Proposal: Seeking Water Polo Players in Pittsburgh in August

This is a proposal yet.

2009 JCC Monroeville Schedule for JCC Water Polo Sessions:

Monday, August 10 - swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #1 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Tue, Aug 11, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #2 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Wed, Aug 12, swim closes at 8 pm - Water polo session #3 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm
Thur, Aug 13, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #4 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Friday - Aug 14 - closed

Monday, August 17 - swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #5 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Tue, Aug 18, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #6 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Wed, Aug 19, swim closes at 8 pm - Water polo session #7 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm
Thur, Aug 20, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #8 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Friday - Aug 21 - closes at 6 pm - Water polo session #9 from 6:00 to 8 pm

Monday, August 24 - swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #10 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Tue, Aug 25, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #11 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Wed, Aug 26, swim closes at 8 pm - Water polo session #12 from 7:30 to 8:30 pm
Thur, Aug 27, swim closes at 7 pm - Water polo session #13 from 6:30 to 8 pm
Friday - Aug 28 - closes at 6 pm - Water polo session #14 from 6:00 to 8 pm

Interested? Give me a call. 412 298 3432.

Won't be free.

There can't be school on the days of the G-20 event in Pittsburgh, can there?

What is the deal with school days on and around the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh. I'm wondering. Is anyone going to give any insights?

Will it be off for the entire week of the G-20?

Will it be off for only the two days, Thursday and Friday?

Last year as China hosted the Beijing Olympics and the Paralympics -- all school was off for more than a month. The schools didn't meet. However, the universities were open for dorm space for the students so that they could be doing informal studies and working as 'volunteers.'

A day or two after the Olympics ended, the Para Games and Athletes were in town too. So, it was a double header for them as well.

Pittsburgh Public School officials should make the decisions NOW and get the word out so schedules can be understood.

Secret Service will lead security for G-20 summit

So here is the third set of OVERLORDS that the city was looking for.

Secret Service will lead security for G-20 summit: "The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has named Pittsburgh's G-20 summit in September a 'National Special Security Event,' meaning the Secret Service will take the lead role in security planning for the gathering of world leaders.

So, we'll have the gambling vice in August. The SS in September.

Thank goodness it is a draft day! That's the only good news.

Our dear friend, Meg, from South Carolina, visits Pittsburgh for concert, July 8, in Mt. Lebo

National Public Radio commentator and acoustic singer-songwriter Meg Barnhouse (www.megbarnhouse.com), with Kiya Heartwood of Wishing Chair, will present songs, stories, and illumination at 7 pm on Wednesday, July 8, at 1240 Washington Road, the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills, Mt. Lebanon (15228). $10. One Pittsburgh-area gig only, seating limited; e-mail amy4bruce8@verizon.net for reservations.

NZ born, but Italian bred - rugby - sport | Stuff.co.nz

Blowouts. NZ born, but Italian bred - rugby - sport | Stuff.co.nz 'One hundred and thirty [points] to about 20,' he quipped as he recalled, painfully, Italy's 59-10 defeat in Rome in 2004 and a 76-14 pounding in pool play at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in Marseilles.

Flagship Niagara Launches Erie’s First “Independence Day Parade of Boats” | ErieBlogs

Perhaps they are going to practice for G-20.

Flagship Niagara Launches Erie’s First “Independence Day Parade of Boats” | ErieBlogs: "“The Boom Over the Bay” fireworks show is from 9:45pm until 10:00pm and will for the first time ever, include a cannon-fire demonstration by the Flagship Niagara! Niagara will be located about a quarter mile north of the Bayfront Convention Center, and will fire guns toward Liberty Park and Dobbin’s Landing."

Pittsburgh had better prep its submarine.

Convicted judge to keep his pension

Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh have serious pension problems.

Convicted judge to keep his pensionConvicted judge to keep his pension

The first thing to do when you need a real fix to a problem is to, "Lay The Shovel Down." Stop digging in the same hole.

These problems need to be fixed. The judge and all the others that screwed up should be without any pension. PERIOD.

Fix it.

I am so mad at my city right now, I'll only post this. Do listen. Blast from the past.

In 2001 I ran for Mayor, City of Pittsburgh, in a contested GOP Primary. KDKA TV did a profile on me and my loyal opponent, Professor James Carmine. Here is the audio in an mp3 file for history's sake.

http://blip.tv/file/443401/

Click To Play

The key to understanding my mood is the swimming part. This is the start of summer. The city's ways have not changed. But, the murders have. The outward migration continues.

I seek some cooperation and permission to coach city kids.

Ravenstahl seeks more money from nonprofits, commuters

Ravenstahl seeks more money from nonprofits, commuters: "Ravenstahl seeks more money from nonprofits, commuters"

Don't go after more money from the nonprofits. That approach is wrong, in my not so humble opinion.

Rather, the next step is to stop the bleeding. The city is being overtaken by the nonprofit sector. On an inch by inch basis, the footprint of nonprofit land is growing. And, that growth is going to kill the city. That growth, outward growth, needs to stop. Rather, all nonprofit growth should be upward. Or, nonprofit growth can occur in rented spaces from for-profit buildings.

The nonprofits are such because of the good work they do -- be it religious, educational or health, mostly. Fine. The rub comes as the nonprofit don't need to pay taxes. And, the best tax to keep is the land tax. That's really all that city should focus upon as the land of Pittsburgh is all that sets it apart from other places.

Jobs can move and jobs are moving. More work is being done, for instance, at UPMC in locations outside of the city -- even in Ireland and other countries.

But the land can't move. Focus on the land.

The nonprofit land expansion should be studied, inch-by-inch, block by block, year by year, entity by entity with purpose and investment money being fully documented and understood. Google maps, layers, GIS data and all should be published in open formats for all to see and manipulate.

It would be realistic to take the gross land held by the nonprofit sector and insist that it be reduced over time. There are wasted nonprofit spaces that would then be more valued. Net changes are fine as well. If one site of 3,000 square yards is sold and made into taxable property again, then another site can be purchased and put into the hands of nonprofit ownership. But, net increases have to end.

Focus on the dirt. Focus on the land. Insist upon a reduction in the overall size of the nonprofit footprint.

Pittsburgh's Nonprofit Executives should study this and make a counter-offer to the mayor and county executive.

200 give ideas for G-20 at Downtown brainstorm session

200 give ideas for G-20 at Downtown brainstorm session

Citiparks letter to Mark

Assistant Director of Citiparks, Mike Radley, wrote to say "no thanks."

Citiparks Swim Meet should have swimmers who live in the city.

How would The Great Race go if only those in the race were the ones that ran at the Citiparks Rec Centers, and not elsewhere?

Mother fought off cougar to save toddler from attack

Mother fought off cougar to save toddler from attack: "'She [Maya] was on her back and he had his paws in her head, and I just knew I had to react quick, so I just jumped in there and wedged myself between the cougar and her on the ground, and I just got up and threw it off my back and grabbed her and booked it,' she said.

I have no problem with selling the Parking Garages now owned by the Parking Authority

Part of my thinking taken from a thread on another blog, where I posted:

The parking garages should be sold. Heck, the pension funds or the unions could entertain a bid to buy them and have a stream of money for the future.

Sell the garages if a good price is obtained. Don't sell them if the price isn't above and beyond the debt that is retired.

Sold, the garages represent parking -- plus other opportunities for other buildings in the future. The next owners might one year put up other buildings there -- with internal garages, housing, zip lines, whatever. The market can begin to come alive again if the city gets out of the parking business.

The city is the 900-pound gorilla in parking now. When PNC Firstside was built - or URA on 2nd Ave expansion, they all used PARKING as a leverage that the city residents paid dearly for. Same too for Lazarus. They won't build here unless parking is used as sweetener. Screw that. Then we (citizens / taxpayers) get double trouble.

Once the city won't build garages for development deals (hey, remember the sign that was not a sign at bus station) then private owners might build their own garages again.

The bribe chip is taken off the table -- for a while.

Not next year wish: Oliver Bath House is closed for summer.

From ormsby-serpents

Richard Quick Passes Away

Richard Quick Passes Away Auburn men's and women's head swimming and diving coach Richard Quick, who was diagnosed with an inoperable cancerous
brain tumor in December 2008, passed away Wednesday at the age of 66. One of
the most recognizable names in the swimming and diving community, Quick was
a six-time United States Olympic coach who directed 13 teams to NCAA
titles, the most ever by a swimming coach.

Great guy. Great coach.
Here is my trivial story of Richard Quick. Back in 1981 he was driving a van full of swimmers from Auburn to the NCAA Champioships in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. I was on the side of the road hitch-hiking to the meet. He stopped and gave me a lift for the last 20 or 30 miles. Thanks for the lift Coach Quick.

