The Reverend Jeremiah Wright, clearly not on the side of Jesus Christ, has forced Barack Hussein Obama's hand into a full-blown denunciation.
There is a lot of discussion whether Wright purposely sabotaged the junior Senator from Illinois, or was just on his tour of hatred, controversy and wackiness to sell copies of his upcoming book. Obama, while still ahead in the Democratic delegate count, has clearly and utterly been sunk for November. Fiscally conservative Reagan Democrats, who could hold considerable sway this fall, will never vote for Obama knowing that he either put up with Wright's dementia or never showed up for services altogether.
Knowing that barring a political miracle—Obama tackling Osama bin Laden himself near the espresso machine Hilary Clinton didn't know how to operate—Barack is looking at a November thumping of Mondalian proportions.
The question now becomes: Has Jeremiah Wright single-handedly destroyed an African American's chances of being President for the next 50 years?
Fifty might just be an overstatement but it does grab your attention. Obama was designated to be the poster dude, the salvation for those simply tired of the Clinton shock and awe of self-pomposity. Young, thin, sounds identical to WWE wrestler The Rock, Barack was believed to be exactly the "fresh face" the Democratic Party needed. Never mind the vapid-minded vocal stylings of Michelle Robinson Obama; Barack was to be the King of the Castle, the cut-and-run General in John Murtha's race from the Middle East.
Now the man who officiated Obama's marriage and baptized his children, has by himself knocked the Golden Bird from his perch.
Jeremiah Wright has stolen a great deal of the spotlight from Obama and has actually uncovered a "Black Church" phenomenon that few white folks didn't know existed. It turns out that some churches that count a large African American congregation agree with Wright. A discussion with my own pastor brought this to my attention and an African American church goer at my office attested to the fact that on any given Sunday, one may hear similar rants from "pastors" who should be sharing knowledge of Christ's teachings and not inflaming improper rhetoric.
Every black candidate who will ever come down the pike again will be scrutinized accordingly. Religion, one of the building blocks of the greatest nation in the history of the planet, continues to be of utmost importance to folks in "fly over country," whether liberals like it or not.
Radio host Glenn Beck recently ran Jeremiah Wright's Palm Sunday message for an entire hour on his program. The inflammatory hate and anger that exploded from Wright will resonate not only with voters still eligible to vote in the primary, but all the way to November if Obama makes it past the Democratic National Convention. This process continues to be one for the history books.
Due to Wright's involvement, Obama is now absolutely unelectable in the fall. It's really too bad because a good-looking radical lefty who would send America into an economic tail spin would be fun to have in the race regardless of whether he has incredible character defects (surrounds himself with the most un-Patriotic Dream Team any major party has ever assembled), but now it's apparent that no self-respecting, God-loving voter will ever plunk Obama's name in November, even if gas is $4 a gallon. Tell me how gas prices will go "down" if oil companies are besieged with taxes? They will simply pass the tax onto consumers. People have to go places. That's pure economics.
It really is unfortunate that Obama's political chickens "have come HOME to ROOST."
That's to Jeremiah Wright's audacity of hate, Barack Obama will not be our next President. Nor will any other African American candidate for 20-30 years. Not even Will Smith can overcome this stigma anytime soon.
Monday, May 05, 2008
Wright Might Have Sunk Obama, All Presidential African Americans for Two Decades
STEEL CITY DERBY DEMONS HOLDING SKATER TRYOUTS
The Steel City Derby Demons, Pittsburgh's all-female, roller derby league is holding tryouts for skaters. Applicants must be 21 or over, female, and
have basic skating skills.
For more information or to register, email joinscdd@gmail.com
Visit www.steelcityderbydemons.com to find out more about the Steel City Derby Demons.
So -- who in the hell is running for mayor -- and -- is Luke Ravenstahl wounded?
People are asking me all the time, "Who is running for mayor?"
Gosh. What do you think?
The talk is that our existing mayor has worn out his welcome. Well, at least some of the people that talk to me are saying such things. This deal with the URA seems to have flipped a few others to the side that Luke must go.
But, I'm not so sure as to what will happen.
I know that the mayor's race is a big deal and should be a two-step process with primary and general election. It is going to take a one-two combination to land someone other than Luke in the office in January 2010.
I do like the fact that the Dem primary and the races of 2008 have been kicking up such a cloud of dust that people are not yet with a focus on the local races for 2009. But, a little chatter and a little advance planning would be nice.
Funny too, about the media: I expect that when they think about local candidates that they'll do what they have always done. The local media always gets off to a bad start. The editors like to begin the coverage by printing stories of people who are NOT running for mayor.
Gosh. What do you think?
The talk is that our existing mayor has worn out his welcome. Well, at least some of the people that talk to me are saying such things. This deal with the URA seems to have flipped a few others to the side that Luke must go.
But, I'm not so sure as to what will happen.
I know that the mayor's race is a big deal and should be a two-step process with primary and general election. It is going to take a one-two combination to land someone other than Luke in the office in January 2010.
I do like the fact that the Dem primary and the races of 2008 have been kicking up such a cloud of dust that people are not yet with a focus on the local races for 2009. But, a little chatter and a little advance planning would be nice.
Funny too, about the media: I expect that when they think about local candidates that they'll do what they have always done. The local media always gets off to a bad start. The editors like to begin the coverage by printing stories of people who are NOT running for mayor.
Pittsburgh Peabody Event, Saturday at 8 am
This Coming Saturday... begins at 8 a.m.
Promise for the Future: Reducing Teen Violence and Enhancing Life Opportunities
EVERYONE WELCOME
May 10, 2008
8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Speakers, Large Provider Fair, Community Workshops, Breakfast and Lunch, Youth Talent Showcase from 1 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Hosted by Pittsburgh Peabody High School and its Community Partners
"I wish I could steal it." A quote from the Pgh Public School Biz Meeting, tonight
Tonight I went to a Business Committee Meeting of the Pgh Public Schools with administrators and most of the members of the school board. A few things came up.
The director of the school district's technology department gave a presentation. The 'dashboard' system is on its way out. Rather, they cooked up a new system.
A guy with a Pitt connection got to say a couple of words in support of what the district has been building. His main statement was, "I do a lot of consulting work with other districts around the region. I wish I could steal the system that you have. It is very good."
After he spoke, I went over to him and say, "You should be able to steal it. Why can't you."
He laughed.
I was serious.
There is no reason why the software that the Pgh Public School is building isn't open source software.
Furthermore, the first question from a board member after the presentation was, "Is there a revenue stream that could be developed with the software." The question came from Heather Arnet. It was her only question in that period.
It is a fair question, given the hype, but it is the wrong direction.
The answer from the tech administrator from the district was wierd too. He said that they've talked a good deal about the business model and the possibility of selling the software and such. But he was leaning to a 'service model' for a possible sales avenue. The PPS District could scan the test answer sheets from the classrooms of the various schools in other school districts and then offer them a turnkey data evaluation and reporting system.
The real value in the system now is the high-speed scanning and the quick turn around. When the central administration gets the test scores by 9 am, the results are generally kicked back to the schools by noon of the same day. Great.
So, the enterprise and value seems to be in the service provider elements. Interesting.
But, the system is NOT open source. And, there was NO discussion of open source, open access and open ways with the entire discussion.
The technology department is trying to be with a good customer service model. They are gearing up to be user driven. Fine. The users are the administrators, principals, coaches (science coaches, math, reading, etc.), and teachers. Humm...
Not a peep about the customers being the parents, the communities, the taxpayers nor the public.
As the public schools develop software, the work product should be put into the public domain.
I'm not looking to harvest personal data and make privacy screw-ups. But, I want the systems to work for the right populations and have the priorities that make sense.
The red flag was raised, slightly, by a couple of board members. The elected school board members are NOT part of the audience from the technology department. School board members have been totally locked out of the data so far. Total firewall. Total blackout. Total denial of services to school board members has been the norm from the get go by design.
The question was asked, and the bureaucrat said, "We'll look into it." He gave the wrong answer. Well, it wouldn't wash with me.
The school reports and data that is now being delivered is a work in progress and it has some merit. It is 'very good' for them to pat themselves on their backs about now. The teachers know nothing of these systems yet. And, teachers have always been a big sticking point.
But, very good isn't good enough, especially when talking about vaporware.
The golden ticket that I'm looking for was NOT mentioned. In this big packet of information there wasn't a peep given to "rate of improvement." That is the key. That is what needs to be identified.
I have a coaching friend in California that has done a lot of work with data and kids -- in swimming. Swimming has data like no other avenue. The golden key is 'rate of improvement.' That number (rate of improvement) needs to be generated by kid, class, teacher, grade, school, district, county, race, gender, subject, skill set and all the other benchmarks that can be imagined.
Kids grow older. We know that. And, they grow at different rates. We know that too. But I want to know if they are getting smarter and more skilled at a rate that is better than before, their peers, and expected.
The director of the school district's technology department gave a presentation. The 'dashboard' system is on its way out. Rather, they cooked up a new system.
A guy with a Pitt connection got to say a couple of words in support of what the district has been building. His main statement was, "I do a lot of consulting work with other districts around the region. I wish I could steal the system that you have. It is very good."
After he spoke, I went over to him and say, "You should be able to steal it. Why can't you."
He laughed.
I was serious.
There is no reason why the software that the Pgh Public School is building isn't open source software.
Furthermore, the first question from a board member after the presentation was, "Is there a revenue stream that could be developed with the software." The question came from Heather Arnet. It was her only question in that period.
It is a fair question, given the hype, but it is the wrong direction.
The answer from the tech administrator from the district was wierd too. He said that they've talked a good deal about the business model and the possibility of selling the software and such. But he was leaning to a 'service model' for a possible sales avenue. The PPS District could scan the test answer sheets from the classrooms of the various schools in other school districts and then offer them a turnkey data evaluation and reporting system.
The real value in the system now is the high-speed scanning and the quick turn around. When the central administration gets the test scores by 9 am, the results are generally kicked back to the schools by noon of the same day. Great.
So, the enterprise and value seems to be in the service provider elements. Interesting.
But, the system is NOT open source. And, there was NO discussion of open source, open access and open ways with the entire discussion.
The technology department is trying to be with a good customer service model. They are gearing up to be user driven. Fine. The users are the administrators, principals, coaches (science coaches, math, reading, etc.), and teachers. Humm...
Not a peep about the customers being the parents, the communities, the taxpayers nor the public.
As the public schools develop software, the work product should be put into the public domain.
