My name is Lou Jasikoff and am your newly elected Chair for the Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania. I would appreciate you taking time to read this letter as I believe it is important to you as a Libertarian and for our future in Pennsylvania as citizens and for our Party.
I would like to thank Mik Robertson for all the work he has done with LPPa as Chair for over four years now. Having been a former Chair myself for two years in New Jersey, I understand first-hand the enormous amount of personal time and resources it consumes. Mik has been a friend and always helpful to me in the past, and I will rely on his knowledge and expertise in many areas as I move forward to build on his successes.
We, as Libertarians, are presented with enormous opportunities, not only this year but for years to come, to make the LPPa a force to be reckoned with in the politics of Pennsylvania. Never before have we heard the word “Libertarian” used as much in the media and press. It was not so long ago when I told people I was a Libertarian, they would look at me and say, “Huh? Liberal, librarian, what is a Libertarian?” Today Libertarians are in vogue, it is ‘chic’ to be a Libertarian. And so it should be. No other party talks of limited government, personal responsibility, and individual rights like Libertarians do. Tell me what other party understands the true meaning of “property rights?” I, for one, am damned proud to be a Libertarian and hope you feel the same. Collectively we can make a real difference, and collectively we will, but it takes us all to make it happen.
So for those who don’t know me, or little of my background, let me fill you in on what you are getting. I have a degree from Fordham University in Accounting and have been pretty much self employed most of my life. Started and built a small restaurant and motel in Montana, where we raised our family for over 20 years. Returned back east in the 90’s and after a successful but brief stint in the corporate world once again went the private business route and built a nice transportation company with 50 employees, in Totowa, NJ. In 1994 went to my first Libertarian meeting, (almost my last, but that is a different story for another day). In 1995 was asked to put my name on the ballot as a paper candidate for NJ State representative and in 2006 was asked to run for Congress as the Libertarian candidate.
Can you imagine that? Was I excited! I was going to run for Congress and have the full backing of the Libertarian Party behind me! Life was great! It was later that year I realized we needed to be better organized and looked for ways to make that happen. After the election, I was nominated for Chair of the New Jersey Libertarian Party and promised myself to give it everything I had to help build that organization. I believe most feel I did that. We marched across the state in support of medical marijuana, found a way to have an office right on the Atlantic City Boardwalk, qualified for the “clean and fair” election program in New Jersey (yes, an oxymoron), ran candidates and partnered with Jim Babb and the LPPa for first combined convention NJ ever had. We were active and people knew who we were. And that was years ago, when people never heard of Libertarians and had a biased NJ media that once told me there is no room at the table for you Libertarians (but quite honestly it is New Jersey you know, must we say more?). The opportunities here in Pennsylvania and in this current political atmosphere are one hundred-fold with what we had to work with in NJ.
More recently, I served as Eastern-Vice Chair for LPPa and Chair for the Northeast Pennsylvania Libertarian Party. A little over a year ago I got together with longtime activists Betsy Summers and Brian Bergman to form the NEPA Libertarians Group. What a great group we have here and growing! Tim Mullen ran as a Libertarian in a very competitive three way race for State Rep in the 120th District. Although finishing third, it was the second highest vote total a Libertarian received in a three way race this past year in the United States. But more importantly, all these NEPA candidates are running again this year. They are known, well-liked and we are in the media all the time. This same enthusiasm and success are what we will bring to you and your groups throughout Pennsylvania.
So what is the call for action, what can you do to help make us as an organization be successful? Since this is the first letter you are receiving from me, let’s keep it simple. Visit our website and join, or re-join the LPPa if you are not a current member. Many receiving this letter have either expired memberships or just dropped out. Expect a welcome call from me shortly. I promise you this: I will give it my all and hope you do the same to ensure our success. Contact me anytime with the good, bad and the ugly. If you would like me to come to your Libertarian organization and help build your local membership, let me know and I will show up. If you have things you would like to implement to get your groups moving, let me know. Our goal is to assist and help, not put up roadblocks. Your ideas are important, so let me know what you are thinking. The only thing holding us back is ourselves. The future is ours and the future is now. Help us make the Libertarian Party one to be feared and relevant in the politics of Pennsylvania. The state and country needs us now more than ever to be heard.
