Thursday, March 15, 2007

Ravenstahl site drops photos - Ethics N@

It is a crying shame that all ethical matters need to be taken to Harrisburg's system, rather than the one in Pittsburgh. The one in Pittsburgh has not functioned in a decade. What about the Pittsburgh Ethics Board?

Bob O'Connor was getting that in gear, we were told. Then he died.

Luke and Bill made some squeaks about it a few weeks ago, but the follow-through has been absent.
Ravenstahl site drops photos - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Peduto criticized the mayor's use of the photos.

'I think it's a violation of state ethics. It's very clear that you cannot use government property for political purposes,' Peduto said.

A spokesman for the State Ethics Commission did not return a call seeking comment.
One of the worst ethical campaign act that dealt with 'photos' was the campaign commercial that was filmed by Tom Murphy in the Mayor's office for the benefit of Ed Rendell. Murphy used his office for a TV ad.

This ethical violation was called to everyone's attention. Even the MSM made a mention of it.

I went to city council and asked the members on council to stand with me and demand that the ad be taken off the air. None on council made a peep. They all like Rendell. They all like Mayor Murphy. They all had no need for doing what was right and ethical.

Even the TV stations didn't care. They ran the ad over our objections. The TV stations wanted to make the money, even if it was unethical content.

I think Bill Peduto was on city council at the time. Luke might have not have been on council yet, but I'm sure he was out of diapers by then.

Sure, this gives another chance to bash ex-Mayor Tom Murphy again. But his foolishness and his model have set the standard for the D party in Pittsburgh for many years.

See other link on same topic: Ethics N@ II

Ravenstahl site drops photos thanks to bloggers

http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/2007/03/ravenstahl-site-drops-photos-thanks-to.html

Ravenstahl site drops photos thanks to bloggers

Nit or NOT? (And I don't mean WVU in the NIT.)
Ravenstahl site drops photos - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl's campaign on Wednesday removed at least five photos from its Web site because they look a lot like pictures taken by city employees that appear on the city's official Internet site.

'We're trying to be scrupulous in following the letter of the law,' said Damon Andrews, Ravenstahl's campaign manager.
Well done fellow bloggers. Well done.

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Richard Swartz hit by challenge to nomination petitions

Ugh.

PDF of document showing the details.

Shame on Dan Onorato and his cronies.

Screen capture of PDF form include:
From Art from friends

Video tape policy of the Planning Meetings is still not completed

We are still hanging with a Freedom of Speech issue. Heads up to WTAE and others. The video tape policy of the planning commission meetings is still slated to be on the agenda, again.

We've got ghost voting in Harrisburg. We are looking for reform. We need it on Grant Street -- and Ross Street.

Pi Day Statement: We got pucked.



Statement delivered to Pittsburgh City Council on Pi Day, March 14, 2007.

The Penguins / multi-purpose arena deal is behind us. Now it is time to begin to look at the deal, its costs and promises. I've urged others to "think again" throughout this entire ordeal. Frankly, I crave something much better. I think, "We got pucked."

This should not be an US (taxpayers) vs. THEM (elites of governement and sports) face off. Often, life isn't about two sides. I want the third, more creative, best deal -- not one step better than the worst.

The worst thing would have been to offer a ton of subsidization to the Penguins and have them still leave and still build the new arena without a tennant.

Better than the worst is to offer a ton of money to the new arena and have them take it and destroy the Civic Arean in the process.

To grow the region, we've got to expand. Keep the Civic Arena, its pie-like shape and all. Build the new arena elsewhere.

The video above has a different persepctive. What do you think?

Photos and Video of South Side meeting about Bars in Market House with Mayor Ravenstahl

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl spoke at this meeting, held on Feb 28, 2007, just before it concluded. See the mini-slide show in photos.

D-primary challenger, Bill Peduto, did not attend this meeting because he was speaking at another event, a candidate's debate, hosted at the Union Project. It was to be a candidates debate, but the Mayor didn't attend. Other candidates in other races debated, but not Luke.
From planning-urban

At the meeting, Luke said he'd come to the South Side and walk the streets on a weekend night to experience what we see on a regular basis. That got him some applause. He spoke of follow-through too. But, he didn't come to walk the streets in the wee-hours (pun intended). He didn't follow through.

We're still waiting.

Could New Arena Spark Develoment In Hill District

kdka.com - Could New Arena Spark Develoment In Hill District(KDKA) HILL DISTRICT Now that the new arena is going to be built just across the street from the silver-domed Mellon Arena many residents of the Hill District are beginning to wonder if it could spark new development in their neighborhood.

In the �50s, the construction of a new arena had many Hill District residents excited. But that promise never really materialized.

However, now, a new arena is in the Hill District�s future.

"Now that the Penguins are here for the next 30 years we're hoping that we're going to have some good relationships," says Reverend Johnnie Monroe, of Grace Memorial Church, in the Hill District.
The answer to the question is clear to me. In my humble opinion, the new arena will NOT be a boost to the area's development in terms of what is most desired and needed.

Who wants to live next to a NHL hockey venue? Some 50 nights a year, you can't get home after work or go out for a loaf of bread. These nights you'll be sure to have cars wedged everywhere, so having guest is out of the question. Futhermore, the flow of fans, not always quiet and with empty blatters is in your face.

It has been my belief that the Hill District would thrive again after the Pens depart. Homes would come and so would small business. Residents and workers don't appreciate the headaches so they'll not arrive. They vote with their feet.

So, the Hill District is going to stay much like it is. More glitz and debt will come to one tiny section, but that's about all I expect.

Carbolic Smoke Ball: RENDELL CAPITULATES, WILL GIVE PENGUINS NEW ARENA

Carbolic Smoke Ball: RENDELL CAPITULATES, WILL GIVE PENGUINS NEW ARENA

kdka.com - Site Preparations Underway For New Arena

Haste makes waste. They were over reaching for months.
kdka.com - Site Preparations Underway For New Arena The Sports and Exhibition Authority has spent the last several weeks buying up buildings around the site; and preparations are already underway as a contract has been put out to demolish those buildings to make room.

In all, 12 buildings will come down to make room for construction.

Some of the structures coming down to make way for the arena include the old Labor Council District building and the aged St. Francis Central Hospital.

The new arena will be built on a six and a half acre site, which is right across the street from the old Mellon Arena.
Not only do we have the loss of the Civic Arena, but there are a dozen buildings going to vanish as well. Those buildings are being replaced by tax-free properties owned by the public authority. Less taxes are going to be collected as more of the city goes to 'non-profit status.'

The SEA already paid for the asbestos removal of one or more buildings.

Historic Review Commission - PittsburghPlatform

The boss got axed by Luke. Was it votes? No. Hey P.L. of the P-G. He got fired from the role because of the historic Civic Arena.
Historic Review Commission - PittsburghPlatform Media

* Places: Did vote doom commission chairman? - Post-Gazette, March 2007, Michael Eversmeyer, chairman of the city's Historic Review Commission, got a Dear John letter from Mayor Luke Ravenstahl last month."
The new multi-purpose arena deal needs to NUKE the historic civic arena.

Citizens’ Convention Would Address Crisis in Confidence

After 133 years, the Pennsylvania General Assembly should approve an enabling act for a true citizens’ constitutional convention.

In 1872, the citizens of Pennsylvania agreed to convene in a dedicated review of the frame of government. At that constitutional convention, much of the focus was on the abuses of special legislation, disturbing and fraudulent election practices, and the structure of the state’s court system.

The convention lasted just over a year, where these and other issues were hotly debated by statesmen of the day. Although there were court challenges to the proceedings and fractional political groups voicing strong opposition, the press covered the convention faithfully and produced largely favorable editorials.

When Pennsylvanians confronted the new Constitution at a special election, they adopted it by a two to one margin. This was the last time citizens fully participated in such a broad review of government at a convention. Since then, constitutional change has been carried out in piecemeal fashion by the hands of others.

Between 1901 and 1959, 86 constitutional amendments emanated from the legislature. 59 were adopted by the voters. All were minor sectional changes to the document, and as the mood of voters changed from year to year, so did their embrace of amendments.

Running parallel to this incremental and unpredictable path of change were periodic pushes for general revision instigated by various Governors: The Sproul Commission in 1921, a separate pre-depression effort by Gifford Pinchot, the 1935 Earle Advisory Committee and the Woodside Commission in 1959. These efforts all failed to produce any constitutional change whatsoever.