I'm not looking to harvest personal data and make privacy screw-ups. But, I want the systems to work for the right populations and have the priorities that make sense.
The red flag was raised, slightly, by a couple of board members. The elected school board members are NOT part of the audience from the technology department. School board members have been totally locked out of the data so far. Total firewall. Total blackout. Total denial of services to school board members has been the norm from the get go by design.
The question was asked, and the bureaucrat said, "We'll look into it." He gave the wrong answer. Well, it wouldn't wash with me.
The school reports and data that is now being delivered is a work in progress and it has some merit. It is 'very good' for them to pat themselves on their backs about now. The teachers know nothing of these systems yet. And, teachers have always been a big sticking point.
But, very good isn't good enough, especially when talking about vaporware.
The golden ticket that I'm looking for was NOT mentioned. In this big packet of information there wasn't a peep given to "rate of improvement." That is the key. That is what needs to be identified.
I have a coaching friend in California that has done a lot of work with data and kids -- in swimming. Swimming has data like no other avenue. The golden key is 'rate of improvement.' That number (rate of improvement) needs to be generated by kid, class, teacher, grade, school, district, county, race, gender, subject, skill set and all the other benchmarks that can be imagined.
Kids grow older. We know that. And, they grow at different rates. We know that too. But I want to know if they are getting smarter and more skilled at a rate that is better than before, their peers, and expected.
Allegheny County councilman aims to phase out drink tax - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Bottom's up.
Allegheny County councilman aims to phase out drink tax - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review -- Allegheny County Councilman Charles P. McCullough on Tuesday will propose halving the county's 10 percent tax by July 1 and eliminating it by Jan. 1, 2009.
Big Government Responsible for High Gas Prices
full article
Basic economics says that when government restricts the supply of a good, the price will increase. Yet Congress continues to reject simple measures that could increase the supply of oil. For example, Congress refuses to allow reasonable, environmentally sensitive, offshore drilling. Congress also refuses to remove the numerous regulatory hurdles that add to the prohibitively expensive task of constructing new refineries. Building a new refinery requires billions of dollars in capital investment. It can take several years just to obtain the necessary federal permits. Even after the permits are obtained, construction of a refinery may still be delayed or even halted by frivolous lawsuits. It is no wonder that there has not been a new refinery constructed in the United States since 1976.
Good reason to vote them all out of office when given the chance to do so.
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper:
Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.
Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits?
Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, we have inflation and high taxes?
You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.
You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.
You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.
You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.
You and I don't control monetary policy, The Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congress men, one president and nine Supreme Court justices - 545 human beings out of the 300 million - are directly, legally, morally and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.
I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress.
In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered but private central bank.
I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason. They have no legal authority.
They have no legal ability to coerce a senator, a congressman or a president to do one cotton-picking thing.
I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.
Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con / scam regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall.
No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.
The president can only propose a budget.
He cannot force the Congress to accept it.
The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes.
Who is the speaker of the House?
She/He is the leader of the majority party.
She/He and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want.
If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.
It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million cannot replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts - of incompetence and irresponsibility.
I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people.
When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.
If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.
If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red.
If the Marines are in IRAQ , it's because they want them in IRAQ .
There are no insoluble government problems.
Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power.
Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like 'the economy,' 'inflation' or 'politics' that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.
Those 545 people; and they alone, are responsible.
They, and they alone, have the power.
They and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses - provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.
Eleven of us met at Panera yesterday to discuss high school reform, focussing on Schenley/Frick
Eleven of us met at Panera yesterday to discuss high school reform, focussing on Schenley/Frick. The group represented input from Schenley, Frick, Linden, Colfax, Liberty, former East Hills, and Westinghouse. Sorry if I missed anyone.
As usually happens when we get together, we talked about our frustrations with the admin/board who seemingly refuse to listen to our legitimate concerns. Nick, our engineering expert, repeated again that in his educated and experienced opinion, there is no danger for students to remain at Schenley for another year while better plans are made.
ACTION PLAN: The next board hearing is next Monday, May 12, so sign-ups to speak begin today. If you can take a few hours time, please sign up to speak at the hearing. We need to get the message through to this board that they should not make any more decisions concerning our children using our tax money until a master plan is complete. The rapidly declining numbers of the Pittsburgh Public Schools show an increasing distrust of this system.
Contact your board member by phone, by letter, and or by email, letting him/her know that no actions should be taken at this time that commits more money to a failing reform that does not have the support of its constituents. Individual board members might agree to listen to us. If meetings can be arranged, I am sure that a small group of us would be willing to meeting individually or in pairs with board members, especially Mark Brently, Randall Taylor, Thomas Sumter, Sherry Hazuda, and Heather Arnet, the board members who have demonstrated their willingness in the past to be open to us. (sorry for the run-on sentence).
I am very afraid that many parents have given up the fight and are willing to go along with the stated plans. After talking and listening to various groups, including the Westinghouse parents, I am sorry to say that I do not trust these plans, and I think that we need to stay vigilant to react when the promises are delayed and/or broken. Cate Reed has repeatedly stated that all of our concerns will be answered but it is May and there are still too many unanswered questions. What will happen in September if (when) they realize that we were correct and the sign-up lists didn't mean a thing. If only 50 kids show up at Frick for a program that is geared for 150, what happens to the program and the teachers of that program? Frick is having problems with language teachers now, how is that going to be solved by adding another grade with a need for 4 different language teachers?
TUESDAY MEETING: I will try to be at Panera by 8 pm on Tuesday but I am coming from church in Edgewood, so give me a few minutes leeway. Maybe we aren't accomplishing anything with these meetings but at least we know that there are others that are as concerned as we are. It helps me to know that I am not alone.
I have added a few new names to my list. If you do not want to be on the list because you are already on someone else's, just let me know and I will remove. I do not share my list and only send blind copies.
amy moore
(phone #s nuked from this blog)
Called into Marty Griffin, KDKA Radio
Not on hold any longer, after waiting about an hour.
Marty Griffin of KDKA Radio, reported that he had an epiphany this weekend. Marty, it is GREAT to stand up for the "NAYSAYERS."
The bullies do NOT get it.
Marty is ranting, over and over again, about how there needs to be cuts in government, not new taxes. The small business folks and family folks are facing higher and higher bills. Everyone is cutting, except government.
The theme of Marty's ranting hits a bigger, more fundamental philosophy. I'd like to drag his awareness to a higher understanding. It is more than just the economic conditions. That's a huge burden that can't be down-played. It is the economy stupid. Sure thing. But bigger fights are still to be fought, about and beyond the economy.
The root problems are not just within the economy.
We need dissent for democracy to work. Funny how the bullies are generally Dems.
Marty is mad at Ed, Dan and Rich. They want to say that the small business owners who are putting up opposition to the drink tax are 'crazy.' Seems that Dan Onorato called the radio station on Friday -- as did Rich Fitzgerald? -- to complain saying that the kickback to the drink tax is "not newsworthy."
That same day, Dan Onorato was holding his 'closed door meeting' with select police and fire folks from around the county. (see the post below)
Closed door meetings and pegging opposition as crazy naysayers is their mode of operation.
The watchdogs need to do their duties. We naysayers need to do ours. And, bullies need to get their noses rubbed in the crap that they've littered about these parts for so long now.
Marty Griffin of KDKA Radio, reported that he had an epiphany this weekend. Marty, it is GREAT to stand up for the "NAYSAYERS."
The bullies do NOT get it.
Marty is ranting, over and over again, about how there needs to be cuts in government, not new taxes. The small business folks and family folks are facing higher and higher bills. Everyone is cutting, except government.
The theme of Marty's ranting hits a bigger, more fundamental philosophy. I'd like to drag his awareness to a higher understanding. It is more than just the economic conditions. That's a huge burden that can't be down-played. It is the economy stupid. Sure thing. But bigger fights are still to be fought, about and beyond the economy.
The root problems are not just within the economy.
We need dissent for democracy to work. Funny how the bullies are generally Dems.
Marty is mad at Ed, Dan and Rich. They want to say that the small business owners who are putting up opposition to the drink tax are 'crazy.' Seems that Dan Onorato called the radio station on Friday -- as did Rich Fitzgerald? -- to complain saying that the kickback to the drink tax is "not newsworthy."
That same day, Dan Onorato was holding his 'closed door meeting' with select police and fire folks from around the county. (see the post below)
Closed door meetings and pegging opposition as crazy naysayers is their mode of operation.
The watchdogs need to do their duties. We naysayers need to do ours. And, bullies need to get their noses rubbed in the crap that they've littered about these parts for so long now.
Job lead: Government Affairs Associate and other: Communications
Interested? Apply there, not to me.
There are two jobs in the same agency.
The second job looks good for A.S.
I did find a good job for "our hero" too. But that is with another agency. Seems a Philly nonprofit needs a global development czar. See Global Economic Development.
BTW, I'm not sure who reads this blog. Okay to forward to your friends and foes. Click that envelope email button and a message gets sent to them. And, I don't get to read the messages.
There are two jobs in the same agency.
idealist.org - Government Affairs Associate: "Pennsylvania Partnerships for Children, a statewide children’s advocacy organization located in Harrisburg, PA, has an opening for a full-time Government Affairs Associate."
The second job looks good for A.S.
idealist.org - Communications Specialist: "Communications Specialist"
I did find a good job for "our hero" too. But that is with another agency. Seems a Philly nonprofit needs a global development czar. See Global Economic Development.
BTW, I'm not sure who reads this blog. Okay to forward to your friends and foes. Click that envelope email button and a message gets sent to them. And, I don't get to read the messages.
Allegheny fire, police mergers explored
Allegheny fire, police mergers explored - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: About 50 elected leaders, administrators and public safety officials from many corners of the county met Downtown on Friday with County Chief Executive Dan Onorato to talk about the possibility of voluntary police and fire consolidations.News of the behind-closed door meeting is showing up in the newspapers now.
I hate closed door meetings. Still do. Closed door meetings should not be tolerated among public officials. Pittsburgh is still a 'smokey city' because these closed door meetings can occur. Things get hatched in 'smoke filled rooms' where there isn't transparency and open ways. Those things are good for the power hungry and bad for the citizens.
One of the major, initial topics after the closed door meeting begins is 'supporting grants.' They want to spend more money. The idea of mergers is to save money. The money will help to oil the way -- greese the palms. With money, all problems are much smaller. But, the problem is the money! Duhh...
Power is going to shift with mergers. But, these 'supporting grants' is needed for a pay-off.