Lou Jasikoff
Chair, Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania
lou@jasikoff.com
www.lppa.org
www.nepalibertarians.org
Monday, May 16, 2011
newly elected Chair for the Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania: Lou Jesikoff's first letter
Sports Reform: Business as usual is not welcomed, then. But now?
In the spring of 2010, Mr. Lopez, one of the top administrators of Pittsburgh Public Schools, hosted a meeting to talk about sports reform.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Democratic County Executive Candidates Debate Issues � CBS Pittsburgh
Democratic County Executive Candidates Debate Issues � CBS Pittsburgh: "Democratic County Executive Candidates Debate Issues"
Study: 90% of Pittsburgh's young adults unfit for military service - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Study: 90% of Pittsburgh's young adults unfit for military service - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Study: 90% of Pittsburgh's young adults unfit for military service"
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Fw: [PURE Reform] New comment on Athletic recommendations released.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
From: Anonymous <noreply-comment@blogger.com>
Date: Wed, 11 May 2011 12:02:42 -0700 (PDT)
To: <mark.rauterkus@gmail.com>
Subject: [PURE Reform] New comment on Athletic recommendations released.
We continue to talk as though kids cannot be motivated to learn unless extrinsically rewarded or punished. The reality that we've lost sight of is that every kid inherently wants to learn and in fact IS learning all of the time. Poor grades, suspension, detention, expulsion, 10th periods, "interventions", removal of music, arts, athletics only serve to further marginalize, ostracize, drop out, alienate, victimize, disenfranchise, etc. our young people. Opportunities to develop productive futures based natural talents, desires, goals are closed off by school administrators in PPS who believe that "one-size--fits-all" and that negative consequences will somehow 'turn on lights" motivate, inspire, and prepare students for productive futures. It does not work for the vast majority. How many failures, drop outs, jails do we need to see before we begin to change our educational systems in ways that produce intelligent, educated, athletic, artistic, creative, productive, successful adults?
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Posted by Anonymous to PURE Reform at May 11, 2011 3:00 PM
Two Athletic Reform Documents
Two documents from last night's school board meeting with Pittsburgh Public Schools' Education Committee are now available.
The executive summary is 13 pages:
PDF
Slide share:
The presentation was put onto video tape that night but is going to take some time to put onto the web. There were a number of questions from the board members, naturally.
The longer document is 71 pages and in PDF format.
http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/aforathlete/images/e/ef/Athletics_Reform_Recommendations.pdf
Or here in SlideShare.
Tip: Click the button on the lower right corner to expand the document to your full screen size. Press the "Esc" key to return the computer screen to continue.
The executive summary is 13 pages:
Slide share:
The presentation was put onto video tape that night but is going to take some time to put onto the web. There were a number of questions from the board members, naturally.
The longer document is 71 pages and in PDF format.
http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/aforathlete/images/e/ef/Athletics_Reform_Recommendations.pdf
Or here in SlideShare.
Athletics reform recommendations
View more presentations from Mark Rauterkus.
Tip: Click the button on the lower right corner to expand the document to your full screen size. Press the "Esc" key to return the computer screen to continue.
City League, WPIAL merger still far off - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
This is a concern from an educator:
To join the WPIAL is just what students, teachers, coaches and families need when it comes to missing less classroom time.
Presently, in the PPS City League, (District 8, not WPIAL), the sports schedules include plenty of games and matches at 2:15 pm. The kids need to miss their last period, at the least, even if playing a HOME game. The kids who are going to play the game at another school's pool, gym or field depart earlier and often have to miss most of the afternoon of classes.
Meanwhile, afternoon games -- while kids are still to be in classes -- do not happen on a daily basis within the WPIAL schedule. The WPIAL is filled with evening games. Then parents can get home from work and go to watch their children play. And, above all, the students don't need to be pulled from classes.
In the city, we play a lot of 2 pm games because if the kids when to a whole day of school, then had to care for themselves for a couple of hours and get on a bus at 5 pm or so, some whould not show up. And with an evening game, there are other time problems too, such as a return trip to home at 10 or 11 pm, often on a school night.
The abundance of 2 pm games on the PPS sports schedule is not 'fan friendly' nor 'family friendly.' Getting younger siblings to the high school games are often impossible too.
