Pop City - Councilman Bill Peduto launches revolutionary PAC web site

This makes me chuckle on a number of levels. But first, the POP news:

Pop City - Councilman Bill Peduto launches revolutionary PAC web site Reformpittsburghnow.com will officially launch this Saturday. Among the unique features will be videos of people and places in Pittsburgh--what’s working and what’s not; a call to action that includes a library on issues and a single-click contact your legislator; a social network for feedback; a monthly Talk to Peduto forum, and a personal blog by Peduto. “The whole idea,' he says,'is to strip away the divisive mean-spiritedness which I was embroiled in and create a new environment that is more harmonious, that will bring about a gathering of like-minded individuals to effect change in Pittsburgh.”

Good to see Peduto found the internet to be his number one source of information. Personally, TV departed as my number one source of news and information after NBC pulled the plug on the Red, White, and Blue cable stations established for 24-hour coverage of the summer Olympics in 1992.

So Peduto, a divisive, mean-spirited politician who has been embroiled in hard-hitting Grant Street politics his entire career is going to turn a new leaf and become the leader of a harmonious enclave of like-mindedness.

Hippies were individuals who wanted to effect change too.

Furthermore, I contend that Grant Street is filled with like-mindedness. Every elected city official is of a like-mind and with a "D" next to his or her name.

The "whole idea" is to strip away all-for-one attitudes. Pittsburgh has been marching with lock-step like-mindedness for decades. They march to the same tune and have created a massive rut as well.

Peduto's leadership hatches a “whole idea." He says the aim is 'to strip away the divisive mean-spiritedness which I was embroiled in and create a new environment that is more harmonious, that will bring about a gathering of like-minded individuals to effect change in Pittsburgh."

Jeepers. Let's put the recovering CRACK DEALER on stage as a model citizen at our kid's school to say, "Don't grow up like me." What is Peduto to stand up and say? "I was bad. Now I'm good. Play nice. Do what I say, not as I've done."

There is plenty of twisted thinking in these statements.

First off, Peduto's 'mean-spiritedness' is autobiographical. He said it himself. Those are his words.

I don't think Peduto was that mean spirited. I'll give him the benefit of the doubt. I don't think he has been that gracious and open either. His camp isn't known for singing "We are the world" and other peace and love songs.

Second, I don't shy away from a good battle. I find diversity as a sign of health. I like to see folks split on issues of merit. There is nothing wrong with 5-4 votes, except when they are cast about cat licenses and other meaningless measures.

Bill Peduto must intend on using the Podcamp event as a back drop for the new site launch.

Pittsburgh airport expands enclave for private jets

Luke might be able to hang out at this hangar to collect his autographs.

Pittsburgh airport expands enclave for private jets There aren't many places in Western Pennsylvania that can boast about playing host to Tiger Woods, Ben Roethlisberger, Sidney Crosby, Al Gore and a host of other athletes, politicians and celebrities. Atlantic Aviation Service's Business Aviation Center at Pittsburgh International Airport is one of them. And the company is looking to add to its growing customer base. Atlantic Aviation Services, joined by local politicians and Allegheny County Airport Authority officials, opened a new 30,000-square-foot jet hangar and 7,250-square-foot charter terminal and office center at the airport yesterday.

I would be keen to expand these types of private services at the Allegheny County Airport, not the Greater Pittsburgh airport.

Of course FedEx and Bayer are going to be more interested in the western area runway. But the teams headed to and from Oakland and Mellon Arena could use the Allegheny County Airport.

Otherwise, I'm worried about the long-term health of the County Airport. How much does that cost a year to operate?

Furthermore, what about that airport under construction in the near north, up by Deer Lakes and Fox Chapel? What has become of that pork spending?

I'd love to see an audit of all our airports.

If the private jets that fly into the airport are a key to the region's economic development efforts, we are in sad, sad shape. Let's subsidize the corporations that need a place to house their jets. Let's give them easy access to their private planes.

Dan Onorato says "you NEED these types of facilities." Rather, he means, he needs to get these types of facilities so he can take care of his campaign donors.

The key to remaining competitive isn't found in high flying CEOs who are paid hundreds more than the average worker in the company. That's bunk.

Here we go, again, bending over backwards to service those who come into town for the US Open and the All-Star Game. Rather, I'd love to have services for those that live here. I'd rather devote attention to our kids that grow up here. I'd rather make sure our parks are open, clean, safe, -- and with coaches and equipment.

What we need -- NEED -- are flights abroad. We need to get to Europe. How about flights to London, Germany, Central/South America, and more locations in Canada.

LewRockwell.com Blog: The Revolution

Check out the image on this site.

LewRockwell.com Blog: The Revolution The strength of the Ron Paul campaign is the incredible number of self-starting volunteers who organize and work for him entirely on their own. And they show competence as well as heart.

Could these be the weed and seed computers being carried away on a bike

From china - bike ...

Team 4: Missing Electronics Bought With Weed And Seed Money - News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh The Weed and Seed program is supposed to crack down on crime while lifting up communities. Lately, there have been questions about the way some money was spent, and about missing computers and other merchandise, according to Team 4 investigative reporter Jim Parsons. The purchases of electronic equipment like computers and digital cameras were made with Weed and Seed funds while Tom Murphy was mayor of Pittsburgh. Now, the federal government is asking the city to locate that equipment.

Weed and Seed is NOT providing Fruit.

Neighborhood crime prevention, career center. Pittsburgh, PA

Neighborhood crime prevention, career center. Pittsburgh, PA A City-wide Crime Prevention Program developed for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Stake of Westinghouse Electric sold to Kazakhstan company

For this we need to make local tax breaks so our schools here get less income for operations.

Stake of Westinghouse Electric sold to Kazakhstan company The day before Gov. Ed Rendell travels to Cranberry to celebrate the start of Westinghouse Electric's new corporate campus in Cranberry, Japanese conglomerate Toshiba Corp. agreed to sell a 10 percent stake in Westinghouse to Kazakhstan's state-run energy company.

Toshiba agreed to the $540 million sale to Almaty-based Kazatomprom so it could gain access to Kazakhstan's abundant supply of uranium, a resource used by nuclear power plants. Kazakhstan hopes to become the world's largest uranium miner by the end of the decade; it currently ranks third.

Blogger cures Global warming N@

Cool. Pun intended.

Bloggers should rule the world. It is going to be a much kweler place once we do.

GroundReport | Global warming "vanishes" from US temperature record after NASA corrects data Global warming 'vanishes' from US temperature record after NASA corrects data

NASA should say 'sorry.'

Better link:

Link

GroundReport | After floods: urged to work on prevention

GroundReport | After floods, UN urges countries to work on prevention After floods, UN urges countries to work on prevention

Humm...

I've been talking about prevention and infrastructure for a long time. We need to do and measure what is prudent.

It is sad that Pittsburgh needs to look to the playbook of Bangladesh to figure out what should be done and where our priorities need to be placed.

Another one bites the dust

Tommy Thompson, R, from Wisconsin is out of the US Presidential race.

Romney: Win Not Hollow -- GOPUSA Historically, the straw poll has helped winnow the field of presidential candidates and former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson, who ran sixth, dropped out of the race Sunday.

I got to meet Mr. Thompson. He spoke to a group of people at a Washington D.C. hotel located next to the White House. He gave a nice presentation.

He had been out of the cabinet for a week or two. He told the story about his first day back in the 'real world.' He got up in the morning and headed to work. Walked to the car and sat in the backseat. After a moment he realized he was alone. No driver.

Next he talked for two minutes about how hard it is to both find you way around town, be it DC or elsewhere, without a driver. And, how hard it is to find a parking space after you get to where you want to go.

Welcome to the real world Tommy boy!

We did talk about Tommy's brother, an elected official in a small town. He was 'mayor' and he is a Libertarian.

I'm not sure where he is now. And, I wonder what he had to say about Tommy's race for President contrasted to Ron Paul. Now that might be a good tidbit for the history books.

The T.T. for President website had this statement about the Iowa Straw Poll:

Tommy Thompson For President - Statement by Governor Thompson on Ames Straw Poll Participation To skip the straw poll is to show fear...fear that a campaign's lack of support will finally be revealed and fear the entire country will see that the king has no clothes.

Both Senator McCain and Mayor Giuliani skipped out of the Iowa Straw Poll.

Bye!

How Extremists Are Getting US-Bought Guns

How Extremists Are Getting US-Bought Guns At least three U.S. government agencies are now investigating the massive 'disappearance' and diversion of weapons Washington intended for Iraqi government forces that instead have spread to militants and organized gangs across the region. The potential size of the traffic is stunning. A report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office last month showed that since 2004, some 190,000 AK-47 assault rifles and pistols, bought with U.S. money for Iraqi security forces, have gone missing.

There is a good reason why they hate the United States. This is bad. Corruption with contractors is ugly.

Romney "Out Pauls" Paul

Dr. Ron Paul, the Republican candidate for President, has been heralded as the King of the Internet by his supporters for his purported omnipresence on the World Wide Web.

