigarette in my life. Nearly all of my cigar smoking (probably about 15 cigars in my entire 39 years on the planet) has been on Virginia beaches, on top of a Gateway Clipper boat, or on my wrap-around Victorian front porch.
Last time I checked, cigarette smoking was legal. I rarely go to bars...if a friend invites me for a Ginger Ale, I know that there's probably a toothless barfly nearby. That's what you expect at the bar.
And when I go for a concert at the neighborhood Moose, I know that we'll reek of smoke the next day. To the point that we are sick in the stomach. You know what, WE JUST DON'T GO ANYMORE!!!!!
The morality police that want to curb YOUR right to do something legal. it doesn't matter if it's being done in other cities. It's an infringement of our freedoms.
Some complain that workers are subjected to the smoke. GET ANOTHER JOB! I couldn't care less if you don't have the educational wherewithal to get a better job. That's the breaks!
The smoking ban, here in Pittsburgh, is inexplicably championed by both parties. However, this is a Democrat-controlled burgh and county. That being said, there isn't a single Republican championing YOUR right to do something legal.
This is a slippery slope. Soon, your representatives will be attempting to draft legislation that'll curb your enthusiasm for your favorite adult beverage. New York has already fired the second shot...donuts and their tasty, tasty fats. Big Brother is watching!!!
Smoke 'em if you got 'em! This legislation is just un-American.
However, there is freedom infringement in local government: these incredible, dare I say illogical, un-American smoking bans.
I have NEVER smoked a cigarette in my life. Nearly all of my cigar smoking (probably about 15 cigars in my entire 39 years on the planet) has been on Virginia beaches, on top of a Gateway Clipper boat, or on my wrap-around Victorian front porch.
Last time I checked, cigarette smoking was legal. I rarely go to bars...if a friend invites me for a Ginger Ale, I know that there's probably a toothless barfly nearby. That's what you expect at the bar.
And when I go for a concert at the neighborhood Moose, I know that we'll reek of smoke the next day. To the point that we are sick in the stomach. You know what, WE JUST DON'T GO ANYMORE!!!!!
The morality police that want to curb YOUR right to do something legal. it doesn't matter if it's being done in other cities. It's an infringement of our freedoms.
Some complain that workers are subjected to the smoke. GET ANOTHER JOB! I couldn't care less if you don't have the educational wherewithal to get a better job. That's the breaks!
The smoking ban, here in Pittsburgh, is inexplicably championed by both parties. However, this is a Democrat-controlled burgh and county. That being said, there isn't a single Republican championing YOUR right to do something legal.
This is a slippery slope. Soon, your representatives will be attempting to draft legislation that'll curb your enthusiasm for your favorite adult beverage. New York has already fired the second shot...donuts and their tasty, tasty fats. Big Brother is watching!!!
Smoke 'em if you got 'em! This legislation is just un-American.
Outside Santorum's Sanctum - October 10, 2006 - The New York Sun
Bowyer on Rick Santorum in 2006.
We miss you Jerry.
Outside Santorum's Sanctum - October 10, 2006 - The New York Sun ... I find myself wondering what Rick of 1992 would say about Rick of 2006. 'Jerry,' he'd say wagging his finger at me, 'I know the guy's problem. He doesn't live here anymore and he's grown out of touch with the people of the district.'Worthy read.
Mr. Bowyer is the chairman of Newsmakers Leadership Group, a media company headquartered in Pennsylvania, and author of 'the Bush Boom.' His firm has solicited advertising from many political campaigns, including Mr. Santorum's.
We miss you Jerry.
Rutgers and James Madison Use Internet Creativity in Attempt to Save Men�s Teams
We should hold an informational picket at Heinz Field when the nationally ranked Rutgers football squad (men only) come to play and get kicked by Pitt in a couple of weeks. Drop a not in the comments area if you are interested in joining us.
Lane 9 News Archive: Rutgers and James Madison Use Internet Creativity in Attempt to Save Men's Teams Rutgers and James Madison Use Internet Creativity in Attempt to Save Men's Teams -- October 4, 2006
PHOENIX, Arizona, October 4. BOTH the Rutgers swimming and diving team and the James Madison swimming and diving team have recently used the Internet in an attempt to save their men's teams from facing the axe after this season.
Chris Feaster, JMU's men's head coach, has worked with his team to create www.savejmuswimming.com. To help, our readers can visit their web site and click Feedback on the left navigation bar for contact information of people in place that can help save the team.
Additionally, the squad opened up the DDP Swim Team group on Facebook.com, a social networking web site primarily for college and high school students. The group, which stands for Duke Dog Pride, already has more than 4,000 members in less then a week of activity.
Meanwhile, Rutgers' site (www.saverutgersswimming.org) has plenty of information to help located in the top navigation bar, including a How To Help link. This link contained step-by-step instructions on how to help in the fight to save the Rutgers' men's team. It also provides sample letters to the school's A.D. (Sample Letter) and to the school's president (Sample Letter).
Americans Explain Their Views on Republican and Democratic Parties
Americans Explain Their Views on Republican and Democratic Parties Americans Explain Their Views on Republican and Democratic Parties
Criticisms outnumber compliments for both parties
by Lydia Saad and Joseph Carroll
...Nearly half of Americans can't find anything good to say about the Republican Party and just as many draw a blank on the positive attributes of the Democratic Party.
Monday, October 09, 2006
China's Spending For Research Outpaces the U.S. - WSJ.com
China's Spending For Research Outpaces the U.S. - WSJ.com
Do we care about R & D?
Mega mouse in front of my three wheeled bike -- on Chengdu's Computer Row.
The Tartan Online : University to debut newly redesigned website
This is fodder for a humor bit from the judge and C.S. blog. CMU launches new sitw with threaded smoke signals, or some such spin. The Tartan Online : University to debut newly redesigned website Nationally recognized as a leader in computer engineering, computer science, and all things technology, Carnegie Mellon has left its own website unchanged for years. Now, www.cmu.edu is getting a facelift.
Designed with feedback from the campus community and other visitors, the new site is hoped to improve the Carnegie Mellon web experience. Carnegie Mellon students have long complained about the current website. “The website is not very intuitive, and the design is not attractive,” said Robin Chen, a first-year in H&SS.
Designed with feedback from the campus community and other visitors, the new site is hoped to improve the Carnegie Mellon web experience. Carnegie Mellon students have long complained about the current website. “The website is not very intuitive, and the design is not attractive,” said Robin Chen, a first-year in H&SS.
The BEAST and a view from Rachel Lea Hunter, candidate and Pitt Law Grad
I've followed the campaign cycles and emails from a Pitt Law Grad who now lives in the South (near DUKE, BTW). She is a Republican and a real anti-establishment reformer who cares about constitutional leadership.
...; Several months ago, I wrote about "the beast" which pervades our politics, government and community life. Some were upset by the use of the term and the referral to the beast in the Book of Revelation. Regardless of what you call it, no matter how much you want to pretend that it doesn't exist, I am here to tell you that "the beast" does exist and is here among us.
Part of this campaign has been about exposure of the beast. We see it in Washington with the Mark Foley scandal. We see it here in North Carolina with the guilty plea of Republican attorney Sam Currin for tax fraud. Both men were held up as paragons worthy of our respect while all the time their true natures were concealed. However, the veneer of respectability is beginning to crumble. The beast has been exposed by these and other scandals and by me. We now see it for what it is in all of its hideous ugliness.
SPOUSE CALLS FOR LENGTHY INVESTIGATION OF NCGOP
CHAIRMAN FOLEY BASHING FOR JUSTICE MARTIN
You think we have a constitutional government any more in America? Think again. We are living in nothing more than a sophisticated police state. The country is controlled by an oligarchy of "haves." The oligarchy is made up of very wealthy and powerful people. They control the money, they control the economics and they control our foreign and domestic policy. Most of all, they control us. Oh sure, they give us the illusion of freedom, but we are not really free. All it takes if is for "The Great Decider" to label us as an "enemy combatant" and we can be whisked off to prison, held incommunicado indefinitely and now tortured. That is what happened to José Padilla, an American citizen. It can happen to any one of us.
And so it is with Connie Mack Berry, Jr. What is occurring is nothing more than the beast flexing its muscle, desperately trying to hang onto power, using its manipulation of the mainstream media, the NC GOP and the legal Establishment. As I earlier wrote, what was done in Connie's past has been done. I cannot change that. He received a letter from Georgia stating that he was clear and that he could vote. Why would I have reason to look further? After all, he is a grown man in control of his own life. But the beast not only wants to dredge up the past but it wants to get Connie. Why? If elected, I will only be one vote on the court. Even if the justices all agree except for me, virtually all decisions will be 6-1. So it can't be that.
What the beast really fears is the loss of power and you people who are controlled waking up. And that the beast fears awesomely. You see, if I am permitted to be victorious, I will inspire a thousand more like me. The beast cannot risk this loss in power. Because if you do run and see the ugliness of the beast as I have, you will be incensed. You will throw the beast out. This it cannot have at all costs.
This is the real reason why the beast is attacking so fearsomely. Tell me, what has Connie done that is so terrible? Has he killed? Raped? Robbed? No. He has done nothing more than exercise his constitutional right to vote. As stated, he got a letter clearing him. In Georgia, someone formerly convicted need not do anything once their rights are restored. Connie moved here and thought it was okay. But no, now the beast has launched an investigation by the SBI and is looking to file a criminal indictment. What a waste of taxpayer dollars. I'm glad that we have resolved all the problems in the world, in our country and in our state that we are so concerned that the system will collapse if one man is allowed to exercise his right to vote. Felons have voted throughout the United States, some legally, others perhaps not, depending on their state. How many of these individuals have been prosecuted I wonder? I have not seen a prosecution ever. Except this one.
The US Constitution says nothing about forfeiting rights to vote. It gives all people the right to vote. This is nothing more than an attempt to disqualify people from voting, especially African Americans. Who makes up the bulk of the prison population? African Americans. You see, we have a prison industry in this country that depends on building more prisons and having more prison jobs, as creating wealth through manufacturing has long ceased. So we need to keep the industry going. We pass ever more laws to make more people criminals. And we don't want African Americans to vote, especially not them. If they could vote, why they would put a stop to some of these nonsensical laws! How to control them and stop them? Disqualify felons and use the laws and tools and disinformation to keep them from voting. That is the Republican strategy, the strategy of the NC GOP and the strategy of the beast. It is because they are so bankrupt and drunk with their power and they have absolutely nothing to offer us.