In 1961, an alternative plan was conceived. William Schnader, who led the Earle Committee and was serving as president of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, urged the group to get involved. By 1963, 14 committees of the Bar Association produced a comprehensive plan - dubbed Project Constitution - to amend the Constitution in article-sized chunks rather than the small sectional bites taken since 1874.

Governor William Scranton took office in 1962 with constitutional change as a high priority. In 1963 the legislature proposed a convention to the electorate. The Bar Association was prepared to submit its plan to the convention, but the voters refused to authorize one.

Scranton then prompted legislative introduction of several of the Bar Association’s “article by article” amendments. Scranton was term-limited out of office in 1966, but he and successor Raymond Shafer successfully shepherded nine amendments through the legislative and voter adoption processes by mid-1967. At the same time, voters approved a convention to consider the remaining articles and the issue of apportionment.

By the time delegates gathered in Harrisburg, the convention’s preparatory committee, consisting entirely of the Lt. Governor and legislative leaders, had already set the agenda. 69 of the 163 delegates to the convention - including 9 of the 13 preparatory committee members - were lawyers.

The delegates carried out their duties and adjourned just 79 minutes before a mandated deadline. When the convention’s recommendations were approved by the electorate eight weeks later, the citizens’ Constitution of 1874 became history, replaced by something rewritten and rearranged on a wholesale scale by the Pennsylvania Bar Association.

While the 1967 convention was indeed of the “limited” variety, it was only because most of the job had already been completed through the Bar Association’s article-by-article amendment process.

To be sure, constitutional change in Pennsylvania since 1874 hasn’t been all bad, but it has only occurred with the sovereign people sitting in the grandstands, relegated to merely ratifying the notions of others rather than molding government in their own hands.

Whenever a crisis in public confidence occurs, any correction or reform must be aimed squarely at the underlying causes. The crisis of the 1870’s was wholly internal, directly caused by actions and abuses within the institutions of government. During the 1960’s, the causes were largely seen as external to government: stunted population growth, the loss of employable young people, and dismal economic conditions.

Clearly, Pennsylvania’s current crisis of confidence more closely resembles the former than the latter. After 133 years, the General Assembly should approve an enabling act for a true citizens’ constitutional convention.

It must be a convention with a deliberate emphasis on the common interest, rather than self-interest. The process must look forward as well as backward, and it must be focused on the structure and integrity of government rather than partisan issues.

At such a convention, Pennsylvanians would shape a government prepared to take on the challenges of the future, restore the virtues of self-governance and blaze a trail for the rest of the nation to follow. Anything less would simply be unacceptable.
Permission is hereby granted to reproduce, publish and/or distribute this article in its entirety.

About PACleanSweep

PACleanSweep is a non-partisan effort dedicated to returning honor, dignity and integrity to government in Pennsylvania. For more information, please visit www.PACleanSweep.com.

Russ Diamond, Chair, chair@pacleansweep.com, 717.383.3025

AntiRust: This Arena Deal Sucks

One of my favorite blogs. My reactions on the Pens deal comes shortly.
AntiRust: This Arena Deal Sucks This Arena Deal Sucks

I am eating some sour grapes these days. Sour grapes that have been marinating in gasoline and splintered glass.

Statements at City Hall

Pi Day - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Pi Day - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Pi Day and Pi Approximation Day are two unofficial holidays held to celebrate the mathematical constant π (Pi). Pi Day is observed on March 14.

Live blogging: House fire on 12th Street. Smoke.

About seven trucks and plenty of firefighters rushed to the scene of a housefire on 12th Street after 5 AM as blocks on the South Side Flats filled with smoke. A three floor house was puffing with smoke from the walls and roof edge. One older gentleman, was taken out of the building on a stretcher. Conditions unknown. Property damage is sure to occur. Two houses saw a good deal of damage. Red Cross and Fire investigators came to the scene too.

After firefighters put a five-foot hole into the roof with a chainsaw and opened the windows, flames were visible from the street.

The action is about a dozen buildings from ours and on the other side of the street.

Meanwhile, Erik is headed to Harrisburg today to play violin in the Capital with the Frick Middle School's strings. He reported that water pressure for his shower was just fine, despite the fire hoses stringing the neighborhood.
Erik, with instrument, headed to school. Meanwhile, South 12th Street, between Bradish and Freyburg, was dripping wet from the fire trucks.
Another neighbor, dressed in a sweater and flip-flops and sporting the scent familiar to those after spending a night around a campfire said, "Hope everyone is okay."

Another resident, a gifted scholar hoping to remain nameless said, "This isn't a good start to Pi Day. But we'll get on the right track by 8:30, we expect."

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Ben Howland Thinks CBS Manipulates the Brackets | NCAA Football Blog - The FanHouse

Ben Howland Thinks CBS Manipulates the Brackets | NCAA Football Blog - The FanHouse: UCLA coach Ben Howland implied yesterday that he thinks the network does, indeed, manipulate the brackets, and that's why his team's first three games could include the storylines of Howland coaching against his alma mater (Weber State), then against the school where he got his first coaching job (Gonzaga), then against the school he coached before UCLA (Pittsburgh).
Ben, the air is thin when you are at the top of the world. I hope the UCLA players don't have to take a charge, tip-toe near the out of bounds line, or otherwise play a competitive game throughout the tournament.

I'm worried about George Washington vs. Georgetown vs. Washington whatever. Plus, I hated to see the Catholic schools (Notre Dame vs. Georgetown) against one another in the Big East semis. And why didn't our former Bishop get interviewed by the local Mainstream Media?

Ballot Challenges are IN. Let the torture begin in earnest

From texture - misc.
I went down to Michael Lamb's neck of the city-county building today to peek around. But, I didn't stay to 5 pm. A poster at the admiral's blog had a mention too. (GD #s are General Docket Numbers, to aid in looking up the cases. When no comment is provided it is because I didn't see the paperwork. It might come live in a day or so.)

County Council #13 Vernon Boozer by Matt Arena (GD-07-005123)
County Council #13 Brenda Frazier by Matt Arena (GD-07-005120)

City Council #9 Rachel Cooper by 12th and 13th Ward Committee people
(GD-07-005171) The objection is from Kirkland, not committee people. Kirland is in the race and stands to gain the most, perhaps.

City Council #7 Tom Fallon by Michelle Bielen et al
(GD-07-005122) and (GD-07-005152) Tom said on his ethics form he was "unemployed," but had worked in the past year in the office of PA Senator Jim Ferlo, so goes the document.

City Council #7 Patrick Dowd by Anthon Liscowsky
(GD-07-005056) Mr. Dowd filed his statement but put 'see attached' and didn't seem to attach anything with the City Clerk, so the charges read. And, he signed 2006, not 2007.

Play one in the playbook from the Ds is toss the opponent off the ballot. There is not much worse than an un-democratic democrat.

Ugh.

Should Patrick, Tom, Rachel or others want to still run for office, call me. Perhaps it would make sense to enter the November general election race as a Libertarian. I'll help you get onto the ballot.

Early Returns - sloppy again

I'm here to make history, not be a slave of it.
Early Returns - A Post-Gazette Journal Campaign contribution

Kevin Acklin could wind up with a county salary of $9,000 next year. The Point Breeze lawyer is running against Charles McCullough of Upper St. Clair for the GOP nomination for an at-large seat on county council next year. Under the county charter, the two at-large seats can't both be held by the same party. Unless some robust independent candidate emerges in the fall, therefore, the Democratic and Republican primaries determine those seats.
Count on a robust independent candidate in the fall. And, I've emerged already.

Furthermore, the last time I checked, there were three GOPers running for the post, not two. Humm...

Early Returns: Doctor Ron Paul is a member of the US House of Reps

The P-G's early returns is covering Ron Paul. That is "DOCTOR" Paul. He is a M.D.

Furthermore, the guy from Green Tree, now in Texas in the Houston area, is a member of the US House, and has been for some time. The blog mention does not even mention that he is in the US CONGRESS.

Furthermore, he isn't the favorte son II. He's been #1 in my book from the get-go.
Early Returns - A Post-Gazette Journal Favorite son II

Pittsburghers still mourning the loss of native son Tom Vilsack's presidential candidacy have a new home town boy to pin their hopes on, presuming their political preferences are dictated more by geography than ideology.

Rep. Ron Paul, a Texas Republican who, like the former Iowa governor, is a Steel City native, announced this weekend that he is forming an exploratory committee in anticipation of his candidacy for the GOP nomination for president. In 1988, Mr. Paul ran for president as a Libertarian earning little notice and few votes. Mr. Paul is one of only six Republican who voted against authorizing the war in Iraq. In addition to opposing the war, he is an immigration hawk and strong critic of President Bush's immigration proposals. You can catch an interview on his web site.
Candidate get lots of mention in the newspaper before they file official papers to get onto the ballot. There is a lot of talk now about 2008. That's fine. But, it would be nice if folks get a peek at ALL THE CANDIDATES locally in 2007 too.