If the purpose was to make good government and better services for the citizens, there would be no talk of 'pay-offs.' The money is needed to get the good people thinking in terms of greed and envy -- not quality protection in times of urgent need.
Onorato wants to offer incentives = pay-offs. Onorato needs to buy the support he needs to gain in power for central command and control.
Onorato said he hopes to offer incentives to trigger police and fire consolidations, such as offering foundation support, capital money and state funds.
We need to talk about communications. We need to talk about coordination. We need to champion specializations that have already been nurtured among the various departments in various communities. We need to talk about trouble spots, trouble situations, trouble communities and the roots of those troubles.
We need to talk about best practices. We need to highlight recruiting. We need to look at performance of various departments in an array of situations. Where are the benchmarks?
What are the costs and how are the budgets organized? What are real-time expenses in the various locations among various elements of the budgets? Operating expenses and demands should be put on the table -- for all to see -- for all these communities.
The notion of a 'voluntary discussion' and 'voluntary mergers' is interesting. These people are public servants and they often volunteer. That's the talk and focus I'd love to touch upon first. The ranks of the volunteers is depleted as it stands today. And, the one's that are running these departments have to think about raising the bar in terms of getting more volunteers into the various systems. The hinge of volunteerism is localization. The talk of merger means less localization and in turn, less volunteer engagement.
This is about natural, grass roots vs. OVERLORD thinking.
Futhermore, the residents should have their will be measured, with votes, under the systems of democracy, to see if pathway of merger is desired. Citizens need to volunteer their hopes into the merger bandwagon. That is where the real authority for volunteering mergers should reside.
Onorato's 90-minute meeting offered a refreshing take. Humm... It is easy to not answer questions, as many questions went unanswered, and look good. It is easier to look good when others are not watching.
I could hold my own closed door meeting to counter Onorato's closed door meeting and issue a report that my meeting was "super duper refreshing." But, in the end, it isn't refreshing to have a closed door meeting. I can't get past the stench. Even when you eat in the dark you can smell the food.
Volunteers to fight fires don't have rank nor pensions. So, they think that the fire volunteers don't have standing and can be yanked around at will. Wait. They have it backwards. The one's with rank and pensions can be told what to do much more easily than the volunteers. They take orders for a living. If they don't want to do what they are told -- they can give up their pay checks and pensions. Fine. Others can be hired to replace them but under different terms, more ideal terms among departments and service status.
You don't merger and yank around volunteers and expect them to show up 'at the end of the day.'
Furthermore, volunteers who fight fire have standing. They are there because of quality of life issues. They are there out of a call to duty and service for their neighbors. If you mess with the system and best practices are going to suffer -- you'll not only kill the ranks of the volunteers, you'll also kill the entire community. People will vote with their feet two ways. They won't volunteer for the fire service. And, they won't volunteer to live there. The community will empty. Houses will be put up for sale. Properties will become vacant. Economic prosperity will nose dive.
"Consolidating police departments would be more of a challenge because of pay and pension issues," he said. "These people have rank, and what do you do? But fire departments are volunteer."
Mr. Onorato and his staff will help set up meetings and attend. But, will these always be closed meetings? These meetings will be IR communities want to discuss mergers. But real communities don't hold discussions behind closed doors.
The money matter raises its head again, in terms of bricks and mortar spending. Onorato pledged to seek state matching money to help with mergers such as building or enlarging a fire hall. Gosh. The sticking point isn't in a bigger development deal with a larger fire hall. Development is the extent of what Onorato does. Too often, Pittsburgh gets politicans that only focus upon the ribbon cutting opportunities -- the bricks and mortar projects. They are about buildings. They are about 'hardware.' But the real solutions are within software, programming, services, acts, deeds, humanity.
Whenever there are closed meetings, I get upset. But others are not invited too. Most police chiefs ... of the Alle-Kiski Valley said they were not invited to the meeting ...
Updated post.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
LOST -- my iPod Nano
So sad.
Today, Sunday, at the JCC (Jewish Community Center) in Sq. Hill, my iPod with a black arm strap with velcro went missing. We got home and the only thing here was the ear buds. Went back to look and didn't find it.
If you find my iPod -- I'd love to get it back.
Call me: 412 298 3432.
Thanks!
Today, Sunday, at the JCC (Jewish Community Center) in Sq. Hill, my iPod with a black arm strap with velcro went missing. We got home and the only thing here was the ear buds. Went back to look and didn't find it.
If you find my iPod -- I'd love to get it back.
Call me: 412 298 3432.
Thanks!
Saturday, May 03, 2008
support COMMUNITY vote GRANT
I like this guy.
Meet Mr. Michael Grant.
He is running for PA House. He lives in the western part of Allegheny County.
Check out his web site.
support COMMUNITY vote GRANT: District 45 and all Pennsylvanians,
Meet Mr. Michael Grant.
He is running for PA House. He lives in the western part of Allegheny County.
Check out his web site.
Pittsburgh Parents Confused By High School Reform
kdka.com - Pittsburgh Parents Confused By High School Reform: "The Pittsburgh Public Schools District calls it high school reform, but some parents are calling it high school chaos.Darn tootin.
The sweeping changes have not helped to improve grades at all.
Where are the numbers and the proof of improvements in the formation of the K-8 Schools?
Where are the numbers and proof of improvements in the ALAs?
Where is the proof in plain old attendance figures for the expanded school year? The kids are not showing up for classes in August.
Most of the things that have been championed in recent years have been a failure.
Sweeping changes -- yes. For the good of improvements in grades and graduation rates -- NO.
The drop out rates are high. And, after South Vo Tech was closed, the drop out rates have gotten higher. The kids that were going to South and getting a diploma are now dropping out. South was a safe place for many kids and gave them opportunities to finish school and learn a trade.
The problems that have been identified are middle schools, first and foremost. So, they focus on high school reform. What about middle school reform?
Then there are know problems with certain schools. Five of the Pgh Public Schools are tagged as "drop out factories." But, the schools that are getting the sweeping changes are NOT these failing schools.
Roosevelt's method is to fix what is NOT broken.
Massive changes are being pushed upon Schenley High School and CAPA High School. Those are good schools. Furthermore, the best middle school in the district, Frick Middle School in Oakland, is getting starved and it is slated to close too. WRONG move PPS.
Frick works, mostly, for many kids. Now they are killing it.
The time and attention needs to be put upon Westinghouse, Oliver, Peabody, Carrick and Langley.
Roosevelt went out and closed 20 schools a few years ago. Now his goal is to OPEN new schools. Go figure.
Roosevelt went out and made schools that span from grade K to grade 8 just two years ago. Now he wants to make smaller, more specialized schools. Go figure.
And, the figures are not in. They are not releasing the reports and self evaluations.
South Vo Tech was closed because it was a 'smaller and specialized' school. Now they want to open smaller and specialized schools. Go figure.
They continuous yanking around of the families that choose to send their kids to Pgh Public School is overboard. The yanking is leading to the decline of the district. People are feed up. They are departing and voting with their feet.
Parents are not being consulted with. Rather, they spend more and more money on consultants.
And, you ask the administrators and they think that they are keeping the parents in the loop. Yet the administration CLOSED the Parent Education Recource Centers. They were called PERCs. They were shut in one of the first moves after the arrival of Mr. Roosevelt.
The kids are not playing 'musical chairs.' I love music. Rather, the kids are being treated like rats in labs. The maze and roadblocks are by design it seems.
Choice is great. I love choice. I want all the kids and all the families to have choices. But, there is no choice when your school closes. There is no choice in the programs that are being designed by this administration. The choices are fabricated by the administration on a macro basis and being lost on a micro basis.
No kid wants to go into 9th grade and enter high school by going into a school that is for grades 6, 7 and 8. There is no choice for those that need to stay at Frick Middle School -- rather than being in high school.
No kid wants to go to high school and be the big man on campus in 9th grade because there isn't anyone in that school in 10th, 11th and 12th grades.
Those choices suck.
Those are the choices that are being dished out to our kids NOW, thanks to the bone-headed leadership of Mr. Roosevelt as superintendent.
The kids at Schenley High School loved the interactions among all the students as a student body. The smart kids (and Schenley is sending kids again to Stanford) and the not so smart. The robotics and the I.B. and Spartan kids mixed well in all the sports and after-school efforts. The social fabric of the urban educational center is now ripped into bits.
Roosevelt and his solutions are awkward.
"I would agree with you this is an awkward time in re-creation of high school in Pittsburgh, greatly exacerbated by what happened at Schenley," Roosevelt said.
Nothing happened at Schenley, other than the LACK of BUILDING UPKEEP, awkwardly avoided by the administration of the district. They didn't fix the new windows -- still under warranty. They didn't fix the leaks in the roof -- so some plaster got soft. They didn't take care of the building with on-going upkeep.
Schenley was raped by the district's administrators.
Schenley was to be closed when the 'right-sizing plan' came out four years ago. But the right-sizing plan was only for elementary schools -- except for Schenley High School.
The story of Schenley was told to the board then and the school was taken off the 'closed list.' They forgot. They failed. They should be sent back in grade and made to repeat the lessons that were not mastered.
The asbestos problem at Schenley was taken care of in the 1970s. Look at the records.
There has NEVER been a threat of ASBESTOS at Schnley in the past couple of years. They monitored. They found NOTHING in the air. Schenley is safe.
The plan was a lie. The high school reform plan took a year to complete and it went out the window in one meeting. Mr. Roosevelt ignored the plan and made a crisis.
Those who had been on the special hand-picked committee to chart high school reform that did not agree with the closing of Schenley, because it was NOT a part of the high school reform plan, were not invited back. They were left out in the cold once the changes of Mr. Roosevelt seized the day.
The blue-ribbon-task-force was flicked apart and didn't meet again. Experts were isolated and left to wither.
Then comes the justification for moves -- all lies again. To set up Reisenstein was only peanuts -- but now the costs are four times as much. To rehab Schenley was expensive. Well, to move the multitude of students and change the half-dozen schools is way more expensive. And, those are short-term expenses, not long term fixes.
The consultants are racking up $200,000 at first blush. Then the change order comes and it becomes $3-million.
The move of Rodgers Middle School, a good school, to Downtown CAPA, another good school, was studied. Then studied some more. The prices are going up -- double, triple. Yet the results are still the same.
You can't put 10 pounds of shit into a six pound bag!
This is a FAILURE.
And the parents are upset.
The kids are being yanked around.
The costs skyrocket.
And our kids are still not learning enough.
But Roosevelt now says the cost to renovate Reizenstein has come in much higher than expected. So again - confusion.