On WashingtonPost.com recently, this blurb by Jose Antonio Vargas in regards to the "back on" YouTube debates with Republicans:

"Romney, the lone GOP holdout, has posted more videos on his YouTube channel (283 as of Sunday afternoon) than any other presidential candidate, Republican or Democrat. But he has resisted the debate, in which videotaped questions are submitted through YouTube. In an interview with Manchester Union Leader, Romney said, 'I think the presidency ought to be held at a higher level than having to answer questions from a snowman.'"

I think the YouTube debate for Republicans could be fun; however, I too believe that it would simply be a venue for "cheap shots" for a historically non-Republican audience.

Then again, Mitt Romney has more of an Internet presence than any other candidate. I reserve the right to be wrong.

Citizens Police Academy to Open Again

This is great news. The Citizens' Police Academy is to re-open. When it closed, I spoke with others, saying that the decision to close was poor judgement. This venture, operated by the city, could be money maker. We asked that the program be expanded to serve the region, not just the city. It could be turned into a new revenue stream for the city.

Plus, the benefits of the program are huge for the overall community.

Briefs: Motorcycle hits tree in Mt. Oliver, victim found nearby - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Citizen's Police Academy applications accepted The Pittsburgh Police Department is accepting applications for the Citizen's Police Academy, set to begin Sept. 4. The program will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at police headquarters, 1203 Western Ave., North Side, police Lt. Jennifer Beidle said. Participants learn about law-enforcement functions, some criminal law, search and seizure, patrol tactics, firearms, crime scene processing and other topics. The class is free and limited to 30 people. Applications must be received by Aug. 24. For an application or more information, call Beidle at 412-323-7889.

Trib Brief: Fourth Candidate Enters Race for Mayor

Briefs: Motorcycle hits tree in Mt. Oliver, victim found nearby - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Oakland Fourth candidate enters race for mayor An Oakland man filed paperwork to run for Pittsburgh mayor as a Libertarian, which makes four candidates for the city's top office. Tony Oliva, 27, filed Thursday to be a replacement candidate for Libertarian Mark Rauterkus, who withdrew from the mayor's race Wednesday. Rauterkus is running as a Libertarian for City Council in District 3 and for city controller. Democratic Mayor Luke Ravenstahl also faces Republican Mark DeSantis and Socialist Workers Party candidate Ryan Scott in the Nov. 6 election.

Libertarian mayoral candidate drops out, gives place to another

Libertarian mayoral candidate drops out, gives place to another Libertarian mayoral candidate drops out, gives place to another

The Associated Press

PITTSBURGH -- The Libertarian Party candidate for mayor said he will withdraw from the race and pass his slot on the ballot to another candidate. Mark Rauterkus said he will, however, continue to run for city controller and council, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported on its Web site Wednesday. Public safety worker Tony Oliva, 27, said he will take the ballot position for mayor Rauterkus had secured.

---

Same news in Philly:

Libertarian mayoral candidate drops out, gives place to another | AP | 08/08/2007 Libertarian mayoral candidate drops out, gives place to another

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The Trib got this blurb into the paper as we pushed the paperwork around town and the election department:

Oakland Libertarian files for mayoral run - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Oakland Libertarian files for mayoral run

Great being with the Buckeye Swim Club in a long-course meet at Kenyon

Wonderful team. A merger should have happened. Oh well. 

Ravenstahl Could Lock Up Potential "Interesting" Race With Strong Post-Flood Showing

Let’s be honest. Interim Mayor Luke Ravenstahl doesn’t have much to worry about when it comes to the November election. Mark DeSantis, the Republican who should have a decent showing if he had any kind of money, is really the Republican’s best chance in years (by the way, it doesn’t matter if the Socialist gets on any TV debates, I have more of a chance than winning than he does, and I’m not on the ballot).

DeSantis’ only hope for a respectable showing now rests on how the Interim Mayor responds to the flooding and weather situation (which may or may not include a tornado in downtown Pittsburgh).

So far, Ravenstahl has looked good and done what he needs to do. There was a significant population in the community that was put off by his sometimes childish antics. Everyone knows the story about him golfing in a celebrity tournament when a controversial action was taking place downtown. There was the attempt to get in Tiger Woods’ face during the U.S. Open that was taking place in suburban Pittsburgh, presumably for a picture to put on his office wall, or perhaps a billboard.

Ravenstahl says he declared a state of an emergency for the city. County Executive Dan Onorato did the same for the county. There’s damage to the Carnegie Science Center and a building the Uptown community. Specifically a minority-run barbershop partially collapsed.

Now if Luke can put on a good “leadership” face and make people believe he’s more than a political puppet, albeit a very young and conceivably an immature one at that, this could be a landslide victory of "mandate" proportions.

This election will have more to say about our next 12-20 years in this city than any since I’ve lived here (I still am convenienced that if Luke wins, it's his until he decides to give it up). You can line up all the Costas, Wagners and Murphys you want; if Luke looks good after the flood, he's in until the Pirates are competitive again.

Thankfully, our last "made" Mayor Tom Murphy is gone and disappeared into the vapors. Who even knows if he lives here anymore, there’s never any word on the street about the former “leader?”

Here comes the rain again. It most assuredly could wash away any hopes of an interesting mayoral race.

Pittsburgh agency might offer new business breaks - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pittsburgh agency might offer new business breaks - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review The Urban Redevelopment Authority is poised to clear the way for new tax breaks to businesses by revising old incentives drafted during Mayor Tom Murphy's administration.

No new TIFs. No old TIFs. No TIFs at all. I am not in favor of any TIFs. Pittsburgh needs some time to heal from all of the goofy deals it has hatched. Most have never paid off as promised.

Pittsburgh's 1st public art manager begins soon - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pittsburgh's 1st public art manager begins soon - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review If Pittsburgh wants to attract more young people -- and convince them to stay here -- the city must become more attractive, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said.

Enter Kim Baker, 30, formerly of Seattle. The new Lawrenceville resident starts Aug. 20 as Pittsburgh's first-ever public art manager.

Welcome to town Kim. Now, if you please, duck.

I do not agree with the concepts stated in the quote above by Luke Ravenstahl.

First, it begins with a big "if." If Pittsburgh wants to attract more people. So, Pittsburgh might not give a flying "IF" to attract immigrants.

Then there is the whole 'young people' focus. Should Pittsburgh put the 'young people' as a priority? Do the young people follow the trends? Are the young people flocking to the South Side in the nights and weekends and being a negative for the city's image -- as we heard early this week from consultants with the SSLDC.

The city "MUST" be more attractive. Wait. Didn't the city already clean up its smoky city image. Isn't the city blessed with one of the most attractive views anywhere in North America?

Are looks that important? Isn't it superficial to only want to be pretty -- attractive -- as flash that is only skin deep and nothing else.

What about Pittsburgh's personality, moxie, attitude, smarts, and fitness? Are those all meaningless to Luke.

And then there is the part about an 'investment into the city.' Really, this is an expense. This is a salary.

We NEED public art. Humm. Don't we already have public art? Do we want to be dynamic, or attractive?

Do we 'want' public art -- or do we 'need' public art.

I don't think Luke has a good grip upon what we 'want' and what we 'need.' The two are not the same.

The Heinz Endowments are going to pay for the $52k salary. But, she will be an employee. Pension, healthcare, overhead -- who's counting.

Great art draws people to the cities, so they think. Sigh.

Here is a clincher of a quote. She must have used this line in the interview to get hired: "I like public art, in particular, because access is available to everyone." (get out)

We've got a real, how do you say, 'hum dinger' there.

Did you know that Pittsburgh has this thingie -- but enforcement has been a problem. It hasn't been enforced for years. E-N-F-O-R-C-E-M-E-N-T

Enforcement in Pittsburgh is a joke. What is to be enforced is often a giggle.

But a new dawn is about to break. She hopes that in three to five years the city will commission artists to produce.

Public relations talk about three to five years might as well be talk of 30 to 50 years. The public treasury will still be in litigation with the the former executive from PAT who is seeking his back pension three years from now.

NoDrinkTax.com web site -- cheers to one round messages.

NoDrinkTax.comPoliticians in Allegheny County are trying to raise taxes on adult beverages (beer, wine, and spirits) by as much as an additional 10%. Increasing the already burdensome drink tax will cost jobs, hurt local businesses, and deal a major blow to the local economy.

Wasted away again in Allegheny-ville. They do not know how to create jobs -- but they are great at the creation of new taxes.

Gay support could cost candidates - Peter A. Brown - Politico.com

Gay support could cost candidates - Peter A. Brown - Politico.com Quinnipiac University polls of voters in Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania -- the big three Electoral College swing states -- found voters by large margins more likely to see the endorsement of a gay rights group as a reason to vote against, rather than for, a candidate.

That is especially the case among independent voters -- often the key to winning these critical states -- and much more so among men than women and Republicans than Democrats.

Libertarian withdraws from mayor's race; stays in 2 others

Libertarian withdraws from mayor's race; stays in 2 others: "Libertarian withdraws from mayor's race; stays in 2 others"

Ravenstahl putts for Chicago expo - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

How ironic.