Libertarian Party says Governor’s budget more of same

Rendell’s budget: higher taxes, more spending, bigger bureaucracies

Harrisburg, PA – The Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania Research Committee today released its review of Governor Rendell’s proposed 2007 budget.

The review is highly critical of Rendell’s plans to increase spending, raise a number of taxes and extend Harrisburg’s meddling even further into the marketplace and into individual lives.

Ron Satz, Ph.D., the research chair of the Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania, remarked that, “The governor’s budget proposal accelerates us in the wrong direction. While history shows that small government, low taxes and free enterprise are necessary for prosperity, this budget only gives us higher taxes and more spending on new and expanded Harrisburg government programs.”

Rendell’s budget would increase total state general-fund spending by 3.6% to $27.3 billion. Rendell’s increased spending will be funded by:

* A higher PA sales tax
* A new electricity consumption tax
* A new tax on oil producers and suppliers
* Higher cigarette taxes and new taxes on other forms of tobacco
* A new payroll tax on employers who do not provide employee health care benefits
* Increased municipal solid-waste disposal fees
* Higher taxpayer debt obligations via more state bonds.

Rendell plans to use this money to expand the state government’s involvement in pre-K and primary education as well as health care. Parents, students and health care consumers will pay more yet lose control of these most personal aspects of their private lives.

"This is a bad budget for Pennsylvanians," concluded Satz. "Governor Rendell continues to adopt the failed big-government approach of trying to 'run' Pennsylvania from the top down. The key to reviving Pennsylvania is for Harrisburg to stand aside to let individuals keep more of their money, and let Pennsylvanians’ personal situations and choices target real needs."

The report, which consists of a summary of 18 critical concerns regarding the proposed budget, along with the LPPa's comments and alternatives, is available at the end of this release.

Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in both Pennsylvania and the United States. Nationwide there are over 200,000 registered Libertarians with organizations in all 50 states. Libertarians serve in hundreds of elected offices throughout the nation. Please visit www.LP.org or www.LPPA.org for more information.

Pennsylvania Libertarian Party Review of Governor Rendell's Budget Proposals

1. Governor: Increase total state general-fund spending by 3.6% to $27.3 billion.

LPPa: Begin reducing total state general funding spending to ultimately provide for the police, courts, part-time legislature, and one executive department to protect life, liberty, and property. Nothing else.

2. Governor: Increase the state sales tax from 6% to 7% to help provide property tax cuts, along with gambling revenues, of $900 million next year.

LPPa: Eliminate all income taxes and begin reducing the sales tax. Property taxes should be based on the actual cost of protecting buildings and land, not for raising money for schools. Schools should be paid for and controlled at the local level by their users.

3. Governor: Impose a new electricity consumption tax to pay off $850 million in borrowing for alternative power development and energy conservation.

LPPa: Eliminate or reduce regulations on power companies so that they will make private investments to improve energy efficiency based on engineering calculations and not Harrisburg's political calculations.

4. Governor: Increase municipal solid-waste disposal fees by $2.75 per ton for hazardous-waste cleanup.

LPPa: Privatize solid-waste disposal operations and let strict
enforcement of property rights laws address any environmental concerns.

5. Governor: Impose a new tax on oil companies' gross profits and exempt those companies from the state's corporate net income tax.

LPPa: Eliminate all income taxes to promote development. Don't single out an industry, or a single corporation within an industry, with special favors or with special penalties.

6. Governor: Increase the cigarette tax from $1.35 to $1.45 per pack, levy a new tax on other forms of tobacco and impose a new 3% payroll tax on employers who do not provide employee health care benefits.

LPPa: Stop levying special taxes on products the government doesn't like. As all state taxes are reduced on all business and individual, let the free market address health care needs.

7. Governor: Boost overall education spending by 6%.

LPPa: Reduce state-level spending on education and give local school districts more financial and educational control of the schooling of their children including the elimination of financial penalties against private education providers.

8. Governor: Expand accountability block grants for pre-K and kindergarten by $100 million.

LPPa: Let parents decide on pre-K and kindergarten programs for their children instead of mandating a "one-size fits all children" state-government program.

9. Governor: Expand programs for special education students, improve elementary science education, make academic programs in 30 high schools more rigorous and provide laptops.

LPPa: See 7 and 8. Remove barriers to having future job providers get involved with educational providers in the education of young people at no charge to taxpayers.

10. Governor: Ban smoking in workplaces, restaurants, and bars.

LPPa: Let private workplaces, restaurants, and bars decide for
themselves whether to have smoke-free areas or not.

11. Governor: Expand by more than 18% an early intervention program for 76,000 children age 5 and younger.

LPPa: No evidence exists for the benefits of such a program. Stop
wasting taxpayer money for the sake of expanding state government!

12. Governor: Increase Corrections Department spending by 13% to handle growth in the state prison population by adding beds and to reduce recidivism by treating substance abuse and better monitoring inmates after they are released.

LPPa: The governor has the constitutional authority to release
through pardon non-violent drug offenders. This eliminates the need for additional spending and replaces expensive incarceration with lower-cost outpatient medical treatment.

13. Governor: Make possession of a stolen gun a felony, require police notification whenever a gun is lost or stolen, let local communities restrict the distribution and use of handguns, and limit gun purchases to one per month.

LPPa: "The right of the citizens to bear arms in defense of
themselves and the State shall not be questioned." Article I, Section 21, PA Constitution.

14. Governor: Establish the "Energy Independence Fund" to pay for such items as conservation initiatives, solar energy, research, research, support for emerging clean-energy products and companies, and purchase of low-power appliances.

LPPa: See 3 and 5 above. Don't let politicians play scientist or engineer.

15. Governor: Seek legislative and voter approval for $850 million in bonds to encourage alternative energy development and energy conservation.

LPPa: See 3 and 5 above. Dont let politicians play scientist or engineer.

16. Governor: Create a $500 million Jonas Salk Legacy Fund to foster biomedical research funded by tobacco settlement revenue.

LPPa: See 3 and 5 above. Don't let politicians play doctor or medical researcher. Tobacco settlement money should only go to those affected by tobacco company fraud, if any. Otherwise the money should be distributed to the all taxpaying citizens of Pennsylvania as hard tax reductions.

17. Governor: Lease the Pennsylvania Turnpike to a private company to raise $965 million for roads and bridges.

LPPa: Sell the Pennsylvania Turnpike to the highest bidder; let them handle the maintenance.

18. Governor: Tax oil companies' gross profits to raise $750 million for mass transit.

LPPa: See 3 and 5 above. Privatize mass transit and don't subsidize it with tax revenues from private industries, especially industries who would be subsidizing their own competition.

Doing back flips for the YouTube campaigns. Give us a break.

Bob Mayo of WTAE and others are make a big deal about the YouTube campaigns. Anyone up for a food fight? Shall I set the table?
From hex

From signs

From signs

From signs
These numbers of page views are not going to set the world on fire. They might be a spark. Time will tell. The important element in these videos is trust. To see, watch, hear and catalog the perspectives can't be denied. That is where the power resides. Meanwhile video ads from faceless, nameless, image trashing sources amount to pimples on the digital landscape and our shared political spaces.

Finally, the coverage from the MSM to the trite and the fumbles to the matters of substance is fuel for the fire -- even the sparks. Seems that the MSM would like to give props to empty shoes. That's just another example of Pittsburgh needs oversight.

The links to my video sites, and the photo catalogs at Picassa, are to the left of this blog. I have toyed with this medium and various messages. There isn't any one 'masterpiece.' The best offering of mine has been the CDs that are given in person to those who attend candidate functions.
Recent highly viewed video: Rauterkus.Blip.TV video called, "Democracy is Important to Me" from city council presentation.

Monday, March 12, 2007

Pokora sues fellow Dems

Pokora sues fellow Dems - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
No sense in making sure that ever vote counts. No way.

The worst: un-democratic democrats.

Second worst: Run to court politicians.

Tony should just pull out of the Dem party so he can run in the general election against the winner of the D's primary. Well, he should have done that. Now it is too late.

Staying put. The Pens won't be tossing in the towel.