With the current system, plenty of athletes miss plenty of classes, and those coaches who are teachers miss as well. I've heard of baseball coaches who are also teachers in core subjects who have to miss two consecutive weeks of classes with those in periods 6 and 7. They are in the building until the team needs to go to play a game, either home or away, with a 1 pm dismissal. That isn't fair to the students who have those periods with those teachers to miss so much instructional time.
In the city league, those afternoon games are a big problem. Moving to evening and night games makes another set of problems, no doubt. But, when it comes to missing class time, there would be a lot less of that going on with a move to the WPIAL.
We talked in the athletic reform committee about a few elements that would need to occur to make the move to the WPIAL work for the PPS student athletes in terms of the schedule adjustments to evening matches.
+ Night games and longer bus rides in some instances means that the kids get back to the school at later times. Arrival to the school at 9, 9:30, 10, or 10:30 pm is not out of the question. Consider a Friday night football game that starts at 7:30 pm. Those kids are getting back to their home school after an away game at 11 pm or so. The rub is with PAT, the public bus schedules, and a city-wide magnet. Students get to their home schools after the game but these are not NEIGHBORHOOD schools any more. A kid who goes to a North Side or East Side school might live in the other end of the city, say the South Side. We know that the bus schedules have been greatly reduced. The non-peak times of buses are on a schedule that is often one hour between pick-ups, if the bus runs at all. Using mass transit and getting from Peabody or Westinghouse at 10 or 11 pm to the North Side or West End after a big game is asking plenty.
As a solution, we'd need to work hard to drop off kids at various parts of the city from the team bus on the way home and the bus would need to have to make a run out to various points after visiting the home school. Car pools are necessary too.
+ Night games are fan friendly. They'd attract more people. It is dark. In the winter, it is also cold.
+ The student athletes need places at the schools to be open for them upon their return. Getting dropped off by a team bus and waiting outside is not prudent.
+ The student athletes need places at the schools open to them for non-playing time situations. Kids need places to hang and be productive from 2:30 pm (end of school day) to they depart at 5 pm for an away game or are due to hit the locker-room for their home game at 6 pm. Team rooms, weight rooms, cardio rooms, training facilities, student lounges, on-school coffee shops, library access and rec room settings are needed. Getting into the library to do homework after school is a problem now. To extend library time to 6 pm, only now and then as homework is due and as the team needs it -- while eating even -- is a dreamworld fantasy the way things operate now.
+ The student athletes need to be concerned with nutrition and food. We are hungry. We need a good meal. We need to eat after school on game days and practice days. We need to hydrate. We need more than a vending machine. Kids should not need to sneak to find access to a microwave oven just to have something warm to eat before or after practice and games.
With an evening game, many of the kids won't have the time to go home after school, eat, do homework, and return for the game. They'll need to be productive at the school in places where they don't get into trouble.
People have been known to freak out when a single McDonalds wrapper comes back into the school's doors. I'm talking about PRINCIPALS. Sure, kids need to put their trash in the cans, but expectations and hospitality at the schools for being a place for our young people to settle and be secure are far from ideal within PPS. They've been promised student lounges in the past and they've never been delivered, unless there is a whole building re-hab as is the case at Sci-Tech. Even there, getting access to a student lounge in odd times is doubtful.
We need to care for our kids well beyond the end of the school day or the end of the last play in the game. And often, the kids face hostilities around their schools even from within. Perhaps this is part of the duties of the boosters and volunteers, granted. But those in PPS have a lock it and leave it mentality that can't work with a reform agenda that keeps our kids productive settings.
City League, WPIAL merger still far off - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "'What would it mean, in terms of what time kids would have to leave in the afternoon to go to games? What would our costs be for the transportation? What about our families who don't have access to a car? How do they get to watch their daughter play basketball if it's not here in Pittsburgh? Those are some of the things we need to think about.'"Her concern is unfounded.
To join the WPIAL is just what students, teachers, coaches and families need when it comes to missing less classroom time.
Presently, in the PPS City League, (District 8, not WPIAL), the sports schedules include plenty of games and matches at 2:15 pm. The kids need to miss their last period, at the least, even if playing a HOME game. The kids who are going to play the game at another school's pool, gym or field depart earlier and often have to miss most of the afternoon of classes.