The News & Observer wrote its story. Then it retracted is story. Now it is coming out with another at the behest of the NC GOP-Mafia, their operatives and the legal Establishment, all of which are heads or tentacles of the beast. Which version is true? And ask yourself, why is this relevant anyway? Is this just a salacious tidbit to keep us distracted from the real actions and motives of the beast? Will this be like the movie "Absence of Malice" where the reporter comes around to the side of the maligned hero? Probably not.
For "Real" Justice
Rachel Lea Hunter
Rape, Justice, and the ‘Times’ -- New York Magazine
Sports & Society. Blogger to the rescue. A race story with political ramifications. And, media mix of with "blindered oafishness." Jackpot for Running Mates fodder.
This is a must read. It comes in three pages.
This is a must read. It comes in three pages.
Rape, Justice, and the ‘Times’ -- New York Magazine He usually posts at least once a day—not standard autoblog rim shots, but carefully argued, deeply researched essays running 1,000 words or more.
50 Years
My mom and dad. Audrey and Leo have been married for 50 years! They are doing well. We'll have a special year. And, its my dad's birthday season.
Mom & Dad in the middle. I'm the oldest and am luck to have five younger sisters. All of us are married. L to R: John, Geri Ann, Mary Lee, Phil, my dad (Leo), my mom (Audrey), Bill, Margie, Catherine, me (Mark), Michele, Kevin. (Photo was taken in eastern PA, August 7, 2004.) Another photo / view. (Click for larger image.)
Olympics - Pound tells China to tighten doping efforts - Monday October 9, 2006 12:12PM
SI.com - Olympics - Pound tells China to tighten doping efforts - Monday October 9, 2006 12:12PM: "Dick Pound, the head of the World Anti-Doping Agency, encouraged China to step up its anti-doping controls ahead of the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
China has a special responsibility as Olympic host to tighten its anti-doping efforts, Pound said Monday.
'Much of my visit here in China will be for the purpose of encouraging the proper authorities, in both sport and government, to increase the effort to bring China to the forefront of the fight against doping in sport,' Pound said in a speech at Beijing's Sport University.
China is trying to shake a reputation for doping among its athletes, a drive that has gained urgency ahead of the 2008 Olympics.
China cracked down on doping following a string of scandals in the 1990s, when 32 swimmers were caught for drug offenses, two of them twice. It introduced tough new testing regimes and penalties, and 17 athletes were punished in 2004 with fines and competition bans of up to two years.
'An Olympic host country has the special responsibility, both at home and around the world, to demonstrate its commitment to doping-free sport,' said Pound, who also visited the testing labs at the China Doping Control Center. 'Now is the time for all countries, including China, to make sure that they have put into place programs necessary to remove doping from sport.'
Pound was given an honorary degree by the university on Monday. He arrived in China on Sunday for a four-day visit.
Copyright 2006 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Point State Park announcement
Dear Friend of Point State Park,This is exactly how I don't want to hear news about my parks.
Please join the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the City of Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, the Pittsburgh 250 Commission and the Riverlife Task Force as we make a major announcement about the future of Point State Park on Wednesday, October 11, at 1:00 p.m. on the lawn near the fountain in the park.
Point State Park is the most recognized symbol of Pittsburgh. Join us to hear how these organizations are working together to make the park a more valuable regional asset.
We appreciate your enthusiasm for Point State Park and hope you can attend this important event.
How Demon Wife Became a Media Star And Other Tales of the 'Blook' in Japan - WSJ.com
Playing second fiddle again.
How Demon Wife Became a Media Star And Other Tales of the 'Blook' in Japan - WSJ.com Blogs are even more popular in Japan than in the U.S. It may be that they represent an appealing outlet in a culture that discourages public self-expression. Japan produced 8.7 million blogs at the end of March, and the U.S. an estimated 12 million blogs -- making blogging far more popular in Japan, taking the countries' relative populations into account. An estimated 25 million Japanese -- more than a fifth of the population -- are believed to read blogs.Well, one could play second fiddle ot a demon wife -- or what I really meant -- USA is behind Japan in terms of its reach in blogging.
Speaking of quaterbacks
This week's NCAA leader in passing efficiency is Pittsburgh's Tyler Palko at 191.3.
Ad and Worthy Ads
Bill Ogden is one I'm excited about for the November election. Furthermore, I've turned on Google Ads for the blog. I'd love to get a new computer this fall.
Onorato, Ravenstahl Push 'Plan B' For New Arena
Onorato, Ravenstahl Push 'Plan B' For New Arena The Pittsburgh area's top two politicians are backing Plan B funding for a new arena. Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato said that the plan - which will use gambling money and money ...
comment from another on a web forum:
pittsburgh is a waste and ravenstal and the rest of them are just new people with the same old dumb ideas about how to save pittsburgh. clean up the water in those rivers so people can use them and let developers build tall highrise apartment with good views which is one of pittsburgh's only permanent assets.
all the arpartments are dumps in the city. who would want to move back there there except overpaid teachers fleeing philadelphia and new jersey who are then on the public payroll
Build the highrises and stop building endless public housing!!!!
seattle guy
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Tech test: Google's Writely mostly hits the mark, but it's no Word killer
The way to beat Microsoft's Word is to use OpenOffice.com.
Tech test: Google's Writely mostly hits the mark, but it's no Word killer As a reporter, I'm never sure when the muse will strike or an editor will call. That's why I send copious notes and drafts of stories to myself by e-mail. As long as I'm within range of a computer with an Internet connection, I know I'll be able to tweak the latest version or do a quick fact check.
But as projects undergo revisions, my inboxes overflow and I start to feel the pain.
Then I started using Writely, a free word processor that runs in a Web browser, built by a startup called Upstartle and acquired by Google Inc. in March.
Writely is to Microsoft Word what Gmail is to Outlook: A speedy online program that retains familiar features of traditional desktop software and isn't afraid to introduce new ways of taking advantage of the Web. Unlike a boxed program, Writely runs on a server somewhere on the Internet.
But will Writely dethrone Microsoft Corp., which ships more than 90 percent of word processors used by U.S. consumers and businesses? Writely -- even as a beta test -- has the right stuff, but it needs some polishing.
It took less than a minute to register at www.writely.com and get a blank document open on my screen.... (See the rest of the article by clicking the link above.)
The Ravenstahls: Just a couple of 20-somethings
Not the fish. Oh no. What phychological reasoning can be attribute to this tall-tell sign???
Fish & jello like dish, from a meal we shared in China.
People like to fish with a small net in the ponds in the parks.
Live fish are being scooped out of this truck near the market place.
Could this be what those who walk past the four plastic jack-o-lanters will see when they go to trick-or-treat at Luke's house? They'll have a tray with dry fish...
The Ravenstahls: Just a couple of 20-somethings 'We're getting rid of them,' Mrs. Ravenstahl said of the four freshwater fish in the aquarium that burbled away in their dining room. 'He wanted them, and I didn't. And now he doesn't have any time to take care of them.'The obvious is so bad, we dare not go there as I love swimming and fish swim. And, another said, "That's the point of fish. You don't have to be there to take care of them." But, let's ponder the other visual ramifications.
Picture yourself at 26. Now add responsibility for 3,200 employees, a $429 million budget and the image of a city of 317,000.
Fish & jello like dish, from a meal we shared in China.
People like to fish with a small net in the ponds in the parks.
Live fish are being scooped out of this truck near the market place.
Could this be what those who walk past the four plastic jack-o-lanters will see when they go to trick-or-treat at Luke's house? They'll have a tray with dry fish...
Jack Wagner eyes mayoral bid? - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
No, it did not escape my attention. I've blogged about the fact that Wagner would have to be in the list of those who might run for mayor for some time. I put up a list at another site too.
Jack Wagner eyes mayoral bid? - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review It may have escaped your attention, but it didn't escape ours.
Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner said publicly he would not rule out running if Pittsburgh holds its next mayoral election next year.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Jeb Bush - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Big tent or big broom closet in a PAT T-stop?
Then Jeb Bush comes around and has to hide out in a broom closet in a downtown T-stop to evade folks in his face screaming for him to 'go home.'
Meanwhile, two get to taste, first hand, what it feels like to catch a zap from PAT Police 'stun guns.' This is sure to raise concerns about brutality and freedom of speech.
So, if peace protesters spread the message, "Go HOME" and pitch a fit in a skirmish. Do you think we should worry if this is the type of behaviors we'll need to display so as to woo kind remarks from the the next glamor girl to come to town?
And, was that women with Jeb good looking too?
This gives me another chance to show a travel image of a transit stop in China.
Maglev stop. No broom closet here. Spotless too.
Jeb Bush - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Bush's appeal to Florida's highly diverse group of voters, along with his groundbreaking second term and success in expanding the so-called 'big tent' of the Florida Republican Party, appear to have propelled him into a commanding political position.Pittsburgh is all hacked off because a beautiful young women with a Brit's twang, while here for a movie we'll never see, yacks poorly about our city. Great to have Luke dish out forgiveness to the dish and her dad to visit from Meadville to show her around. We don't suck that bad, seems to be the message.
Then Jeb Bush comes around and has to hide out in a broom closet in a downtown T-stop to evade folks in his face screaming for him to 'go home.'
Meanwhile, two get to taste, first hand, what it feels like to catch a zap from PAT Police 'stun guns.' This is sure to raise concerns about brutality and freedom of speech.
So, if peace protesters spread the message, "Go HOME" and pitch a fit in a skirmish. Do you think we should worry if this is the type of behaviors we'll need to display so as to woo kind remarks from the the next glamor girl to come to town?
And, was that women with Jeb good looking too?
Jeb Bush gets rude welcome: "Mr. Bush, accompanied by a security guard and a female aide, made a slow retreat toward the T-station at Wood Street."
This gives me another chance to show a travel image of a transit stop in China.
Maglev stop. No broom closet here. Spotless too.
Fester's Place: Force Harrah and PITG to raise on their Coase bids
Fester's Place: Force Harrah and PITG to raise on their Coase bidsSure. Now is the time to force a sell off of the Convention Center for the slots parlor too. It opens faster.
The Convention Center is a big sink of money, both with capital and operations. This is a lone opportunity to sell it and make it a private building.