KDKA TV News is reporting that the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins are not going to move. A meeting is slated to dot the "i"s and cross the "t"s and the announcement will be made before the next home game.
From Pens Village
Sources: Pittsburgh arena deal done - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: A spokesman for Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said he knew nothing of a deal.

'I never heard that. I heard nothing like that,' spokesman Dick Skrinjar said.

Why Do Evangelicals Ignore Ron Paul? by Chuck Baldwin

Why Do Evangelicals Ignore Ron Paul? by Chuck Baldwin The question burning in the minds of evangelicals today is: Which Republican candidate for president will we anoint? There are several possibilities, but apparently Congressman Ron Paul is not one of them.

Ron Paul received his Bachelor's degree from Gettysburg College. He received his MD from Duke University. He began his OB/GYN career in 1968. He was also an Air Force Captain and a member of the Air National Guard.

OpenOffice.org urges Dell's CEO to respond to customer demand and bundle OpenOffice.org's free software alternative to Microsoft Office with

In an open letter released today, the OpenOffice.org community invites Michael Dell to work with them to pre-install OpenOffice.org 2 office software on Dell computers. Dell's own IdeaStorm website has recorded an overwhelming customer demand for this feature, currently showing more than 70,000 requests for OpenOffice.org 2.

The OpenOffice.org community is the home of the leading free software competitor to Microsoft's Office suite. The letter claims that OpenOffice.org 2 software and Dell hardware make a perfect match, sharing identical values of delivering high quality at unbeatable value. A joint development by Dell and OpenOffice.org raises the prospect of an "OpenOffice.org supplied by Dell" product, with finance from Dell helping to built security for the open-source community.

Text of the letter:

Michael S.Dell, Chairman and CEO
Dell Computer Corporation
One Dell Way
Round Rock, Texas 78682

Dear Michael

Dell Computer Corporation has become one of Fortune's “America’s Most Admired Companies” by providing great value, high quality computers and peripherals, but most of all, by listening to your customers. Your recent “IdeaStorm” initiative is the latest example of this. Here at OpenOffice.org, we were delighted to see that the second most requested feature by Dell customers was to have our office software pre-installed on Dell systems. This request attracted more than 25,000 votes in two
days.

We believe that OpenOffice.org 2 software perfectly matches Dell’s values. OpenOffice.org 2 is high quality office software, the result of over twenty years’ continuous software engineering. It runs under all common operating systems. It offers everything users expect from office software, plus some bonus features that may pleasantly surprise them. It’s easy for customers to use, with a familiar look and feel, and can read and write a wide range of file formats, including Microsoft’s. On top of all this, being licenced under open-source terms, it represents outstanding value for money for you and your customers.

Let’s have a conversation about how we could build an “OpenOffice.org supplied by Dell” product to give your customers what they are asking for. We’d also be happy to accept any financial contribution that Dell might offer to help ensure that OpenOffice.org continues to evolve in the future.

Sincerely

John McCreesh, Marketing Project Lead, OpenOffice.org

House bill would further restrict voter choice

Libertarian Party announces opposition to PA House Bill 48

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Libertarian Party today announced its strong opposition to House Bill 48 which defines criteria for disqualifying votes in an election.

The bill contains a clause preventing a write-in campaign by an independent state-wide candidate who, after submitting the minimum number of signatures to be placed on the General Election ballot, is then removed from the ballot due to procedural technicalities.

This is exactly what happened in the last election. Carl Romanelli submitted 95,000 signatures to be placed on the General Election ballot for Senate. Democrats challenged and convinced the courts that thousands of signatures were invalid, leaving Romanelli 8,931 short of the 67,070 required.

Pennsylvania’s petition signature requirements are extremely strict. Signatures are rejected for technicalities such as forgetting to enter the date or entering information in the wrong box. In addition, the courts have arbitrarily redefined “qualified electors” as registered voters from its less stringent statutory definition of Pennsylvania citizens over 18.

Under House Bill 48, Mr. Romanelli would be unable to then mount a write-in campaign, as any vote cast for him would not be counted.

Doug Leard, LPPa Media Relations Chair, remarked “Factions in the state bureaucracy and the state legislature are committed to restricting political choice on the ballot. With last year’s crushing 67,070 signature requirement, Pennsylvania is the second worst state in the nation for ballot access. When Mr. Romanelli submitted 95,000 signatures, the courts scrutinized the signatures then threw him off the ballot, as well as ordering him to pay over $80,000 in court costs and Democratic Party legal bills. Now, to add injury to insult, the House has introduced legislation to prevent Pennsylvanians who support such a candidate from having their vote even counted.”

Michael Robertson, LPPa Chair added, "Limiting the choices of voters and not counting votes is directly contrary to what government should be doing. Every voter should have their say and every vote cast should be recorded and reported. We urge Pennsylvanians to contact their representative in the General Assembly to oppose House Bill 48.”
I went into the Allegheny County Elections Department after the 2006 general election ended. Sadly, our designated poll watcher was not allowed to be there in the tabulation time, but that is another story. I counted the write-in votes from those in Allegheny County for the office of US Senator in the Casey vs. Santorum race.

Guess what.

My guy, a Libertarian, didn't get his votes reported to Harrisburg. His votes were not put together in a total. I conducted a write in for him. It didn't matter.

Hundreds of voters in Allegheny County made write in votes. Most of them didn't count.

Rep. Ron Paul To Run For President - Politics

Rep. Ron Paul To Run For President - Politics: "U.S. Rep. Ron Paul, a strict constitutionalist and fierce anti-war critic, will formally declare his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination Monday when he appears as a guest on a C-SPAN call-in program.

Paul, R-Texas, created a presidential exploratory committee in January, allowing him to begin collecting money on behalf of his bid. Kent Snyder, the chairman of that committee, said Saturday that Paul would make his candidacy official on Monday.

This will be Paul's second try for the White House. He was the Libertarian nominee for president in 1988.

...Paul, for example, was the only Republican congressman to vote against Department of Defense appropriations for fiscal year 2007, which he opposed because of the war in Iraq -- a war he says is "not necessary for our actual security."

He once described President Bush as "not a constitutional president" and voted against a resolution declaring that the United States would win the war on terror.

He acknowledges that the national Republican Party has largely shunned him despite his nine terms in office under its banner. He gets little money from the GOP's large traditional donors, but benefits from individual conservative and Libertarian donors outside Texas.

Paul bills himself as "The Taxpayers' Best Friend," and is routinely ranked either first or second in the House of Representatives by the National Taxpayers Union, a national group advocating low taxes and limited government.

Pittsburgh Comet gives insights. Pi Day is just around the corner!

From texture - misc.
The Pittsburgh Comet When you get into a pie-fight with Mark Rauterkus, be ready for a faceful of cherry-lemon meringue and custard.
I'm not that interested in a food fight. However, I'm not going to be idle when others try to re-write history.

Likewise, is Peduto the first to do YouTube? Well, I'm the first at JumpCut.com and Blip.tv. Furthermore, being first isn't what this is about. Sure, I want to make history and not be a slave of it. But, this is a long-haul endeavor. In a swim race, the winner isn't called by seeing how hits the water first. Often in the real world it is the pioneer who gets the arrow in the back.

The pie quote from The Pittsburgh Comet comes at a great time, just two days before "Pi Day" -- one of my favorite holidays. When I'm elected, I'll decalre "Pi Day" a big harry deal. (Harry, as in Harry Readshaw.)

From hex

Feel free to take an image of a round "pi object" from my Picassa album and post it on your blog or site to celebrate pi day.

On March 14, 2006, (last year's pi day), was the special election for Pgh City Council district 3. That was the first race I was in which I didn't get last place.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

Letter to the editor in the PG from Mark C, with insights

Plum's Mark C, a Libertarian, posted to our Libertarian list:
I had a LTE in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette today (3/11/2007) about how a spending cap on the Iraq war might not be enough to stop it. The LTE link and text is below.

What's different about this LTE (letter to the editor) was that I got two calls
from the PG about it. The first was simply to confirm my intent to be printed. The editor who called said she agreed with everything I said and even complimented me on a particular sentence.

The second call was a few days later from another editor who wanted verification of a statement I made about routing calls to Canada to avoid US law. She had no problem with the example of outsourcing torture to avoid US law.

I told her that I remember reading it in what I think was WorldNetDaily years ago. She asked if she could soften the statement for printing since there was no proof. Since it was late Friday and they were soon going to print for the early Sunday edition, it was either soften or don't print. We agreed on wording, but I said I'd try to find the reference for her anyway and she gave me here email.