Meanwhile, afternoon games -- while kids are still to be in classes -- do not happen on a daily basis within the WPIAL schedule. The WPIAL is filled with evening games. Then parents can get home from work and go to watch their children play. And, above all, the students don't need to be pulled from classes.
In the city, we play a lot of 2 pm games because if the kids when to a whole day of school, then had to care for themselves for a couple of hours and get on a bus at 5 pm or so, some whould not show up. And with an evening game, there are other time problems too, such as a return trip to home at 10 or 11 pm, often on a school night.
The abundance of 2 pm games on the PPS sports schedule is not 'fan friendly' nor 'family friendly.' Getting younger siblings to the high school games are often impossible too.
With the current system, plenty of athletes miss plenty of classes, and those coaches who are teachers miss as well. I've heard of baseball coaches who are also teachers in core subjects who have to miss two consecutive weeks of classes with those in periods 6 and 7. They are in the building until the team needs to go to play a game, either home or away, with a 1 pm dismissal. That isn't fair to the students who have those periods with those teachers to miss so much instructional time.
In the city league, those afternoon games are a big problem. Moving to evening and night games makes another set of problems, no doubt. But, when it comes to missing class time, there would be a lot less of that going on with a move to the WPIAL.
We talked in the athletic reform committee about a few elements that would need to occur to make the move to the WPIAL work for the PPS student athletes in terms of the schedule adjustments to evening matches.
+ Night games and longer bus rides in some instances means that the kids get back to the school at later times. Arrival to the school at 9, 9:30, 10, or 10:30 pm is not out of the question. Consider a Friday night football game that starts at 7:30 pm. Those kids are getting back to their home school after an away game at 11 pm or so. The rub is with PAT, the public bus schedules, and a city-wide magnet. Students get to their home schools after the game but these are not NEIGHBORHOOD schools any more. A kid who goes to a North Side or East Side school might live in the other end of the city, say the South Side. We know that the bus schedules have been greatly reduced. The non-peak times of buses are on a schedule that is often one hour between pick-ups, if the bus runs at all. Using mass transit and getting from Peabody or Westinghouse at 10 or 11 pm to the North Side or West End after a big game is asking plenty.
As a solution, we'd need to work hard to drop off kids at various parts of the city from the team bus on the way home and the bus would need to have to make a run out to various points after visiting the home school. Car pools are necessary too.
+ Night games are fan friendly. They'd attract more people. It is dark. In the winter, it is also cold.
+ The student athletes need places at the schools to be open for them upon their return. Getting dropped off by a team bus and waiting outside is not prudent.
+ The student athletes need places at the schools open to them for non-playing time situations. Kids need places to hang and be productive from 2:30 pm (end of school day) to they depart at 5 pm for an away game or are due to hit the locker-room for their home game at 6 pm. Team rooms, weight rooms, cardio rooms, training facilities, student lounges, on-school coffee shops, library access and rec room settings are needed. Getting into the library to do homework after school is a problem now. To extend library time to 6 pm, only now and then as homework is due and as the team needs it -- while eating even -- is a dreamworld fantasy the way things operate now.
+ The student athletes need to be concerned with nutrition and food. We are hungry. We need a good meal. We need to eat after school on game days and practice days. We need to hydrate. We need more than a vending machine. Kids should not need to sneak to find access to a microwave oven just to have something warm to eat before or after practice and games.
With an evening game, many of the kids won't have the time to go home after school, eat, do homework, and return for the game. They'll need to be productive at the school in places where they don't get into trouble.
People have been known to freak out when a single McDonalds wrapper comes back into the school's doors. I'm talking about PRINCIPALS. Sure, kids need to put their trash in the cans, but expectations and hospitality at the schools for being a place for our young people to settle and be secure are far from ideal within PPS. They've been promised student lounges in the past and they've never been delivered, unless there is a whole building re-hab as is the case at Sci-Tech. Even there, getting access to a student lounge in odd times is doubtful.
We need to care for our kids well beyond the end of the school day or the end of the last play in the game. And often, the kids face hostilities around their schools even from within. Perhaps this is part of the duties of the boosters and volunteers, granted. But those in PPS have a lock it and leave it mentality that can't work with a reform agenda that keeps our kids productive settings.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Erik's TV interview about Sports Reform in Pittsburgh Public Schools
This is part 2 of the interview that should run on TV soon. Erik Rauterkus, 16, (proud dad moment injected here), sophomore, gives a sit-down interview with activist and show host, Kenneth Miller, about sports reform pending before the board of directors of Pittsburgh Public Schools. The conversation is pressing as the matter goes to the Education Committee, a sub-group of the board, tonight. The decision is pressing in light of the state budget cuts and the outward migration of many in the city.