Told ya. That is not "confusion." Rather, it is called being untrustworthy. It isn't stewardship. It isn't prudent. It isn't ideal. It isn't Pittsburgh. It is a formula for failure for a generation to come.
Roosevelt wants to apologize for the uncertainty. He manufactured the uncertainty. He needs to say, "I'm sorry. I quit."
He tried. He failed. He left us much worse than when he arrived. He is spent. The district is at the brink. He can't get onto the high road again in Pittsburgh.
College scholarships like the Pittsburgh Promise are not going to get the kids a decent 6th grade language arts teacher. That's what Mr. Roosevelt should worry about -- and he did the distraction game.
Mr. Roosevelt and the PPS are to worry about the public education of the kids in grades K to 12, not college. We've got a great higher education system in this country. We don't have much to brag about in our public school system. He worried about the wrong things. He didn't worry about what he should have been working upon.
Perhaps the best line in the article is this:
And for the time being, International Baccalaureate students from Frick Middle School will be spending their 9th grade at Frick until this sorts itself out.
Alert to Mr. Roosevelt. Sort yourself out. Then the solutions are sure to surface upon your departure. We told you what needed to be done years ago, months ago, weeks ago, and just yesterday.
Our kids can't stay in 9th grade forever. The kids are growing up. They are getting older but they are not getting more edumacated.
Fix:
Keep Rodgers Middle School open. Don't close it. The school works.
Replicate Rodger Middle School in another building. Have two. Perhaps Rodgers South should open in the now empty Knoxville Middle School.
Expand CAPA downtown. The new space that was purchased can be utilized for high schoolers in a high school building. Perhaps you'll be able to attract more students at the high school level there in the years to come.
We don't need kids in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades downtown.
We don't need yellow school buses downtown either.
The Gifted Center works. Don't fuss with it. A pilot program is going to occur for the next three years. That's bunk.
If you want to have five-day-a-week gifted education for kids that are gifted then you should open a gifted school.
Mr. Roosevelt wants specialized, small, learning communities. Then open a 'gifted high school.'
Mr. Roosevelt wants specialized, smaller, learning communities -- then find a way to re-open a school just like South Vo Tech High School. Perhaps you need to re-do Connelley High School and make that into a Vo Tech School. Make it part of the new development in The Hill District.
By all means, fix the windows at Schenley. Fix the plaster. Do a modest fast lift of Schenley High School and get the kids back into that school in one or two years.
While Schenley High School is closed, keep the gym and swim pool open. Those are new facilities.
Do NOT put 9th graders in FRICK Middle School. Send them with the rest of the high school student body.
Expand Frick Middle School.
Close the K-8 schools, in a gradual basis. Don't yank the families without a 2, 3, or 4 year phase out.
Give out teacher contracts to the language teachers in April. Time and time again the district is trying to hire teachers that speak other languages in September. Good teachers are hired sooner than that. Too often the district is too little and too late in getting talented teachers. Focus on that for once!
Get all the sports teams in the PPS to join the WPIAL. Scrap the city league. It is a joke, by and large. Pittsburgh is a sports town. We'll play well with others if we are only given the chance.
A+ Schools needs to compare and contrast what happens in the city schools to what happens throughout the rest of Western Pennsylvania. Families don't choose between Roosevelt and Phillips (both Pgh Public Schools). The real action and real choice is between a city school and a suburban counter-part. What about Brentwood, South Park, Baldwin, USC or Mt. Lebo schools -- next to PPS offerings and opportunities.
Don't start any school year before Labor Day. Ninth Grade Nation can wait too.
Put some sports, lifetime ones especially, at CAPA.
Open a second I.B. program, if you must, at REISENSTEIN. It can be a regional magnet for people in EASTERN ALLEGHENY COUNTY. Then that 2nd I.B. program can compete with the 1st I.B. program at Schenley.
Put the University Partnership program with Pitt at Schenley high school too. Make that the "Spartan" program. Then Schenley can have I.B. and University Prep. Give choices to the kids and the families at the micro level. They can switch between majors and not need to leave their school.
Put the new Science and Technology program at WESTINGHOUSE.
Make Peabody an all girl city-wide magnet. That school should compete as a public all-girls school against Oakland Catholic.
Make Oliver High School an all boy city-wide magnet. That school needs to compete with Central Catholic.
The kids that go to Langley should be able to spend their 10th grade at a boarding school.
Open two to five PPS boarding schools. Build a few dorms. Get some partnerships with others from around the state. The kids can come home on the weekends.
In Christchurch, New Zealand, a city about the same size as Pittsburgh, 300,000 residents, there are a handful of boarding schools, in the city, with great academics.
We spend too much money putting our kids in prison and Schuman Center. Let's allow for some of them who want to learn to get into a different environment on a 24-hour period. That's how you make for a longer school day and longer school year.
waterbasketbal.nl
I'm getting excited about our pending trip to The Netherlands. There, I want to check out "Water Basketball." The Dutch have been playing water basketball since the 1970s and have a national championship.
waterbasketbal.nl
Friday, May 02, 2008
Meeting BEHIND CLOSED Doors
Onorato to host meeting of minds on mergers - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "from at least 10 communities will meet with Onorato Downtown behind closed doors"Behind closed doors. That sucks. Bad, bad, bad.
Pittsburgh installs first energy-efficient LED street lights - NewsFlash - PennLive.com
Pittsburgh installs first energy-efficient LED street lights - NewsFlash - PennLive.com: "Pittsburgh is installing the first energy-efficient LED street lights in southwestern Pennsylvania.The TV interview on last night's news made us giggle.
The new street lights are 'clean.' They can be simply put into the trash without ramifications and nasty issues later. Meanwhile, the old and existing street lights have a lot of mercury in them and are quite toxic.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury_toxicity
So, the city has plenty of traffic lights that are NOT able
to be thrown away and recycled.
It might make sense to keep the lights right where they are so that they are not going into a dump and contaminate.
Sometimes, upgrades are expensive.
Penn State in NCAA Championship Game -- volleyball
The Nits have done it (last night) -- and beat Ohio State and will play in the championship game tomorrow.
Cheese & Volleyball: Promote Volleyball in Wisconsin by Watching TV Tomorrow Night: "At Cheese & Volleyball, our dream is simple: We want our all-time favorite sport to become ever more popular in our all-time favorite state. That's why we're ordering you (OK, politely asking you) to plant yourself in front of ESPN2 or ESPNU tomorrow night at 8 p.m. to watch the first NCAA D1 men's semifinal between Penn State and Ohio State (featuring Shorewood's own Daniel Mathews). And while we're at it, we strongly suggest that you encourage the following folks to watch as well:"
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Missing: Single-Payer in Pennsylvania
CJR: Missing: Single-Payer in Pennsylvania: "Missing: Single-Payer in Pennsylvania"Wellness theme continues.
Complaining Bridgeville Neighbor Arrested For Harassment - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh
This is so wrong.
The story about the 'noise' applies to the one that follows about hearing.
Team 4: Complaining Bridgeville Neighbor Arrested For Harassment - Pittsburgh News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh Complaining Bridgeville Neighbor Arrested For HarassmentI think this guy should be Pittsburgher of the Year!
Team 4:
BRIDGEVILLE, Pa. -- Marshall Pappert admits that he has been a pain to government officials from Bridgeville to Harrisburg.
But Pappert says that if those officials had to live where he lives, they'd be complaining, too.
While he expected to get a fight, or to be told off, or even ignored, Pappert says he never expected to get arrested.
The story about the 'noise' applies to the one that follows about hearing.
Constant exposure to racket of daily life takes its toll on hearing
Article in the P-G about wellness -- that quotes Catherine V. Palmer, Ph.D. (my wife).
This is another classic and one where lots of work has unfolded in changing behaviors.
One day in the future, a high school or college marching band will show up for a Pittsburgh Labor Day Parade and NOT have hearing protection for its members and be sent home. Being sent home, without marching in the parade, with instruments still in their cases will come with healthy hair cells working as they should within those sensory organs.
Could you see a high school football team take the field for the kickoff and opt to NOT wear their helmets? They would not be permitted to play the game.
Nice article.
Constant exposure to racket of daily life takes its toll on hearing: "Constant exposure to racket of daily life takes its toll on hearingOne of Catherine's classic quotes is in the article:
Gushing blood flowing out the side of a head would do plenty to promote hearing protection. But, it doesn't work that way.
"It is an invisible problem," Dr. Palmer said. "If loud music made your ears bleed, something would be done about it. But the damage can take 10 years before you notice."
This is another classic and one where lots of work has unfolded in changing behaviors.
One day in the future, a high school or college marching band will show up for a Pittsburgh Labor Day Parade and NOT have hearing protection for its members and be sent home. Being sent home, without marching in the parade, with instruments still in their cases will come with healthy hair cells working as they should within those sensory organs.
Could you see a high school football team take the field for the kickoff and opt to NOT wear their helmets? They would not be permitted to play the game.
Nice article.
State Senate approves ban on political robo-calls
This stinks.
To avoid the call, be a Libertarian. Then I'll be the only one to call you. Those Ds and Rs don't like to call me (us) -- it seems.
I think that it is much more intrusive to knock on doors than call on a phone line.
This law hinders free speech.
The ban is only against 'recorded messages' and not those made by 'live people.' That is to prevent those without big budgets to reach lots of people.
Hats off to Jim Ferlo. He voted the way I would have wanted. Senator Ferlo is on the mark with this statement.
State Senate approves ban on political robo-calls: "The fall campaign season could be a lot quieter for Pennsylvanians, who during the weeks leading up to the recent primary became accustomed to automated phone calls from presidential and other campaigns.I did NOT get one single phone call in the primary campaign. Not one. We have five cell phones and two land lines. Not one. The member of the PA Senate said he thought every resident in the state had multiple robo calls.
The state Senate today approved a bill preventing candidates and campaign committees from placing automated calls to residents who join a do-not-call list.
To avoid the call, be a Libertarian. Then I'll be the only one to call you. Those Ds and Rs don't like to call me (us) -- it seems.
I think that it is much more intrusive to knock on doors than call on a phone line.
This law hinders free speech.
The ban is only against 'recorded messages' and not those made by 'live people.' That is to prevent those without big budgets to reach lots of people.
Hats off to Jim Ferlo. He voted the way I would have wanted. Senator Ferlo is on the mark with this statement.