City's credit rating upgraded - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
City's credit rating upgraded - Pittsburgh Tribune-ReviewYes. This is good news. It means the city officials can pave a few more roads so as to win critical votes and sway elections.
Nevermind. I'm just being skeptical and bombastic at the same time.
Call for Videos for contest
Open Source Shorts is a screening of short films released under Creative Commons licences.
Creative Commons licenses provide a flexible range of protections and freedoms for authors and artists and build on the "all rights reserved" concept of traditional copyright to offer a voluntary "some rights reserved" approach.
With Creative Commons licences people are free to copy distribute and remix creative works without the threat of being labelled pirates. The screening will be followed by a short discussion on Creative Commons.
Support creativity support the commons.
This event is presented by local artist Kevin Flanagan at the Nuns Island Arts Centre, Galway at 5 pm Saturday 2nd of December, 2006.
I am currently seeking submissions. The criteria are straight forward. The film should be at most 10 minutes in duration, published with a ceative commons copyright licence and freely available to download from the internet.
I'm looking for variety and am open to different styles. Documentary, Narative/Non-Narative, Art films, and Music Videos.
To submit a film simply email kev.flanagan@gmail.com your details and a description of your film and a link where I can view and download it from.
End date for submissions is the November 10th.
http://kevflanagan.wordpress.com
http://kevflanagan.wordpress.com/open-source-shorts/
For more information on CC licences see http://creativecommons.org
Friday, October 06, 2006
Language Help with a price tag
If you are interested in additional language instruction for your child(ren), you might want this contact. Instruction is available in French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Chinese.
Institute of International Art and Languages
A German class is starting next week in Highland Park and will be held every Tuesday from 4:00 to 5:30. The German instructor is a native speaker (a German women) with a PH D. in Art history and she will teach German through visual art and craft.
The fee for 9 weeks (1h 30m) is $202.50.
Original source: Christine Frechard-Harbison, Institute of Art and Languages, 1135 Mellon St., Pittsburgh PA 15206, 412 661 0177
Read the sign in an urban park in Chengdu with greenspace and water front treatments for pedestrians.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
South Siders tell LCB 'enough already' to bar scenes
Chuck is a 'running mate' and he gets interviewed in the P-G about a pressing local issue, bars.
The meeting's prime presenter was Bruce Krane. Bruce Kraus was there and couldn't even keep his lips shut after being told to hold all questions and comments to the end, already. Yeah, we all know it is okay to call 9-1-1. Mr. Krane did do a nice job with the meeting.
We have a bar task force now on the South Side. It got decent coverage in the South Pittsburgh Reporter too. I'm sure that this group is making people quake in their boots now.
Presently, the South Side is over-run with bars.
Well, there isn't such a thing as a 'bar' in terms of the LCB (Pennsylvania's Liquor Control Board). There are places to eat and some of these place can serve drinks. Every 'bar' on the South Side, and wherever else, needs to be able to deliver 30 hot meals to qualify as a joint that meets LCB requirements. That's like three packs of hot dogs and a hot plate, -- check.
We all agree that there are too many bars. But, not all of us agree on what to do about it. I'm a freemarket guy and made the observation after the meeting to any who might care to listen that 20 to 40 of these 200-or-more bars on the South Side are going to go out of business as soon as the gambling casino opens. Perhaps the slots parlor is granted to South Side's Station Square, then what!
You won't need a 'bar task force' to thin out the competition in a few months.
So, as I see it: There are short term worries. Then there are long-term worries.
Task force actions need to think about life here, before and after the casino opens.
Many of the bars are on the brink. Some have gone out of business. It is hard to keep the lights on and make a decent income when there are so many places. They are eating each other's hope for any of them to have a sustained business.
Frankly, the ones that are now just getting opened, are here way to late. They'll spend money on the re-hab and ramp-up. They'll not have a decent ROI (Return On Investment). They'll need to do something 'special' to survive in this marketplace. Otherwise they'll die.
Perhaps 20 will not be able to meet payroll. Perhaps some others will have their gas cut as they've slid on their bills. Some might need to churn with new owners as there are always new suckers who think that they want to own a cool venue in a hot area. There will be some corrections and they'll come from the invisible hand of the competitive forces of the marketplace.
Gotta run for now.
South Siders tell LCB 'enough already' to bar scenesA hell raising meeting was held last week on this issue. Jeff Koch didn't attend and he should have been there.
South Side residents and business owners say they are dismayed, but not surprised, that another orange 'public notice of application' for transfer of a liquor license has appeared on East Carson Street.
The notice of the pending application at 1311 East Carson has drawn a spate of protest letters to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board.
'Just what we need, another watering hole,' wrote Charles Nogal, who owns a ceramics business across the street. 'I think it is time to say enough already.'
The meeting's prime presenter was Bruce Krane. Bruce Kraus was there and couldn't even keep his lips shut after being told to hold all questions and comments to the end, already. Yeah, we all know it is okay to call 9-1-1. Mr. Krane did do a nice job with the meeting.
We have a bar task force now on the South Side. It got decent coverage in the South Pittsburgh Reporter too. I'm sure that this group is making people quake in their boots now.
Presently, the South Side is over-run with bars.
Well, there isn't such a thing as a 'bar' in terms of the LCB (Pennsylvania's Liquor Control Board). There are places to eat and some of these place can serve drinks. Every 'bar' on the South Side, and wherever else, needs to be able to deliver 30 hot meals to qualify as a joint that meets LCB requirements. That's like three packs of hot dogs and a hot plate, -- check.
We all agree that there are too many bars. But, not all of us agree on what to do about it. I'm a freemarket guy and made the observation after the meeting to any who might care to listen that 20 to 40 of these 200-or-more bars on the South Side are going to go out of business as soon as the gambling casino opens. Perhaps the slots parlor is granted to South Side's Station Square, then what!
You won't need a 'bar task force' to thin out the competition in a few months.
So, as I see it: There are short term worries. Then there are long-term worries.
Task force actions need to think about life here, before and after the casino opens.
Many of the bars are on the brink. Some have gone out of business. It is hard to keep the lights on and make a decent income when there are so many places. They are eating each other's hope for any of them to have a sustained business.
Frankly, the ones that are now just getting opened, are here way to late. They'll spend money on the re-hab and ramp-up. They'll not have a decent ROI (Return On Investment). They'll need to do something 'special' to survive in this marketplace. Otherwise they'll die.
Perhaps 20 will not be able to meet payroll. Perhaps some others will have their gas cut as they've slid on their bills. Some might need to churn with new owners as there are always new suckers who think that they want to own a cool venue in a hot area. There will be some corrections and they'll come from the invisible hand of the competitive forces of the marketplace.
Gotta run for now.
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Statement before the the RAD Board
Statement before the On August 28, the Director of The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh came before you and talked about future plans for the Library system, including plans to repair damage done by a lightning strike to the historic Allegheny Regional Branch of Carnegie Library—the nation’s first publicly-funded Carnegie Library, built in the neighborhood where Andrew Carnegie grew-up. She failed, purposely, to tell you of plans to abandon this historic library in favor of building a new library structure three blocks away, while allowing the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette to announce these plans only three days later!
They are playing the RAD board like a fiddle.
Glenn A. Walsh spoke before the RAD Board today, again. Here he was speaking before the Buhl and Old Carnegie Library on the North Side. It is the first of Carnegie's under his library formula.
Was that an election or a rubber stamp?
T. Martin posted something that caught my attention. The PA Supreme Court ordered that the retention vote for Nigro and Newman, one lost and the other won, was not an election. The voter numbers were not to count as a state-wide election.
So, if it wasn't an election, candidate Martin suggested that it was a 'rubber stamp.'
But, in this case, it was a historic stamp as one of the judges got stamped OUT.
Here are some rubber stamp images to ponder.
Rubber stamps for sale.
Close up of rubber stamp.
Chop, chop, chop.
A more lavish, stone aged, timeless rubber stamp. These stone blocks are carved with a person's symbol / logo. They make nice tourist gifts as a reminder of a by-gone past.
So, if it wasn't an election, candidate Martin suggested that it was a 'rubber stamp.'
But, in this case, it was a historic stamp as one of the judges got stamped OUT.
Here are some rubber stamp images to ponder.
Rubber stamps for sale.
Close up of rubber stamp.
Chop, chop, chop. A more lavish, stone aged, timeless rubber stamp. These stone blocks are carved with a person's symbol / logo. They make nice tourist gifts as a reminder of a by-gone past.
Romanelli stuck with $90,000 bill for ballot dispute : The Morning Call Online
This is CRAP. I can't scream it loud enough. This sucks.
Un-democratic democrats are slime and the lowest thing in our political landscape today, in my not so humble opinion.
All democrats, this brings shame on you.
All friends of democracy need to pitch a fit on this too.
I could be, and should be on the ballot on November 7. But, doing so puts me and my family on thin ice. Very thin -- as in $90k underwater thin.
This is a freeze out of the highest order.
Fighting for the right to vote is important. Fighting for the right to have your vote counted is also very important. But, they (un-democratic democrats) hi-jack who you can vote for -- and hi-jack ballot access -- and hi-hack questions that are presented to the voters. And, if you fight, you face a $90,000 bill.
When I went to court in the middle of August, 2006, the first thing I asked about was court costs. We were called to order, and I didn't sit down. "Your honor, I have a few matters that need your attention before we begin...."
Court costs were not part of the threat in the ballot challenge I was presented. But, I needed to know, up front, if my case would ever come to a point where I would be on the hook for paying for court costs. And, if I would ever be on the hook for paying for the opposition attorney fees. I wanted to have those facts understood and up-front before we were to proceed.
I hadn't even activated a bank account for my campaign. I had $0 in the bank in my PAC -- because the PAC wasn't even alive yet.
I was there without an attorney. I was there as a citizen candidate who had the right to be on the ballot because I had done the necessary paperwork and gotten the signatures to go before the voters for them to decide who should be the state senator.
It was estimated by a few good friends of mine that the opposition attorney had already racked up between $5,000 and $10,000 in legal charges. And, I hadn't yet begun to defend my campaign's hope of reaching the voters.
My court date was in mid-August, and today the newspaper are reporting today on yesterday's final outcome of the Romanelli appeal. That's the same timeline I was looking at.