The city schools are shrinking! Families that desire great opportunities for their children often move out of Pittsburgh, in large part, in my not so humble opinion, because of the lack of quality offerings in sports, music, after-school activities and holistic living beyond the end of the school day.
Watch this show segment and hear from me again, at the end of the clip.
The other part of the interview will be put online as time permits.
WPIAL, here we come, perhaps, sorta, we hope, one day, maybe.
The city schools are shrinking! Families that desire great opportunities for their children often move out of Pittsburgh, in large part, in my not so humble opinion, because of the lack of quality offerings in sports, music, after-school activities and holistic living beyond the end of the school day.
Watch this show segment and hear from me again, at the end of the clip.
The other part of the interview will be put online as time permits.
WPIAL, here we come, perhaps, sorta, we hope, one day, maybe.
Monday, May 09, 2011
On the Elimination of Osama bin Laden
Ron Paul's remarks make sense to me, again.
On the Elimination of Osama bin Laden: "Last week marked an important milestone in the war on terrorism for our country. Osama bin Laden applauded the 9/11 attacks. Such deliberate killing of innocent lives deserved retaliation. It is good that bin Laden is dead and justice is served. The way in which he was finally captured and killed shows that targeted retribution is far superior to wars of aggression and nation-building. In 2001 I supported giving the president the authority to pursue those responsible for the vicious 9/11 attacks. However, misusing that authority to pursue nation-building and remaking the Middle East was cynical and dangerous, as the past ten years have proven.
It is tragic that it took ten years, trillions of dollars, tens of thousands of American casualties and many thousands of innocent lives to achieve our mission of killing one evil person. A narrow, targeted mission under these circumstances was far superior to initiating wars against countries not involved in the 9/11 attacks, and that is all we should have done. This was the reason I emphasized at the time the principle of Marque and Reprisal, permitted to us by the US Constitution for difficult missions such as we faced. I am convinced that this approach would have achieved our goal much sooner and much cheaper.
Schenley musicals go out on high note with spunky 'Seussical'
Now that's drama.
Others can divide between music and sports -- but that is not my mission. I fight for both. I want cooperation among the productions -- from the athletic venue to the stage.
This Tuesday is a good example. One of my sons will be in a competition and the other is in a school music event. But both -- or all kids -- should have great opportunities for whatever they should desire in structured, energetic, educational endeavors.
Schenley musicals go out on high note with spunky 'Seussical': "Because I'm writing an elegy as much as a review, let's anoint the Cat the animating spirit not just of this musical or even the Schenley musical comedy tradition but high school musicals in general, which have to use their wits in the struggle to survive in the jungle of budget cuts in competition with the bigger, more voracious beasts of sports."Yeah, right. Sports in the city are not so voracious nor beasts.
Others can divide between music and sports -- but that is not my mission. I fight for both. I want cooperation among the productions -- from the athletic venue to the stage.
This Tuesday is a good example. One of my sons will be in a competition and the other is in a school music event. But both -- or all kids -- should have great opportunities for whatever they should desire in structured, energetic, educational endeavors.
Koch files ethics, but not court, complaint against Bruce Kraus, hypocrite
Bruce Kraus fumbles, big time.
Some of what I wanted did NOT make it into the law. Some did.
But with this fumble from Bruce Kraus, if it was up to me, and I speak as a member of the task force appointed to study and craft a bill for city council, I would have the guilty with a scarlet letter punishment. This means that Bruce Kraus would not get any more pay checks. He could keep his seat, but the controller would suspend his pay until he resigned. Then if he did resign, he'd be able to run again the next time. Or, he can choose to not follow the rules and serve out his term -- but not get paid anything to do so.
Furthermore, those that paid the extra money to the candidate would be on a black list and those people and firms would not be able to get any money from the city either. Once Kraus was out of office, they'd be okay to resume business with the city.