"Free speech should trump personal annoyance and inconvenience, except in the limited case of personal cell phones which cost the owner minutes and money," Mr. Ferlo told the Post-Gazette in an e-mail message after yesterday's vote.I also agree that it is better for our carbon footprint to NOT cut down trees, print brochures, and pay to have them delivered by snail mail. The printed propaganda is expensive and an ecological nightmare. The phone calls only use recycled electrons.
Trip for Translator; Spanish to English to travel to Guatemala for two weeks
idealist.org - translator Spanish to English to travel to Guatemala for two weeks Global Coalition for Peace, a 501(c)3 non-profit, is seeking a person to serve as translator and traveling companion for the director of the Women's Self-Reliance Program on her upcoming 2-week trip to El Remate, Guatemala, leaving May 25th and returning June 7th. Plane fare, food, and lodging will be provided ...
Job posting for techie: Coordinator, Online Giving
idealist.org - Coordinator, Online Giving: "Coordinator, Online Giving
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Kids in Cities - Learning Network
CEOS for Cities - Newsroom - News & Events: "08.24.07I've been talking about this for years. Good to see it begin to get a little attention elsewhere.
Kids in Cities Learning Network
CEOs for Cities will convene urban leaders from New York, Akron, Chicago and Portland for its first-ever Learning Network on Kids in Cities, Sept. 25 at 10 a.m. before the kick off of our national meeting.
Learning Networks bring three to four member cities together to collaborate on a particular project over an 18-month engagement. Topics of the Learning Networks are driven by members’ interests and needs and participation in the Networks is driven by a delegation’s own decisions about its priorities. Learning Networks focus on a single pressing theme and are aimed explicitly at producing action on the ground.
The Kids in Cities Learning Network will help urban leaders understand, support and scale the behaviors of pioneering urban families. Researchers from the IIT Institute of Design studied parent concerns of safety, space and schools, developing concepts to counter them through density, public space and using the city as a classroom.
Participants will apply concepts from our research in new initiatives in their cities with the aim of achieving real local gains and refining ideas and strategies that can then be shared among our national network.
To learn more about the Kids in Cities project, go to www.ceosforcities.org/kidsincities.
You may download the report on Kids in Cities by clicking here."
The Tax Foundation - Pennsylvania's State and Local Tax Burden, 1970-2007
The Tax Foundation - Pennsylvania's State and Local Tax Burden, 1970-2007: "Pennsylvania's State and Local Tax Burden, 1970-2007What do you make of this?
Penn State Swim Coach: Bill Dorrenkott Hired at Ohio State
CollegeSwimming.com::Dorrenkott Hiring Official Dorrenkott Hiring OfficialGreat move by Ohio State. Great loss for us in Pennsylvania.
PSU needs to get a new indoor 50-meter swim pool.
In Ohio, the recent news was that the NCAA Division III program, Denison, is getting a new swim pool too.
Ohio has dozens of indoor 50-meter swim pools. Pennsylvania is lacking, greatly.
In other OSU vs. PSU matters, the Men's Volleball squads face off with each other in the final four this weekend.
Myron's dead. Now public parade of his son begins.
Meet Myron Cope's Son DannySome serious parenting issues swirl around this local media story.
Myron Cope's son Danny was the inspiration for the Steelers Terrible Towel. Danny is autistic and attends the Allegheny Valley School. Channel 11's Peggy Finnegan talks to Cope's daughter and introduces 40-year-old Danny to the public for the first time.
http://www.wpxi.com/tu/5xsRtRgth.html
Correct me if I'm wrong. But, Myron was keen on keeping his son out of the public eye. So, would his wishes be honored with this display?
Did Peggy Finnegan press for the story? Did the sister? Did Danny? How did it get 'pitched?' Was a need need generated from Allegheny Valley School and its development people?
Is this 'news worthy?'
What is the long-term angle of this story?
Frankly, I think it is sad to put Danny in the spotlight. I feel that it would be against the wishes of his father. The media is making another mistake. Go figure.
Furthermore, I feel that the 'Terrible Towel" has a life of its own. That 'legacy' can be managed and it should be championed in a number of different ways so as to keep the revenue stream viable. However, the excitement and mystique of the Terrible Towelis tightly associated with sports and on-field momentum. That is where the efforts should be targeted.
I'd suggest a Terrible Towel baptism or vo-do spirit de-jinxing for the Steelers' draft choices -- with guys that are paid millions for a signing bonus. Put them into the limelight. Or, recycle Terrible Towels and install bits of these good-luck charms into motorcycle helmets of drivers on the region's roads.
Marty Griffin -- Pin headed Turncoat who says do as I say -- not as I do.
I sent Marty G an instant access message while he is ranting on KDKA Radio. I posted to him:
Of course people let go of their faith -- all the time.
Marty said, "Never let go of your faith at any time."
Get out!!!!
Taliban holds onto faith at all costs too.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taliban
To BAIL (Marty's words) on 'crazy' is 'common sense.'
Marty says, "Bad, bad." I say, "It is human to grow, change, move, improve, and better themselves."
To 'think again' even in matters of faith, is okay. Otherwise, you'd be a 'pin head.'
Marty bailed on Obama too. A couple of weeks ago Marty was pulling hard to get Hillary Clinton out of the race saying she didn't have the credit to be on the ballot.
Marty is a turn-coat. I just wonder if Marty is doing the dance against Obama because his listeners and the voters of PA went more with Hillary?
Of course people let go of their faith -- all the time.
Marty said, "Never let go of your faith at any time."
Get out!!!!
Taliban holds onto faith at all costs too.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taliban
To BAIL (Marty's words) on 'crazy' is 'common sense.'
Marty says, "Bad, bad." I say, "It is human to grow, change, move, improve, and better themselves."
To 'think again' even in matters of faith, is okay. Otherwise, you'd be a 'pin head.'
Marty bailed on Obama too. A couple of weeks ago Marty was pulling hard to get Hillary Clinton out of the race saying she didn't have the credit to be on the ballot.
Marty is a turn-coat. I just wonder if Marty is doing the dance against Obama because his listeners and the voters of PA went more with Hillary?
Five-month study on Pittsburgh housing market to be a guide - Examiner.com
Five-month study on Pittsburgh housing market to be a guide - Examiner.com PITTSBURGH (Map, News) - A five-month study on Pittsburgh's housing market will serve as a guide to investors and city planners as they look for the best places to develop in a shaky economy.Oh my gosh.
East Liberty Development Inc. project manager Kendall Pelling says until now politics drove what areas of the city were developed.
Now, investors and developers can rely on the interactive map that will be posted online by the Philadelphia-based nonprofit, The Reinvestment Fund.
How about if the city's investors do anything they wish while the city's agencies, city authorities, elected leaders of the city and all other public bureaucrats do NOTHING. Leave it alone and allow the free market forces do whatever.
The public acts need to be with a tight focus on public needs: Police, fire, roads, water, sewer lines, bridges.
Competitive Bid raises its head -- again -- but winks, blinks and nods prevail
Pittsburgh's water authority ups debt - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: After meeting with PNC and authority representatives, council members questioned why the financial work was not competitively bid.City Council had them right where they wanted them. City Council folded.
'I don't think that it's been the policy to bid these out,' said State Rep. Don Walko, the authority chairman. 'I think you just try to find the best team.'
Walko said PNC and JP Morgan assembled the authority's separate $25 million bond refinancing in 2007 and that using the firms again would save money.
Well, there is always next time. But next time in this instance is in 2042, give or take a decade.
City council blew it. None even asked a question on the day of the final vote. It was a slam dunk to get more debt.
The 'consent decree' to fix the storm water run off calls for certain measures to be made. Little has happened. Why?
Stewardships. Management. Accountability. Solvency.
The PWSA came about when Tom Murphy hatched an idea for a one-time fix of cash. All the Dems when along with it then. All the Dems sustain it now. Meanwhile, the water main breaks around town are everywhere.
Will this be the last musical at Schenley?
Will this be the last musical at Schenley?: "The future of Pittsburgh Schenley High School is up in the air, so this week may (or may not) be the last chance to see the famed Schenley musical on the Schenley stage in Oakland."Yes. This is the last chance to get to see a real Schenley Musical.
But the P-G ariticle fails to say a peep as to the greatness of this year's show talent. There wasn't a sour note the entire night. The show is a "MUST SEE."
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
[412] This weekend -- you gotta make time to see the Schenley High School Musical -- historic and fantastic!
[412] This weekend -- you gotta make time to see the Schenley High School Musical -- historic and fantastic!:Find time this weekend, at 8 pm on May 1, 2 or 3 (Thurs, Fri or Sat) to go see the Schenley High School musical, "All Shook Up." It is fantastic.
My son saw "Hairspray" when the professional production was in town this winter and he thinks the local high school kids presented a better show.
Furthermore, Schenley High School, as we know it, is GONE after this school year. This gives residents from around the region to see a top flight program in a classic, city setting. Suburban friends need to see this show too. I don't want to dwell on the politics of the school closure and how wrong that decision is because the message is all about the kids, the music, the teamwork and the fun you'll have watching them perform.
If you like Elvis music, live theater, poking fun at the mayor, wonderful singing, and a splendid community time -- go. Take your kids. Take a date. Go alone. We didn't need to reserve our seats, just show up at the door and plunk down seven bills.
See other blog postings and comments.
Lee Jenkins: Kosuke Fukudome Tastes Good - MLB - SI.com
Love it.
Also, Baseball and Softball are in a fight to get back into the Olympic Games come 2012.
Lee Jenkins: Kosuke Fukudome Tastes Good - MLB - SI.com The notoriously rowdy fans in the Wrigley bleachers not only hang signs of tribute to him in Japanese, but they also chant in the rightfielder's native tongue. Their efforts are flattering, if occasionally puzzling, to Fukudome. Placards with the Cubs' slogan IT'S GONNA HAPPEN in Japanese have been read by Fukudome to say IT'S AN ACCIDENT. And one well-meaning bleacher bum keeps yelling a phrase that translates as, 'It tastes good!'This comes at a perfect time with my next venture.
Also, Baseball and Softball are in a fight to get back into the Olympic Games come 2012.
Dr. Dan -- asking for a raise.
University of Pittsburgh: News From Pitt: "When I came to Pitt as a freshman, I had two goals. One was to be the starting quarterback. The other, I made a promise to my mother that I would graduate just like all of you today. I accomplished both goals. I was very proud of that, and all of you should be very proud to be Pitt graduates.
But never in my wildest dreams did I imagine receiving a doctorate in broadcast journalism. Now that I have one, I’ll be sure to let my colleagues at the CBS NFL Today show—Shannon, Boomer, James Brown, and Coach Cowher—know that I will demand that they now call me “Dr. Dan.”