The mayor is in the promotion mode, again, with golf as a back-drop. Meanwhile, for the past year the only public golf course in the city, at Schenley Park, recently named for the late Bob O'Connor, is on the brink of closing. The course is bankrupt. The course does not make money. The course does not pull its own weight. The course is a drain on the city's budget. The nonprofit group that runs the course can't get the job done.

Pittsburgh has plenty of golf course around the region. We have some nice public venues. But, we are also known for plenty of 'country clubs.'

The other ironic mention, putting. Might as well say put-put. Puttering, floundering.

The word, putter, as in puttered and puttering:
To occupy oneself in an aimless or ineffective manner.
v.tr.
To waste (time) in idling:

The city has wasted plenty of time by not looking at, thinking about and doing acts that tackle the countless list of problems in the city and the region. The Bob O'Connor golf course is a prime example of how nothing has been done to insure that it can survive without another last minute bailout.

End the puttering.

Ravenstahl putts for Chicago expo - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl said a marketing campaign showing a cartoon of him chipping a golf ball onto a putting green is a hole-in-one.

'Meet our Mayor: And putt your way to Pittsburgh,' says a headline above the cartoon of a rolling golf course and wedge-toting golfer. Beneath the drawing, the ad touts Pittsburgh's 'eco-friendly convention center, #1 airport in the U.S., unique meeting venues, world-class hotels, 212 Downtown eateries and walkable city.'"

West End gets federal money to fight crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

West End gets federal money to fight crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan announced today that eight West End neighborhoods will be eligible for up to $1 million to combat gangs, drugs and other crimes that have plagued those neighborhoods.

The money comes from the U.S. Department of Justice's Weed and Seed Program, which is a joint community and law enforcement effort to improve neighborhood safety.

'These funds are not going to be used just to weed the bad elements from your communities, they'll be used to revitalize,' Buchanan said.

Eighty Percent say "YES" to the inclusion of 3rd party candidates in debates for Pgh Mayor's Race

Today's Trib newspaper (printed edition) has news of yesterday's KQV Radio Poll. Yes, Trib Editor, I am a subscriber. After the poll closed is the first I am blogging about this question. And, I did NOT call in to record a vote on this matter myself.

WEDNESDAY'S QUESTION

Several debates with Pittsburgh mayoral candidate are planned by the local broadcast media. Republican Mark DeSantis will debate incumbent Democrat Luke Ravenstahl. Broadcast executive must now decide whether to include two so-called third-party ballot-qualified candidates, Libertarian Mark Rauterkus and Socialst Workers Party member Ryan Scott.

Do you think those third party candidates whose names will be on the Nov 6 ballot for Pittsburgh mayor should be included in the debates?

YES = 80 percent (191 votes)
NO = 20 percent (47 votes)

Of course citizens and voters of the region are open minded. Of course the crony mentality to label others and discount opportunities for others thrives among Grant Street among politicians. The majority want to hear from all voices.

But, what will the executives of the mainstream media outlets want?

Will the ones who control the airwaves want to side with the people or choose to play it safe?

Libertarian candidates in Pennsylvania for 2007's general election

Candidates in 2007 from Pennsylvania:

D. Michael Blackie for Philadelphia City Council

James Babb for Council of Censors, Montgomery County

James Babb for Montgomery County Sheriff

Erik Viker for Selinsgrove Borough Council, Snyder County – ON BALLOT

Mik Robertson for Clarion County Commissioner – ON BALLOT

Berlie Etzel for Clarion County Register and Recorder – ON BALLOT

Myron Deitrick for Mayor of Avis Borough, Clinton County – ON BALLOT & incumbent

Vance Mays for Venango County Commissioner – ON BALLOT

Mary Lea Lucas for Strattenville Borough Council, Clarion County – ON BALLOT

Tony Oliva for Mayor of Pittsburgh – ON BALLOT

Mark Rauterkus for Controller, Pittsburgh, – ON BALLOT

Mark Rauterkus for Pittsburgh City Council, 3rd District – ON BALLOT

---

The Libertarians did have some candidates not get onto the ballot. These individuals either did not request assistance and/or did not respond to contacts. There were also a couple of late candidate inquiries. One late candidate effort was Chris Bectloff in Lancaster County. The PA Chair was not able to get an update, yet.

Tony Oliva in Pittsburgh worked with the Allegheny County organization. They responded incredibly well to support Tony when they became aware of his desire to be a candidate. The Libertarians throughout Pennsylvania need to find a way to consistently help candidates along and make sure they can submit the paperwork needed to get on the ballot. Local organizations are key to making this work.

Current rushes around me

Thumbs up. All systems go. Things look good. (Click on the photo above to zoom in for a closer look.)

I'm out of the mayor's race. It's washing over me -- down the drain. Refreshing.

Jamendo : Open your ears

Jamendo : Open your ears On jamendo, artists allow everyone to download and share their music. It's free, legal and unlimited.

An inspiration - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

An inspiration - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "After attending Friday's rally in Marshall for presidential candidate U.S. Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, with approximately 1,000 others, I eagerly awaited reading about the event in Saturday's Trib. I must say that I was very disappointed to find no mention of it in the paper."

Speaking of no mention in the papers. The Trib ran a small blurb on the my putting in for three offices (the article only listed two) along with the Howard Dean article. However, it had not been listed in the Trib's search engine. Talked to the editor of the Trib. He wrote that he'll look into it for me.

Proposal to strengthen open records law produces some disagreements on details

This is a hot subject.

Proposal to strengthen open records law produces some disagreements on details Proposal to strengthen open records law produces some disagreements on details

Wednesday, August 08, 2007
By Tracie Mauriello, Post-Gazette Harrisburg Bureau

HARRISBURG -- Everyone agreed that government records should be open to public inspection, but when it came to the details, speakers at a public hearing yesterday were divided.

This subject is so hot, it could be, how do you say, 'smoking.'

Remember the no smoking policy for city council offices? Then there was the expensive smoke eater put into the ceiling of a city council member. She said one thing and then changed her tune.

It seems that a request for the purchase order and work order for that 'smoke eater' has not been delivered, as asked. So, a court case was filed.

The city tried to squash the case and a number of attorneys from near and far have offered to take on the case, gratis. Open records are a big deal to many people.

I'll save the thunder for another blog. Stay tuned, again.

This is a great time to quit. Quit smoking. Quit telling lies. Quit pass in the blame. Quit voting for all those Democrats. Quit hiding records. Quit the folly of over-spending of public money.

Libertarian withdraws from mayoral race

The paperwork to pull out of the mayor's race was turned into the Election Department. It has been one of my stated intentions to serve in the role as a placeholder because the election laws are so ugly in terms of getting third party candidates onto the ballot.

Libertarian withdraws from mayoral race: "Libertarian Party standard-bearer Mark Rauterkus said today that he will withdraw from the mayor's race and seek to pass his position on the ballot to Tony Oliva, 27, of Oakland.

Mr. Rauterkus said he will continue to run for city controller and council."

I just gave an interview to KQV radio (aired at 1:30 pm) and WDUQ radio.

2010 governor's race gets early start

2010 governor's race gets early start: The May 2010 Democratic gubernatorial primary is more than 21/2 years away, but that isn't stopping some potential Democratic candidates from telling people about their interest in the state's top job.

Hearing candidates talk about possible races in the future is fine. Reading about it in the newspapers -- only because these are folks who are in power now -- is what hurts.

All Blacks and the Rugby World Cup -- let the games begin

08/09/2007 - New Zealand vs. Italy in Marseille, France. That's September 8, 2007. Can't wait!

New Zealand's All Blacks play in Pool C which consists of:
New Zealand
Scotland
Italy
Romania
Portugal

Match 1: September 8, 2007, New Zealand v Italy in Marseille, France

Match 2: September 15, New Zealand v Portugal in Lyon, France

Match 3: September 23, New Zealand v Scotland in Edinburgh, Scotland

Match 4: September 29, New Zealand v Romania in Toulouse, France

Ding, dong. The witch is dead. South Side Local Development Corp given firm advice.

http://www.wpxi.com/video/13843788/index.html#

A meeting was held today at 1:30 pm on the South Side. Outside consultants were in town for a few days and delivered an initial report concerning the South Side and its various community groups. Plenty of neighborhood views were gathered, sorted and filtered. They even used PowerPoint!

Remember in the classic movie, The Wizard of Oz, when Dorothy picked up the bucket. She tosses the water and it hits the wicked witch -- and then she melts.

The same anticipation from that moment is now in the air here in the South Side.

The consultants gave firm advice. In no uncertain terms, the message to the SSLDC (South Side Local Development Corp) was to 'think again.' A re-focus and re-birth with new priorities is needed and called for.

I will be very happy to see the SSLDC go away. The organization has run its course. It operates without a clear direction and vision.

We'll need to get a copy of the overall presentation. I hope it comes online in the days ahead. We asked for it. It has some meat.