It took another local, political friend, Titus North, and his team, more than a month of legal fighting, day-in-day out to get to a decision on his opportunity to be a candidate before the voters. His decision was known in mid September.
The United States sends men and women around the world to stand in harms way to fight for democracy. For what?
Wayne Fontana put that legal challenge against me -- and in doing so I feel that he greatly discounted the worth and dignity of all American veterans of all time. Wayne Fontana has a committee assignment that deals with Veterans Affairs. He needs to overhaul his sense of duty to them.
Wayne Fontana can stand up and tell veterans that they went to war to fight for this country and our freedoms and rights. Fontana can say, Democracy is important to our nation, except now, when Fontana is in charge of a stash of slush money that gives democratic cronies access to legal henchmen to knock down anyone who might offer peeps of challenges.
Bob Casey Jr, you stink.
Wayne Fontana, you stink.
Un-democratic democrats, you all stink.
Senator Jim Ferlo didn't file a challenge against his opponent. He doesn't stink.
US Congressman, Mike Doyle, you stink.
Tens of thousands of signatures that came from tens of thousands of citizens of Pennsylvanias didn't mean jack. Thousands of people got ignored. The judge sealed that decision and it was pushed along by the democrats. The big blame goes onto the backs of the democrats.
It took six weeks for the fight to occur in the courts. It took another six months of gathering signatures. Meanwhile, we have little else to talk about in terms of what Romanelli has to say on the issues. Skunked.
We all loose.
Perhaps Pennsylvania is 46th out of the 50 states in terms of job creation. But, I have a hunch that PA is 50th out of 50th in terms of its sense of democracy.
This is what is killing our state, our region and our city. People in power don't have respect for the big-minded values of what makes us different and something other than those we fight against.
Bob Casey Jr. does not get my vote.
Yes, it is being reported that the decision to knock Romanelli off the ballot is a big victory for Casey. No way. I see it in another way. Casey's goons knocked Romanelli off the ballot and knocked democracy in the teeth in doing so.
Then they issue a dental bill for $90,000 to be paid by the citizen candidate Romanelli. He works for the rail road. He went through hell just to get an attempt to try to serve his country and this is the thanks he gets -- from Casey and his cronies.
Perhaps it is Casey's wish to put PA back into the dark ages. He just wants to win. Screw that mentality.
Tiny brained leadership stinks. Fontana fits that mold too.
I'm glad I pulled out of the state senate race, before the judge, when I did. I'm glad I don't have a $90,000 bill to pay. Well, perhaps my bill would have been half of that. I'm still glad I don't have a $45,000 bill to pay.
Rick Santorum is no friend of mine. But Casey and Fontana and Doyle have proven to be mortal enemies to democracy. They don't believe that the people should decide, as I do.
Futhermore, I know of a lot of Democrats who are aiding and helping Rick Santorum. Likewise, I know of a lot of Republicans who are aiding and helping Bob Casey. When I ran as a Libertarian, I had a lot of help from Ds, Rs, Is, and Gs. People in the U.S.A. have a RIGHT to Free Association. It is understood and even healthy when there are different camps and different campers moving about from campaign and candidate -- as they so choose. Choice is great!
So, don't expect this crap to stick concerning how Romanelli, a Green, was 'funded' as some secret double agent for the status quo vangards. That is spin that resonantes with me much like what I've seen going down the drain in a toilet.
Romanelli took some campaign money from Rs. So what. Romanelli also took money from Ds, Greens and others. Casey takes money from Rs. Santorum takes money from Ds. So what. I'd love to see more and more folks fund third party folks because they love democracy.
It takes all types to make the world go around. Perhaps this is why Pennsylvania and our region are flat. Pennsylvania is old school. Pennsylvania is without the buzz of diversity, without inclusion. PA is where people get to ride on the laurels of their parents, Bob Casey, Jr.
People vote with their feet. People are leaving Pennsylvania. This is why.
People won't go out to vote for Bob Casey. Bob Casey and his cronies are clueless about democracy. Bob Casey is clueless about how to make peace.
Bob Casey doesn't win friend, influence people nor get votes by signing off on pay raise checks while State Treasurer, not showing up for work, nor kicking democracy in the teeth and sending a bill of $90,000 to those who just got kicked.
Un-democratic democrats are slime and the lowest thing in our political landscape today, in my not so humble opinion.
All democrats, this brings shame on you.
All friends of democracy need to pitch a fit on this too.
Romanelli stuck with $90,000 bill for ballot dispute : The Morning Call Online Romanelli stuck with $90,000 bill for ballot disputeThis is one of the major reasons why I pulled out of my race for PA Senate in the 42nd district.
He is appealing ruling that found him short of required signatures.
By Josh Drobnyk Call Washington Bureau
| The state Democratic Party has hit Carl Romanelli and his attorney with a nearly $90,000 tab a week after the Green Party candidate lost a legal challenge to his bid to get on the U.S. Senate ballot.
The bill, submitted as part of a state judge's ruling that Romanelli is responsible for all costs associated with the challenge, includes more than $48,000 in attorney fees. It adds to what Romanelli described as a deepening campaign debt.
I could be, and should be on the ballot on November 7. But, doing so puts me and my family on thin ice. Very thin -- as in $90k underwater thin.
This is a freeze out of the highest order.
Fighting for the right to vote is important. Fighting for the right to have your vote counted is also very important. But, they (un-democratic democrats) hi-jack who you can vote for -- and hi-jack ballot access -- and hi-hack questions that are presented to the voters. And, if you fight, you face a $90,000 bill.
When I went to court in the middle of August, 2006, the first thing I asked about was court costs. We were called to order, and I didn't sit down. "Your honor, I have a few matters that need your attention before we begin...."
Court costs were not part of the threat in the ballot challenge I was presented. But, I needed to know, up front, if my case would ever come to a point where I would be on the hook for paying for court costs. And, if I would ever be on the hook for paying for the opposition attorney fees. I wanted to have those facts understood and up-front before we were to proceed.
I hadn't even activated a bank account for my campaign. I had $0 in the bank in my PAC -- because the PAC wasn't even alive yet.
I was there without an attorney. I was there as a citizen candidate who had the right to be on the ballot because I had done the necessary paperwork and gotten the signatures to go before the voters for them to decide who should be the state senator.
It was estimated by a few good friends of mine that the opposition attorney had already racked up between $5,000 and $10,000 in legal charges. And, I hadn't yet begun to defend my campaign's hope of reaching the voters.
My court date was in mid-August, and today the newspaper are reporting today on yesterday's final outcome of the Romanelli appeal. That's the same timeline I was looking at.
It took another local, political friend, Titus North, and his team, more than a month of legal fighting, day-in-day out to get to a decision on his opportunity to be a candidate before the voters. His decision was known in mid September.
This isn't unreal -- but a part of the bag of tricks of the un-democratic democrats. They have a standard play book, and this is what you do on 2nd down. Even if it is second down and less than a yard to go.Titus North, Green Party Candidate for US Congress. He spent two weeks in a tent in Harrisburg to stay on the ballot. More than half of the challenges the Ds put before the judge were nothing but fiction.
I took this photo of Titus after Bob O'Connor's funeral mass on September 1. The proceedings in court were still underway that week.
The United States sends men and women around the world to stand in harms way to fight for democracy. For what?
Wayne Fontana put that legal challenge against me -- and in doing so I feel that he greatly discounted the worth and dignity of all American veterans of all time. Wayne Fontana has a committee assignment that deals with Veterans Affairs. He needs to overhaul his sense of duty to them.
Wayne Fontana can stand up and tell veterans that they went to war to fight for this country and our freedoms and rights. Fontana can say, Democracy is important to our nation, except now, when Fontana is in charge of a stash of slush money that gives democratic cronies access to legal henchmen to knock down anyone who might offer peeps of challenges.
Bob Casey Jr, you stink.
Wayne Fontana, you stink.
Un-democratic democrats, you all stink.
Senator Jim Ferlo didn't file a challenge against his opponent. He doesn't stink.
US Congressman, Mike Doyle, you stink.
Tens of thousands of signatures that came from tens of thousands of citizens of Pennsylvanias didn't mean jack. Thousands of people got ignored. The judge sealed that decision and it was pushed along by the democrats. The big blame goes onto the backs of the democrats.
It took six weeks for the fight to occur in the courts. It took another six months of gathering signatures. Meanwhile, we have little else to talk about in terms of what Romanelli has to say on the issues. Skunked.
We all loose.
Perhaps Pennsylvania is 46th out of the 50 states in terms of job creation. But, I have a hunch that PA is 50th out of 50th in terms of its sense of democracy.
This is what is killing our state, our region and our city. People in power don't have respect for the big-minded values of what makes us different and something other than those we fight against.
Bob Casey Jr. does not get my vote.
Yes, it is being reported that the decision to knock Romanelli off the ballot is a big victory for Casey. No way. I see it in another way. Casey's goons knocked Romanelli off the ballot and knocked democracy in the teeth in doing so.
Then they issue a dental bill for $90,000 to be paid by the citizen candidate Romanelli. He works for the rail road. He went through hell just to get an attempt to try to serve his country and this is the thanks he gets -- from Casey and his cronies.
Perhaps it is Casey's wish to put PA back into the dark ages. He just wants to win. Screw that mentality.
Tiny brained leadership stinks. Fontana fits that mold too.
I'm glad I pulled out of the state senate race, before the judge, when I did. I'm glad I don't have a $90,000 bill to pay. Well, perhaps my bill would have been half of that. I'm still glad I don't have a $45,000 bill to pay.
Rick Santorum is no friend of mine. But Casey and Fontana and Doyle have proven to be mortal enemies to democracy. They don't believe that the people should decide, as I do.
Futhermore, I know of a lot of Democrats who are aiding and helping Rick Santorum. Likewise, I know of a lot of Republicans who are aiding and helping Bob Casey. When I ran as a Libertarian, I had a lot of help from Ds, Rs, Is, and Gs. People in the U.S.A. have a RIGHT to Free Association. It is understood and even healthy when there are different camps and different campers moving about from campaign and candidate -- as they so choose. Choice is great!
So, don't expect this crap to stick concerning how Romanelli, a Green, was 'funded' as some secret double agent for the status quo vangards. That is spin that resonantes with me much like what I've seen going down the drain in a toilet.