He was so much more to so many others -- including me.

From A Conservative Sarah Palin Fan: Do NOT Fire Letterman

I can remember watching David Letterman for the first time in 1982. As a young pup, I somehow stayed up past the 12:30 start (I don't remember how my late-night viewing started). I was 14 and a rather formatted kid, but I know I was there from the beginning) and instantly became hooked.

He joked about Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton and George Bush. I'm not one who thinks he lambasted Bush any more than any of the other presidents. Bush 43 provided a lot of fodder to writers. He gave fodder that made me cringe. Often.

Letterman, Johnny Carson and every other comic gave Reagan plenty of guff for being old. But they didn't just go after the "easy fruit" of comedy. They went after his age too.

Comics generally aren't the great thinkers of the day (George Carlin was an exception) and Letterman never claimed to be.

What he has always been is funny.

Comedians and celebrities in general went "ga ga" over now-President Barack Obama during the election cycle. Letterman was no exception. The purveyors of "style" did their best to influence the American public to adore Barack Obama. They also did their best to destroy Sarah Palin. John McCain was never a Conservative pick. I'm still trying to figure out he was handed the Republican ball.

Fast forward to last week. Sarah Palin and her 14-year-old daughter came to New York. One of Sarah Palin's other children, an 18-year-old unwed mother, was in Alaska caring for her newborn. Nothing has been said about the 18-year-old doing the right thing and staying home, btw.

Someone on Letterman's staff wrote a joke implying that Palin's unwed 18-year-old daughter was "knocked up" by New York Yankee swingin'-single Alex Rodriguez while in town. The joke should never have made it past the screening process, because the 18-year-old daughter wasn't even in town.

Nevertheless, I might even have laughed at the joke. Me, a conservative-learning comedy writer, one-time stand-up comic and professed Sarah Palin fan. Oh yeah, I also have a 14-year-old son.

Did the Palins over-react? Maybe when Sarah Palin said that her daughter should be worried about a 62-year-old Letterman, sure. But then again, my child is a son. My sensibilities are different.

Was she trying to make a point? Absolutely.

Should Letterman be fired? ABSOLUTELY NOT.

Don Imus shouldn't have been fired for his harmless, funny remarks about a basketball team that 98% of the country had never heard of at the time.

I understand what the Palin-backers are saying. Letterman and practically every other celebrity voice in the world is still groveling over Barack Obama. Style is the name of that game.

They won't be making fun of Barack, Michelle or those darling daughters anytime soon. Children should NEVER be a part of the landscape. Yet, Amy Carter is gay, Chelsea Clinton is ugly, the Bush twins are partiers and now the Palin kids are under attack. Obama's kids should be off-limits for years to come.

Letterman should not be fired. Todd and Sarah Palin have reportedly accepted Dave's apology. Good. Time to move on.

There's a picture on Drudge of Michelle, being hailed as a fashion plate, running with the family dog. Laura Bush was 1,000-times more fashionable. But she's older...and you know the rest.

Libertarian Party denounces broad-based tax increase

Cut spending, don’t raise taxes

Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania
3915 Union Deposit Road #223
Harrisburg, PA 17109
www.lppa.org

For Immediate Release: June 16, 2009

Contact: Doug Leard (Media Relations) at Media-Relations@lppa.org or
Michael Robertson (Chair) at 1-800-R-RIGHTS / chair@lppa.org

Harrisburg, PA –

House Appropriations Chairman Dwight Evans recently indicated that he's convinced a broad-based tax increase will be necessary to help erase the state's $3.2 billion deficit.

However, Pennsylvania already has the 11th highest burden of state and local taxes in America. Plus, Pennsylvanians don’t want more taxes. According to a recent survey co-sponsored by the state’s leading small business association, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), over 60% of residents indicated that taxes are too high.

As Winston Churchill said, “for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.”

According to LPPa Chair, Michael Robertson, “The problem is not insufficient taxation. The problem is out of control spending.”

Recent history supports Robertson’s statement. State spending during Governor Rendell’s time in office has increased over 36%, more than double the rate of inflation. During the 2008-2009 fiscal year, Pennsylvania state and local governments will spend approximately $10,000 for every man, woman and child.

Pennsylvanians agree with Robertson. In the NFIB survey, 60% of residents believe that state spending is too high.

Per Robertson, “Harrisburg should address their budget deficit the same way responsible Pennsylvania families address tough economic times. They tighten their belts and reduce their spending. They question each expenditure. They are fiscally responsible, which is a hallmark of the Libertarian Party.”

Media Relations Chair, Douglas Leard, remarked “Unfortunately, this isn't an election year when Libertarian and independent candidates can show a sharp contrast to tax and spend incumbents. Until next year, we urge taxpayers who want fiscally responsible government to become activists and pressure Harrisburg to reject their failed tax and spend policies.”

Added Robertson, “There is another clear and distinct way to voice your displeasure with the current system – change your voter registration to Libertarian – and thereby let the Republicans and Democrats in Harrisburg know that your are sick of being over-taxed for their big spending approach to running state government. “

The Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in Pennsylvania and the United States. More than 200,000 people across the country are registered Libertarians, and Libertarians serve in hundreds of elected offices. Please visit http://www.LP.org or http://www.LPPA.org for more information.

Council online -- yea or nay?

Council online -- yea or nay? ... times a year, including its many special meetings and public hearings, and some of its more contentious sessions go on for hours. Wednesday's committee meeting, for instance, saw members lash a proposed fiscal recovery plan, and the vacationing Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, for nearly three hours before opting to postpone a tentative vote.

Hardest working legislative body in the world, if you listen to Doug Shields.

I've been wishing for this for years -- but different, and cheaper.

The city council meetings could be put on TalkShoe.com and then we'd have a wonderful solution for 99% of the time. TalkShoe is audio and available via PC or phone. I'd like to call into a meeting and listen as to where it is. Imagine that.

And the audio of TalkShoe is archived.

Dwelling House Savings and Loan told to raise capital or face sale, closure

He needed a job. So, he ran for Pittsburgh City Council.

Dwelling House Savings and Loan told to raise capital or face sale, closure Robert R. Lavelle, the 93-year-old former CEO of Dwelling House who now serves on its board of directors, said his son -- Robert M. Lavelle -- was terminated earlier this year from his position as the bank president along with Gonzell Phillips, the former controller.

Getting fired is one thing. To recover stolen funds is another.

Parades in Pittsburgh

City of Champions Parade Idea blens with G-20
Hi folks,

I am thrusting an idea on you because you are THE movers and shakers who just happen to be in my address book (for better or for worse) - and who can make this parade idea happen...or not of course... Anyway, how about a "City of Champions Sports Parade" - ending up at Mellon Arena during the September G20 conference led by the Steelers and Pens and including all the college and scholastic winning teams (PIAA, WPIAL and right down to section winners from fall 2008-Summer 2009)?!

And if one wanted to make this the largest sports parade EVER - have 5 feeder parade routes (coming from the south hills, north hills, west hills, east hills) of amateur champion teams from Jr HS on down to little leaguers. This way my daughter's undefeated 7th grade girls Jefferson Middle School basketball team can finally get some well deserved and overdue recognition!!!

All could converge in Oakland with the big guys teams and head merrily down the Blvd into town.

That ought to fill the arena or Heinz field for that matter. Obama, Rooney and Luke and Dan could lead it and all the kings and queens and finance ministers could eat their hearts out!

and Mark (Cuban) ... if you pay for it...we'll give you the Pirates.

Buy now!

Larry Evans

I just posted on TWITTER the idea that in a cost saving measure, the Pens Victory Parade was conbined with Gay Pride Parade. I sorta like Larry's idea more.

But this isn't a 'parade' -- it is more of a 'march.' Well, it is a parade too.

Not only would the people of finance eat their hearts out, so too would the people of the world.

This could be done the weekend of the G-20. Or, it could be done one of the days or even the day after.

Perhaps it should be done with the Great Race?

Ideas welcome in the comments.

Word on the street: Everyone is entitled to a vacation, by union rules

I had a long-distance conversation in Oakland with a buddy. We were talking over three or four lanes of traffic. I asked him where the mayor goes when he goes to the beach? Jersey? Outter Banks? The Dunes of Lake Michigan?

He replied, "He is entitled to a vacation. Everyone should get a vacation -- by union laws, blah, blah, blah. And, council needs to get to work.

Grant and I take a walk on Brighton Beach in Christchurch, NZ. There is a long pier there where on could take a short walk. From Mark Rauterkus

I posted at Bram's blog:

Folks, there is no way in hell that city council is going to come up with its own five year recovery plan. They members there took about 4 hours to decide if the mayor should be called to a meeting.