At the end of the presentation, questions and comments came from the audience of locals who are all very involved in the neighborhood and city.

My point was: Balance is beautiful. But not once did I hear the words 'babies, children, kids and families.' The term 'residents' was used fleetingly and the word 'school' was used as a possible venue for a future meeting. You can't have balance if only certain age groups are part of the fabric. I asked if those populations were part of the discussions and just overlooked in the presentation.

The replies from the consultants were nothing to get excited about. They did talk about Seattle and how they faced this challenge. People who value more than being only a 'yuppie' village do many things with the community to insure that the wee ones are part of the scene.

The elements that I seek to inject go way beyond being 'safe' and 'clean.'

Update: Another nonprofit that is in the throws of a refocus is the Cool Space Locator.

Cool Spaces reorganizes duties - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Cool Space Locator, a real estate organization started seven years ago to help businesses locate in Pittsburgh's urban neighborhoods, is reorganizing and could see some of its operations taken over by a nonprofit architects' group.

South Side addresses 'party' image - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

South Side addresses 'party' image - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "East Carson Street has an image problem.

South Side residents feel their neighborhood is slowly being choked by bars, rowdy patrons and nuisance crimes. Local development leaders fear businesses are being scared away by the party scene stigma."

Councilman questions money for golf instead of city pools - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Councilman questions money for golf instead of city pools - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 'Schenley Park gets RAD funds, and they want capital funds on top of that?' Motznik said, referring to Allegheny Regional Asset District money, which comes from sales tax in the county.

The capital fund 'money could be used for other improvements, like paving and wall and step repair.'

Revolutionary ideas deep inside China - Tuesday August 7, 2007 11:55AM

SI.com - Olympics - S.L. Price: Revolutionary ideas deep inside China - Tuesday August 7, 2007 11:55AM She's right in identifying you, at least. You are distinctly foreign and, notebook in hand and photographer by your side, obviously media, but what she hasn't picked up on is this: Here in China you feel about as threatening as an infant. A first-time visitor from the U.S., you don't know the language or mores; you can't even begin to have a feel for subtleties three millennia in the making. You may as well be deaf, dumb and blind for all the good your senses have done you these past two weeks as you've tried to take the measure of a burgeoning nation preparing to stage the costliest, most anticipated, most transformative athletic event in history.

Lackawanna County Democratic lawmaker looks at run for governor - NewsFlash - PennLive.com

Lackawanna County Democratic lawmaker looks at run for governor - NewsFlash - PennLive.com State Senate Minority Leader Robert J. Mellow has formed an exploratory committee to prepare to run for governor, a newspaper reported Tuesday.

Kayaking to work offers ad agency employees exercise and serenity

Kayaking to work offers ad agency employees exercise and serenity Mr. Lepley and his boss, Mr. Bronaugh, 'made serious mistakes when they bought their houses. They could have moved to Millvale.'

Mayoral debate may include minority parties

I got some ink in today's (Aug 7, 2007) Post-Gazette.

The debate on debates lingers as a topic of discussion. On inclusion and diversity, there should be no debate. If you are on the ballot, you should included. That has always been my view.

If you are on the ballot, you have a chance to win. If the big party candidates speak or act foolishly, they will loose.

When all the choices are present on the debate stage, the heavy-weight candidates are more inclined to behave throughout the campaign.

Mayoral debate may include minority parties The conventional wisdom holds that a crowded stage favors the incumbent by drawing attention from the challenger. That's not necessarily true, said Mr. Rauterkus, a South Side swim coach who is also running for city controller and councilman.

A regular attendee at council meetings, he argues that he'll be better able to parry Mr. Ravenstahl on neighborhood issues.

'I think DeSantis and the Libertarians and the Socialist Workers Party can take down Luke Ravenstahl,' he said. 'I don't think DeSantis can do it himself.'

The real debate on the debates should not be confined to the thinking that there is only one hour of time. That's wrong. There are 90 days until the election.

If there is only one hour of time to stage debates among the candidates, Pittsburgh can't win.

Furthermore, I think we need debates among the city controller candidates too.

Some other mentions and quotes I shared in yesterday's interview with Rich Lord of the Post-Gazette that did NOT get into the article include:

- "Q: Who is to blame for debates without all the candidates?" My reply: Everyone needs to share the blame. The voters need to demand inclusion and diversity. The other candidates need to make a stand and not appear crooked by playing the part of a cronie. The station managers need to understand that democracy is not like a boxing match with only two opponents. Democracy is messy.

- "Q: Has this happened before?" Yes.

The Jewish Federation is the worst. Once that organization hosted a debate within the Jewish Community Center and excluded an active member of the Jewish Community Center. That debate was NOT on television. I spoke with strong words of protest.

I marched with LeRoy Hodge at WPXI's studios in the past.

Bob O'Connor could have been mayor in 2001, but he went onto the debate stage with Tom Murphy without the others on the ballot. Murphy was better in a side-by-side 'slow dance' and was able to zing O'Connor on his ability to 'go to Harrisburg' to bring back a bailout because O'Connor could not remember the names of the state house and state senate leaders. That 'Duhh' was a show stopper for Bob.

Then I shared the story of the AARP exclusion.

GOP Hopefuls Generally Agree on Iraq -- GOPUSA

GOP Hopefuls Generally Agree on Iraq -- GOPUSA But former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson said, ''Any candidate that's pro-choice is going to have a difficulty with the party faithful. ... The Republican Party is a party of pro-life.''

A community wrestles with the issues of public housing and crime

A community wrestles with the issues of public housing and crime The usual handful of community activists has swollen to dozens, catalyzed by the Pittsburgh Housing Authority's interest in buying 10 homes, scattered through the neighborhood, for low-income clients. At a large and uproarious meeting with authority officials recently, more than 75 people turned out to protest.

Italian club fires swimmer - Manaudou -

SI.com - More Sports - Italian club fires swimmer�Manaudou - Monday August 6, 2007 7:57PM Olympic gold medal swimmer Laure Manaudou was fired by her Italian club on Monday because of her behavior at a meet in Paris.

LaPresse club did not elaborate on the circumstances surrounding the decision, but the ANSA news agency said Manaudou does not get along with her trainer, Paolo Penso.

Early Returns leaks the call from the League of Women Voters to include all candidates

Teaser from Early Returns about debate inclusion.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Local News - Early Returns Yesterday Arlene Levy, vice president of voter services for the League, wrote to KDKA and Point Park officials noting the likely presence of Mr. Rauterkus and Mr. Scott on the ballot. 'Could we, also, extend an invitation to them to participate in our candidates forum?' she asked.

So far, neither major-party campaign is objecting to an inclusive debate, though Mr. DeSantis' reaction is a little cooler than Mr. Ravenstahl's. KDKA says it hasn't decided whom to include.

The conventional wisdom is that putting more candidates on the stage would benefit Mr. Ravenstahl, since it would reduce the amount of airtime Mr. DeSantis would get. Mr. Rauterkus, of course, argues otherwise. More in tomorrow's P-G.

Call to action for the Elect.Rauterkus.com campaigns

How many debates should be held for the Pittsburgh Mayor's Race

LiveContent + Creative Commons with Red Hat gets LiveCDs and LiveDistro

LiveContent - CcWiki LiveContent is an umbrella idea which aims to connect and expand Creative Commons and open source communities. LiveContent works to identify creators and content providers working to share their creations more easily with others. LiveContent works to support developers and others who build better technology to distribute these works. LiveContent is up-to-the-minute creativity, 'alive' by being licensed Creative Commons, which allows others to better interact with the content.

LiveContent can be delivered in a variety of ways. The first incarnation of LiveContent will deliver content as a LiveCD. LiveCDs are equivalent to what is called a LiveDistro. LiveCDs have traditionally been a vehicle to test an operating system or applications live. Operating systems and/or applications are directly booted from a CD or other type of media without needing to install the actual software on a machine. LiveContent aims to add value to LiveDistros by providing dynamically-generated content within the distribution.

Getting Around: Naysayer state rep may be good choice for Port Authority board

Democrat wants to limit freedoms of young people.

Getting Around: Naysayer state rep may be good choice for Port Authority board A 16- or 17-year-old with his or her own wheels or access to a family car will no longer to be able to have more than one teen friend as a passenger at any time if the Legislature passes a bill proposed by state Rep. Chelsa Wagner, D-Beechview.

Here are two bad ideas. First, it is a bad idea to create a new law. Second, it is also a bad idea to let your kid ride with a new driver. Everyone can't be trusted behind the wheel. Few youths are going to be trusted to drive my kids around.

Some kids need to drive. Some kids need to catch a ride. For many, it works.

When a young person needs to give a couple of friends a lift -- and they see a police car -- then what. Does a high speed chase unfold to evade the police until one of the kids can jump out of a moving car?

Western Pennsylvania has had plenty of deadly car crashes. They are sad. Often, they could be prevented if speeding was eliminated.

Here in the city, the trend has been to eliminate all buses for the high school students.

In the burbs, there are few buses.