Romanelli took some campaign money from Rs. So what. Romanelli also took money from Ds, Greens and others. Casey takes money from Rs. Santorum takes money from Ds. So what. I'd love to see more and more folks fund third party folks because they love democracy.
It takes all types to make the world go around. Perhaps this is why Pennsylvania and our region are flat. Pennsylvania is old school. Pennsylvania is without the buzz of diversity, without inclusion. PA is where people get to ride on the laurels of their parents, Bob Casey, Jr.
People vote with their feet. People are leaving Pennsylvania. This is why.
People won't go out to vote for Bob Casey. Bob Casey and his cronies are clueless about democracy. Bob Casey is clueless about how to make peace.
Bob Casey doesn't win friend, influence people nor get votes by signing off on pay raise checks while State Treasurer, not showing up for work, nor kicking democracy in the teeth and sending a bill of $90,000 to those who just got kicked.
Hex... Humm.... Heartbreak.... Hardships... Healing
 |
| From Hex photos released to the public domain. |
This photo collection is released into the public domain and is called, "Hex." Enjoy. Do what you wish with the images.
Template:Unencylopedia license - PittsburghPlatform: "Licensed under absolutely nothing. Have a field day. Abuse this for your own sick pleasures."For most, it is hard to connect with the Amish. That relationship isn't "easy" to make.
Pennsylvania's legacy of being a place where religious freedom is respected is something that we should never forget.
Pop City - Giving Voice to Big Ideas
I was there. And, I've been the top point earner in the follow-up web site too. Big whup. 
Pop City - Giving Voice to Big Ideas On a bright summery Saturday in September, hundreds of young Pittsburghers flocked downtown, clutching coffee and cartoon-like postcards, to fill classrooms at the Creative and Performing Arts High School (CAPA).
Sprout Fund boss, formerly with Jim Roddey and helper in the New Idea Factory, spreads some hype at the event. Click the image to see a snip of video.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Don't start school before LABOR DAY
We did not start school until AFTER Labor Day. We held out, because we were elsewhere, with a job, on travels, and not willing to come back for two days of school.
We love school. We don't love it before Labor Day in our family.
The "No Child Left Behind" slogan has a different meaning with us. We won't leave our children behind. We take em with us when we go.
Photo shows my child, Grant, leaving us behind. Grant was in an open-water swim race on the first day of school this year, Thursday before Labor Day. We were in Canada, where we should have been. (Click image for a larger view.)
We love school. We don't love it before Labor Day in our family.
The "No Child Left Behind" slogan has a different meaning with us. We won't leave our children behind. We take em with us when we go.
INSIDE THE CAPITOL
Early start costs state
Starting school before Labor Day costs the state's economy $387 million, according to a report released last week by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee. That was music to the ears of Rep. Robert Godshall, R-Montgomery, who has legislation pending to prohibit districts from starting school before the September holiday.
'The study confirms what has been my contention all along, that starting the school year before Labor Day harms the state's economy, especially the tourism industry, and has a negative effect on jobs,' he said.
Photo shows my child, Grant, leaving us behind. Grant was in an open-water swim race on the first day of school this year, Thursday before Labor Day. We were in Canada, where we should have been. (Click image for a larger view.)
Pa. Supreme Court rejects Green's bid to relax ballot rule
This was more than a Green bid to call an election an election. I was on my knees in prayer that the election in the fall would be called an election too.
It would not take a constitutional convention to fix this mess.
AP Wire | 10/03/2006 | Pa. Supreme Court rejects Green's bid to relax ballot rule: "HARRISBURG, Pa. - The state Supreme Court dealt another blow Tuesday to a Green Party candidate's U.S. Senate campaign by refusing to reduce the number of signatures that minor-party candidates need to run for statewide office.I hate one line decisions from judges.
In a one-sentence order, the court upheld a state judge's decision in August that required Carl Romanelli to gather an unusually high 67,070 signatures to qualify for the Nov. 7 ballot alongside Republican Sen. Rick Santorum and Democratic state Treasurer Bob Casey.
Romanelli had argued that the formula for calculating the number of signatures should be based on last year's judicial retention elections in which state judges run unopposed and voters cast up-or-down votes on whether they should serve additional 10-year terms.
It would not take a constitutional convention to fix this mess.
Mini Linux PC breaks $100 barrier
Need a new computer?
Mini Linux PC breaks $100 barrier a tiny, 200MHz x86-compatible mini PC for $99, in single quantities.
Online Fundraising Auction for DePaul School of Hearing and Speech
Make Your Bid to Support DePAUL SCHOOL FOR HEARING & SPEECH!!
Now is your chance to not only get all the great items you want, but to do it knowing you are helping support DePaul's mission to bring auditory/oral education to children with hearing and speech impairments.
A gala is slated for the days ahead. The fundraiser items for sale in an auction are now online.
Now is your chance to not only get all the great items you want, but to do it knowing you are helping support DePaul's mission to bring auditory/oral education to children with hearing and speech impairments.
A gala is slated for the days ahead. The fundraiser items for sale in an auction are now online.
cMarket - Online Fundraising Auction Services for Nonprofits: "'The Bus' Jerome Bettis Autographed Football
Authentic Pittsburgh Steelers limited edition foot... Priceless Bid Now --> $100.00
Mayor pushes to fill position - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Mayor pushes to fill position - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Ravenstahl yesterday also appointed Chief of Staff Yarone Zober to fill former Chief of Staff B.J. Leber's unexpired term on the Urban Redevelopment Authority. It hasn't been decided if Zober will chair the five-member board.
Gaming groups to meet - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Junket. Closed meetings. These guys are old school politicians in training. Its is shame. They don't speak for me.
Gaming groups to meet - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review After visiting casinos in Colorado and Missouri, members of the Pittsburgh Gaming Task Force are holding closed-door meetings today with two of the three groups seeking a slots license in the city.
Using private foundation money, the task force members last week visited casinos operated by all three of the groups and met with community leaders. The meetings today will focus on design proposals by Isle of Capri Casinos and Majestic Star Casino.
Cleveland-based Forest City Enterprises, which would open Harrah's Station Square Casino, did not host the nine-member delegation and does not plan to participate in today's meetings.
Monday, October 02, 2006
League of Pissed Off Voters holds event
They used my slogan suggestion -- "Voting makes your teeth whiter."
Here are the details of an event:
Here are the details of an event:
Confused about who to vote for this November 7?
Come get the skinny on all the cats who are fighting to represent you!
What: Pgh. League of Young Voters Fall 2006 Candidate Forum
Where: The Union Project, 801 N. Negley Avenue, Highland Park
When: Tuesday, October 3, 2006 6:30 PM
Who: Candidates for U.S. Senate, House, PA Governor, PA Senate and House.
Light refreshments will be served!
Confirmed campaigns include:
Rendell for Governor (D)
Swann for Governor (R)
Doyle for Congress (D)
North for Congress (G)
Altmire for Congress (D)
Kluko for Congress (D)
Jane Orie for PA Senate (R)
Wayne Fontana for PA Senate (D) -- screw him (blogmaster's note)
Lisa Bennington for PA House (D)
Chelsa Wagner for PA House (D)
Shawn Flaherty for PA House (D)
Mark Harris for PA House (R)
(All of the opponents of these candidates have been contacted and many will most likely send a surrogate.)
What: Candidates or their representatives will speak for 3 minutes about the following issues: Urban public transit, diversity, employment/entrepreneurial opportunity, cultural amenities and smart growth. The audience (aka YOU) will have three minutes to ask each individual questions. Then the candidate will give a 1 minute closing statement in response.
Make an informed decision this November 7!
Get the 4-1-1 on the candidates who represent the 4-1-2 (and 7-2-4)!
The Tartan Online : Media advances include using blogs for news
This Running Mates blog might not save the world, but it might be able to help kill Maglev's arrival in Pittsburgh. Here we are before we board the Maglev in China.
CMU's newspaper gives some insights into a blog-focused lecture on Pitt's campus last week. I missed the talk to do some home repairs.
The Tartan Online : Media advances include using blogs for news However, blogging does have its beneficial points. On Wednesday, Ethan Zuckerman came to speak at the University of Pittsburgh as part of the university’s global studies program and International Week. Zuckerman is currently conducting research at the Berkman Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University, studying information technology in developing countries. At the International Week event, Zuckerman spoke about blogging; he believes that weblogs can be used to close gaps in mainstream media coverage throughout the world.
Zuckerman founded Geekcorps in 1999. The program sends information technicians from more technologically adept countries to developing areas, including Africa, Eastern Europe, South Asia, and Central America, to teach basic software programming and other technology-focused skills. The idea is to enable residents of those areas to subsist off their own knowledge. For example, small businesses can be built on basic computing knowledge. The Geekcorps program has been so successful that it was recently announced as one of the Tech Museum Award winners.
Zuckerman, too, encourages his workers to keep blogs. He believes that they are useful forms of communication between the workers and the average citizen. Hopefully, the messages sent and the experiences described will have a lasting effect on the audience.
Some blogs do not carry a message so heavy in world change. Rather, some inadvertenly have a huge impact. For instance, the popular movie Snakes on a Plane was defined partially by blogging. The site www.snakesonablog.com helped influence different portions of the movie; it became a bulletin board for ideas for the movie. In fact, the site includes a link to “Snakes on a Forum,” from which people can post and collect ideas and thoughts. Now that the movie has been released to the public, Snakes on a Blog mostly carries humorous photographs, fan art, and random posts. The power of this site is incredible — it both promoted and shaped the movie.
While people like Zuckerman may advocate blogs as a tool to change the world, the typical teenager has other reasons for the addicting habit. First-year chemistry major Derek McQuade is one such teenager. Though he does not blog too frequently, he does encourage its use. McQuade said, “I don’t know why I do it. I just do.” Unlike of many bloggers, McQuade does not disclose personal information. He usually just allows a description of his day to suffice. “It’s really just for me. I mean if people read it, that’s great, but it really is just for me.”
Netflix Prize, get $1M
You know that two local Blockbuster stores have closed recently. 
We saw Star Wars in China. And I'm certain that this isn't the way to get the $1M prize.
I'm still waiting for a review of The Guardian. Anyone?
Netflix Prize: Home The Netflix Prize seeks to substantially improve the accuracy of predictions about how much someone is going to love a movie based on their movie preferences. Improve it enough and you win one (or more) Prizes. Winning the Netflix Prize improves our ability to connect people to the movies they love.