Instead of the WND reference I found another that made the case and revealed that it was even worse than I thought. (The US, England, Canada, Australia and New Zealand have routinely used each other to get around their own laws to monitor their own citizens based on an agreement made in the late 1940s.) I emailed the link to her, stayed polite and told her that fact-checking must not be dead because she really made me work for this letter.

I hope that I'm establishing credibility with the editorial staff at the Post-Gazette. Maybe the small-government viewpoint will gain credibility with them too. I did like the title they gave it.

By the way, has anyone else ever been challenged on a LTE like this?

Mark C.


Link to the letter published in the P-G

Downsize it all Post-Gazette, 3/11/2007

It's naive to think that a targeted spending limit ("The Half-Trillion-Dollar Solution" by Bruce Ackerman and David Wu, March 4 Forum) is the solution to the Iraq war. Limits are easily circumvented and soon forgotten.

Years ago, during the Clinton administration, I read that government pressures telecommunications providers to route calls and e-mails through Canada to avoid U.S. wiretapping laws.

The Bush administration outsourced interrogation to Egypt to avoid torture bans.

Congress usually doesn't even read the legislation it passes. A catchy-titled "Iraq Cap Act" might also include the fine print preparing for an Iran invasion.

The fundamental problem is that our government is too big. It has too much power, too many resources, too many agendas and too many places to hide too many secrets.

Even if we manage to stop the bleeding in Iraq, that will only redirect blood to other domestic and foreign policy wounds, all too numerous in our bipartisan welfare and warfare state.

That's why the real solution must include capping all of government back to its libertarian origins, as the U.S Constitution intends. If not, our country will suffer a debilitating shock as the burden from these wounds threatens our financial and personal lives.

MARK CROWLEY, Plum

City Council District 9 candidates forum in Homestead - first blush

Most of the candidates in the crowded city council district 9 race came to a forum today at the Homestead branch of the Carnegie Library of Pgh. The incumbent was absent and she had said she'd attend. Randall Taylor came an hour late.

I got an hour of video tape and will upload some of it to YouTube in the hours and days to come. Audio from start to finish was also obtained, but I'm not sure of its quality yet.

T.C. should not get a single vote. Well, she'll get the votes from her family members. She wants to snub the residents and voters by not showing up to the candidate debates. So, she should be snubbed at the polls.

All in all, a lot of nice candidates are in the race.

Most of them say things that cause fear in terms of their desires for bigger government. One said that no shovel would turn any dirt in the district unless he had been involved and was on-board with the project before it got started.

Just putting up the raw video would tell a great story in some instances. However, some of the comments need to be discounted within the clips as an over-reach of the roles of city council, however.

Great event! Good people. Some wonderful answers mixed with a few well intended but un-sound approaches.

The only other technical note, now, goes to the fact that the endorsed Democrat, a 22 year old women who has graduated from Howard University did not get the entire packet of her papers filed in the right place at the right time. However, at this point there has been no challenge filed. Time will tell.

Pittsburgh's Great Young Hope, Steel City Mayor Luke Ravenstahl Is Only 27 Years Old - CBS News

Pittsburgh's Great Young Hope, Steel City Mayor Luke Ravenstahl Is Only 27 Years Old - CBS News (CBS) Smokestacks still rise above the three rivers in Pittsburgh, once home to America's steel industry. But today, so do new stadiums, museums and high-tech businesses. It's more than a face-lift — Pittsburghers are trying to draw new money and new energy to town.
Erin R., Pittsburgh's First Lady, gave the quote that my wife repeated to me. I went to church and she stayed home and watched the show -- under my orders.

It is crazy to think that the mayor is in charge of "all that" when looking out while driving through the city.

The mayor isn't in charge of the market place, the economy, the private concerns and the people.

Weirdness in the reporting. Two years ago, the state did NOT pull Pittsburgh back from the brink of bankruptcy. I contend that the state's bailout was inferior.

The Pens didn't threaten to leave the city the other day. It has been a threat for nearly a decade. That has been a lingering threat, just as we've had a lingering bailout.

Mistick talks about 'smart money' giving the mayors job to one guy over the other. That's the problem. Why is "smart money" going to rule? Rather, I'd love to see smart voters make the decisions. Money and ideas are not one in the same. Nor is money and capacity to govern one in the same.

Moreover, when the money goes to one, that might be more of a burden when it comes to doing what's best for the people, day-in and day-out.

SmallGovTimes.com :: Ron Paul to officially announce presidential candidacy Monday

SmallGovTimes.com :: Ron Paul to officially announce presidential candidacy Monday Ron Paul to officially announce presidential candidacy Monday
Great news.

Immolation - Wikipedia: Whispers Footnote

Immolation - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Self-immolation is suicide by immolation, notably as an extreme form of protest.
The Republicans will NOT find anyone to run for mayor. They can't find that person now. The deadline for them has come and gone.
From Jokester Dan: China not trying to shanghai the Pens - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review JUDGE JOE? Former Republican Pittsburgh mayoral candidate Joe Weinroth is running for office again, but this time he won't be a punching bag for the Democrat mayoral nominee.
Wonder if we should keep a list of insults from the Trib and others.

This punching bag might punch back. Furthermore, it is my hope that the D's mayoral nominee does step into the ring. But, I wonder if the courage to do so will permit it.

Friday, March 09, 2007

Health care press event slate for Harrisburg on Monday

Heads up. The bill these folks are pushing for is NOT like what the Governor wants to do.
TIME TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT AGAIN FOR THE FAMILY & BUSINESS HEALTH CARE SECURITY ACT OF 2007 PRESS CONFERENCE ANNOUNCING INTRODUCTION OF SENATE BILL 300 AND ITS HOUSE COUNTERPART (BILL NUMBER SOON TO BE ASSIGNED)

PRIME SPONSORS: SEN JIM FERLO AND REP BARBARA McILVAINE SMITH

ALL 15 HOUSE AND SENATE CO-SPONSORS, REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS, ALSO INVITED

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

MONDAY - MARCH 12, 2007

11 AM to NOON

MEDIA CENTER – EAST WING (250 seating capacity)

CAPITOL BUILDING

HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

Universal Health Care Access

Single Payer Efficiency and Cost Savings

Comprehensive, Not "Basic," Coverage

No-Fault Malpractice Reform and Compensation Program

End Racial, Economic and Geographic Disparity of Care

Tax Rebates to Volunteer Emergency Responders

Health Care Education as a Priority

Rational Cost Containment and Error Reduction

Disaster Preparedness

Mr. Swartz, To Face Luke's Boss In Democratic Primary

kdka.com - Onorato To Face Swartz In Democratic Primary 'He's a community activist,' said Onorato. 'I'm sure he's a good guy. If he wants to enter the race, I'm looking forward to the exchange of ideas.'
Mr. Onorato said in this segment from KDKA TV that he'd debate any candidate that gets into the race.

Governor Rendell, Penguins, Mayor Ravenstahl, County Executive Onorato Statement on Negotiations to Keep NHL Team in Pittsburgh

They did issue a 'longer' statement.
Governor Rendell, Penguins, Mayor Ravenstahl, County Executive Onorato Statement on Negotiations to Keep NHL Team in Pittsburgh Governor Rendell, Penguins, Mayor Ravenstahl, County Executive Onorato Statement on Negotiations to Keep NHL Team in Pittsburgh

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following
statement was released Wednesday evening following negotiations between
Governor Edward G. Rendell, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Allegheny
County Chief Executive Dan Onorato and the Pittsburgh Penguins to keep the
NHL franchise in Pittsburgh:
'We had a very constructive meeting where significant progress was
made. The parties have agreed to meet again next Wednesday. They also
agreed that no further comment will be made.'
The Rendell administration is committed to creating a first-rate public
education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing
economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out
more about Governor Rendell's initiatives and to sign up for his weekly
newsletter, visit his Web site at: http://www.governor.state.pa.us.
Chuck Ardo
717-783-1116

Road Trip to Harrisburg to work for the democratic process

Join Celeste on a trip to Harrisburg. I'm not going, but would, if I could. I hope to go to Harrisburg the next day.
Come to the Election Reform Forum in Harrisburg this Tuesday March 13! It will be a great day because fair and accurately counted electionsare something on which everyone can agree. Let's tell the legislature!

If you are planning to come, sign up with this link.

*** There are FREE BUSSES (one from Pittsburgh and one from Philly) that include a FREE LUNCH! If anyone in other areas can CARPOOL (Centre County? NEPA? NWPA? South-Central PA?) please come and bring people!