Former Port Authority head sues over pension reduction

I don't normally do awards such as 'jerk of the day,' nor 'jackass of the month' nor worse. But, if I did, this guy would be nominated.

Former Port Authority head sues over pension reductionThe former CEO of Port Authority of Allegheny County has filed a federal lawsuit against his old employer and its board of directors, claiming that it illegally reduced his monthly pension by more than $3,000.

Paul Skoutelas, along with his wife, Denise, filed the civil complaint late last week in U.S. District Court. It includes claims for breach of contract, denial of property without due process and impairment of contractual rights and obligations.

Pig.

High-tech solution - Olympic Games begin in China in one year

From china - foods

SI.com - More Sports - High-tech solution - Monday August 6, 2007 2:15PM Embarrassed by recent scandals over the safety of Chinese food products, organizing officials for next year's Beijing Olympics spelled out high-tech plans Monday to make sure healthy food is delivered to the 10,500 athletes who will reside in the Olympic Village.

The move comes just two days before Beijing marks the one-year-away date for the start of the 2008 Summer Games, highlighted by a gigantic stage show in Tiananmen Square.

From china - foods

Keyes supporters plan presence at Iowa Straw Poll :: AlanKeyes.com

Two more may still join the race for US President on the Republican side.

Keyes supporters plan presence at Iowa Straw Poll : AlanKeyes.com Supporters of Alan Keyes plan to attend the Iowa Straw Poll Aug. 11, to get Keyes' name before the public as a possible Republican presidential candidate.

'We Need Alan Keyes for President,' an organization of grassroots volunteers conducting a petition drive to draft Keyes, will hand out literature, donation forms, and sign-up sheets and show video clips of the former Reagan administration diplomat.

Keyes — who in 2000 drew 14 percent in the Iowa Caucus and averaged 16 percent in his best ten states during the presidential primaries — says he is open to the possibility of running, if enough support exists at the grassroots for his candidacy.

Keyes supporters plan presence at Iowa Straw Poll :: AlanKeyes.com

Two more may still join the race for US President on the Republican side.

Keyes supporters plan presence at Iowa Straw Poll : AlanKeyes.com Supporters of Alan Keyes plan to attend the Iowa Straw Poll Aug. 11, to get Keyes' name before the public as a possible Republican presidential candidate.

'We Need Alan Keyes for President,' an organization of grassroots volunteers conducting a petition drive to draft Keyes, will hand out literature, donation forms, and sign-up sheets and show video clips of the former Reagan administration diplomat.

Keyes — who in 2000 drew 14 percent in the Iowa Caucus and averaged 16 percent in his best ten states during the presidential primaries — says he is open to the possibility of running, if enough support exists at the grassroots for his candidacy.

Wikimedia Pennsylvania

More running mates!

Wikimedia Pennsylvania Wikimedia Pennsylvania

The golden age for local bloggers has come and gone. Same too of the 'cranky age.' But, perhaps the golden age of the local wiki is still to come.

US lawmaker defends Mecca bombing comments

US lawmaker defends Mecca bombing comments Fiery Republican presidential long-shot Tom Tancredo Sunday defended his suggestion that America should threaten to bomb Muslim holy sites in order to deter a nuclear attack on US soil.

Another one bites the dust.

Tom Tancredo is toast. He went from fiery to fried.

When the US State Department starts to campaign against the candidate, things are looking bleek.

What is more bleek, is the statement. Bombing holy sites is "absolutely crazy."

That $360 million: Legislative illusions - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

It is not too early for YOU to start thinking about running for state rep or state senate in 2008. The attitude of 'throw the bumbs out' is still alive and well, as these moves are still happening.

That $360 million: Legislative illusions - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "That $360 million: Legislative illusions"

...

The Associated Press made repeated requests for an accounting to the Democrat and Republican caucuses in each chamber. But the AP was stonewalled or given the incredible excuse that a breakdown could not be separated from the $27.5 billion in state spending signed into law last month by Gov. Ed Rendell.

The final round of budget negotiations was done behind closed doors with no hearings or public debate. Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi, R-Delaware, and Majority Whip Jane Orie, R-McCandless, say the $360 million is not spent frivolously or secretly because anyone can review the budget's line items to see the allocations.

True, but there's no indication who put that money in the budget. And since there are many vague categories, there's no indication how some of the $360 million will be handed out.

Fortunately, the public has one trick up its sleeve. By casting enough ballots, legislators' careers can vanish. And that would be no illusion.

If you want to run for state house in 2008, or even if you are considering it, it would be an honor to have your help in the weeks to come as a campaign helper in the races I'm working on in 2007.

Out at home plate? - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Out at home plate? - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 'The kid woke up on third base and thought he'd hit a triple.'

Interesting observation.

I'm a sports person. I'm not okay with that observation.

Life isn't a 'game.' And, if you want to contrast life and being 'mayor of Pittsburgh' with Luke's career, you'd be hard pressed to say that he 'just woke up.' Plus, no games last for years? Seasons come and go.

Readers, Running Mates -- give that 'straw poll' a whirl

Click and place a vote in the Presidential Straw Poll. See the banner above. Interact with it. Click there. Sound off. Check the results.

It is a nice web widget. Have a go.

Hi Swimmers, Parents and Friends,

Coach Mike and I have talked, and I am NOT going to continue as an assistant coach at Carlynton Swim Club for the pending winter season.

My sons, Erik and Grant, are expected to continue swimming with the team.

Thanks for listening and all your efforts.

The Post Gazette reports in an article on Friday, Aug 3, 2007, with the headline, City residents file to get on ballot as deadline passes, that "Libertarian Mark Rauterkus of the South Side has filed ballot petitions to run for mayor of P ittsburgh, city controller and city councilman representing District 3."

So, I've got some other important jobs and duties for in the immediate future. On November 6, 2007, election day, I am expected to be in a role that is much like a swimmer who competes in multiple events at one swim meet. In my community efforts I always raise issues about improving recreation opportunities and conditions for our younger generations.

Finally, the water polo clinics have been fun. More players (boys, girls, all ages) are welcome. Just $5 per week. We are playing weekdays from 9:30 to 11:30 at the Crafton pool to August 17.

Mark Rautekus

---

Letter I wrote that was posted to the Carlynton Swim Club email list via C.M., the club president.

Citiparks Swim Meet at Highland Park Pool

Erik and Grant and a few hundred other kids were part of Citiparks' Summer Swimming Championships today. We got to the pool for 8 am warm-up. My crew left after event 53 at 4 pm. More races were still being staged. The one session, age group (10-under, 11-12, 13-14, and 15-18) meet might have concluded at 4:30-ish.

From ormsby-serpents

Wow. It was hot. My eyes needed to be closed for a few hours in the early evening. They are crisp. We all were out in the sun too, too long.

This was a one-session meet.

Erik won all of his individual events, 50 fly, 200 IM and 50 breast. Grant got 3rd in the 50 fly and won the 50 free and 200 IM. Erik's relay got second.

ormsby-serpents

Ormsby (our neighborhood pool) also known as the South Side Serpents, got 8th out of 15.

Are you ready for some football?

The Steelers play football on Sunday -- in 24 hours.

Ron Paul: a Liberal Viewpoint | Ron Paul 2008 Revolution - Ron Paul for President - Daily Paul

Ron Paul: a Liberal Viewpoint | Ron Paul 2008 Revolution - Ron Paul for President - Daily Paul I am a liberal. I believe in whatever social or political solution best serves the common good, even if it means raising taxes and expanding the government. As a tree-hugger, I haven't owned a car since 1994 - I've commuted to work on foot for over a decade. Dennis Kucinich is by far my favorite living Democrat. Hell, prove to me a nation can best achieve prosperity, peace, stability, and freedom within a Communist framework and you can call me Comrade.

But I will be hanging up my Green Party affiliation in the near future in order to register as a Republican, to vote for Ron Paul in the primaries. Here's why:

Ron Paul's speech and rally was G-R-E-A-T.

RonPaul

Erik, my son, 12 years old, and I went to the Ron Paul event tonight. Grant has a fever, so he and Catherine had to miss out.

It was great. We were able to get seats in the sixth row. Some photos are in this Picasa album. I'm sure that a lot of YouTube stuff will come out shortly. The one guy working to establish Ron Paul chapters on college campus locations was streaming right off of his ball cap camera.

White Paper Pundit - White Paper Explores Role of Podcasting in Higher Education

White Paper Pundit - White Paper Explores Role of Podcasting in Higher Education Blogsite “Hey Jude” along with Carnegia Mellon University has released a white paper entitled Podcasting: A Teaching with Technology White Paper

The white paper does a very good job educating the reader about podcasting and its advantages. It’s also packaged very well, and does an admirable job explaining and illustrating the process of creating digital files and distributing them via an RSS feed.

If you are an educator, you owe it to yourself, your students and your institutions to attend Pittsburgh's PodCamp this August at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Local News - Early Returns

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - Local News - Early Returns Dr. No comes to town

Ron Paul returns to his roots

Early returns talks about 2008 candidates. However, talking about 2007's candidates is still not 'early returns' worthy I guess.