Chancellor, thank you for the honor. I think I’m going to ask CBS for a raise!"
Where are the petitions?
Vox populi: Opponents of the 10 percent tax on all poured alcoholic drinks in Allegheny County are ready to put their efforts where their wrath has been. Friends Against Counterproductive Taxation, or FACT, say it's seeking a November referendum that would repeal the very unpopular levy. They'll begin gathering petition signatures in June. At least 25,000 are needed; FACT says it will seek 50,000 signatures just to be safe. Ah, democracy in action.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Ron Paul Hits it out of the Park on CNN American Morning�-�RestoreTheRepublic.com
Ron Paul Hits it out of the Park on CNN American Morning - RestoreTheRepublic.com: "Ron Paul Hits it out of the Park on CNN American Morning"The are agents of change, but are not specific.
Republacrats.
Free market medicine.
Federal Reserve system creates the bubbles.
We pretend to police the world and are going bankrupt.
They are about $400 haircuts.
Without fail, I'm a member of the Republican party, said Dr. Paul. (Take that John K.)
Get the book. It is a great read.
Men’s Volleyball: #4 Buckeyes Face #1 Penn State in the NCAA Semifinals Thursday at UC Irvine - The Ohio State Buckeyes Official Athletics Site - Ohio
Men’s Volleyball: #4 Buckeyes Face #1 Penn State in the NCAA Semifinals Thursday at UC Irvine - The Ohio State Buckeyes Official Athletics Site - OhioStateBuckeyes.com: The seventh-ranked Ohio State (20-7) men’s volleyball team will face top-ranked Penn State (28-1) Thursday in the NCAA Championship semifinals at UC Irvine. The Buckeyes, seeded fourth in the championship, received the MIVA (Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association) automatic bid by winning the MIVA Tournament with a 3-0 (30-19, 30-24-30-21) victory over Ball State (21-10). The Nittany Lions, seeded first in the championship, received the EIVA (Eastern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association) automatic bid by winning the EIVA Tournament with a 3-0 (30-24, 33-31, 30-23) win over George Mason (20-8). The second semifinal has third-seed Long Beach State (23-7) facing second-seed Pepperdine (16-10). The 49ers received the at-large bid to the championship while Pepperdine won the MPSF (Mountain Pacific Sports Federation) automatic bid by defeating Brigham Young (25-5), 3-2 (28-30, 28-30, 32-30, 30-27, 15-8) in the championship match of the MPSF Tournament. The semifinal winners play Saturday for the NCAA Championship
Paul has a novel idea for his campaign leftovers | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle
Paul has a novel idea for his campaign leftovers | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Ron Paul failed to translate an impressive fundraising operation into widespread support for his 2008 bid for the presidency, but the Lake Jackson Republican still may end up hitting pay dirt."
Slots Parlor: Felix asked a great question in another thread, at the Burgh Report blog
Worthy read, in full. Pointer: http://burghreport.blogspot.com/2008/04/development-la-ravenstahl-means-sweetn.html
... Is anyone else disturbed by the fact that $150 million in funding for Don Barden's casino comes from the two troubled public pension funds of the City of Detroit?
Last week S&P rated Barden's Pittsburgh casino project at B- with a negative outlook -- that's quite bad, and his other Majestic Star operations (in Gary, Indiana; Tunica, Mississippi; and Colorado) were rated a nearly-insolvent CCC+. What on earth are two drastically underfunded pension funds doing investing in a project like that? Isn't it an obvious use of political favors by Barden in his home town of Detroit?
Am I crazy in raising these questions, which have garnered no coverage in the Detroit media from what I've seen, and bare-bones coverage here? Shouldn't someone be investigating and reporting on the deeper stories -- if any -- behind these pension boards' decisions? Did money or favors change hands, and if so, where?
This is not chump change, folks, it is $150 million in savings that are supposed to benefit long-serving city workers in a distressed Rust Belt city. It may not be our own city, but the guy who benefits from it is building a casino in our city with that money. Is there anyone out there with the time and inclination to look into this further?
Felix Dzerzhinsky
Challenge, call: Pittsburgh area film creators
CALLING ALL PITTSBURGH AREA FILMMAKERS!Are you game?
The 48 Hour Film Project is coming to Pittsburgh In a wild, sleepless weekend, you and a team will make a movie--write, shoot, edit and score it. From scratch. In 48 hours.
On Friday, June 6th you'lhttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifl get a character, a prop, a line of dialogue and a genre, all to include in your movie. By Sunday, June 8th the movie must be complete. It will show at Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall at a screening on June 17th or 18th. The best 12 Films will screen again at the awards ceremony on June 20th.
There are many ways to be involved:
1. Come out to a MEET AND GREET scheduled for Wednesday May 14th at 7:00. We will be holding a meet and greet session at Cefalo's Restaraunt in Bridgeville. Any person who wishes to be involved in one way or another may come out and introduce yourself to the many Producers, Actors and DP's who are wishing to be part of this MANTRA!
2. FORM A TEAM. If you can rustle up enough folks to make a movie, great! The project is open to pros and amateurs alike. Just put together a team and register on-line at http://www.48hourfilm.com/pittsburgh …and then meet us on Friday, June 6th, ready to go. There are only a limited number of slots, so apply soon...
3. JOIN A TEAM. If you're interested in participating, but can't form a team, you can still definitely be involved! There will be happy hours where folks can meet team leaders and join their teams. Get your information to team leaders at:
http://www.48hourfilm.com/join
http://www.48hourfilm.com/pittsburgh
...and get your ear to the ground by signing up for the Pittsburgh 48HFP
yahoo group at: http://www.pittsburgh48@yahoogroups.com
…or the Pittsburgh myspace page at http://www.myspace.com/pitt48hourfilm .
4. WATCH THE MOVIES. Come on by to the see the movies! They will be showing at the Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall on on June 17th or 18th. . (Each night is a totally different set of movies.) The best 12 Films will screen again at the awards ceremony on June 20th.
Meet other filmmakers, spend 48 hours in intense movie making, and have your film screened at the Carnegie Free Library and Music Hall ! And compete to represent Pittsburgh at the 48HFP national screening!
The winning Pittsburgh team will compete against other films to represent Pittsburgh at the 48 Hour Film Project's national screening (2008 films screened at South by Southwest film festival), and will compete for additional prizes. Entry instructions can be found at
http://www.48hourfilm.com.
So come on out and make a movie!
Help Kick Childhood Obesity: Join Sneakers for FIT Kids Photo Petition!
Tomorrow is You’re the Cure on the Hill- the American Heart Association’s federal lobby day, and hundreds of You’re the Cure advocates will be on Capitol Hill to urge Congress to pass legislation to help counter the childhood obesity epidemic we presently face.
With the event now only hours away, I wanted to remind you to take part in our Sneakers for FIT Kids Photo Petition, so we can demonstrate the widespread support for the Fitness Integrated with Teaching Kids Act (FIT Kids Act).
Remember, the FIT Kids Act would amend No Child Left Behind to ensure the quality and quantity of physical education begin provided in our public schools is prioritized. Tomorrow is an important step in our efforts to see that this important bill is passed, and your participation today can have an invaluable impact on the outcome.
There is still time for you to take part in the Sneakers for FIT Kids Photo Petition. All it requires is that you take these three easy steps:
1) Take A Picture Of Your Well-Used, Stinky Sneakers – Whether they are high tops, tennis shoes or cross trainers, just snap a photo of your sneakers or of you being active in your sneakers. And get creative- create a sign expressing your support to include in the shot!
2) Send Your Picture To Snakers4FITKids@yahoo.com – Take a look at the hundreds of sneaker pictures we have already received. We would like to add your photo too so we can demonstrate to Congress that ensuring the health of our kids is an important priority.
3) Wear Your Sneakers April 29th – Even if you cannot join us at You’re the Cure on the Hill in person, be sure to wear your sneakers tomorrow to raise awareness of the issue and show your solidarity with our cause.
In closing, I would like to thank you on behalf of the American Heart Association – and the millions of kids whose lives you can make healthier – for supporting our campaign.
Clarissa GarcÃa
American Heart Association
Heart Disease and Stroke. You’re the Cure.
P.S - Exciting news! You’re the Cure on the Hill will be featured on C-SPAN tomorrow. An interview with AHA President Daniel Jones, M.D. will take place on “Washington Journal” on Tuesday, April 29, 8–8:30 a.m. EST, and include the topics of the FIT Kids Act and federal funding for research and prevention programs. “Washington Journal” has a call-in format, so we encourage you to dial in to participate and support our legislative priorities.
Pittsburgh Pist-Gazette: Luke's Legacy
A trend, perhaps.
Pittsburgh Pist-Gazette: Luke's Legacy: "Luke's Legacy"One calls it unaware. The other calls it 'brain dead.'
Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community
B-B-Q is slated for Saturday, May 3, from 3-8 p.m.
Worship is scheduled for 11 am on Sunday, May 4.
All of this happens at the new space: 2700 Jane St. in the South Side.
Worship is scheduled for 11 am on Sunday, May 4.
All of this happens at the new space: 2700 Jane St. in the South Side.
Players bash sloppy ice in Pittsburgh
globesports.com: Players bash sloppy ice in Pittsburgh Players bash sloppy ice in PittsburghGlobal warming.
What if they just finished the hockey season by the end of April.
Perhaps Pittsburgh fans can push to make the first game of the next series, rather than a 'white out,' be 'topless.' A beach party might be good enough for the dropping of the puck. Then as the game continues, fans go shirtless.
Sturla finance records subpoenaed - Topix
Someone feels that this short news story has big ramifications.
Sturla finance records subpoenaed - Topix Sturla finance records subpoenaedIf we had "Transparent PAC Accounts" -- this type of stuff would NOT need to be the subject of a subpoena. The records to the PAC would be visible for all to see at any time, as they unfold.
State Rep. Mike Sturla's campaign finance records have been subpoenaed as part of a grand jury investigation into a Scranton millionaire casino owner's alleged mob connections.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents :: Bruce Kraus: Excerpts from his testimony
Another "over-languaged" example of folly from Bruce Kraus.
Bruce, get an editor. And, if you have one editor now, get 10 additional ones if they should be of the same quality.
Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents :: Bruce Kraus: Excerpts from his testimony: "In the year 2008, would you dare to legislate to deny marriage or civil union based on race, creed, age or ethnicity?Look at the blog, there, for my reactions to his HYPE.
Bruce, get an editor. And, if you have one editor now, get 10 additional ones if they should be of the same quality.