Bill Peduto wrote out a plan of sorts. But, council has not even talked about it.

And, council generally talks a lot before it thinks about it.

On Wed's meeting, it took council another hour or so just to delay a bill for 3 weeks. That was the one about the curfew center that the mayor had told people that it would be open by June 1.

Council has more drag than play. It is all about drag.

I'd love to be proven wrong, but then you start the speech by Rev. Ricky Burgess about getting to work and another two days is lost.

Folly.

Council's ongoing failure to act is why OVERLORDS are in Pittsburgh. They've done nothing to merit the removal of the OVERLORDS to date.

Council finding a fix is not even a long shot.

Another favorite beach of ours is in Maine. From beach Maine

Must Read:

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_629068.html

Photo was on the front page in the newspaper and it is so small on the web.

South Side artist creates unusual tribute to industrial heritage of city

Lorraine Vullo (right) and guest artist Michael Picarsic
Keith Hodan/Tribune-Review

By Bonnie Pfister TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Thursday, June 11, 2009

Near the site of a notorious July 1892 clash between hired guns and locked-out steel workers, a local artist has created a space for meditation and spiritual reflection.

Lorraine Vullo of the South Side is putting the final touches on an 11-ring medieval labyrinth of bricks set into the ground on the site of Andrew Carnegie's storied Homestead steel mill. The Belgian-block and concrete stones are etched with the names of foundries and furnaces that once operated along Pittsburgh's three rivers.

Vullo hopes visitors will reflect upon the joys and struggles of workers who came from around the world to fuel the industrial boom.

"This location is a huge part of history," Vullo, 50, said Wednesday. "I wanted to honor the men and women who worked here, and who lost their lives here. This is a sacred area to a lot of people."

The 68-foot diameter labyrinth is built on land owned by the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area at 880 E. Waterfront Drive, at the eastern edge of The Waterfront shopping area. Rivers of Steel, which operates a small museum nearby, is hosting a dedication ceremony and reception from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday. Afterward, the labyrinth will be open without charge around the clock.

At the site of the former mill's pumphouse, workers protesting wage cuts 107 years ago battled armed Pinkerton detectives hired by Carnegie Steel Co. executive Henry Clay Frick. Three workers and seven Pinkertons died in the confrontation, which was quelled when Pennsylvania militia, at Frick's request, marched in and imposed martial law.

When Vullo first described the labyrinth to Rivers of Steel president and CEO Augie Carlino, "my reaction was, 'A what?' " recalled Carlino. "But having worked with Lorraine before, I knew the quality of her work and the emotion and thought that she brings to her work."

Raised in Buffalo, Vullo moved to Pittsburgh in the late 1970s. She founded the Blatent Image Gallery, a cooperatively-run gallery of fine art photography that later grew into the South Side's Silver Eye Center for Photography. With fellow artist Michael Picarsic III, she mounted the 2005 show "Recrudescence" at Rivers of Steel, featuring photos and sculptural installations made from the remnants of the former J&L Steel mill in what is now SouthSide Works.

"It's gone beyond what I expected it to be," Carlino said about the Homestead Labyrinth. "It's breathtaking. It has this regenerative, spiritual element. ... It's almost like an offering back to nature. It's something you'd never expect to see in an industrial area."

The work is supported by combined donations of about $90,000 from The Heinz Endowments' Small Arts Initiative, The Pittsburgh Foundation's A. W. Mellon Educational and Charitable Trust, Weisshouse, Pixel River Photo + Art, and private donors, Vullo said.

The land may eventually be developed for other use, but Vullo said the labyrinth should remain in place for at least a few years.

Ohio Wesleyan Duo to Tackle Channel

Ohio Wesleyan Duo to Tackle Channel: "Two Ohio Wesleyan University students—one from Pakistan and one from the United States—will swim the English Channel this summer to demonstrate the power of friendship in making the world a better place.

Part-time officers to help Braddock enforce curfew

Part-time officers to help Braddock enforce curfew Braddock Police Chief Frank DeBartolo said at last night's meeting that the department's five new part-time hires will allow police to better enforce curfew hours among youth and to increase their visibility in the community.
Chief DeBartolo said the department has hired five new officers in the past 45 days and the newest hire hit the streets last night. This puts his roster at 15 officers, allowing him to double the number of officers he has on some shifts to three to four officers per shift.
Braddock has lost eight part-time officers in the past year, some of whom were terminated and others who left the department after receiving other job offers.

What happens after the youth are arrested in Braddock? Are they sent to Gitmo? Do they spend time in the County Jail? Is there a drunk tank in Braddock?

48 Hour Film Project in Pittsburgh in early August

Get ready for one of the most exciting filmmaking experiences!

The 48 Hour Film Project is coming to Pittsburgh on Aug 7-9, 2009.

Get your team ready to make a short film – write, shoot, edit and score - in one weekend… just 48 hours.

See your work up on the big screen right away. Your completed film will be screened at the Kelly Strayhorn Theatre that next week.

Registration starts on Monday, June 15, 2009. Sign up for the Pittsburgh 48HFP newsletter so that you are the first to know that registration opened. Go to: http://www.48hourfilm.com/newsletter/

And get ready for a wild ride of filmmaking!

Are there any bloggers or Running Mates that would like to do this together? If so, post in the comments or else get your own squad and we might see you there.

New Running Mates are welcome for summer

If you are intersted in helping with issue discussions about Pittsburgh, then we're open to putting you here as a Running Mate. Summer schedules shift for many of us. Perhaps you have more time and some energy? Perhaps you have a few issues that you'd love to get out there on a blog and put up for review and discussion. Perhaps you want to sharpen your internet skills?

Whatever the reason. If it fits here -- you'll be give access to post on this page as a running mate.

My time is going to be shorter this summer, with any luck. So, more help is welcomed.

New Committee Aims To Improve Safety For Pittsburgh Officers - Allegheny County News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh

Homework is due in 14 days.

New Committee Aims To Improve Safety For Pittsburgh Officers - Allegheny County News Story - WTAE Pittsburgh: "New Committee Aims To Improve Safety For Pittsburgh Officers"

4 Duquesne U. students have swine flu in Italy

4 Duquesne U. students have swine flu in Italy: "Four Duquesne University students visiting Italy with an opera group have been quarantined for the past several days with swine flu, but the quarantine was lifted today.

Welcome home.

Two new Facebook Friends from my coaching days at Plum

Hey Mark! I am not swimming any longer other than for recreational purposes only. However my wife and I have big plans for Little Emil. He is almost 11 months old now. We had him in the pool last summer and he loved it. Today will be his first experience this summer. Should be a good time!

I am not sure if you remember, but you coached a summer practice at the wave pool (brutal btw). There was a girl there named Erin Shearer. Well fast forward 15 years, we got married. We are celebrating our 5th anniversary in June. Time flies, huh?

Have a great day. I look forward to learning more about what is going on in your life.

I'm glad you got something out of that summer practice at the Wave Pool. :)

Thanks for the story.

Matt H. is now a FB friend too.

NCAA:Career Center plsts job: Assistant Swim Coach at GW

NCAA:Career Center: "Assistant Men's & Women's Swim Coach. The George Washington University. Men's and women's program needs an assistant swimming coach to assist the head swim coach. Ten month, part-time position with benefits beginning August 1 - May 31."

Is it too, too, too weird to apply for this swim coaching job just because Erik wants to go to and swim at G.W.? I think G.W. is the most expensive school in the nation, FWIW.

Meanwhile, I told my FB friends that I'm pissed that Western Illinois Univ cut both the mens and womens swim teams. I coached in Illinois. And, as a matter of fact, my wife and kids are in Illinois now -- but in Chicago. That news stinks.

I think I'd rather coach, in a virtual fantasy world, at GW rather than in WV Salem. But, being head coach is a plus. Dive would be about the same - be it 3 or 2 hours from Pittsburgh.

Back to the real world. If you need a job, you might consider this one with Duquesne Univ.

NCAA:Career Center: "Assistant Director,Athletic Development"

City-county merger spins its wheels

As to the merger:

City-county merger spins its wheels "I would draft [legislation] tomorrow, but the reason that we haven't is because we're trying to work with the Legislature and within their procedures," Mr. Onorato told some 200 attendees at the forum, sponsored by The Pittsburgh Foundation and the University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics and held at the Heinz History Center.

That is an excuse. Might as well say that the dog ate my homework.

It is also exactly how NOT to lead as there is a leadership void.

Frankly, I'm happy to see Dan fumble as such. I don't support a merger. But he does. Onorato also has ambitions for being Governor. That post might require more effort in working with the legislature, something he is proving he can't do on an area that he has strong opinions about.

Mr. Onorato said an effort to develop a compact would be a distraction.