Plus, a mention of nearly 1,000 people to attending tonight's event is about 800 more than I'd ever expect. So, it seems that some P-G over-hype can be leveraged as buzz-kill.

Time will tell.

The Blog of Burgher Jon: Friday Sour Kraut

The Blog of Burgher Jon: Friday Sour Kraut It appears that there are some 100% viable and extremely likely to get elected candidates that finally made up their mind and decided to jump in to various political races in Pittsburgh. I'm all for having fringe candidates in the election, if for no other reason then to spice up the debate and get new issues in. If Mark Rauterkus wins all of the elections for which he is running he can combine their powers and form Captain Planet!

Provided an interview today to WDUQ

The news reporters at WDUQ called and I gave them a phone interview about our races for public office. Some of my statements follow:

I am a placeholder.

We crossed an important hurdle in getting on the ballot this week.

The race for mayor will not be a two way race.

We will continue to use the internet to our advantage. We use the internet now and post thoughts there daily. We can be open with our issues and build trust and respect, as I've been doing for the past years.

We will get out into the community to meet and greet and speak at any community meeting that will invite us.

Our efforts to get onto the ballot for some of the county races such as County Executive, Treasurer, District Attorney, Sheriff and county council at large were set aside in the spring when the we, Libertarians, didn't muster enough candidates nor supporters to gather the thousands of necessary signatures from throughout the county to get onto the ballot.

In the race for city council district 3 I bring new dimensions to city council. They need to hear a libertarian approach at the table in our discussions in city hall. All the members of city council are Democrats. Putting one member onto council from another party is going to be healthy. Furthermore, I have experiences and perspectives as a swim coach. I want to work to overhaul and support the Citiparks programs. I care about the youngsters and our parks. Those on Grant Street, even those with the county parks and rec department, make the issues with our youth a low priority. Not me.

When we hear talk about parks locally it has been about the killing of geese. We can do better than that. It is no wonder we have a brain and talent drain. We need to challenge our youth. Then we'll have more young people who choose to stay in the region.

Dems of stature don't stray - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Political brain writes letter to editor in the Trib.

Dems of stature don't stray - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review "Rich Tenney, Oakland

Nice letter Rich.

Opposition Research

The parties rarely talk openly about opposition research, but times are changing, writes Roger Simon at the Politico. At a session at YearlyKos, the Democratic National Committee was "only too happy to pull back the curtain a little and tell these activists how they intended to help destroy the Republicans next year." The oppo centered on the big four Republican candidates -- Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney, John McCain, and Fred Thompson. The DNC'ers even gave a sneak-peek at the Democratic talking points for the GOP (Thompson: "He passed only five bills in the Senate while he was there and four were ceremonial. His non-campaign/campaign so far has been a 'train wreck'").

Wonder if there is any opposition research for Dr. Ron Paul?

I agree, it will be easy for the Dems to trip up Rudy, Mitt, John and Fred. I don't think any of those guys are well suited for a victory in November of 2008. None of them will get to the White House.

Ron Paul remains longshot for GOP nom - Yahoo! News

Political butterfly. I like that slogan. Ron Paul's son swam butterfly and was a nationally ranked. My kids swim butterfly too. Neither are that fast -- yet.

Ron Paul remains longshot for GOP nom - Yahoo! News AUSTIN, Texas - Ron Paul may be the political butterfly of the 2008 presidential campaign. An obscure congressman from Southeast Texas for most of his political career, Paul has metamorphosed into the favorite of those looking for a candidate outside the political mainstream.

The League - Pittsburgh - JOB POSTINGS

The League - Pittsburgh�:�JOB POSTINGS
State Director - Pennsylvania League of Young Voters
The State Director of Pennsylvania League of Young Voters and the Pennsylvania League of Young Voters Education Fund, will assume leadership in operations in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and will join a dynamic organization dedicated to engaging, educating, and empowering young people and those disenfranchised from the voting process.

Ron Paul's email blast

What a great time we had in San Antonio last weekend. An enthusiastic bunch of Texans thronged the Alamo for a rally, and then there was a fundraising dinner at an historic museum. More than a thousand people attended one or the other.

San Antonio is a military town. Indeed, I served there myself in the Air Force, and lots of soldiers and airmen came up to offer their support. Some were Iraq veterans, some were headed there, and all supported getting us out.

As I told the crowd, with our non-interventionist foreign policy, there would be 3,600 young Americans still alive, and 25,000 more not badly wounded. It got the biggest response of the evening.

Then a 14-year-old girl told me she was helping the campaign so her daddy, a soldier, would not have to go to Iraq. I told her there are many thousands of us working to that exact end, to keep him and all the others safe. What an outrage that we are accused of not supporting the troops. What a scam when the warmongers claim to be pro-soldier.

Lots of military people turned out to be aware that our campaign got more donations from soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines than any other. Funny, that made a big impression in Congress too. Many of my colleagues were amazed and encouraged that you can be against this unconstitutional and disastrous war, and get military support.

This weekend I meet with family, high-school classmates, and local friends and supporters in Pittsburgh. Link We are really looking forward to it!

Then it’s a full week in Iowa. On Sunday, there’s the ABC debate, and next weekend is the Ames straw poll. Other campaigns seem to be pulling back, to try to lower expectations. We are stepping things up, with more staff, another office, and a significant TV and radio buy. This all costs a lot of money, of course, as does our continuing work in New Hampshire, South Carolina, Arizona, and other states.

But I have been thrilled by the support among Iowa Republicans for our issues—on the war, on pro-life, on fiscal conservatism. This is fertile territory for us. Now we just have to work harder than our opponents at recruiting supporters, organizing them, and getting them to the straw poll.

Some media have hinted that a good showing by our campaign would be a bombshell. I don’t make predictions, but I am cautiously optimistic about our chances. However, I very much need your help.

We got a lot of good publicity earlier about our prudence in spending. Indeed, I treat every donation with care, since it comes from a good American who shares our hope for the future, and who had to work hard to earn that money.

But all that publicity about our non-spendthrift ways had a “blowback” effect—if you will excuse the expression. It made some people feel the campaign did not need support, right at the very time we especially need it.

Stand with me in Iowa. I very much need your support. Please, send the most generous donation (https://www.ronpaul2008.com/donate/) you can, as soon as you can.

Sincerely,
Ron

Texas congressman brings presidential campaign to hometown

There are two articles in the Post-Gazette to blog about today. This is the longer one, about a candidate in the race for US President in 2008. The other is about local candidates in the November 2007 races.

Texas congressman brings presidential campaign to hometown

By Jerome L. Sherman, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

WASHINGTON -- Today, "Dr. No" returns to Pittsburgh.

U.S. Rep. Ron Paul -- the fiercely libertarian Republican presidential candidate from Texas who grew up in Green Tree -- will be back in the region for a family reunion and a political rally at the Four Points by Sheraton Pittsburgh North hotel in Mars.

During more than three decades of on-again, off-again lawmaking in Washington, the obstetrician and gynecologist has earned his nickname, voting "no" on any tax increases, restrictions on gun ownership, Internet regulation, congressional pay raises, the USA Patriot Act, and -- most prominently -- the 2002 resolution that gave President Bush the power to invade Iraq.

"How would we react if they did it to us?" he asked during an interview on Capitol Hill this week. "I think a few Americans would be willing to shoot anybody who would try to impose that on us. That's what people don't understand."

That view also has put him at odds with the rest of his party's contenders for the White House, including Rudy Giuliani, who described Mr. Paul's criticisms of U.S. foreign policy as "absurd" during a GOP debate in South Carolina in May.

Mr. Paul trails far behind the frontrunners in national polls, but he is still attracting a sizeable number of supporters on both the left and the right. He has become a star in the online world of YouTube.com, Meetup.com and scores of political blogs.

To be honest, Dr. Paul has WON a number of national polls. He won the polls after three different debates, (CNN, Fox News, MSNBC). Some of the unethical polls often IGNORE Dr. Paul by not even putting him in as an answer. Furthermore, one recent poll was won by "NONE OF THE ABOVE" -- because Dr. Paul's name was NOT an option. NONE OF THE ABOVE is on the rise in those polls.

With the help of the Internet, Mr. Paul's campaign raised $2.4 million between April and June, putting him ahead of Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., in cash on hand.

"He's the only person who's running who is talking about privacy and how much freedom we're willing to give up for security," said Brad Porter, 28, a creative writing and cognitive psychology student at Carnegie Mellon University.

Mr. Porter is also a co-author of thecrossedpond.com, a blog that features a page dedicated to Ron Paul. A recent post pictures "Obi" Ron wielding a Star Wars lightsaber.

"Every time we post a story on Ron Paul our hits just spike," said Mr. Porter, who is one of 188 "Ron Paul Patriots" in a Pittsburgh Meetup.com chapter.

Mr. Paul, 71, spent his early years on a small farm on Crestmont Drive in Green Tree. He was one of five boys, and his father, the son of a German immigrant, managed the family dairy business. Honus Wagner, who lived in Carnegie, was a customer.