Meet Chuck Baldwin, candidate for President of the United States
Constitution Party chooses talk-show host over Keyes for presidential nomination
By STEVE KRASKE The Kansas City Star
Meeting in Kansas City on Saturday, the Constitution Party tapped talk show host Chuck Baldwin over former ambassador Alan Keyes as its 2008 presidential nominee.
The pick was seen as something of an upset, given Keyes’ higher national profile. Known for his fiery stemwinders, Keyes is a two-time GOP presidential candidate who abandoned the Republican Party this month to join the Constitution Party, which stands for limited government and is committed to ending abortion and bringing U.S. troops home from Iraq.
But Baldwin’s roots in the Constitution Party run deeper. He was the party’s 2004 vice-presidential candidate, and party members said his stands were more in line with party thinking.
Still, the two waged a fierce battle in the days leading up to the vote, described as the most contentious in the party’s 16-year history. Baldwin wound up winning easily, 384-126. The Missouri and Kansas delegations basically split their votes between the two.
“They just rejected the most qualified man to be president,” said Tom Hoefling of Lohrville, Iowa, who is Keyes’ national political director. “Chuck Baldwin will have no impact on this election whatsoever.”
But Baldwin backers said the party was committed to remaining true to its values and growing itself from the inside. That approach will better sustain the party over the long run, said delegate Thom Holmes of Chandler, Okla., even though Keyes might have drawn more votes.
In his acceptance speech, Baldwin said his presidency would be committed to halting abortion and illegal immigration, the streamlining of the federal government, the tapping of oil reserves in Alaska that would lead to a return of $1.50-a-gallon gas prices and withdrawal from Iraq.
Baldwin pledged not only to pull out of the U.N., but also to push the international organization out of the country.
He said he would phase out the Internal Revenue Service and end the paying of personal income taxes. He said the country should return to the gold standard.
Boing Boing - Physics of participation like weather, not surplus
Boing Boing: "The physics of participation is much more like the physics of weather than it is like the physics of gravity. We know all the forces that combine to make these kinds of things work: there's an interesting community over here, there's an interesting sharing model over there, those people are collaborating on open source software. But despite knowing the inputs, we can't predict the outputs yet because there's so much complexity.
Schenley Musical, All Shook Up
I just got home from the Schenley musical All Shook UP and I would strongly urge you to see it next weekend if you haven't already. The talent of the Schenley cast is amazing (and the crew who make everything work)! I have been a season ticket holder of the CLO for about 25 years and have never wanted to see a show twice; I am planning to be at Friday's performance and might even go again on Saturday! (Thursday is the last home volleyball game and senior nite so I will be at the gym watching our Schenley Spartans defeat Gateway).
I think the show is especially moving this year because of the death of legendary director, Mr. B. and because of the uncertainty of the program for next year. I think it would be a good idea for all of us to contact our board members along with Mr. Lopez and Mr. Roosevelt and encourage them to see this show. Maybe the MAGIC can continue at another location but it will take the efforts of many to keep it alive.
amy moore
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Former Pittsburgh schools chief hired in Georgia
We miss you Dr. Thompson!
Dr. Thompson cared about the kids. Dr. Thompson cared about the parents of the kids too. And, Dr. Thompson did listen.
Meanwhile, today, we've got a school boss and a few in the higher administration who don't care to listen, interact and consult with the parents of the students in Pgh Public Schools. Mr. Roosevelt and his right-hand man for high school reform seem to think that they know it all.
The population loss in Pittsburgh is in a steep decline. It is getting steeper. Parents are pulling their kids out of the schools because of doubt and uncertainty.
Furthermore, we can deal with board turmoil. Board turmoil is NOT a bad thing. What they have in Georgia is NOT what we had. We always had members on the board. We never had people with votes bail out.
The solution to board troubles is an overhaul to the political landscape. That is something that was lost upon Dr. Thompson.
Former Pittsburgh schools chief hired in Georgia: "A troubled Georgia school board voted unanimously this morning to hire former Pittsburgh schools chief John W. Thompson as its 'corrective superintendent.'Take care of those kids. Good luck with the new job and responsibilities.
Dr. Thompson cared about the kids. Dr. Thompson cared about the parents of the kids too. And, Dr. Thompson did listen.
Meanwhile, today, we've got a school boss and a few in the higher administration who don't care to listen, interact and consult with the parents of the students in Pgh Public Schools. Mr. Roosevelt and his right-hand man for high school reform seem to think that they know it all.
The population loss in Pittsburgh is in a steep decline. It is getting steeper. Parents are pulling their kids out of the schools because of doubt and uncertainty.
Furthermore, we can deal with board turmoil. Board turmoil is NOT a bad thing. What they have in Georgia is NOT what we had. We always had members on the board. We never had people with votes bail out.
The solution to board troubles is an overhaul to the political landscape. That is something that was lost upon Dr. Thompson.
Point State Park is STILL CLOSED -- and work has not occured there in months
Do you know how to confuse a bunch of Philly baseball fans?
Put a big frickin fence around Point State Park -- for no reason.
This week the Philly fans are in Pittsburgh -- wishing to take in the sights. I saw dozens of the fans pressing their faces against the cyclone fences at the edge of Point State Park.
Meanwhile, nothing has happened there in months.
Joggers are blocked from the park. Cyclists are out of luck. Citizens are given the bird -- and this bird has nothing to do with geese -- every day that the park remains closed.
Meanwhile, new parks are opening.
Put a big frickin fence around Point State Park -- for no reason.
This week the Philly fans are in Pittsburgh -- wishing to take in the sights. I saw dozens of the fans pressing their faces against the cyclone fences at the edge of Point State Park.
Meanwhile, nothing has happened there in months.
Joggers are blocked from the park. Cyclists are out of luck. Citizens are given the bird -- and this bird has nothing to do with geese -- every day that the park remains closed.
Meanwhile, new parks are opening.
'Disneyland' comes to Baghdad with multi-million pound entertainment park - Times Online Mr Werner, chairman of C3, a Los Angeles-based holding company for private equity firms, is pouring millions of dollars into developing the Baghdad Zoo and Entertainment Experience, a massive American-style amusement park that will feature a skateboard park, rides, a concert theatre and a museum. It is being designed by the firm that developed Disneyland. “The people need this kind of positive influence. It’s going to have a huge psychological impact,” Mr Werner said.
Jen's email update about schools
I will be going to the Schenley Musical tonight, Saturday.
Hey all --
Sorry for the lull, I've been busy, but also, we're just waiting to see the fate of the building.
Tonight, and Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of next week you can go see the Schenley Musical, All Shook Up. 8 pm, tickets are $7. I'll be there every night! If you know a school board member or adminstrator, try to drag them along.
Meeting planned for May 4th at 2 pm, Panera on Blvd. of the Allies just to see where people are, what the latest news is, etc. both about the building, plans for next year and overall reform plans. If you think you can make it (we've already found quite a few people will be out of town that weekend), let me know, in case we need to try and reserve the room there.
In the meantime, if you're the parent of a Frick 8th grader and either aren't sure what you're doing next year or have made other plans, please drop me a reply. I've got a reporter request for parents meeting that description.
I know that some of us with an older child at or through Schenley strongly want to believe that something of the Schenley experience can and will be saved. But, I also know of many kids with alternate plans already in place, at Central Catholic, City High, Ellis, etc. It may well come down to the quality (and quantity) of the teachers remaining at "Schenley at Reizenstein" and those teaching the 9th graders at Frick. Also if numbers in the program fall it will, of course, affect staffing and then future recruitment. The latest enrollment numbers district-wide certainly aren't a good omen.
Researchers at Duquesne University are giving a survey and asking for parent input about the effects so far of HS reform and parents' opinions of where it should be headed. They'll be at every HS, but I think you can fill out the survey regardless. Let me know and I'll try to hook you up with them. Not sure that our input makes a lot of difference, but I still feel compelled to give it!
A+ Schools meetings are coming up too, free childcare and food included, with RSVP, click here for more info and to RSVP:
University Prep 6-12 meeting is Thursday, May 1, 2008 at The Hill House Association Kaufmann Building, 1835 Centre Avenue
Creative and Performing Arts 6-12 – Thursday, May 15, 2008, Downtown (free parking)
International Baccalaureate 6-12 –Tuesday, May 20, 2008 Downtown (free parking)
Science & Technology 6-12 – Thursday, May 29, 2008 Downtown (free parking)
All meetings will be held from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. Meetings will take place on the 31st floor of the Regional Enterprise Tower (formerly known as the Alcoa Building), 425 Sixth Avenue, Downtown. Dinner and childcare (for children over 1) will be provided to registrants. A+ Schools will validate parking tickets to the Mellon Square Garage for the meetings taking place at the Regional Enterprise Tower.
Let me know if you're hearing anything --
Jen Lakin
Ron Paul Delegates Forced out of Republican Convention�-�RestoreTheRepublic.com
This is bad. This is one reason to NOT be a part of the Republican Party.
Furthermore, this is but a sign of things to come at the national conventions for the big parties.
You'd think that McCain Republicans, with delegates already locked up, would not be so illegal and underhanded and corrupt.
Furthermore, this is but a sign of things to come at the national conventions for the big parties.
You'd think that McCain Republicans, with delegates already locked up, would not be so illegal and underhanded and corrupt.
Ron Paul Delegates Forced out of Republican Convention: You’re not going to believe this audio - Nueces County Texas Republican Convention
Great job guys! This is how Revolutions start!
Ron Paul Delegates Forced out of Republican Convention
At the Nueces County Republican party convention, March 29th, in Corpus Christ Texas, Ron Paul supporters walked out in protest and held their own emergency convention in the parking lot. Republican party Chairperson Mike Bertuzzi grossly violated party rules by announcing new delegates to the morning's roll call who were never elected as precinct delegates on the night of the Republican primary, then again by ignoring repeated objections by party delegates, which he is required to recognize..
Mr. Bertuzzi claims that he avoided a 'party takeover' by unruly Ron Paul supporters, but a recently released audio tape of the event clearly shows otherwise. As a blatant violation of convention rules is underway by the Chairperson, many delegates can be heard rising to voice objections with no avail until a local man, Paul Hunt , is escorted out by the Sergeant at Arms..
If anyone has any doubt that we're in a dictatorship, please watch this video.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Recumbent Exercise Bike to good home with $300, firm
Update: SOLD!
Firm is the price of the bike -- and firm will be your body after using this very affordable recumbent exercise bike for the next period of your life.