Here is bus info:

Pittsburgh leaves promptly at 6 am from the Hill House located at 1835 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219 and will arrive at the Capitol Complex in Harrisburg by 10 am. Bus will leave Harrisburg at 4 pm and arrive in Pittsburgh at 8 pm. To reserve a seat please contact Celeste Taylor at 412-670-0937.

Philadelphia bus will leave at 8am from the Cheltenham Mall Parking lot located at Cheltenham and Washington Ave.., Philadelphia, PA 19138 and will arrive at the Capitol Complex at 10am. Bus will leave Harrisburg at 4pm and arrive in Philadelphia at 6pm. Those requesting a seat onthe busshould contact Mrs. Dukes at 215-224-5522 or the bus captain Deacon Willie Daugherty 215-549-2225. Cars can park in the front of the mall and be directed to where the bus is.

Busses are first come, first served. Again, please REGISTER at the above link even if you contact one of the numbers above for a bus seat or are carpooling/driving yourself.

More than 40 years after the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was passed, minority voters are still facing calculated and determined voter intimidation and suppression tactics. And even though the need for a voter-verified paper record has been well-documented over the past several elections, not all voters in Pennsylvania have access to dependable voting systems. Additionally, language minority voters and those with disabilities continually face barriers to the ballot box.

Our forum will address voting machine and voter verifiability issues, barriers to voting, deceptive practices and other related concerns, and will be followed by an afternoon of legislative visits with those who have the power to guarantee access and accountability!

Date and Time:
March 13, 2007
Forum: 10:30 - 12:30
Legislative visits: 1:00 - 3:30

Location:
Harrisburg, PA 17120 - Capitol Complex: Keystone Building (400 North
St), Hearing Room 1
(Group transportation will be available from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh on a space-available basis)

Speakers:
Rafael Collazo - People For the American Way Foundation and Democracia USA
Rev. Robert Shine - People For the American Way Foundation and African
American Ministers Leadership Council
Barry Kauffman - Common Cause PA
Lora Lavin - League of Women Voters of PA
Tim Stevens - B-PEP, Black Political Empowerment Project
Marybeth Kuznik - VotePA
Paul O'Hanlon - Disabilities Rights Network of PA


The forum will also feature a montage from Video the Vote!

Invited Guests:
U.S. Representative Mike Doyle
Secretary of State Pedro Cortes
Senator James Ferlo
Senator John Pippy
Representative Dan Frankel
Representative Tony Payton, Jr.

Sponsoring organizations:
People For the American Way/Foundation
League of Women Voters of PA
VotePA
B-PEP, Black Political Empowerment Project
Disability Rights Network of PA
Common Cause/PA
Allegheny County ACORN
Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Democracy Rising PA
Pennsylvania Center for Civic Participation
Pennsylvania Council of Churches
League of Young Voters
The Committee of Seventy
National Council of Jewish Women - PA


If you have any questions, or would like to find out how you can become a co-sponsor or donate to this event, please contact Celeste Taylor at 412-670-0937 or ctaylor@pfaw.org.

Free Me, another motherload hit

Welcome… at Free Me: "…to the home of the Free Me DVD on the web. My hope here is to provide lots of links and extra information that there just wasn’t room for on the disc.

Parenting advice: The BABY's NAME

Marty, when we were expecting, we named the kid before it was born. Our unborn baby had a name as he/she had a personality, health, place in our lives -- even before being born.

Our first was called "Dirt."

Our second was called "Pip Squeek."

My parents, as well as my mother in law, were very worried that we would name our kid "Dirt." This was just what I wanted. Let them worry about something, other than what really mattered. Then, later, when the real name was picked -- it would be way better than 'Dirt' -- and they'd be thrilled.

I want the fusses to be contained in boxes that I control.

Furthermore, we had the opinion that we'd be able to see the baby -- and hold him/her (we didn't want to know the gender) -- and make sure that the name fit the new face.

Your first caller to the show was right on with the reservations. Keeping the name a 'secret' makes some sense. Or, do what we've done, -- release a really bad name as a spoof name.

Live blogging: I should be on KDKA Radio, within the hour

KDKA - Homepage Listen Live
Listen On-line Now
Click here to listen to KDKA right now!
Call in:

412-333-KDKA.

That is 412-333-5352.

Link to some background insights posted to this blog recently.

Fact refresher:
Blast from the past. Mechanical voting machines.

Third party candidates for Allegheny County's county-wide offices require 2,345 signatures.

Third party candidates for City of Pittsburgh offices that are 'city wide' (such as Mayor and Controller) requires 804 signatures.

To run for City Council, district 3, (my district) in the election slated for November, requires 100 signatures.

To run for Allegheny County Council in district 13, (my district), requires 270 signatures.

Needed: Libertarian candidates, or even every-day citizens who are willing to run a 'paper campaign' are still needed as Judges, District Attorney, Allegheny County Treasurer (row office), Sheriff, plus candidates for various city council, county council and municipal offices. Individuals are needed right now, even place holder names.

Who wants to help with a voter registration drive at all future Pens games?

Sign at last nights Pens game, hung at the Civic Arena, as politicians visited with Pens ownership in Philly.
Let's do a voter registration drive.

I'm serious.

Pittsburgh plans brainstorming session to boost pension fund - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pittsburgh plans brainstorming session to boost pension fund - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl plans to call together mayors and elected leaders from across the state to discuss how to increase funding of municipal pensions"
All the king's horses and all the king's men, could not put Humpty together again.

Missing from this statement -- the people.

The fix is in.

The one's the make the mess are least capable of cleaning it up.

When, and if, the people are pulled into the discussion -- like I will do -- as in an open-source software model -- THEN we'll get real solutions that really work.

Thursday, March 08, 2007

[412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM

This email just went out to my email blast list.

[412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM [412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM

I generally try to avoid putting in the word, "free" so high in the message. That can choke spam filters. But, I'm getting a good deal of response in the first 20 minutes.

Tonight we mingle and celebrate some fast spashes



I'll get to mingle with these guys tonight at the Frick Middle School Swim Team Banquet. That's Allegheny County Council President, Rich Fitzgerald (on the left). The other good looking guy is the mascot for the Frick Middle School Team. The photo was taken at the city league's middle school championships last month at Oliver H.S.

Mr. Fitz and I are both proud dads of swimmers, --- err, fast swimmers.

We rush there after our swim practice. Personally, I need to be swimming more so I can swim with the Hector Dolphins and prepare for my upcoming race (Pgh Triathlon).

kdka.com - Line-Up Of Candidates Running For Office Official

kdka.com - Line-Up Of Candidates Running For Office Official
Hits upon the lack of candidates in Allegheny County. Incumbents are smiling.

Other countys in Western PA present opportunities and choices among voters.

But, I beg to differ with the news reporting. It isn't "all democrats." Libertarians are filling the void of the absent Republicans.

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Feelings about Pens and meeting on the March 8

I'm just pondering. Perhaps I'll vent and then take this post away after the real news comes. But, if I was a betting guy, and I'm not, I'd predict the following outcome from the meeting slated to occur on Thursday. They'll huddle out of town and include the NHL boss.

My hunch is that a one-year extension will be forthcoming. The Pens will play another year at the Civic Arena. Other decisions will be made later. Meanwhile, the Pens will continue to talk to and pursue all options, in Pittsburgh and elsewhere.

Just a hunch, not a wish.

Libertarianism: Past and Prospects

Cato Unbound - Blog Archive - Libertarianism: Past and Prospects by Brian Doherty

I recently published a book called Radicals for Capitalism: A Freewheeling History of the Modern American Libertarian Movement (PublicAffairs, 2007). I always thought the libertarian movement’s story was fascinating and important, filled with vivid, peculiar, and heroic characters with many little-understood influences on American culture. It is also a story sadly undertold, ...
Heavy, historic and honest.

When the Libertarian Party began, founder David Nolan did not promise electoral victories. (On the national and statewide level, his lack of promise has mostly been kept.) He suggested, rather, that the Libertarian’s existence could lead to increased media attention for libertarian ideas, which might bring more latent libertarians out from hiding, and create a permanent institution to spur them into action, and help further a breakdown of political dominance by the traditional right and left by providing a pro-liberty home to forces on either end of the political spectrum who might not feel comfortable with the rest of their electoral coalition.


I'm not going to promise electoral victories in my quest as I stand for office in 2007. I do exist. The Libertarian Party is present. We are making efforts so as to show up. I care about media attention so as to advance libertarian ideas. I want to do outreach and bring out and along others with some warmth to various libertarian approaches. We need to create a more permanent community and network to spur others into action. We need to breakdown one party political dominance. I want to provide insights so our home and region can be known as a pro-liberty place.