"We did a lot of sports and worked hard and did church," Mr. Paul said, a soft Texas accent covering up any hint of his Western Pennsylvania roots.

He and his brothers all attended Dormont High School, and he then went on to Gettysburg College and Duke medical school. After a stint in the Air Force, Mr. Paul returned to Pittsburgh to complete a residency at Magee-Womens Hospital. He and his wife decided to settle in the southeastern Texan town of Lake Jackson, near the site of his military service.

For a period, Mr. Paul was the only obstetrician in Brazoria County, and he delivered as many as 50 babies a month.

Yet his hectic schedule didn't prevent him from pursuing an interest in economics. One of Mr. Paul's preferred forms of relaxation was reading texts from the free-market oriented Austrian school. His favorite was Friedrich Hayek's "The Road to Serfdom."

A turning point for Mr. Paul came in 1971, when President Richard Nixon, facing the economic pressures of the Vietnam War, moved away from the dollar's gold standard.

"This was a declaration of bankruptcy for our country," Mr. Paul said. "We would no longer fulfill our promise to honor our dollar."

His frustration led to a roller-coaster political career. In 1974, he lost his first race for Congress. He won a special election in 1976, but he lost the seat the same year. He won again in 1978, and he stepped down in 1984 to pursue an unsuccessful run for the Senate.

I too have plenty of frustrations with our political landscape. That is what drove me to be a candidate for public office. I don't want the folly of our elected politicians (all from the same party) make Pittsburgh a ghost town. Furthermore, everyone in politics has a roller-coaster political career.

"I thought that if there was enough freedom to change the system, I should try it," he said.

Mr. Paul then returned to his medical career. But he again put his practice on hold to run for president in 1988 on the Libertarian ticket. He frequently quips that he finished third behind George H.W. Bush and Michael Dukakis, but Mr. Paul's candidacy did bring the congressman a small but loyal band of supporters who still follow him.

In 1996, Mr. Paul went back to Congress, hopeful that a new Republican majority would reign in big government. He was disappointed.

"It never slows up. The deficit goes up worse under Republicans. And they don't hesitate to pass entitlements. And then they run on a program of criticizing Clinton's foreign policy, and then we go and do the same thing, only worse," he said.

Mr. Paul supported the U.S. military action in Afghanistan, but he now says it has become a costly "nation building" exercise. He was one of six Republicans to vote against the Iraq war.

"This nation should not be a nation to invade other countries for the purpose of building an empire," said U.S. Rep. Walter Jones, R-N.C., who initially backed the war but now opposes it. He and Mr. Paul are both members of the Liberty Caucus, a small group of conservative lawmakers that meets weekly for lunch.

Mr. Jones hasn't offered an endorsement for any candidate, but if Mr. Paul is on the ballot in North Carolina, he can count on Mr. Jones' vote.

"The two most sacred documents in this country are the Bible and the Constitution," Mr. Jones said. "Ron Paul is a defender of both."

Indeed, Mr. Paul couches most of his arguments in constitutional terms. He recently re-introduced a bill that would empower the U.S. government to issue what the Constitution calls a "letter of Marque and Reprisal" against Osama bin Laden and hire mercenaries to hunt down the terrorist mastermind. Mr. Paul cites as an example Thomas Jefferson's undeclared war against the Barbary pirates of North Africa in the early 19th century.

He also says the vast expansion of federal government of the past century has gone beyond what the founding fathers envisioned.

"If you want the government to run Social Security, you should amend the Constitution," he said. "If you want the government to run education, you should amend the Constitution. Otherwise, there's no Constitution."

If Mr. Paul wins, he envisions a gradual pullback of those programs, although he would respect Congress' role in the system of checks and balances. A full withdrawal from Iraq and a drastic reduction in overseas entanglements would save about $500 billion per year, he argues, giving the government enough money to meet its current entitlement obligations, such as Medicare.

His domestic policies may appeal to many conservatives, but his approach to foreign policy is creating anger, especially in his own district.

"I'm only hearing complaints," said Yvonne Dewey, chairwoman of the Brazoria County Republican Party, whose son was delivered by Mr. Paul in 1975. "We've been supporters for a long time, but you can and you must fight a war against terrorism."

Chris Peden, a Republican who sits on the Friendswood City Council, announced yesterday that he would challenge Mr. Paul in the primary election next year. On his Web site, chrispeden.org, he says the incumbent isn't a true Republican.

Mr. Paul, however, is likely to stick to his ideological roots, on both the presidential and congressional campaign trails.

"My message is Republican and conservative and constitutional," he said.

Of course Dr. Paul is going to stick to his roots. He always stands on his principles. This is what is so wonderful about him. He doesn't change his tune depending upon the way the wind blows and the way the party leaders want. He isn't 'likely' -- is is most certain.

I am not a big fan of labels. "Don't Put Me in a Box" was a theme song on my campaign CDs. Labels are bad. Ron Paul is who he is. And, American can thrive if Ron Paul becomes President. We need Ron Paul in the White House.

Today is the day of the Ron Paul rally and speech

Tom, the main local meet-up organizer posted:

Good Morning Everyone,

Today is finally the day. I know we have all been waiting for this for a long time, and everyone is excited. I certainly am, also.

Events will certainly outpace our planning, but here is a list in brief of what is happening today. Things will start happening around 4 pm.

Dan Chujko is coordinating a food drop that is a great opportunity to help some less fortunate people out and the pickup will probably be around 5 pm. Connie will be helping as well.

I expect people from other cities to begin arriving around 4 pm, as well, so I will make certain I am up there by that time to help see they get where they need to be.

Expect a number of supporters to roll into town and it would not surprise me in the least if the parking lot becomes a little bazaar. We have some special shirts that we will be selling for the event to raise money directly for national, as our way of saying thank you.

The event itself will start at 8 pm. If you want a seat, you might want to be there by 7. It is free, as you probably know, and Dr. Paul will be giving a speech. Make yourself known. I want to hear applause and see a lively crowd. Also, talk to the people sitting next to you. It's a great chance to begin getting new people to support Dr. Paul who might be on the fence.

We will be broadcast over the net by at least two different supporter groups. So, those of you who were worried about that, please don't. You may want to bring digital cameras or the like.

At the after party, it has been confirmed that Dr. Paul, his family, and his campaign staff will visit. The location is at Hereford and Hops, 1740 Rte. 228, Cranberry, 16066. It's easy to find.

Have fun, enjoy the other supporters, be responsible, and this will be a great evening.

If you need anything today, both myself and the assistant organizers will be able to help you. My number is 412-977-7798, and though I'll be more than a little busy, never too busy to help.

Today is for all of you. Enjoy it. :)

Yours, Tom

A Political Intern: The solution to the Pittsburgh Parking Problem

Kissing the third rail of local politics -- parking. Thanks for the plug at this blog.

A Political Intern: The solution to the Pittsburgh Parking Problem: "I'm not for intra-neighborhood enforcement, but Mark Rauterkus makes a good point. There is a beast of a Buick that is ALWAYS on the street out front of my place, no sticker in sight, and I don't see a stack of tickets under his wiper, while at the same time my girlfriend was helping me move at got a ticket for exceeding her one hour (9:06-10:11) even with her four ways on and a heaping pile of ikea in the back."

Likewise, I'm not too excited to get a new crop of tattle tales as neighbors. But, I'm not excited to have to pay more for the parking fines either.

Yes, we do need 'small scale lots.' I call those 'in-fill parking lots.'

Full Monty tonight

Look for us in the cultural district.

Penguins delay arena opening until 2010 season

Penguins delay arena opening until 2010 season

Post party with Ron Paul, candidate for President

Here is a Friday night invite unlike most others. Come out with us and meet, greet and mingle with Dr. Ron Paul, candidate for President of the United States. Dr. Paul grew up in Green Tree and he is due home tomorrow for a rally / speech / social event. It is free. After the event we'll go Dutch!

Andrew Michel, the events coordinator for the national campaign, confirmed that Ron Paul will be making an appearance at the after party at Hereford and Hops!

The after party will run from 10 pm to 1 am tomorrow night (Friday, Aug. 3) right after the rally. The address there is 1740 Rt. 228 Cranberry Twp., PA 16066. I hope you can make it!! Directions to the after party venue from the hotel are as follows:

Exit Four Points Sheraton on Sheraton Drive. Turn Left at Stop Sign onto Freeport Road. Turn Right at Light onto Route 19 North. Turn Right at Route 228. Hereford and Hops is located about a quarter mile past I-79. It should take about five minutes to drive there.

Ron Paul and the Empire -- can a victory occur

Ron Paul and the Empire Unlike the establishment’s candidates, Ron Paul is a freelancer running on three specific ideas:

1. The federal government must function within the strict guidelines of the Constitution.

2. America should deconstruct its empire, withdraw our troops from around the world and reestablish a foreign policy based on noninterventionism.