We saw Star Wars in China. And I'm certain that this isn't the way to get the $1M prize. I'm still waiting for a review of The Guardian. Anyone?
Johnson Institute for Responsible Leadership hosting an event on Oct 25
Interesting event that you might be interested in attending.
Upcoming Events
What does the injunction, "Serve the public interest," really mean for public managers, and why is it important?
Dr. Carol Lewis, professor of political science at the University of Connecticut, will discuss different perspectives of public interest and offer a multi-faceted formulation of the public manager�s duty�a process that involves the current concerns of democracy and mutuality and the future concerns of sustainability and legacy.
In her systematic anaylsis of what defines the public interest, Dr. Lewis will highlight a case study of the reaction to the looting of Iraq�s National Museum of Antiquities in 2003 to illustrate the worldwide recognition of the legacy obligation to future generations.
Johnson Institute for Responsible Leadership In Pursuit of the Public Interest - Wednesday, October 25, 2006 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. Pittsburgh Athletic Association, Bigelow Room
Upcoming Events
What does the injunction, "Serve the public interest," really mean for public managers, and why is it important?
Dr. Carol Lewis, professor of political science at the University of Connecticut, will discuss different perspectives of public interest and offer a multi-faceted formulation of the public manager�s duty�a process that involves the current concerns of democracy and mutuality and the future concerns of sustainability and legacy.
In her systematic anaylsis of what defines the public interest, Dr. Lewis will highlight a case study of the reaction to the looting of Iraq�s National Museum of Antiquities in 2003 to illustrate the worldwide recognition of the legacy obligation to future generations.
Pittsburgh city hall lacks old hands, has fresh faces
Zoning. As is the case when there are private developers at odds with citizens, the matter generally goes past zoning and wiggles onto the agenda of city council.
There was a big blow up in recent weeks from a situation in Park Place. Park Place is a neighborhood in the city's east side. I stand with the citizens in Park Place. We don't need to tear down homes in the city -- good houses that have residents and still work as designed -- to put up a Walgreens with its highway styled, drive-by formed operation.
Dozens of citizens stormed into city council chambers on a few different instances in the past months. This past week, a two week extension was granted and a deal seems to have been struck. Twanda Carlisle on city council was patting herself on the back for getting a two-week delay. Go figure.
The devil is in the details. We'll wait and see.
But this saga is nothing new. The zoning board is worthless when it comes to hard decisions. Worthless. The fights always spill over to city council's domain anyway.
I think that the zoning board is a waste, a sink, another un-elected group of cronies that often has its logic rooted in nothing but cracks in the pavement. Zoning, its enforcement and most matters of the red tape that it binds is good for corruption and special case treatments.
The overhaul shouldn't stop at the zoning board. The slogan, 'When you fail to plan you plan to fail' fits too. I have no faith in the city's planning department. None.
In the times of Tom Murphy, the planning department was often used as a tool to help advance his agenda. And they didn't even try to give value to citizens and taxpayers.
How else can you explain a city planning department that fires its lone traffic engineer. Planning, zoning and the URA have been tools for re-elections.
Pittsburgh city hall lacks old hands, has fresh faces The lack of tenure has manifested itself in small ways, such as open struggles over zoning issues and bitterness over council machinations. It remains to be seen whether it will affect the city's just-started budget process and how it will play out next year in a potentially wild election season.Zoning has always been a sore spot in the city with the way it does its business.
There was a big blow up in recent weeks from a situation in Park Place. Park Place is a neighborhood in the city's east side. I stand with the citizens in Park Place. We don't need to tear down homes in the city -- good houses that have residents and still work as designed -- to put up a Walgreens with its highway styled, drive-by formed operation.
Dozens of citizens stormed into city council chambers on a few different instances in the past months. This past week, a two week extension was granted and a deal seems to have been struck. Twanda Carlisle on city council was patting herself on the back for getting a two-week delay. Go figure.
The devil is in the details. We'll wait and see.
But this saga is nothing new. The zoning board is worthless when it comes to hard decisions. Worthless. The fights always spill over to city council's domain anyway.
I think that the zoning board is a waste, a sink, another un-elected group of cronies that often has its logic rooted in nothing but cracks in the pavement. Zoning, its enforcement and most matters of the red tape that it binds is good for corruption and special case treatments.
The overhaul shouldn't stop at the zoning board. The slogan, 'When you fail to plan you plan to fail' fits too. I have no faith in the city's planning department. None.
In the times of Tom Murphy, the planning department was often used as a tool to help advance his agenda. And they didn't even try to give value to citizens and taxpayers.
How else can you explain a city planning department that fires its lone traffic engineer. Planning, zoning and the URA have been tools for re-elections.
part 2 - Dan Deasy's quote and roles
Say what?
I like Dan. I think that the rest of the quote is okay. Yes, the city has changed. Yes, the young folks have not been political all that long. Dan isn't a lawyer. Dan is sincere. Dan is a hard worker. Dan is straight. Dan has a family. Dan wants a healthy Pittsburgh.
But tell me, Dan, or anyone else, what Dan has put forward as to new ideas.
Can you read his web site and find out?
Can you read his op-ed in the newspapers?
Can I remember his remarks while he was speaking to a group of concerned citizens?
And, to 'redd up' isn't a 'new idea' for goodness sakes.
Diverse opinions do become personal quickly. And my opinion of Dan isn't 'personal' -- it is factual in one regard -- new ideas.
Furthermore, I'm not even sure there is any saving grace to 'new ideas.' Don't hitch your wagon to that shooting star. If Dan had said we stand for good government, then he'd be hitting a home run. Stand for honesty. Stand for an approach that cares about the people. Stand for and speak about the fact that you have an 'open mind.' Slave upon the duty of being there and doing the necessary research before the votes are set at the table.
Dan is a good supporting role character in a time of crisis when there are others at the helm of the city after we've just changed captains. Dan is the guy who could best advance the redd-up agenda of Bob O'Connor. That is why he won the election, even before O'Connor got that job. Dan was not a 'Tom Murphy' clone nor 'supporter.' Dan was a clean up candidate, and the west end neighborhoods needed that.
Pittsburgh city hall lacks old hands, has fresh faces 'The city of Pittsburgh has changed,' said council Finance Chairman Dan Deasy, who took office in June 2005. 'We haven't been ingrained in the political system for years. We bring new ideas.'Can anyone tell me one new idea that Dan Deasy has put on the table of City Council?
I like Dan. I think that the rest of the quote is okay. Yes, the city has changed. Yes, the young folks have not been political all that long. Dan isn't a lawyer. Dan is sincere. Dan is a hard worker. Dan is straight. Dan has a family. Dan wants a healthy Pittsburgh.
But tell me, Dan, or anyone else, what Dan has put forward as to new ideas.
Can you read his web site and find out?
Can you read his op-ed in the newspapers?
Can I remember his remarks while he was speaking to a group of concerned citizens?
And, to 'redd up' isn't a 'new idea' for goodness sakes.
Diverse opinions do become personal quickly. And my opinion of Dan isn't 'personal' -- it is factual in one regard -- new ideas.
Furthermore, I'm not even sure there is any saving grace to 'new ideas.' Don't hitch your wagon to that shooting star. If Dan had said we stand for good government, then he'd be hitting a home run. Stand for honesty. Stand for an approach that cares about the people. Stand for and speak about the fact that you have an 'open mind.' Slave upon the duty of being there and doing the necessary research before the votes are set at the table.
Dan is a good supporting role character in a time of crisis when there are others at the helm of the city after we've just changed captains. Dan is the guy who could best advance the redd-up agenda of Bob O'Connor. That is why he won the election, even before O'Connor got that job. Dan was not a 'Tom Murphy' clone nor 'supporter.' Dan was a clean up candidate, and the west end neighborhoods needed that.
part 3 - Jeff Koch's role and excuses
Then there is Jeff.
I've got a lot to say about bars and the neighborhood. But Jeff is going to strike out. The outcomes are never going to materialize. Worthless efforts. The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
As to the shuttered Neville Ice Arena -- that is a no brainer. I could have had it opened by now. I could open that in about 2 weeks. I get calls every other month from people from around the county that want to open the Neville Ice Arena. My last call was from an ex-Pittsburgh guy who was with a firm in the state of Washington. Another call was from a local Pittsburgh guy who was very 'secret' (a turn off to me) who was putting together a team of investors. (Doubt he was successful.)
A request for proposals (RFP) for the Neville Ice Rink was promised to me and the community on mulitiple instances. It never came. It must have been done three or four times over. Then the local do-nothing types had a park plan that was not worth the paper it was written on. They wanted to get their hooks into the building and facility. They fumbled too.
The Neville Ice Rink is a 'sports facility.' To move that project you'll need someone who understands 'Recreational Leadership' to get involved. Our Citipaks programs and leaders there have been all about closing fewer facilities. They have been trying to make chicken soup with nothing but chicken shit. For them to shift gears and put any effort into a closed facility, when they have dozens of others that are also closed and are going nowhere, and when another dozen are on the brink of being closed is impossible.
The South Side Market House should have 200 kids playing indoor soccer this fall. That isn't happening. Jeff Koch didn't help. This is the first year that that program has been axed. Fumble.
I've offered to help. No luck.
The Markethouse could be opened and should be opened. Same too with the ice rink. But no. We'll slide backwards some more.
Jeff needs to do some projects that work. Jeff has nothing to point to as a success in the community yet. Jeff is up for re-election in May 2007 in the primary and November 2007 for the general election. His honeymoon is over.
Jeff is going to need to shift into excuse mode soon. He'll have to make excuses as to why he didn't get anything done. I wish that there was more for him to lean upon and point to.
Can't skate in the city -- yet city kids skate. That's B.Mc. on the right from a performance in a suburban rink in 2006.
Market House Soccer -- red team. My son is bottom left. I'm top right.
My son is on bottom right and I'm at top left in this photo of a Market House Soccer team.
Another city pool -- empty. This is a summer-time photo.
Just to be clear about myself: I coached and was on the parent booster group of the South Side Market House Children's Athletic Assn for a number of years. As my kids got older, we went to our sport -- swimming -- we left Market House activities. Now I'm coaching my son's team in swimming, in the burbs, no less. When I left the Market House, things were running smoothly. The activities ran last year, without my involvement. But, that happened without much help from the City. Volunteers ran the program at the Market House and were spent because of it. Day to day programming with volunteers isn't ideal.