This is like saying that taking the first trips on a long journey is a distraction to getting at the final destination. So, packing the car for a beach vacation is only a distraction for putting your feet in the surf.

I said for nearly a decade that the next thing to merge should be Parks. It is in the parks where we teach and learn with our kids the value of playing well with one another. The parks discussion is a bold discussion that is going to engage thousands. Folks in the burbs care about their parks. Folks in the city care about their parks. There are no viable parks in the city that are county owned. The RAD Parks talk is going to generate heat. We'll need all of that energy at the outset of this long-and-winding road process and journey.

Do you just go the next 10 years trying to [merge] parks and recreation, trying to chip away at [information technology]?" he asked, hypothetically, after the forum. "If you really want to merge all of these departments, merge the governments. ... But if [legislators] are not going to move, obviously you could do the slow change.

Here is a loaded statement:

Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Squirrel Hill, said his gut told him that a referendum, if held soon, would fail, because of public perceptions of city government.

First of all, the public perception of city government, and county, and state government is in the toilet. Frankle helped put it there and his efforts keep it there too.

Furthermore Frankel tells us that he thinks and listens to his gut. He'd rather listen to his gut than listen to the voice of the voters. He is a know-it-all -- where his gut is the priority. The public's voice and the votes of the citizens mean nothing to Dan Frankle. He is royalty and has no cause for a referendum.

Of course the city put poison in the well of our shared democracy. Dan's act with Tom Murphy make him a prime culprit. Dan Frankle has been poisoned and he did much of the poisoning. And, his thinking with the gut to the exclusion of the people is more of the same.

Doug Shields wants full consolidation or nothing, meaning he wants Forrest Hills, Edgewood, Bethel Park, Avalon, and the others to be put into the same pot with Pittsburgh. He wants them all to be merged with Allegheny County. Doug, when pigs fly, you might get your wish. Doug is making another type of excuse.

On two accounts, I agree with Luke Ravenstahl. The position of Doug Shields is a poison pill of sorts. And, let's not fear the referendum by putting the question to a vote of the citizens.

Government consolidations represent the most complex conversation you are ever going to have with the electorate," said Joe Reagan, president and CEO of Louisville Metro Inc.

No way. There is a bit of complexity in the conversation. But, there are dozens of more difficult conversations. Let's talk about war, tourtue, socialized GM, privacy, personal liberties, eminent domain, treaties, UN, the Federal Reserve.

Looks as if we'll be playing some water polo this summer. I had a few good meetings today. More news soon.

Opening reception for the Homestead Labyrinth by artist, Lorraine Vullo

Lorraine Vullo is a friend, neighbor, running mate, parent of a musical boy and wonderful creator.

Friday June 12, 2009, 6:00 to 8:00 PM
Near the Pump House, Waterfront Drive E, Munhall, PA 15210
RSVP "yes" by Tuesday June 9: 412-464-4020 (Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area)

Please, RSVP 'yes' only to 412-464-4020 (Rivers of Steel)~ Thanks!

For directions, plug in 'Pump House, Waterfront Drive E, Munhall PA 15210' into the oracle of your choice (the Pump House is across the parking lot and a few hundred yards east from Lowes Home Improvement in the Waterfront-- not Loew's Cinema!)

Or, in general:

1. get on I-376 E, going either towards or from Monroeville
2. Take exit 5 toward Homestead - 0.2 mi
3. Merge onto Beechwood Blvd - 0.5 mi
4. Continue on Browns Hill Rd - 0.7 mi
5. Continue on Homestead Grays Bridge - 0.6 mi
6. Turn left at E 8th Ave/PA-837 - 1.3 mi
7. Turn left at Waterfront Dr E
Destination will be on the right - 0.7 mi

Arrive at: Homestead Pump House

Time to eat and get ready for a hockey game

There is this fast food joint that I'd love to skip to for a snack tonight.
The Penguins should eat some SQUID.

What's this with burritos?

Click photo for larger size.

Youth Sports Parents

Youth
Sports Parents: "The life and times of a 2-year-old billiards
champ"

Interesting read above.
But, on a similar thread -- Pittsburgh Phillips, K-5, Elem School, is once again in domination mode at the Allegheny County Mabels Championship. We got two kids going to New Jersey. One in 4th grade and the other in 5th. Phillips dominates that tournament. We're a marbles magnet, fur shore!

Chicago and long term deals and parking

Chicago Reader Blogs: Clout City: "Gripping the podium like it was David Hoffman’s neck, Daley informed the City Hall press corps that his administration would never, ever enter into a 75-year lease deal that wasn’t great for the city."

Communication Magic with sports helps Mute Boy Find His Voice

Orlando Magic Helps Mute Boy Find His Voice - ABC News: "While most Orlando Magic fans come to the games to see the action, all Izzy Rodriguez wants to do is listen to his son speak. It's a sound he thought he might never hear.
Diagnosed with an anxiety disorder called selective mutism, Ryan Rodriguez had never spoken more than a word or two while his preschool classmates chatted up a storm. But that changed one night when Ryan caught a Magic game on television and started pointing.
'He sat there and kept going, 'Me, me, play, play,' Rodriguez told 'Good Morning America. 'So I turn around and I do crazy things.'"

Retuned from base camp after 3 days in West Virginia

Updated.

We are about to depart basecamp. I'll be hard to reach for the next three days as we go deep into the wilds of West Virginia. I'll tweet as service and my cell phone battery allows.

This is a camping trip with my son and his 5th grade classmates.

Photos, on our return, have been uploaded.

Pittsburgh Phillips K-5 5th Grade Camping Trip - A for Athlete: "Pittsburgh Phillips K-5 5th Grade Camping Trip"

Your homework, should you choose to play along, is to log onto the new wiki, G-20, and start slugging in some content. The world's elite arrives in Pittsburgh in a few months. We've got to be ready for what that may or may not deliver. So, go here: http://g20.wikia.com/.

Original published on June 1, 2009.

Big thoughts for a hockey night in Pittsburgh

Hockey and freedom don't go hand in hand often. But, the do on ti blog, just because I can write, "Go Pens" and in the next champion liberty and the ways of freedom.

"Foolish liberals who are trying to read the Second Amendment out of the constitution by claiming it’s not an individual right or that it’s too much of a safety hazard don’t see the danger of the big picture. They’re courting disaster by encouraging others to use this same means to eliminate portions of the Constitution they don’t like."

-- Alan Dershowitz (1938- ) Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School Source: The Conceptual Foundations of Anglo-American Jurisprudence in Religion and Reason, 82 Mich L. Rev., 204 (Dan Gifford), 1995
http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/Alan.Dershowitz.Quote.35FD

"I cannot assent to the view, if it be meant that the legislature may impair or abridge the rights of a free press and of free speech whenever it thinks that the public welfare requires that it be done. The public welfare cannot override constitutional privilege."

-- John Marshall Harlan (1899-1971) U. S. Supreme Court Justice
Source: Patterson v. Chicago http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Harlan.Quote.4051

"Here the great art lies, to discern in what the law is to be to restraint and punishment, and in what things persuasion only is to work."

-- John Milton (1608-1674) Poet
1644 http://quotes.liberty-tree.ca/quote_blog/John.Milton.Quote.7103

Prediction: Marky Billson and mates will win the Steelers Trivia Contest!

Marky Billson, running mate of sorts, writes:

If you haven't heard I am going to be participating in KDKA's Steelers Trivia contest this Saturday at 1 p.m. My team, comprising of Jim Botti of the Hellgaters and WDVE and Shawn Mullooly, formerly of the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat, is called "Stairway to Seven" and the taping is at the One Gateway Center studios in Downtown Pittsburgh.

I would like to invite all of you to see the taping! Perhaps afterwards I can meet with you (haven't seen you all for so long) and we could then watch the Pens in the evening or go out and get caught up in the afternoon!

For those of you who don't know, I had been covering the New York Mets for New York Metro, an international tabloid, this spring http://www.metro.us/us/article/2009/05/04/01/4612-82/index.xml

and http://www.metro.us/us/article/2009/03/13/03/3628-82/ . It was great to be in Florida and writing for a New York audience.

The good news is I've been talking to some people about some Pittsburgh gigs, so hopefully I will be able to move back to the Greatest City in the World next month! I know I'll enjoy seeing you who can attend this weekend!

Groups eager for role in helping Pittsburgh host G-20 summit

If you are not sure, what the hell is going on, then the best things to do is go to a wiki and make it up.
If you want to escort Michelle Obama around, simply make a page on the G-20 wiki, http://g20.wikia.com, called, Michelle Obama Escorts, and go nuts. Tip: I just made the page for you.