3. America should abolish the Federal Reserve Bank, eliminate fiat currency and return to hard money.

This is not a political agenda. This is not a party platform. It is a revolution. The entire ruling oligarchy would be swept away if these ideas were ever implemented. Every sentence, every word, every jot and tittle of this agenda is unacceptable, repellent and hateful to America’s ruling elite.

Army's 'Debt Of Service' Leaves Vets Perplexed

First, the service men and women are paid too little when they are on duty. Next, they are sent back into another tour over and over again. Then, if they get injured, the quality of the healthcare able to be delivered is pinched for money and resources. Now comes this news. The bills for the lost and damaged equipment while in the service.

wcbstv.com - Army's 'Debt Of Service' Leaves Vets Perplexed: "Former Army Specialist Rodriguez started getting bills for $700 for lost or damaged government property this summer. Although he was discharged some four years ago, bills recently arrived demanding payment, but giving no details on what or why -- nor do they offer a way to dispute the charges.

'For doing my job you're going to bill me?' Rodriguez said.

And he's not alone. A 2006 government report found more than 1,000 soldiers being billed a total of $1.5 million. And while fighting overseas put their lives on the line, this battle on paper could cost them their future by ruining their credit. Rodriguez will be reported to credit agencies next month."

Teacher Magazine: Senior Year: A Teenage Wasteland

Teacher Magazine: Senior Year: A Teenage WastelandYhe U.S. Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley called the high school senior year a “wasteland.” Researchers studied data from the national High School Survey of Student Engagement and concluded that the majority of high school students were not challenged during their senior year in reading, writing, or math.

To many of us who work with high school seniors, these findings ring true. They best apply to the wide swath of 'average' students who travel the featureless landscape called senior year.

Picket Fences - Are home protests an effective expression of free speech — or neighborhood harassment? - News - News - Pittsburgh City Paper - Pittsbu

Picket Fences - Are home protests an effective expression of free speech — or neighborhood harassment? - News - Pittsburgh City Paper Where does free speech run afoul of the right to privacy?

In recent months, protests have moved from the street and the courthouse to local churches and homes, and have many asking that exact question. Some call the tactic “offensive,” while others say it is protected speech, and the only solace activists can find when all other attempts have been exhausted. Now the Citizen Police Review Board may ask Pittsburgh City Council to make it illegal in Pittsburgh.

I generally love what the executive director of the Citizens Police Review Board says and does. But, I'm not in favor of a limit on freedoms by making new laws that prohibit free speech.

Howard Dean visits Pittsburgh Dems - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Get this. A bit of reporting reveals that there is a Socialist Workers Party candidate in the Mayor's Race now. Who is Ryan Scott of Friendship?

Howard Dean visits Pittsburgh Dems - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Ravenstahl faces Republican candidate Mark DeSantis, of Downtown, and Socialist Workers candidate Ryan Scott, of Friendship, in the Nov. 6 election.

Scott, a meatpacker, filed candidacy papers yesterday, the last day for independent and third-party candidates to file for the general election.

The gulf between national and grass-roots campaigns

Got this off the RonPaulForums.com site

To ALL grassroots meetups and etc.

PLEASE read the excellant explanation that we are ALL up against!

Ya, it's just about what I figured from my history of campaigns and a little more.

This explanation will prep us for Friday and ANSWER a whole lot to the many! The RP advance team and Nat'l HQ has got to be tired answering the same questions & uncomfortable positions everywhere they go. So NOW we know!

BizmanUSA

National vs. Grassroots… The good, the bad, and…
August 1st, 2007 by theronpauladventure

On Sunday night, some of the members of the Des Moines and Ames meetups met with the national campaign HQ members to talk about the Straw poll. I must tell you that I went in there with a bit of an attitude, because I am one of those who has been questioning the chasm that I feel developing between the grassroots campaign and the national campaign. More than once, I’ve asked myself, “What are they doing?” and “Who are these people?”. To be fair, I also ask myself, “What am I doing?” and “Who the heck am I?” Equal time, you know.

The difference between national and grassroots is evident even to the most casual observer. As I looked around the room, I had to smile at the contrast. The meetup folk were slouching on the floor in casually reclined poses; most of us, if we cut our hair, look like we use a bowl for a template. We write with pencils and bics and snort when we laugh. The national team, on the other hand, wear clothes that are so nice they have their own birth certificates. They wear their sunglasses on top of their heads, have really nice haircuts, and as they sit leaning gracefully against the wall, they toy with cool electronic gizmos that the rest of us stare at in fascination. They use words like “touches” and “charm offensive”. We use words like “borg” and “duct tape”.

The meeting was started with a report on what the Campaign has accomplished in terms of reaching out to voters. National has started a campaign to connect with special segments of the Iowan population, and between this campaign, and the write and call Iowan programs, they expect to reach (or “touch”) over 200,000 potential voters by the end of this week.

One of the national team said, “We want to touch as many people as we can.” and another said, “Isn’t it better to touch someone several times?” I tried not to laugh, but I couldn’t help thinking, “Doesn’t it depend on where you touch them?”

The meeting continued at a good clip, and we covered the different areas of the Straw Poll that needed volunteer support. It was a pretty good meeting, but I still somehow was bothered by the chasm I felt between us.

So at an inopportune moment, which is the only time I seem capable of speaking out in a group, I told them that I was sensing a chasm between national and grass roots. I said that if we weren’t careful, we would end up with two campaigns. Two campaigns that didn’t like each other. Cats and Dogs, Hatfield and McCoys, Eileen and Sandy Burger (Eileen and Sandy were my next door neighbors when I was growing up and were always fighting over their “real live Lucy” doll who refused to eat spinach or raise taxes.) You get the picture.

I told them that the supporters for Ron Paul want to help. I said, “For example, if you’re doing a radio campaign in Iowa, why not make the ad available, and I know the supporters will run with it and play it all over Iowa! There’s so much we can do together. Can’t you just talk to us? We’re not from the government, we really are here to help!” Realizing that I was beginning to sound like a democrat , I trailed off with, “It’s just that we’re a little frustrated right now…”

It was about then that I noticed that one of the national guys was turning an odd shade of red. Suddenly, he jumped up and with clenched fists exclaimed, “You think you’re frustrated?! You have no idea!” It took me a while to understand what he was talking about, but when the light finally dawned, I realized there was another side to this whole thing that I hadn’t even been aware of.

Here’s the gist of it. The FEC (Federal Election Commission) has a code of rules and regulations that apparently makes the IRS codebook look like nursery rhymes. And, because other groups are not, shall we say, encouraging our campaign it is especially important that we follow the code to perfection. The code mostly deals with money - how it is received by the campaign, how it is used, etc. The tricky part for grassroots campaigns is that our activities must clearly be separate (in general) from the National campaign or someone is gonna end up in a little prison cell with a roommate named Bubba.

So, they can’t give us a radio ad, because then it isn’t an independent action, but a coordinated communication, which requires filing reams of reports, may exceed the allowed donation limit, etc. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

What they explained to us is this: They hate it, but they have to live by it. They want, they need for us to do what we’re doing and do more of it. They were as encouraging as they could be, but are very skittish about doing anything that can be misconstrued as incorrect. They don’t want to hear about the projects that we’re working on, and they can’t consult with us on the best way to do them. They went into some more detail, but you can see the general scheme of things, right?

When they were done talking about the restrictions on them, I blurted out, “Wow, I feel so free!”. And I do. Do you see what this means? It means we don’t have to wait on the national organization to make decisions. We don’t have to feel stymied because we don’t know what they want. The truth is this: they can’t tell us! It’s not that they don’t want to, it’s just that they aren’t allowed to. So, you and I can promote Dr. Paul with our best efforts. We can coordinate with each other and help each other as we have been doing. And we can do more of it. While we cannot and indeed must not depend on national, we can support them as best we can so that they can work fully within the limitations that exist, because the national campaign is also vital for success. But, we must move forward within the grassroots movement. The truth is that Dr. Paul’s message, our message, is simple and clear enough that once people hear it, it speaks to them. That’s the only direction we really need. All we have to do is let people know about him.

In the end, there are two campaigns - national and grassroots. But now, instead of thinking of us as two little kids fighting over our “Constitution Ron” doll, I see us more as Captain Navarre and Isabeau from Ladyhawke - two lovers under the spell of an evil wizard, unable to “touch” each other, but soon to be set free and return justice to the land. The only part I can’t decide is who’s the hawk and who’s the wolf.

Architect of Ohio U’s Sports Cuts Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement

Ohio U, shame, shame on you.

CollegeSwimming.com::Architect of Ohio U’s Sports Cuts Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement When the Ohio men’s swimming team was cut, finances, OU athletic director Kirby Hocutt cited finances as the reason. The decision, Hocutt explained, followed, “hundreds of hours of comprehensive research and study over an extended period of time, both by my staff and others within the University.' Now it has come out that a member of that staff helped contribute to the departments fiscal shortfall through the misuse of athletic department funds.

Equitable could bolt to Butler County - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

North Shore Revolving Door.

Equitable could bolt to Butler County - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Two years after moving into its $35 million headquarters on the North Shore, Equitable Resources Inc. might move to Butler County."