Tip: Check out the comments for some tidbit snips and worthy quotes.

Suspension for e-mail baffles Mt. Lebanon dad

Here comes another goofy story from the Blue Devils of Mt. Lebo. It centers upon parenting, email, a police raid on a party, under age drinking, some swear words, and honesty. Plus, it unfolded in Mt. Lebo, of all places.
Suspension for e-mail baffles Mt. Lebanon dad 'I am with the coaches in regard to Shane. If they feel his e-mail crossed the line, they are well within their right to suspend him, and I can live with that,' the father said. 'But, if you are going to suspend a kid for [sending] an e-mail to a coach, how in the world do you not suspend ... kids for going to a drinking party and one of them for getting arrested there?

'Even if it is just that they are suspended by not starting the game, or being suspended for a quarter or something. By not doing anything to the other kids, who I feel did something far worse, Joey David is a hypocrite.'

Ollie Phillips said David has asked Shane to sit on the bench, in uniform, at the game on Saturday even though he won't be allowed to participate.

'That will not happen,' the elder Phillips said. 'He'll sit there in a coat and tie and be supportive, but he will not be paraded out there in a uniform if he's not going to play. Joey David will not embarrass my son.'
I don't know the facts well enough to say what I would do if I was in this situation. At first glance, I'm sure that there is a 'teachable moment' woven in the saga. One of goals is to be, raise and coach "literate athletes." How to use email, and how to write for clarity and self-expression in important.

The dad's acts of supporting the coach concerning the punishment is fine. To wear a coat and tie or else a uniform is interesting.

Insights welcomed.

15 years: Bill Ogden's Weight Room in Crafton

From people & vips
News from Bill Ogden.
I wanted to give you a heads up. We are celebrating our 15th year in business.

You can get 12 months for only $139. Three months for only $39.

There are only 100 of these discounted Gym memberships available. Personal Training is also on sale. 100 PT's only $795 and 50 PT's only $495

Please tell everyone you know. Thanks! We rely on your Word of Mouth recommendations. Please tell your friends and relatives. Thanks! We accept: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.

IF YOU STILL HAVE TIME LEFT ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP, NOW'S A GOOD TIME TO ADD MORE TIME TO IT AT BARGAIN PRICES!

Thank you for your attention...

Sincerely, Bill Ogden

Joe Weinroth goes for Judge -- not controller

The Trib is reporting that Joe Weinroth won't be a GOP candidate for mayor nor controller. He went to where his heart told him to go. He is running for the bench.

I was wrong in my posting that he'd go into the city's controller race. Munch, munch.
A herd of GOP elephans did not materialize
for the GOP Primary in 2007.
From texture - misc.
Joe and I spoke on the phone. I may need to munch on prior words again. Seems he was being realistic in his choice most of all. His heart may say Mayor and Controller, but the voters of the city present little hope of getting him elected to those posts. Joe is the lone Republican. But, most of the candidates cross-file.

Joe now has stepped away from his 'R party' roles with a leave of absence for his election as judge candidates need to be 'non-political.'

GOP takes pass on key Allegheny races - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Democrat vs. Democrat: GOP takes pass on key Allegheny races - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review The surprise this election season in Allegheny County is not who will be on the ballot.

It's who won't.

My "back channel" Ping Pong Diplomacy with Marty Griffin of KDKA

Yesterday, Tuesday, March 6, 2007, Marty Griffin, KDKA radio show host and investigative reporter, had Jim Roddey on the air. Roddey's worthy of another rant. Roddey is one of the main reasons there is a lack of opposition from the Republicans. But, back to this thread with late-breaking news and the 'Inside

Marty was talking about Dan Onorato, a frequent guest. Dan is slated to be on the show on Thursday with his talk to the County Executive segment. The show host's comments touched a nerve. Right after the show, I wrote Mr. Griffin via his web form.
There are people who are running against Dan Onorato -- including ME.

Either you lie by design or you play ignorant for unknown reasons. What's up investigative reporter?

You were going to book me on the show -- then the convention center floor fell. ???

We are recruiting candidates and you are NOT helping as you spread silly statements that are not true.

I kept you posted. You can reply to me now.


Marty's reply:
So help me...
I lie by design?
I'm ignorant?
And you want me to help you.
You should NOT be in sales.
Regarding my response to you.
So...i get 1000 to 1500 e-mails per week and im supposed to jump all
over your kind words?
Things that make you go hmmmmmmmmmm
Good luck with the campaign


My reply, sent in the afternoon of the same day.

> You should NOT be in sales.
I'm NOT in sales. I'm looking to defend freedom and liberty in these parts.

I'm in education, Marty. You know better.

You don't fail me as much as you fail your kid (s) and my kids with your willingness to trumpet the status quo by squashing the truth. (Dan Onorato has TWO opponents.) Plus, the squashing of idealism within this region hurts them the most.

I'm looking to raise my kids in an open society. Others have equal values. This explains why the city is bleeding its people.


Marty's reply, Mar 6 (21 hours ago)

Funny...
Don't see anyone buying what you're trying to sell...
No newspapers...tv stations...radio stations...other talk show hosts.
Let me help you....
Next time you want to appear on a highly rated talk show...that would be
ours....it might help to stay away from calling the host...that would be
me....an idiot.
Regarding the lack of response.
I get 1000 to 2000 e-mails per week.
I answer them myself.
Sometimes it takes a while.
For the slow response....I'm sorry.
Good luck with the campaign.


Last night's email message from me to Marty:
Marty,

I did not call you an idiot.

Thanks for saying "sorry" about the slow response.

Your statement today, on the air, implying that Dan Onorato has NO OPPOSITION for the pending elections is WRONG. Two opponents exist. Candidates, myself included, have chosen to run against Mr. Onorato.

More than a month ago, before the Convention Center collapses, I offered to be on the air with you to follow up on some segments you hosted. You called for candidates in no uncertain terms. I answered the call you made. My decisions to run wasn't 'because of you. Our process was already in the works. I was hopeful that I'd be booked to the show because of communications off the air to me from your show.

Perhaps you decided that I wouldn't be a worthy guest or that this topic didn't fit for some reason some weeks ago. I don't know why because I never heard again from you or the producers.

I've "pinged" you a few times since. We have some history. So, today's statement from you on your wildly popular show about the lack of ANY COMPETITION for Onorato justifies a poke from me.

What's up?

The first word you used in the recent email reply was "Funny." Marty, this is serious. I'm serious. I don't stick my neck out as a joke. I'm standing for office. I work on, within and for our community. You can choose to ignore me. You can choose to hate me. But, expect a reply when your acts are wreckless with the truth and the aims go to damage our shared public spaces.

Thanks for listening.

I hope mom, baby and you have great health and wonderful times in the
months to come.

On today's (Wed, March 7, 2007), Marty mentioned my name on the radio and also said that I called him an idiot. Sigh. He also hinted that I'd be on the show tomorrow. Thursdays are for Onorato. But Timira just called (2:50 pm on Wed). I'm now booked for Friday at 10:15 am. I guess I'm on for "Fun Friday."

Stay tuned.

Penguins' letter pointed to a lack of collaboration in negotiations

Text of the Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato The risk has been magnified by what we perceive as a lack of collaboration from the public sector in the negotiations. That does not bode well for the public/private partnership necessary to successfully navigate the multiple issues of an arena development of this magnitude.
I contend that the lacking element is the lack of a philosophical base in the negotiations. Onorato was quick to say, at first blush, that he wanted to negotiate. That isn't how it is done. In sales, one qualifiies the buyer.

Once the deal boils down to money on the table from the public treasury -- then we'll all suffer. The fan base, loyalty, disruption to business and vision needed to be prime components in the negotiations and dealings.

The next line of the letter from the Pens talks about "value." They are begging for that type of talk.
... we visited Kansas City and were greeted with open arms by arena officials and political and business leaders and were treated as valued new partners in the community.
Value matters. Values matter. Philosophy flows from values.

Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato

David Caliguri can be blamed for this.
Text of the Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato The recent appeals filed with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, which may delay even further the awarding of the slots license and the primary funding source of the arena plan, cause us great concern. A project of this scope, with so many complex issues, can ill afford further delays that add more risk and more uncertainty.
FWIW, and it isn't much, soon after the award was announced, I asked the others to NOT file an appeal.

The Pens got into bed with the IOC (Isle of Capri). Then the IOC goes ahead and puts in a challenge. Now the IOC takes $10-million from the Pens for their deal gone bad. Plus, the IOC pounds on for an appeal.