We have serious recreational issues and problems in this area.
I'm a swimming coach for five days a week, if not seven days. I've coached this year in Canada (for 2-weeks), with the Carlynton Swim Club (year round), ran a water polo clinic, began a swim team at Phillips Elementary, and coached the summer season with the Crafton Swim Team. I've coached swimming since 1976.
I coached swimming in the city in 1999-2000. That fall the city yanked the pool permit from the team at the Oliver Bath House, sadly. That season I worked with Coach Hosea and we saved TRA (Three Rivers Aquatics). Parent boosters wanted to kill TRA, so I came onto the scene. The old TRA team is now in our winter swim league for 2006-07 season and it operates as the Kingsley Stingrays.
We'll begin our swim practices with the Phillips Elementary Swim Team again shortly. They practice for one swim meet and gather only on Sunday nights.
Pittsburgh city hall lacks old hands, has fresh faces 'It's taken time to get acclimated to how slow the process is,' said Councilman Jeff Koch. He has spent much of his six months in office crafting legislation to give neighborhoods control over bars moving in and pushing the bureaucracy to remove graffiti and to seek an operator for the shuttered Neville Ice Arena.Jeff is crafting legislation to give neighborhoods control over bars. Right. I'm sure he is. Might as well take a big ice ball and push it to the top of Mt. Washington all summer long.
I've got a lot to say about bars and the neighborhood. But Jeff is going to strike out. The outcomes are never going to materialize. Worthless efforts. The road to hell is paved with good intentions.
As to the shuttered Neville Ice Arena -- that is a no brainer. I could have had it opened by now. I could open that in about 2 weeks. I get calls every other month from people from around the county that want to open the Neville Ice Arena. My last call was from an ex-Pittsburgh guy who was with a firm in the state of Washington. Another call was from a local Pittsburgh guy who was very 'secret' (a turn off to me) who was putting together a team of investors. (Doubt he was successful.)
A request for proposals (RFP) for the Neville Ice Rink was promised to me and the community on mulitiple instances. It never came. It must have been done three or four times over. Then the local do-nothing types had a park plan that was not worth the paper it was written on. They wanted to get their hooks into the building and facility. They fumbled too.
The Neville Ice Rink is a 'sports facility.' To move that project you'll need someone who understands 'Recreational Leadership' to get involved. Our Citipaks programs and leaders there have been all about closing fewer facilities. They have been trying to make chicken soup with nothing but chicken shit. For them to shift gears and put any effort into a closed facility, when they have dozens of others that are also closed and are going nowhere, and when another dozen are on the brink of being closed is impossible.
The South Side Market House should have 200 kids playing indoor soccer this fall. That isn't happening. Jeff Koch didn't help. This is the first year that that program has been axed. Fumble.
I've offered to help. No luck.
The Markethouse could be opened and should be opened. Same too with the ice rink. But no. We'll slide backwards some more.
Jeff needs to do some projects that work. Jeff has nothing to point to as a success in the community yet. Jeff is up for re-election in May 2007 in the primary and November 2007 for the general election. His honeymoon is over.
Jeff is going to need to shift into excuse mode soon. He'll have to make excuses as to why he didn't get anything done. I wish that there was more for him to lean upon and point to.
Can't skate in the city -- yet city kids skate. That's B.Mc. on the right from a performance in a suburban rink in 2006.
Market House Soccer -- red team. My son is bottom left. I'm top right.
My son is on bottom right and I'm at top left in this photo of a Market House Soccer team.
Another city pool -- empty. This is a summer-time photo. Just to be clear about myself: I coached and was on the parent booster group of the South Side Market House Children's Athletic Assn for a number of years. As my kids got older, we went to our sport -- swimming -- we left Market House activities. Now I'm coaching my son's team in swimming, in the burbs, no less. When I left the Market House, things were running smoothly. The activities ran last year, without my involvement. But, that happened without much help from the City. Volunteers ran the program at the Market House and were spent because of it. Day to day programming with volunteers isn't ideal.
We have serious recreational issues and problems in this area.
I'm a swimming coach for five days a week, if not seven days. I've coached this year in Canada (for 2-weeks), with the Carlynton Swim Club (year round), ran a water polo clinic, began a swim team at Phillips Elementary, and coached the summer season with the Crafton Swim Team. I've coached swimming since 1976.
I coached swimming in the city in 1999-2000. That fall the city yanked the pool permit from the team at the Oliver Bath House, sadly. That season I worked with Coach Hosea and we saved TRA (Three Rivers Aquatics). Parent boosters wanted to kill TRA, so I came onto the scene. The old TRA team is now in our winter swim league for 2006-07 season and it operates as the Kingsley Stingrays.
We'll begin our swim practices with the Phillips Elementary Swim Team again shortly. They practice for one swim meet and gather only on Sunday nights.
dave4council.com - Dave Schuilenburg For Pittsburgh City Council District 1
Original post from September 28, 2006: Now with an UPDATE at end.
Tip #1 for a candidate for Pittsburgh City Council, special election, November 7.
Dave, put your home address on the web site. A P.O. Box just doesn't cut it. People want to know where you live. I'm glad you saved the Post Office, but this campaign is quick. Put the address there. You could have an "after the campaign long-term address footnote, if you so desire." But, you purchased a house for goodness sakes. Be proud of that and list it.
Best of luck to you. Hope to meet you soon.
Dave Schuilenburg, you've got my attention. I'm listening.
Dave sent me an email.
Tip #1 for a candidate for Pittsburgh City Council, special election, November 7.
Dave, put your home address on the web site. A P.O. Box just doesn't cut it. People want to know where you live. I'm glad you saved the Post Office, but this campaign is quick. Put the address there. You could have an "after the campaign long-term address footnote, if you so desire." But, you purchased a house for goodness sakes. Be proud of that and list it.
dave4council.com - Dave Schuilenburg For Pittsburgh City Council District 1 PO Box#15170Otherwise, nice site. I love what you are talking about. The overall themes are right on. We do need action. We do need folks to serve without being driven by 'self interest.' We do need reform. We do need families with young children to move into and stay in and thrive within our neighborhoods.
Best of luck to you. Hope to meet you soon.
Dave Schuilenburg, you've got my attention. I'm listening.
Dave sent me an email.
Makes sense to me.
Mark;
Thank you for your kind comments & constructive criticism. The reason it was ultimately decided to go with a post office box is 2 fold. First, I have been having mail theft issues as of late, and you can imagine how that could make or break the campaign. Second, with all the community & non-profit work I do, many times, all the mail does not fit in the box.
Again, thanks for the nice comments, and I too look forward to finally meeting you too.
Respects,
Dave
Pa. voters asked to OK borrowing to help Gulf War vets
PennLive.com: NewsFlash - Pa. voters asked to OK borrowing to help Gulf War vets HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Nearly 33,000 Pennsylvania veterans who participated in the Persian Gulf War may qualify for state combat 'bonuses' of as much as $525 each if voters approve a $20 million bond issue that is on the Nov. 7 statewide ballot.
The payments, authorized by a law that lawmakers overwhelmingly approved and Gov. Ed Rendell signed with little fanfare in April, would be similar to previously authorized bonuses for veterans who served in or during wars dating back to the Spanish-American War in the late-1800s.
'Pennsylvania has had a history of providing a war/conflict bonus to resident veterans,' said Rep. Jerry L. Nailor, R-Cumberland, a sponsor of the bill.
Ravenstahl set to meet governor, legislators
Luke is on the road, and that is good news.
At the back of the article comes these insights that need attention.
Part of the Harrisburg bail out was a mandatory reduction in taxes that the city could charge. The city raised its parking tax to 50%, the highest in the country. The backlash in Harrisburg was such that the parking tax must drop in future years. Those forced cuts mean the city has millions in new holes to its budget.
Suburban legislatures, such as Orie, Turzi, Petrone, and city members of both chambers such as Diven, Frankle, Readshaw and others fumbled in great ways. Most, if not all, need to carry a great deal of blame. They should start all their conversations with a big sorry statement as to what they did and failed to do for the city. They were worthless. And, in the long-term, they were downright harmful.
Bill Peduto recently talked about the five year budget plan and said that the year by year outlook is bad in future years. He used a college word, something like, the budgets in years two, three and four are exponentially more difficult to balance.
The 'exponential' qualification is a over lavish statement and just false. But, it is harder in those out years to balance the city's figures due to what the state legislature did -- with Rendell's okay.
Lynn Swann and all the candidates who are running against sitting candidates should blast them for their hand in giving a hole-filled bailout to the city.
The bailout for the city was a feel good deed on the part of those in Harrisburg, because we had a jackass as a Mayor, Tom Murphy. Meanwhile, the bailout comes on like a kick in the teeth to city residents year after year -- as it keeps on giving, but only worse.
Then the news article from the P-G quotes 'political consensus' without any attribution. Think again Rich Lord. These folks in Harrisburg are not going to do anything for the city at this moment -- so I agree with the consensus part -- but for many other reasons. They are hardly fighting for re-election. That is not reality. Most of the people who work in Harrisburg from the Pittsburgh area have a free ride in their re-election bids. I wish that there was much more fighting for re-elections.
The Harrisburg government officials are not going to do anything for the city because they are ignorant of the facts. They don't know how the parking tax has been a boost to the city's budget. They don't understand how the gambling money has been a false savior and incomes were put into the budget from gambling by Tom Murphy two years ago. Such a joke from Fast Eddie Rendell and the dual overlords. They are clueless because the real facts of the matter are so poorly covered.
Furthermore, the folks who work in Harrisburg in official roles are not going to do anything for the city at this time because the folks who are on city council and who are in the mayor's administration don't have the vision, nor the drive, nor the crafted statements to take to Harrisburg.
The news article says Luke is going to Harrisburg to build bridges. Well, he should have been doing that as soon as he was elected, if not as soon as he began to campaign, if not as soon as he thought of himself as a potential advocate and citizen.
For years, people on city council have been told to 'butt out' with dealings in Harrisburg. They have. So now we have to send our Mayor to Harrisburg to build bridges.
Luke should be going to Harrisburg now to blow up tunnels, if you ask me. I'm speaking about those expensive light-rail tunnels that are going to go to the North Side stadiums -- a PAT project.