Groups eager for role in helping Pittsburgh host G-20 summit: "Groups eager for role in helping Pittsburgh host G-20 summit
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
By Mackenzie Carpenter, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
As the city readies itself for the G-20 summit Sept. 24 and 25, those lusting for a piece of the action during Pittsburgh's two days in the international spotlight would be well-advised to remember this line from the Robert Altman movie about Hollywood, titled, tellingly, 'The Player':

Have fun. Make it up as it comes to your imagination. And, tell us what little you know -- or don't know.

Lawmaker calls for state campaign contribution limits

Good start.

Lawmaker calls for state campaign contribution limits: "a business that got a state contract of $50,000 or more would have to submit an itemized list of all political contributions made by its officers, directors, associates, partners and limited partners. The report would have to list the size of the contract the business got and the service it provided.

How many others are on as co-sponsors?

The business that gets a state contract also needs to submit employees on that itemized list.

Pittsburgh Independent Examiner, new blog and voice

Mike is a 'running mate' of sorts. I often link to his stuff. But, not always.

Pittsburgh Independent Examiner Mike FerencePittsburgh Independent Examiner"

---

update:
http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-12613-Pittsburgh-Independent-Examiner~y2009m6d3-War-tactics-should-be-applied-to-Irish-Catholic-abusers-and-those-who-covered-up-crimes

Here’s the link to my first article with the examiner, an Internet-based newspaper. I’ll be covering politics/religion in the Pittsburgh region. In the future I’ll be reporting on individuals who have been sexually, physically and emotionally abused, much like in the recently released study on Irish Catholic institutions in Ireland.

Home from camping with 32 5th graders

Hello Mother, Hello Father, so goes the humor-filled song about summer camp. Well, we're home from West Virginia. A great time at the EKC with Phillips teachers and kids.

G20 Wiki is just open. HELP! We get by with a little help from our friends!

G20 Wiki: "The wiki is about the 2009 G-20 Summit slated for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA in September 2009. Anyone can edit this wiki. 1 articles since"

Hey Pittsburgh, we need to yap about the G-20 Summit -- in more meaningful ways. We need to run our conversations onto wiki pages.

Thanks.

If you need help, just go to a 'discussion page' and type.

DeJuan Blair Has Slimmer Look, Same Big Dreams | Bleacher Report

DeJuan Blair Has Slimmer Look, Same Big Dreams | Bleacher Report: "Ten weeks have passed since DeJuan Blair played his final game in a Pitt uniform, and to see him at the NBA Draft Combine on Thursday afternoon, one message hit home more than any other.
The big guy may have left Pittsburgh, but Pittsburgh isn’t about to leave him.
Blair is the same well-grounded guy even if he does figure to be a whole lot richer a month from now. He still flashes the same smile that’s as wide as the free throw lane, one that he practically owned last season.

The Art of News: Flashback. RIP Richard J. Walters

Facebook | Videos Posted by The Art of News: The Art of News - episode 3, part 2: "Videos Posted by The Art of News

Next G-20 Summit To Be Held In Pittsburgh - News Story - WPXI Pittsburgh

Might as well NOT fix the broken front window until after this event.

Next G-20 Summit To Be Held In Pittsburgh - News Story - WPXI Pittsburgh: "Next G-20 Summit To Be Held In Pittsburgh

New Swim Pool. Not just a sprinkler

Nice new pool, with 4-lanes of lap swimming.

The Black Hills Pioneer | BHPioneer.com | News for Spearfish, South Dakota > Archives > News > Northern Hills > Water park slides into Spearfish: "“We want everyone to be able to come here and relax. But we also want everyone to be safe,” Brett Rauterkus a Spearfish Recreation and Aquatics specialist said. “I really want to commend our lifeguard staff. They have been putting in a lot of extra time and work to make sure we have all our bases covered to ensure a safe summer. I really appreciate all the hard work they have done.”

Kickoff Season! Not football, exactly

Please join us next Wednesday evening, June 3rd, at the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts in Shadyside (on the corner of Fifth & Shady), as Kevin officially kicks off his Independent campaign for Mayor of the City of Pittsburgh.

Doors open at 5:30pm, and a short program -- including a brief bio film, and an announcement speech in which Kevin will tell his own Pittsburgh story and introduce the main themes of his campaign -- begins at 6:45.

We'll have free food, drinks, and entertainment throughout the evening, and Kevin will be available after the program to talk, to answer your questions, and to discuss how we can all work together to help Pittsburgh reach its full potential.

Check out the Facebook Event page here:

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=85206126908

Please RSVP via email at kickoff@acklinforpittsburgh.com, or by phone at http://www.facebook.com/l/;412.481.3150.

We'll look forward to seeing you there.

The Acklin for Pittsburgh Campaign Team

To reply to this message, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?inbox/readmessage.php&t=1004919021878&mid=87c9dcG28e36034G1abdcfaG0

PA Democratic State Committee meeting, June 5th and 6th, to be held at the Westin Hotel in Pittsburgh.

Friday evening Governor Rendell and Chairman Rooney will headline a celebration of the life and times of Lt. Gov. Catherine Baker Knoll.

Where does our senior senator fit in?

American Water Polo

American Water Polo™: "Welcome to American Water Polo!"

Nice guys.

Swim Star: Cullen Jones promotes water safety

The Associated Press: Jones promotes water safety: "The group of elementary-age children got a treat Wednesday as the Olympic gold medalist gave them a swim lesson to launch a six-city event called 'Make a Splash with Cullen Jones.'
The initiative, which is sponsored by the USA Swimming Foundation and ConocoPhillips, is aimed at reducing drownings among minority youth by promoting the availability of low or no-cost swimming lessons.
Jones is the perfect spokesman for the program after becoming the first African American to break a world record in swimming in an Olympic contested event in 2006. His success continued last summer in Beijing when he won a gold medal with the U.S. 400-meter freestyle relay team.

Wow. Teaching kids to swim! Way to go.

In Pittsburgh I've been punching up a rushed budget for a weed and seed grant to do some aquatics at Greenway Middle School, also known as Pittsburgh Classical Academy and the Pittsburgh Gifted Center.

I think I'll call it "Weed and Seed and Water."

There isn't a Rec Center in the western end of town. There isn't a lot of capacity in that section of town either in terms of nonprofit organizations. Historically, that part of town has not had those institutional players and they've not been needed. So, it does present some interesting challenges.

If you want to see the budget, send me an email.

Just heard from the principal at the school that the charges to use the indoor swim pool are $41.50 per hour in the times we had hoped for due to the cost of the janitors. We wanted to have sessions on some weekdays from 4 pm to 9 pm and also on Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm.

Well, there are other work arounds. Perhaps we'll swim when the janitors are on the clock.

Weed and Seed money runs until the end of September, so fall dates are possible as well. And, volunteers too.

Isn't this cool with images from the sky?

From Mark Rauterkus & Running Mates ponder current events

You can see this chess board from the sky in Google.

I had not realized that Picasa for Mac had been released. It is still in beta. But, Picasa is much better than iPhoto, IMHO. But, now my Mac is broken.

Excessive Cola Consumption Can Lead To Super-sized Muscle Problems, Warn Doctors

Cut that pop.

Excessive Cola Consumption Can Lead To Super-sized Muscle Problems, Warn Doctors The authors argue that in an era when portion sizes are becoming bigger and bigger, the excessive consumption of cola products has real public health implications.

My drug had been the boxed iced tea. I drank a lot of that and did serious damage to myself. Now I can't take any of it or I get sick. Not good.

From Mark Rauterkus & Running Mates ponder current events

Peduto proposes panel to oversee city's stimulus spending - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Peduto proposes panel to oversee city's stimulus spending - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Peduto proposes panel to oversee city's stimulus spending

Bill wants another group to do his job perhaps.

Bill wants bigger government perhaps.

Newsflash: Bill Peduto, you are on city council. YOU are the one that should be in the role to oversee the city's stimulus spending. That is YOUR job.

Get it done yourself.

There is a nine-member panel of Pittsburgh citizens already -- called -- CITY COUNCIL. And, city council controls the purse strings.

I don't want another group to give thumbs up or thumbs down to decision makers. The decisions should be open and occur on council.

More sets of eyes are more distractions. That is a way to deflect accountability. I want the decision makers to be voted upon. We already vote for city council members. That's all we need.

I don't want OVERLORDS. I want self determination.

If the URA wants to spend millions on stimulus money on a amphitheater -- then city council members need to say "No way." And, city council members need to tell the URA that their lame proposals, while easy to do with developers, are NOT going to pass. Send them back to the drawing board with a city council vote.

A new, thinking, fitness place of beauty on the river

This Friday evening, June 12, 2009, Lorraine's gift to the region opens. It is the Homestead Labyrinth and gives respect to the regional's industrial past.