Furthermore, how about the PA Supreme Court's lazy ways. Get on the job. Hold the hearing ASAP.

As this goes to court, all bets are off. Don Barden is smart to hold off on the building.

More FUD. FUD from the state's top court is as deep as it comes. Perhaps it should be FUDD -- with two Ds. The second is for 'delay.'

California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux. Linux - Conquering a Windows Based World

Victory looks like this. Pittsburgh needs to move quickly before the rest of the world passes us by, again.
California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux � Linux - Conquering a Windows Based World: California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux

conflicting school closing information: 2 hour delay OR closed

Update at 8:25 am:

Pgh Public Schools are CLOSED for today, Wednesday, March 7, 2007.

Udate at 8:10 am:

Everyone is saying Pgh Public Schools has a two hour delay, except Y108. The radio station, Y108 says Pgh Public Schools is CLOSED.

My son listens to Y108. He screams. Then we check their web site. But, the Pghboe.net site still says 2-hour delay, as does WPXI.com.

Humm... Snip from the Y108 web site:

Pine-Richland
Closed


Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School
2 HR Delay


Pittsburgh Public Schools
Closed


Pittsburgh Urban Christian School
2 HR Delay

In the Hundred Acre Woods, Pooh, a French Canadian Penguin and a Philly Politician ...

From Pens Village
At another blog I posted about FUD.

This entire deal is full of FUD.

Fear. Uncertainty. Doubt.

They all are smearing FUD in every direction.

The Pens can rush the ice with lots of jukes and jives. Great. However, I don't want government full of FUD.

Rendell, Onorato, and Ravenstahl are FUD makers.

Political futures may hinge on arena deal

Futures hinge. Seats hinge.
Bob Smizik: Political futures may hinge on arena deal The two most nervous men in town these days have to be Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato and Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl. They're nervous because their bright political futures, which could take them well beyond their current positions, are in jeopardy.
So scared.

Scores of voters making empty seats. texture - misc.

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

Dave 4 Council -- no more right now - Candidate statement

Press Release – For Immediate Release

Candidate Statement

Press Contact:
Contact@Dave4Council.Net

(412) 894-8743

It is with deep solace that I announce today that I will be fulfilling my commitment to both my family and to the many Pittsburgh District 1 Democratic Committee Members I have had the honor of meeting or speaking to over the past 12 weeks, and as such, I will not be seeking the Democratic Party Nomination in this May’s Primary.

From people & vips
Though this decision was hard to come to, it was ultimately made with the best interests of both my family & those who wish to see change in mind. The primary reason for this decision is so as to spend more time with my family. Though they have been very understanding & appreciative of the many supporters of my candidacy, my family has also suffered the most of my absence while campaigning over the over the past 5 months.

This decision, however, was also made after vast reflection and consultation with my supporters of the Democratic Party Endorsement results this past weekend. Though they surpassed our expectations and demonstrated an increase in support of my candidacy from 4% to 12%, the fact remains that 34 committee members whom did not support Ms Harris in September are still prepared to cautiously give her a 2nd chance to prove that she can change her imprudent spending ways. As such, we have concluded that it would be imprudent to add to the field of candidates running this May, and we will ‘back down’ (as we say in my industry) for now. Instead, we will consider a head-to-head run against her in November should she win in May, especially should she not heed voters warnings to change her aimless & reckless spending habits.

In closing, I would like to thank the Democratic Party for accepting me with open arms since becoming a naturalized citizen in December; the many Democratic Committee Members who either considered or actually endorsed my candidacy this passed weekend; and all the voters who have been supportive of my candidacy since last fall and who wish to see drastic change in the way City Council does business. Should our current council member continue to demonstrate a lack of good stewardship, voters will have one last opportunity to change course this November, and I am prepared to consider championing that cause at that time should they ask.

With deepest respects,

David I. Schuilenburg
Nice letter. Nice guy.

Folks, rule #1, don't burn out. Often they win by attrition. Keep plugging at your own pace. Be realistic. Take care of yourself and your home front first and foremost.

Challengers get to 'stand for office.' Make a stand. I don't want to run for office as in run around like a chicken with its head cut off. I don't want to spend $1-million to get a chance at a job that pays $90,000. Only a fool would do that and even try.

Be prudent. And, be happy with yourself.

Today I was slated to speak at the Allegheny County Council meeting. I got there, after swim practice, with my sons in tow. My youngest had fallen to sleep in the back seat of the car as we drove from the swim pool to Grant Street. My oldest was wearing shorts. I pulled the car up onto the curb so he could confirm at the county police that the meeting was still taking place.

Seems that the SEA's Mary C was on the hot seat for 90-minutes before a single bill had come to a vote. The meeting was dragging. It looked as if it would go two additional hours, as of 8 pm, so hinted the John, the county clerk. I was on the agenda and ready to speak. But my guys still had homework.

We watched as the council confirmed its first bill on the agenda, the No Sweatshop Bill. Well done Ken. Then we came home. About 40-minutes later, as we watched via the webcast eating dinner, my time to speak arrived. I was parked at home, speaking for MORE than 3-minutes, with my kids. Oh well.

I'm happy with my work ethic as a volunteer activist and a Libertarian party leader. Nonetheless, should I take an official role, I'll not skip out on meetings. My presence would be held to a different standard, of course.

I wanted to speak to council and go out of my way to give props to Vince G for recent suggestions. Some are considering the elimination of the Port Authority (PAT). I've called for the elimination of authorities in the past as well. I like some of the things I heard on council. When that happens, I cheer.

Dave Schuilenburg. Hope to see you around again soon. Thanks for the effort. Let's talk soon about the others in the race and this fall's general election.

Busman's Holiday: PA Sunshine: Videotaping Public Meetings

Thank goodness for Bob Mayo from WTAE TV and the Busman's blog. Yes. Thanks Bob for the notice and the care.
The Busman's Holiday: PA Sunshine: Videotaping Public Meetings A thank you to Mark Rauterkus for calling attention in this post to an attempt by the chair of the City Planning Commission to block his use of a video camera. It prompted me to do some checking online and in person.
Read the rest of the post at his blog.

Today was the day when the city planning commission was to meet again and release its rules for video taping their public meetings.

I went by the outside of the building at 200 Ross Street while they were in session, but, I could not attend. I was just speaking at another 1:30 pm public hearing in city council chambers on the new vacant property ordinance. And, a 2:30 I need to be picking up my child from school.

From people & vips
I'll call or visit the planning office tomorrow and might call again to the chairwoman too to find out what they propose.

So, for the moment, I'm without hard news.

However, last week when Mayor Ravenstahl, Mr. Ford, the Zoning Coordinator from City Planning and a handful of others from the administration were on the South Side I had some spirited discussions about this matter. The zoning coordinator felt no remorse and fully justified to instruct the public on what could and could not happen from one's seat at "their" meetings.

He felt that I should have seemingly asked permission before I took a few moments of video at the meeting when they were debating legislative matters.

"Hey pal," I said. "With 'rights' -- I don't need to ask you for permission."

He thought that there was a lot of case law to back him up. They had been reading up on this.

I told him it wasn't my intention to sue the city planning commission. But, that was the first blush reaction that came from the chairwoman when I first came to understand that the meeting came to a stop and signs were posted. The first day I shot the video and walked out the door. Then the planning commission folks at the front of the room got wind of my camera. But I had already departed.

After a back channel conversation or two, the chair came up with the idea of making this a topic for conversation among the staff and to work on an official policy. So fine.

The kicker of this incident came on the heels of another that involved my camera and a public meeting. I testified at the third public meeting hosted by PAT concerning the service cuts. TV cameras were all over the first two meetings on the first day, at the Hilton and in Oakland. I went into the Oakland meeting and got some film. But the tide turned. A PAT Police officer told me at the third meeting that I was not permitted to use my camera.

Here again, I was just sitting in my seat, mingling among the audience. I don't use a big tripod nor lights like Bob Mayo and TV crews.

I'm not okay with their actions. I'm calm and cool on the outside, but on the inside I'm hacked off. To make matters worse, I walked home from that meeting that PAT hosted with a former opponent and present D candidate for city council, Bruce Kraus. I told him what just happened with the PAT police officer, blah, blah, blah -- and he said it made sense to not be allowed to video tape a public meeting about a public agency. Golly.

Click clown and watch the video that opened the show.
I hadn't had this much fun nor emotion with a video camera since working on the PCTV 21 show, The Art of News.