Luke, I could give you a long list of ideas to share with those in Harrisburg. They need to be given an education on matters that impact the city in grave ways.
Tell them the re-do of Point State Park is boneheaded and what we really need is a new governmental structure to allow for the creation of a park district so volunteerism soars around this region.
Tell them about the parking tax and how much was projected and delivered to the city's general fund, year in and year out. Then talk about how folks in the suburban reaches of the county can ride the bus to town and avoid traffic, lessen traffic, and skip out on the parking tax. Besides, PAT subsidizes them already while fare in the city, zone 1, are to climb to $2.50.
There has been a tax shift away from the ones who benefit from sprawl and to the ones who reside in the city's core. Mention the county's tax assessment mess.
Tell them about the city's school situation and how our special needs kids get excellent treatment and educations. Therefore the families in suburban neighborhoods with children with challenges often move districts, into the city, to get a better education. And, the state does little to support those educational needs. Futhermore, the formulas and caps have been working against the city school district for more than a decade.
Luke, you can begin to recruit for a new police chief too. Tell people you need top candidates for the new opening. Plus, as the new police officers are headed to the force, as part of a hyped-filled promise by some campaign somewhere, -- you'll be wanting to hire crossing guards for city streets. Crossing guards are effective and affordable. And, you'll empower them like never before and make them new darlings of enformcement and communications -- plus safety.
Finally, Luke, tell the governor and others seeking re-election that you won't film any campaign commercials for candidates while seated behind your desk on Grant Street at Tom Murphy did four years ago. And, if that was to happen again, you'd file charges yourself.
At the back of the article comes these insights that need attention.
Ravenstahl set to meet governor, legislators The Legislature approved a tax boost for the city in late 2004, but city leaders have said it isn't enough to cover rising costs expected a few years from now.The Legislature provided a "bail out package" for the city. The bail out was a joke. Everyone in Harrisburg needs to take ownership and blame for the bailout.
The consensus in political circles is that no new help for the city will be coming this year, since most state officials are fighting for re-election.
Part of the Harrisburg bail out was a mandatory reduction in taxes that the city could charge. The city raised its parking tax to 50%, the highest in the country. The backlash in Harrisburg was such that the parking tax must drop in future years. Those forced cuts mean the city has millions in new holes to its budget.
Suburban legislatures, such as Orie, Turzi, Petrone, and city members of both chambers such as Diven, Frankle, Readshaw and others fumbled in great ways. Most, if not all, need to carry a great deal of blame. They should start all their conversations with a big sorry statement as to what they did and failed to do for the city. They were worthless. And, in the long-term, they were downright harmful.
Bill Peduto recently talked about the five year budget plan and said that the year by year outlook is bad in future years. He used a college word, something like, the budgets in years two, three and four are exponentially more difficult to balance.
The 'exponential' qualification is a over lavish statement and just false. But, it is harder in those out years to balance the city's figures due to what the state legislature did -- with Rendell's okay.
Lynn Swann and all the candidates who are running against sitting candidates should blast them for their hand in giving a hole-filled bailout to the city.
The bailout for the city was a feel good deed on the part of those in Harrisburg, because we had a jackass as a Mayor, Tom Murphy. Meanwhile, the bailout comes on like a kick in the teeth to city residents year after year -- as it keeps on giving, but only worse.
Then the news article from the P-G quotes 'political consensus' without any attribution. Think again Rich Lord. These folks in Harrisburg are not going to do anything for the city at this moment -- so I agree with the consensus part -- but for many other reasons. They are hardly fighting for re-election. That is not reality. Most of the people who work in Harrisburg from the Pittsburgh area have a free ride in their re-election bids. I wish that there was much more fighting for re-elections.
The Harrisburg government officials are not going to do anything for the city because they are ignorant of the facts. They don't know how the parking tax has been a boost to the city's budget. They don't understand how the gambling money has been a false savior and incomes were put into the budget from gambling by Tom Murphy two years ago. Such a joke from Fast Eddie Rendell and the dual overlords. They are clueless because the real facts of the matter are so poorly covered.
Furthermore, the folks who work in Harrisburg in official roles are not going to do anything for the city at this time because the folks who are on city council and who are in the mayor's administration don't have the vision, nor the drive, nor the crafted statements to take to Harrisburg.
The news article says Luke is going to Harrisburg to build bridges. Well, he should have been doing that as soon as he was elected, if not as soon as he began to campaign, if not as soon as he thought of himself as a potential advocate and citizen.
For years, people on city council have been told to 'butt out' with dealings in Harrisburg. They have. So now we have to send our Mayor to Harrisburg to build bridges.
Luke should be going to Harrisburg now to blow up tunnels, if you ask me. I'm speaking about those expensive light-rail tunnels that are going to go to the North Side stadiums -- a PAT project.
Luke, I could give you a long list of ideas to share with those in Harrisburg. They need to be given an education on matters that impact the city in grave ways.
Tell them the re-do of Point State Park is boneheaded and what we really need is a new governmental structure to allow for the creation of a park district so volunteerism soars around this region.
Tell them about the parking tax and how much was projected and delivered to the city's general fund, year in and year out. Then talk about how folks in the suburban reaches of the county can ride the bus to town and avoid traffic, lessen traffic, and skip out on the parking tax. Besides, PAT subsidizes them already while fare in the city, zone 1, are to climb to $2.50.
There has been a tax shift away from the ones who benefit from sprawl and to the ones who reside in the city's core. Mention the county's tax assessment mess.
Tell them about the city's school situation and how our special needs kids get excellent treatment and educations. Therefore the families in suburban neighborhoods with children with challenges often move districts, into the city, to get a better education. And, the state does little to support those educational needs. Futhermore, the formulas and caps have been working against the city school district for more than a decade.
Luke, you can begin to recruit for a new police chief too. Tell people you need top candidates for the new opening. Plus, as the new police officers are headed to the force, as part of a hyped-filled promise by some campaign somewhere, -- you'll be wanting to hire crossing guards for city streets. Crossing guards are effective and affordable. And, you'll empower them like never before and make them new darlings of enformcement and communications -- plus safety.
Finally, Luke, tell the governor and others seeking re-election that you won't film any campaign commercials for candidates while seated behind your desk on Grant Street at Tom Murphy did four years ago. And, if that was to happen again, you'd file charges yourself.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Pa. lawmakers disagree on call for state constitutional convention
To those without an ability to think outside the box -- there is only one pathway. Get creative -- as there are many ways to get meaningful reform.
Mostly, however, I'd want to replace first and then reform. I'm very scared of reform with the same folks that are in there now.
If measure of reform get lost in the shuffle -- then perhaps the shuffle needs a new groove. The beat goes on for some -- while others just can't dance.
Those who are in the way need to be replaced.
Those who are in office now can't and won't want to make fundamental reforms, by and large.
And, my goodness, we don't need "ONE RALLYING CRY." No way.
We need harmony. We need balance. We need many voices. We need many rounds and multiple verses. The one-cry unity bunk is NOT okay for something as grand as a constitutional convention.
The Bill of Rights wasn't put into one declaration nor amendment.
Any construct of a conventional convention in Pennsylvania needs to examine Philly and what it means to be a city of the first class, a city of the second class and all the other cities in the commonwealth.
It might be best to have the greater Philly region remove itself from Pennsylvania. They can form their own, 51st state.
Then if they do a good job in setting up their own constutional convention -- we'll be watching.
A prohibition on lame-duck sessions can be done by house and senate leadership. And, others in the bodies. You don't need a new constituion to handle that.
A prohibition on extra compensation for legislators is already in the constitution. Too bad you, Jim Ferlo, didn't stand up and say a word about this while it was moving into becoming an illegal bill. Senator Ferlo voted "no" -- but didn't make a point of order nor issue a single statement, as person with a voice -- and a vote. Nobody said anything -- not even 'boo.'
The reconsideration of compensation for state judges does NOT require a constituional convention either. And, the talk about judges is more of a moment to moment political issue, not a way to govern ourselves.
Pa. lawmakers disagree on call for state constitutional convention That's the only way to achieve meaningful reform, said Mr. Ferlo, D-Highland Park.Perhaps a constitutional convention is the best way to achieve meaningful reform. However, it isn't the only way.
Mostly, however, I'd want to replace first and then reform. I'm very scared of reform with the same folks that are in there now.
If measure of reform get lost in the shuffle -- then perhaps the shuffle needs a new groove. The beat goes on for some -- while others just can't dance.
Those who are in the way need to be replaced.
Those who are in office now can't and won't want to make fundamental reforms, by and large.
And, my goodness, we don't need "ONE RALLYING CRY." No way.
We need harmony. We need balance. We need many voices. We need many rounds and multiple verses. The one-cry unity bunk is NOT okay for something as grand as a constitutional convention.
The Bill of Rights wasn't put into one declaration nor amendment.
Any construct of a conventional convention in Pennsylvania needs to examine Philly and what it means to be a city of the first class, a city of the second class and all the other cities in the commonwealth.
It might be best to have the greater Philly region remove itself from Pennsylvania. They can form their own, 51st state.
Then if they do a good job in setting up their own constutional convention -- we'll be watching.
A prohibition on lame-duck sessions can be done by house and senate leadership. And, others in the bodies. You don't need a new constituion to handle that.
A prohibition on extra compensation for legislators is already in the constitution. Too bad you, Jim Ferlo, didn't stand up and say a word about this while it was moving into becoming an illegal bill. Senator Ferlo voted "no" -- but didn't make a point of order nor issue a single statement, as person with a voice -- and a vote. Nobody said anything -- not even 'boo.'
The reconsideration of compensation for state judges does NOT require a constituional convention either. And, the talk about judges is more of a moment to moment political issue, not a way to govern ourselves.
Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Websites Show Importance of Internet Campaigning
Pennsylvania Gubernatorial Websites Show Importance of Internet Campaigning Now, no candidate can even think of getting elected without a webpage. The question no longer is who has a website, but whose is the best. This year's Pennsylvania Gubernatorial race between Democratic incumbent Ed Rendell and Republican former Pittsburgh Steeler football player Lynn Swann is a case in point. The better website just might determine who wins the election.Only a bloke in Illinois would think that the web sites of Swann and Rendell are going to make the difference in the election.
Furthermore, City Councilman, Jeff Koch, D, won an election on March 14, 2006 -- without a web site. He beat a field with eight other candidates.
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