Fitness and Schools

Frick Middle School, in Pgh Public Schools, is part of the HEALTHY Research grant and mentioned in the article in the P-G today. My kid goes to Frick. And, he has been in the program for the past 3 years.

If anyone, even Marty Griffin, wants to hold a real discussion about this topic, call me, 412 298 3432, my cell.

Middle schools targeted in obesity fight: "Middle schools targeted in obesity fight
Grants available to help kids maintain daily physical activity"

From Beijing - sports play

Schenley Musical Awards

Way to go.

Congratulations to Ms. McKrell, cast, crew, pit, parents, and all personnel who participated in this year's musical on winning the Kelly award for Best Musical in Budget I, best ensemble, and best all-student orchestra. The show was amazing!

The boys volleyball team at Schenley didn't pull an upset over Penn Hills.

Curfews Suck

Public Hearing: Pittsburgh City Council: Friday, May 29, 2009 - 10:00 A.M.
Public Hearing - Bill No. 2009-1133 - Resolution providing for a professional services agreement or agreements with The Three Rivers Youth Shelter for the purpose of ongoing professional services related to the Youth Curfew Center and providing for the cost thereof. Cost not to exceed $500,000.00.

Pittsburgh shrinks some more with this.

Volleyball, Baseball -- High School Sports dates

Schenley Boys Volleyball plays Penn Hills at Allderdice at 6 pm on Tuesday. This is round 1 of the PIAA playoffs. Schenley won the city league title.

For the record, I played volleyball at Penn Hills my senior year and we won WPIALs and got 2nd in states. Dan Brown was the coach and is still at the helm of the team. The PH squad got 2nd at WPIALs to NA recently. PH could still win states, but, Schenley comes first!

Baseball at PNC Park on Wednesday has Allderdice playing Brashear at 4 pm. This is a great time to go to the North Side stadium and see a winning team, or two.

Go kids go!

Ed is looking for 15 to 20 football players

Looking for 15-20 Football Players/Athletes....June 6th and 7th

I need 15-20 High school (Jr/Sr), NCAA Players or area football coaches for a camp June 6th and 7th at Robert Morris University. You will be assisting NFL coaches and players from Football University. You will be considered a "Football Operations Assistant" and it is ALL volunteer. Sorry. Free lunch though. Good stuff.

You will be assistants to the likes of Ed McCaffery, Andre Rison, Blair Thomas, Lorenzo White, Levon Kirkland, Lavar Arrington, Mike Kruczek, Greg Briner, Perry Williams, Shawen Moore, Jeff Burress, Irv Eating and man more NFL position coaches and players.....This is a nice opportunity to be on the field helping these guys and you can use it on your CV when you need it if you want.

Please email me at EThompson@FootballUniveristy.Org to let me know if you are interested. I need to know this week. If you have friends, reach out to them. But I need 100% committments. I will be also reaching out to other folks I know too. Thanks and hope to hear from you!!!

Ed

Roddey kicks can at Onorato

Weird headline, Kicking the can down the road, but with an important message of honesty.

Onorato promised to fix assessments; he's done nothing but stall

Monday, May 25, 2009

By Jim Roddey

Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato appeared recently on "KD/PG Sunday Edition" on KDKA-TV. The subject was property assessments and the dilemma facing Allegheny County as a result of the state Supreme Court's ruling that the county must reassess. Dan's response to that ruling was to ask the state Legislature to declare a moratorium on court-ordered reassessments. It seems to me that such action would violate the provisions of separation of powers in the constitution of the commonwealth.

Dan's defiance of this most recent court order continues a disturbing pattern by the current county administration of repeated efforts to circumvent the court's decisions regarding assessments. All such attempts have so far failed. While Dan's actions may be politically advantageous, it is not a proper way to govern.

During the TV interview Dan stated that he never pledged to "fix the assessment system." During the campaign for county executive in 2003, Dan and I participated in 26 debates. I recall quite clearly that in all those debates Dan said: "I will fix the assessment system." Dan's solution was to freeze tax assessments at the 2002 rate. A majority of the county commissioners did the same thing in 1996 and, like Dan, saw the courts order a reassessment.

Dan and I have a fundamental disagreement about assessments. I believe that assessments should reflect the true value of property and should be kept reasonably current. Taxing bodies should be required to adjust millage so that property taxes will not be raised more than the consumer price index. Seniors on low, fixed incomes should be exempt from any increases and there should be mandated control of school district spending. (Forty-nine states regulate either expenditures or millage for public schools. Only Pennsylvania allows uncontrolled spending.)

I do agree that the county executive's call for the state to administer the assessment system is the best solution. Forty-eight states now control all state property assessments. Only Pennsylvania and Delaware (with just three counties) give this responsibility to the counties.

The consequences of Dan's assessment freeze have been: the already mentioned lawsuits; a significant shortfall of revenues for the county, the city of Pittsburgh and other municipalities; and increased tax rates in most school districts. However, the most egregious result has been the budget deficits incurred by the county.

In 2007, Dan was forced to take $20 million of gaming funds dedicated to airport debt service to balance his budget. (The airport recently had to borrow $20 million to defray high landing fees caused by their debt service obligations.) In 2008, the county deficit was covered by a new drink and car rental tax of $44 million, the highest annual tax increase in the history of the county. This flies in the face of Dan's often repeated statement that he has "held the line on taxes."

By now it should be obvious to everyone that Dan intends to kick the assessment can down the road as long as possible or at least until the issue no longer interferes with his quest for the governor's office. Dan's delaying tactics may or may not benefit his political career, but they undoubtedly will leave the property owners of Allegheny County in a very difficult situation.

Jim Roddey, chairman of the Republican Committee of Allegheny County, was Allegheny County chief executive between 2000 and 2003.

Trouble is, Onorato didn't think anyone watched the KDKA TV Show on Sunday mornings. And, the TV hosts are not going to challenge what Onorato says anyway. So, Onorato feels he is entitled to re-write history. And, none really expect him to tell the truth, really.

Death in the water in Yough

Boy drowns in Yough River
Monday, May 25, 2009 By Michael A. Fuoco, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Authorities late last night recovered the body of a 13-year-old youth who apparently drowned while swimming in the Youghiogheny River near Port Vue.

The Allegheny County medical examiner's office identified the victim as August Berg Jr. of Versailles. He was pronounced dead at 11:58 p.m. after divers pulled his body from the river. An autopsy was scheduled for later today.

August was swimming with an 11-year-old girl in an area known as Birdie's Landing. Occupants of a passing boat spotted the girl struggling and pulled her aboard. She told authorities that August had gone under the waves but didn't surface, according to The Associated Press.

White Oak police were investigating the incident. They were not available for comment this morning.

While in Beijing, my wife had a chance meeting with LaBron

Did you ever hear that story?



Nice bucket!

They next time the two meet and talk, she'll know who she is talking to.

Take a Father To School Day is ON -- but not all of it is being delivered it seems

Updated with link to a draft of the survey.

Hi Fellow Parents and Fans of Public Education:

Have a GREAT DAY for the Take a Father To School celebration.

The presentation yesterday in the chambers of Pittsburgh City Council and outside on the patio was wonderful.

However, there is a sad note and hence the reason for this email.

The SURVEY has been nixed, it seems. This is the survey that we all worked on in the steering committee. It seems to have been printed and sent along to all the schools in anticipation for today. I even spoke about it in public comment yesterday to Pgh City Council / cable TV audence. But, someone at some level killed it. What's up with that?

What happened with the survey at the schools you visited? Any signs of them?

If this above is true, what can the district and those responsible do to fix it?

I think the survey, as is, as printed, should be delivered via postal mail to every household in the district with a return postage envelope. I'd have no problem if the costs of the postage was absorbed by the person or people that are accountable for the lost opportunity.

Hope you are having or had a good day with the students.

JumpCut is closing

Dear Jumpcut user,

After careful consideration, we will be officially closing the Jumpcut.com site on June 15, 2009. This was a difficult decision to make, but it's part of the ongoing prioritization efforts at Yahoo!

We have released a software utility that allows you to download the movies you created on Jumpcut to your computer. As well, you can now download your original assets. Please visit the download page at http://www.jumpcut.com/myhome/?subnav=download to get started.

Once you download your movies, you may choose to upload them to another site such as Flickr, which allows video uploads for short videos (90 seconds or less). You can find out more here: http://flickr.com/explore/video

Thanks for being a part of Jumpcut.

The Jumpcut Team

How Did Rudiak Win? Voters In A Little Hamlet Called Carrick

Natalia Rudiak, 29, of Carrick, has received without question, the most fortiutous political victory in the city of Pittsburgh since at least Harry Readshaw's loss for city council in the early 1990's.