This bike was used by a little old grandma (no joke) and is low miles. She used it to recover leg strength from a pedestrian accident (she was hit by a car). It proved to work for her -- and it can work for you or those you care for.
I love the handle grips on the side by the seat with the ability to read one's pulse rate. And, this bike has its own drink bottle holder!
Specs:
Model R-15, Recumbent Exercise Bike, like new, purchased by G&G Fitness in Monroeville in July 06, cost more than $1,000. This is designed for home use, maximum user weight, 300 pounds. Console data displays with time, RPM, distance, calories, level and heart rate DOT MATRIX WINDOW indicates workout profile. Summary of total distance and total calories burned. Workouts: quick start manual mode, interval, random, manual, peak, slope, challenge. With 16 resistance levels. Pedal size is 4.5 inch. Drive type is Poly-V belt drive. Black and pewter metal, charcoal plastic shrouds. Has a user manual.
You'll need to pay cash and pick-it-up with your own car/van/truck from the South Side Flats.
Email me, Mark -at- Rauterkus.com. Or, call 412-298-3432.
Photo slideshow.
Firm is the price of the bike -- and firm will be your body after using this very affordable recumbent exercise bike for the next period of your life.
This bike was used by a little old grandma (no joke) and is low miles. She used it to recover leg strength from a pedestrian accident (she was hit by a car). It proved to work for her -- and it can work for you or those you care for.
I love the handle grips on the side by the seat with the ability to read one's pulse rate. And, this bike has its own drink bottle holder!
Specs:
Model R-15, Recumbent Exercise Bike, like new, purchased by G&G Fitness in Monroeville in July 06, cost more than $1,000. This is designed for home use, maximum user weight, 300 pounds. Console data displays with time, RPM, distance, calories, level and heart rate DOT MATRIX WINDOW indicates workout profile. Summary of total distance and total calories burned. Workouts: quick start manual mode, interval, random, manual, peak, slope, challenge. With 16 resistance levels. Pedal size is 4.5 inch. Drive type is Poly-V belt drive. Black and pewter metal, charcoal plastic shrouds. Has a user manual.
You'll need to pay cash and pick-it-up with your own car/van/truck from the South Side Flats.
Email me, Mark -at- Rauterkus.com. Or, call 412-298-3432.
Photo slideshow.
Single Payer Health Care is good for business
Investigated the "Family and Business Healthcare Security Act" (HB 1660/SB 300).
"No policy response other than the Single-Payer Solution offers so great a reward in terms of health, wealth, and self-determination" writes Chuck Pennacchio, Ph.D.
"No policy response other than the Single-Payer Solution offers so great a reward in terms of health, wealth, and self-determination" writes Chuck Pennacchio, Ph.D.
http://www.healthcare4allpa.org/documents/businessv1.pdf
SINGLE-PAYER HEALTHCARE:
Good for Pennsylvania; Good for Business
Why Single-Payer Healthcare is a Winner for Business:
• Eliminate administrative costs to businesses, doctors, hospitals, and patients
• Stop high annual increases in health insurance premiums
• Allow more reliable budgeting: predictable, affordable healthcare costs
• Eliminate annoying negotiations with insurance companies
• Attract new business to Pennsylvania
• Make Pennsylvania businesses more competitive
• Keep small businesses from being hit with higher premiums
• Enable the Commonwealth to leverage its buying power for Prescription Drugs
• Cover all employees at a cost that is affordable to them and to you
• Create a healthier, happier, more productive work force
"This year, our premiums went up 74%, which our agent thought was a mistake. We have a woman who is terminally ill with cancer, and the insurance company stated this had nothing to do with our increase. No company, large or small, can absorb that kind of cost increase. So, what, drop her coverage? And how do you live with yourself?" Scott Tyson M.D - CEO Pediatrics South, Pittsburgh, Pa. (60 employees)
"We work very hard to try to insure our employees because we feel that is our obligation. Every year we sit down and look at our health plan. We make choices based on what should we cover; what should we not cover; what should the deductible be; how much should we charge employees when they go the doctor's office. We make all those decisions. Our employees end up just being along for the ride. It's not right, but it's the way it is. It's my obligation to do that to try to protect our plan and get the best, cheapest plan I can for our employees so I can continue to offer health insurance.
"We work with the system that we have, but it is broken, and it seems like single-payer is the way to go." Alan Jacobs - President of Isaac's Restaurant in South Central Pa. (700 employees).
"We have, in the past four years had our insurance rates more than double. We are paying 20% over our existing payroll just for health coverage, and at budget time you don't know what to expect. When you've had 25% increases you pretty much have to say we're going to expect it's going to be 35% higher. We are a for-profit organization, and we can't really afford to pay that and still make money. Under single-payer we'd save at least $50,000 which I could use to hire more people. This past year we increased the deductible... and it was very painful for us to do that. If we pass single-payer we're going to attract businesses. There is no manufacturer that won't want to locate in Pennsylvania because you can predict your expenses year over year. You have stable costs. And everybody's in and nobody's out." Charlie Crystle - Owner and CEO of Mission Research, a Software technology business in Lancaster, Pa. (20 employees)
"I believe it's a moral obligation to provide healthcare for my employees. Six years ago I was paying $176 a month per employee for their healthcare benefits. Last year it went up to $577. This year it went up to $627. They're telling me next year it's going to go up another 20 or 30%, and it's not going to stop. It doesn't make moral sense. It doesn't make political sense. And it doesn't make business sense." Mike Stout – President of Steel Valley Printers, Pittsburgh, Pa. (7 employees)
Join our conversation about Campiagn Finance Reform on FRIDAY.
Call has ended.
Meeting at TalkShoe.com at 11:30 on Friday to talk about Pittsburgh's version of Campaign Finance Reform.
Phone Number: (724) 444-7444
Call ID: 3181
Update:
We had a 8 minute conversation. Then it ended. You can listen. After the massive noise begins, it is over. ???
I'm calling support now.
Meeting at TalkShoe.com at 11:30 on Friday to talk about Pittsburgh's version of Campaign Finance Reform.
Phone Number: (724) 444-7444
Call ID: 3181
Update:
We had a 8 minute conversation. Then it ended. You can listen. After the massive noise begins, it is over. ???
I'm calling support now.
A promise fulfilled: Kudos, Mark DeSantis - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
A promise fulfilled: Kudos, Mark DeSantis - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "A promise fulfilled: Kudos, Mark DeSantisMark DeSantis has good PR with the Trib, still.
I'm waiting for the Trib editorial board to do its endorsement of any political race for public office I'm involved in. Oh well.
I got to speak to Mark DeSantis today. We talked about Pat Ford. DeSantis thinks that if he should go under the bus, kicked there by Luke Ravenstahl, that Pat will fire back with a few zingers of his own. Pat won't go down easy, DeSantis thinks.
I beg to differ. I love talking to DeSantis, but in the end, we don't agree on many issues. In my humble opinion / prediction, Pat Ford will NOT get his job back. By the way, he is still getting paid for doing nothing. And, Pat and his wife, the PR maven, will go into the sunset without dishing out a few zingers. They'll depart without much of a peep -- because -- they both want to work in the future.
There are a number of people that can be pulled together now to write a professional letter of reference for the two today. Pat Ford gets good mentions from peers and tiny people alike if he goes in peace, without slinging mud.
Pittsburgh does not like the flashy players. Those that are too big for their britches are on a quick timer with their welcome. Pat Ford was sizzle, and perhaps some stake, if not raw-hide.
Pittsburgh can live with a Barry Bonds, Yags, or Kordell, if the productivity is at the top of the league -- and they walk as gentlemen beyond the lines. But we'll flip out and drain a person's mystique who offers us a show-boat mentality and loose cannon loyalties.
Pat Ford and A.S. need to bite their tongues and ride the paychecks for months to come. Then they can land on their feet with good vibes from certain quarters in city hall in the days, months and years to come -- as they re-establish themelves in Fort Wayne, Scranton, Syracuse, Nashville, or Atlanta.
DeSantis and I talked a bit about the 2009 mayor's race too. Who runs against Luke? DeSantis feels a vibe that Luke might bail out of that job. I say no way. Luke will have a lot of good buzz in the months to come -- as something is in the oven. But, Luke could bolt to the State Senate, as that job would be a hell of a lot easier.
DeSantis thinks Bill Peduto is still the favorite for mayor, but I don't agree. There are folks in the city that won't give Peduto the latitude to be their mayor. Peduto is great these days for city council, same as Patrick Dowd.
Now, if Peduto and his crew pushed a Dem in the primary as a challenger -- and then Peduto jumped to Indie for the fall -- then we've got a pathway to victory.
I don't think Peduto can win the D primary. But, Peduto needs to back a challenger that can rumble with Ravenstahl. And then Peduto needs to be jumping into the race right as the primary closes -- as an Independent.
What about Chelsa Wagner?
Dan Frankle is just a tall Tom Murphy, I say.
I ask, what about Sal Sarabella? Perhaps Catherine, his boss today, can be his campaign manager.
Yes, Rev. Burgess is doing okay. But the best thing for him to do would be to drain "his" "neighborhood needs money" by putting it back into the city's general fund. The WAM money from past year's budgets is a slush fund that should NOT be given to a nonprofit. He did good, but he ducked the best possible solution.
Sell the Convention Center to Don Barden
Sell the Convention Center to Don Barden. Put the "slots parlor" into the Convention Center and open next month. It is NOT too late to do a win-win deal for EVERYONE's benefit.
Convention Center is white elephant that has huge debt and always goes way over budget.
Existing conventions and Visit Pgh can be accomidated and managed by Don Barden's outfit -- not public ownership.
Pittsburgh is NOT getting a casino. IT MUST be called a "slots parlor."
To do table games we'll need another $500-M (or more) to the state for that license upgrade.
Sent to Marty Griffin at KDKA Radio via Instant Message.
Convention Center is white elephant that has huge debt and always goes way over budget.
Existing conventions and Visit Pgh can be accomidated and managed by Don Barden's outfit -- not public ownership.
Pittsburgh is NOT getting a casino. IT MUST be called a "slots parlor."
To do table games we'll need another $500-M (or more) to the state for that license upgrade.
Sent to Marty Griffin at KDKA Radio via Instant Message.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Tabled: Lamar's watch-dog bill
In other acts of council, Lamar Advertising is given some room. The city council bill was a distraction.
Peduto, Shields and Kraus said no. Others said yes.
Moving the city forward.
Peduto, Shields and Kraus said no. Others said yes.
Moving the city forward.
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