Readshaw, a Democrat with the fiscal conservative nature befitting the small businessman he continues to be, became one of the most well-respected members of the Pennsylvania Legislature, while City Council District 4 has been a non-stop revolving door of Cusicks, Divens and Motziks.

How did she do it? Because of voters in Carrick, one of the city's least recognized neighborhoods.

Power brokers in the city's other “big neighborhoods” in the District, Brookline and Beechview, normally wage political war with their own annointed sons. This year it was “old hat” Anthony Coghill and “newbie” Patrick Reilly. A fourth guy—Richard Weaver—couldn't inspire 100 voters to push the button next to his name.

Yes, everyone involved are Democrats. Former Republican Governor Tom Ridge carried a couple of districts a few years ago in the area, but otherwise, the vast majority of voters there are blind to a two-party system.

In this corner, Coghill, a part-time roofer/part-time state Senator Wayne Fontana staffer, took on Patrick Reilly, a Wagner family disciple who also had the backing of Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato.

Those cliques have manhandled the 4th District forever; however, the often-forgotten Carrick neighborhood fielded an attractive, talented homegrown girl who obviously benefitted from the never-ending political infighting. Normally, Carrick would field a candidate who wasn't an attractive choice, couldn't raise money, or both. Until recently, those voters who have to wait for scraps from the Wagner and Fontana camps.

It's widely believed that voters in Carrick saved former councilman Jim Motznik's hide when Coghill nearly beat him a handful of years ago. That race was an unexpected barn-burner, as Motznik was reeling from a minor controversy (he fled a television news cameraman and reporter as if the world was on fire). Motznik ultimately gave up the seat so he could run for District Justice (voters overwhelmingly gave him that job despite the fact the video showing him run like a Benny Hill day player is still available online).

Natalia Rudiak has stepped up her community profile in recent years and has established herself as a legitimate neighborhood activist (not in the ACORN “fraud” category, dear friends. The battlers of the status quo...I used to be one once upon a time).

Reports also indicated that city councilman Bill Peduto, the city's true lone revolutionist with a heart of gold, was helpful in getting Rudiak a decent war chest. Peduto should be mayor of Pittsburgh, but isn't related to the backroom deal-makers, so his road has been tough. His endorsement of Rudiak is enough for me.

Congratulations Natalia Rudiak on the most shocking win in local politics since Bob Cranmer beat Coleen Vuono for the third County Commissioner seat. That win wrecked the entire system. That whole governing body was thrown out as a result of that disasterous turn of events. (Long story short: Republicans won the majority for the first time in forever and didn't know what to do with the power. Everyone involved in that improbable election watched as their political lifes imploded in front of their eyes, Democrat and Republican.)

Something tells me that Rudiak, with Peduto and a couple of other potential “movers and shakers,” could be good for my former haunt. She absolutely, positively couldn't do worse...unless another job opens up in the next few years...then it's back to square one all over again.

Allegheny County voter turnout just under 21 percent

Allegheny County voter turnout just under 21 percent: "The region's highest-profile race, in which Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl fended off Councilman Patrick Dowd and attorney Carmen Robinson, didn't turn out to be a big draw. In unofficial results, 45,356 votes were cast, compared to 58,843 in 2005, 67,657 in 2003, and 66,730 in 1997."

I don't know how 5.5 percent of the people who were not Ds and not Rs got in to vote. Did they wear masks of Nixon and Clinton?

In the city, that percentage would be equal to zero.

Getting 30,000 votes would have been the formula for a win. Still would be a good goal for the fall of 2009. I think 30,000 makes the candidate mayor.

At $1 per vote, which is close to my average, I could win the mayor's race with $30,000.

How much did Luke spend in the end?

How many voters did he get?

What are those cost per votes?

Steelers Nation

A nice warm up on an idle sports day -- in that the next Pens game is not tonight, but on Thursday!

Steeler Nation

I would like an open water swim in this mix.

Hey Bill. Let's put in an open water swim in this mix.

http://blog.ventureoutdoors.org/2009/05/20/pedal-paddle-peduto/

The time and place is not such a big deal. But, that fact that we are swimming in the rivres is.

I think that the pro swim course should be from Sandcastle to Station Square. Hold it on Labor Day at 10 am.

Bashing the guy on day 2

Yesterday, on election day, Kevin Acklin, I, went to the Allegheny County Election Department. He passed the papers necessary to get onto the ballot for the mayor's race in November 2009 as an Independent.

Today, the bashing has begun.

Folks, we don't need perfect.

Folks. Don't put him in a box either.

This song, "Don't Put Me In a Box" -- by Johnsmith, recorded at our house concert, fits for Kevin too.

If I'm -- and I'm not -- Kevin Acklin, Indie for Mayor, I'm saying:

We need t-shirts, posters, window signs and tweets with the message:

Done deals are done.

Pittsburgh says, "Think again."

The second half occurs November 3, 2009.

Tickets still available.

Meet some of these shooting stars. "Hello everyone."

From my camera, to blog, to you.



Campaign Kick-off speech from Natalia Rudiak.

Population decline and Pure Reform about Schools

PURE Reform - Parents United for Responsible Educational Reform: "the number of children enrolled in noncharter Pittsburgh public schools is projected to drop much more sharply- from about 38,500 in 2000 to about 25,000 in 2014. So, while the number of children will have dropped by only 5%, enrollment will have suffered a 35% drop from the year 2000 to the year 2014.

The numbers in the projections don't add up.

I like this thinking. Ask families: What would it take to convince you to choose a Pgh Public School for your kids?

That is a big deal question. I've got plenty of thoughts on the expected results. But, I don't think that the PPS Administration nor Board has the courage to ask the right question and start the honest conversations that could unravel.

This is ironic. The most popular school in the disttict with Pgh Public Schools are put in tiny settings. So, people want to go to these schools. Yet the schools are shrunk.

CAPA High School is a the best performing school in terms of academics. It has a 'waiting list.' So, the PPS Administrators and Board voted to cram additional grades, grades 6, 7 and 8, in to the building for high schoolers. Hence, the total number of high school kids is reduced. Wrong way!

CAPA is not a clown car!

CAPA should have expanded, not contracted. CAPA is getting an expansion -- and it should have expanded so as to allow more high school students into that successful setting.

In similar ways, consider the new Sci Tech School. It is popular. It has a waiting list. It is going into a building that was not built to be a high school. The school is going to have 400 students and it could have been put into a building that would have allowed more than 1,000 students into a popular program in a school that has the necessary space.

Other good questions worthy of reposting here:

A large portion of ARRA funds will be spent on middle years summer programs. When will the details of the summer literacy camp be available? How will the district ensure that the students most in need of this program actually attend?

• When will there be an update on how the district is doing w/ excellence for all goals i.e. # of students taking AP exams, # of AA students taking AP exams, # of students scoring 3-5 on AP exams, # of students graduating?

• In the true spirit of transparency, committees that are formed by the administration to address various reform issues should include people with all perspectives and opinions. We request that the formation of these committees be announced in advance and that all stakeholders have an opportunity to participate and that these meetings be open for the public to observe.

• When will a high school facilities plan complete with names and locations of buildings rather than general descriptions such as 3 comprehensive or 5 comprehensive schools be provided for public review and comment? In addition, it seems like some buildings may be ruled out for future use based on replacement cost compared to a general "build new" amount per square foot that does not consider the location or quality of the new building. Calculations and underlying assumptions of this cost comparison should be provided.

• When will the results of the March community dialogue held a month and a half ago be posted- at the meeting we were told they would be on the Building Excellence website.

We wait. We listen. We wonder.

Parents of Pittsburgh won't put their children into the schools until deeper levels of trust are established. FUD spreads all the time. Fear, Uncertainty, Doubt = FUD. With FUD, people choose to vote with their feet.

If Pittsburgh Public School administration turned to a policy of being open and honest -- then the district would turn the corner and begin to thrive. These are major changes and new types of thinking and communications. But that is the bedrock of what parents want for their kids. We want to be in safe, open, clear, fair, and just schools where kids are given all sorts of challenges and have a great chances of success.

Bar battle on South Side

Bar battle on South Side: "Already target of a lawsuit, the city's bar density ordinance faces a new challenge

Pool passes available for Allegheny County parks

Pool passes available for Allegheny County parks: "The Allegheny County Parks Department this afternoon announced that family, individual and senior pool passes are now available for purchase at the Boyce, North, Settler's Cabin and South park administration offices.

Running Mates starts a new blog: My 4 Hour Marathon

My 4 Hour Marathon: "So, I just completed the Pittsburgh Marathon...and was very disappointed with my result!

Go, Mike, Go!

Run Forrest Run!

Obama and Education

In particular, the Obama administration wants to fix middle schools and high schools, focusing on "dropout factories" where two in five kids don't make it to graduation.

This is not the priority for Pittsburgh Public Schools.

The Rightsized Plan had a focus on elementary schools, with one exception, Schenley High School. Schenley was spared the axe then, by the way.

The 'drop out factories' in Pittsburgh have not been getting any attention.

Schenley High School closed, but it was not a drop out factory. Kids from Schenley classes were going to Stanford, for instance.

What is to happen with Oliver, Westhinghouse, Peabody and Langley? The silence has lasted for years.

South Vo Tech closed, but kids were in school at South -- finishing.

Election night parties!

Where are the political parties? Please post in comments. I'll try to confirm and put them in this posting. FWIW, a party mention does not mean an endorsement.

For example:

Luke Ravenstahl, and supporters gather for his election Night Party at the Hofbrauhaus in the South Side Works from 9:00 PM - 11:30 PM.

Pointers welcome in comments............ please. I don't get out much and it is a Tuesday night!

---

Friends and supporters of Sharene Shealey, PPS board member candidate, are invited to join Sharene and the campaign staff at the Evergreen Cafe, 7330 Penn Avenue, for an election night gathering as the polls close at 8 PM on Tuesday, May 19.

Turning corner in life as a two-time "L" now

I'm a "Libertarian." That's known as "L" number 1.

And, I'm, "L," in Roman Numerals.

PITTSBURGH, PA -- May 16, 2009 -- Mark Rauterkus, L, age L, embraces the "L" words: Loving, lucky, lean, and lively.

How frustration builds with a school district

There has been a bit of buzz about the recent fight at Oliver High School. Some footage made it to the web, I guess. So, I dust off my concerns and re-ask on some pressing points.

Oliver is a school without a plan, sadly. Here is one chunk of plans for discussion. The suggestions have been made before. My cooling off period on this matter is passed. Nancy is one of the top administrators for the district of Pgh Public Schools. She helps to launch the new initiatives.

Kodman, Nancy R to Mark

Mark,

There are many good ideas and recommendations from people in the PPS Community that come to central office. Written proposals may be submitted to the District for review through the Superintendent's Office. You may wish to do that with your 13th year option idea and other recommendations that you proposed in your email.

There is a chair and an administrative designee for every Board Committee. The chair and the designee work collaboratively to finalize the agenda. Topics for consideration arise through input from Board members as well as input from staff. Agenda items align with the Board goals and the academic focus and priorities of the District.

I checked into your question about the "new policy where the speakers get a post-card of thanks and a hint of a message as to the topic" following speaking at PPS Public Hearings as you mentioned that you spoke on the topic of 13th grade as an optional choice for students/families in Pittsburgh. I contacted the Public Hearing Office and was informed that a postcard was sent out to you at a 108 S. 12th Street address on February 17, 2009.

Nancy

Okay, sounds good -- but -- the answers she give don't match the questions given. I don't want a form letter reply. I went to the school board meeting and gave public testimony. I didn't get the curtosy reply post card, by the way. I didn't get the questions any attention.

Meanwhile, a new public process with hand-picked participants is brewing about Peabody High School's long term fate. This is in the wake of the prior committee's work that was done while sworn to secrecy in the fall of 08.

I was very happyt to get a voice mail message from Nancy to confirm that I was NOT invited to the hand-picked group to ponder the fate of Peabody.

Some of the lingering elements where I would like feedback from district administration:

What about the 13th grade option?

Let's have a meeting so I can deliver to you this concept and you can then schedule me for a presentation to the board's education sub-committee.

Next, I'd like some feedback from you as to these points in a blog post from April 3, 2009.

http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/2009/04/pittsburgh-peabody.html

To save you the click:

PURE Reform: Proposed options for future uses of Peabody HS: "Proposed options for future uses of Peabody HS"

#1 I think PPS wants 150 IB kids per class, for a total of 600 students (grades 6-12).

#2 I think that we can fit in 50 extra seats for a 13th Grade Option as well. So, round that to 650.

#3 The traditional Frick school (grades 6, 7 and 8) would need to stay at Rise&Shine Middle School. This should be part of the counter plans. What about middle school for IB track? Missing element must be proposed.

#4 Idea: Put 600 at IB Jr. High (Reiz), 200 in each grade (6, 7 and 8). Figure at the leap to HS, 20 kids go each to CAPA & Dice and some to other HSs and even CTE.

#5 By all means, the IB Middle School is NECESSARY to making the IB High -- work. Would 600 in that building be okay with the economics?

#6 Furthermore, the CTE students in certain grades would be able to have half-days at school and half-days at other sites / jobs, etc. The student load with half days could be greater on the CTE side? I know that the kids at South Vo Tech often were out of the building but still in 'school time' as they were on the job.

#7 I don't like the CISCO option for Peabody into the future. It is a dead / close source technology. It is too much like that offered at computers at Brashear and the Sci Tech too.

#8 All our efforts in networks and tech should be with an open-source approach. Perhaps a computer programming / languages model -- to rely upon the thrust of writing and languages (foreign, PERL, JAVA, etc.) would fit.

I reserve judgment if the idea of a mixed IB / CTE school at Peabody makes the most sense. It is a worthy investigation, for sure.

The boutique option of only IB is something that Mark Roosevelt wanted, I dare guess. That isn't a priority of mine.

#9 How about an IB Jr. Sr High School with one or two CTE options -- such as Robotics and Open Source Programming. Don't get all overboard on new programs that would fill the CTE menu and eat up a lot of space.

#10 I think we should still demand a FULL CTE school to be built. State of the art, etc. Wonderful for the trades. That would be, I dare say, in a new site.

#11 I would like to see single gender, city-wide magnets for public high schools put onto the table. These could also include smaller single gender middle schools too. Perhaps there is a push for 6-12 schools. It might be present as an option.

#12 Put a boys high school at Westinghouse and a girls high school at Reizenstein. Or, do it the other way around. Or, flip the gender at the schools every three or four or five years. The other option would be to use OLIVER HS for one gender and Westinghouse for the other. Put 75 kids in each grade, 6, 7, an 8. Put 100 or more in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12.

+ The single gender option would be cheap to implement.

+ The single gender option would sink or soar on its own merits. If they get a good program and good teachers, more will want to go there.

+ The single gender public option could and should compete for students with Oakland Catholic and Central Catholic.

Smile

Michael did well in the meet today.

I posted this to my Facebook page earlier today. Might as well re-post here too.

Mark Rauterkus You fumbled. And the fumble was costly and horrid. But, what to do next -- give a pep talk?
What about scholastic swimming? What about club swimming? What about summer swimming? What about age group swimming? What about recreational swimming leagues? The NCAA poved to be without spines. Now, show some courage and get into the grassroots swim movement as all is not lost -- yet.

We don't need body suits anywhere else.

Go into the ivory tower -- and lick the wounds. Or, get out into the rest of the sport and show more courage and conviction there. And, don't give up the college sport either. Amend. Re-tool. Re-work the rules. What should they be? What specific things should have been done differently?Editorial: The Year of the Suits
Source: http://collegeswimming.com/news/2009/may/15/editorial-year-suits/

Feeling smart?

Then watch this and be cured.

http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/arthur_benjamin_does_mathemagic.html

Yoni Gottesman -- a wake up call for summer!

Perhaps the worst video you'll ever see.

Yoni Gottesman: "In the summer of 2005, Yoni Gottesman's parents took him to a summer camp. It was supposed to be a fun and exciting experience. It was promised to be a safe experience. Instead, on his first day at camp, little Yoni drowned. In the summer of 2005, Yoni Gottesman's parents took him to a summer camp. It was supposed to be a fun and exciting experience. It was promised to be a safe experience. Instead, on his first day at camp, little Yoni drowned. In the summer of 2005, Yoni Gottesman's parents took him to a summer camp. It was supposed to be a fun and exciting experience. It was promised to be a safe experience. Instead, on his first day at camp, little Yoni drowned.

Don't let this happen!

Mike Lamb's reply

I saw on the web that Michael Lamb made an endorsement or two. Because I don't always have full faith in everything I read on the web, I asked him what's up and if he was making personal endorsements.

Mike's reply to me via his personal email:

I'm not sure what you're looking for but in this election cycle I am serving as Co-Chair of the Committee to Elect Mike Marmo Judge. In my area I am supporting Georgia Blotzer for Council. Also, my friend Anthony Coghill is running in District 4 and I am for him.

Thanks for your interest.

Michael Lamb

Frankly, I'm very glad to see the city controller getting into the fray of politics.

I was so sad in the past when former city controller, now judge, Tom Flaherty, did NOTHING to help oust Tom Murphy from the mayor's office.

It sounds as if Mr. Lamb isn't making any endorsement for the mayor's race. Oh well. It is great to know he is putting some skin in the game in other matters.