In the city, we choose to not sell property to anyone who has an outstanding property tax due to the city. That is a good policy. This punishment option I suggest is similar. The city should choose to not do business nor make city payouts to anyone that choose to break the campaign finance laws of the city.
Koch files ethics, but not court, complaint: "Bruce Kraus is a hypocrite who refuses to follow his own laws. How can we trust him with the welfare of the city of Pittsburgh when he cannot follow the very laws that he wrote and is subject to? Its deceptive, hypocritical and reveals a dangerous proclivity to say one thing, do another and violate the law for his own benefit.I was there when this law was hatched. I helped it NOT occur in an earlier edition. Then I was put onto the task force to help craft the law.
Mr. Koch is considering all possible avenues in an attempt to address this matter. He is filing his ethically sound financial disclosure reports to the Allegheny County Board of Elections by todays deadline."
Some of what I wanted did NOT make it into the law. Some did.
But with this fumble from Bruce Kraus, if it was up to me, and I speak as a member of the task force appointed to study and craft a bill for city council, I would have the guilty with a scarlet letter punishment. This means that Bruce Kraus would not get any more pay checks. He could keep his seat, but the controller would suspend his pay until he resigned. Then if he did resign, he'd be able to run again the next time. Or, he can choose to not follow the rules and serve out his term -- but not get paid anything to do so.
Furthermore, those that paid the extra money to the candidate would be on a black list and those people and firms would not be able to get any money from the city either. Once Kraus was out of office, they'd be okay to resume business with the city.
In the city, we choose to not sell property to anyone who has an outstanding property tax due to the city. That is a good policy. This punishment option I suggest is similar. The city should choose to not do business nor make city payouts to anyone that choose to break the campaign finance laws of the city.
2 Political Junkies: Campaign Shenanigans
2 Political Junkies: Campaign Shenanigans: "Campaign Shenanigans"Doug Shields is toast.
Come Live Over Here - Moving to Pittsburgh
A woman on Linked In posted:
Some highlights:
Another voice: Leon posted:
Then Lu from Monroeville posted about having 5 neighborhood pools that are volunteer run, and kids only have to swim a length to be on a team (ours gives 6 weeks of daily lessons for 45$). Most neighborhoods are attached at some point to a park; ours has a dog park and a walking trail in the woods. Lately people have been down there playing cricket. So it's an interesting place!
Right on! Swimming and international sports. See the trend yet?
Pittsburgh Public Schools has some way better than 'decent' music and sports opportunities -- but its hit or miss. And, at times, things in those realms can suck.
People are moving to the area, but not to the city so much, based upon some clearly seen opportunities to play well with others and all that sports brings to their lives. Pittsburgh needs some type of sports reform in these matters.
I will be moving closer to Pittsburgh with my son. Need neighborhood advice.A nice discussion unfolds.
I would like to know which areas of the city is quiet, inexpensive, and low crime rate. Could anyone in the group give me advice?
Some highlights:
Ed wrote: I just moved to Pittsburgh last July. I have 2 sons that are 15 and 13.Summary: Making friends is important, as are sporting families in the neighborhood. And my take: Sports is a way to make friends. Plus, being in a highly rated yet smaller school is prime. Avenworth is a smaller-sized WPIAL school. Avonworth is a bit larger than Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School, and the boys at CAPA. But not as big but very near to the classifications of Pittsburgh Sci-Tech, Pgh Oliver, Pgh Langley or Pgh U-Prep. Avonworth High School would not be highly rated if it played sports against all the biggest teams in the WPIAL.
We moved into the Avonworth School district which is a hightly rated, small Class A school in the North Hills. My kids adapted great and made good friends right away.
There are several areas to live with a wide range of home prices so I am sure you could find something either in Ohio Township, Emsworth, Ben Avon or Sewickley.
Steeler Chris Hoke and Penquins Coach Dan Blysma both have kids attending
the in the Avonworth School District. I highly recommend it!
Another voice: Leon posted:
Like Ed above I moved in July of last year. I have a 12 & 17 yr. old. We did extensive research on schools and looked at Upper St. Clair, Mt Lebanon and Hampton. We came from Indianapolis area and chose Hampton (20 minutes north of downtown) due the schools.See how "decent sports and music matter to people.
What sealed the deal was the visit to Hampton. Smaller but very tight knit, excellent academics, decent sports & music. The teachers and admin staff were very open and welcoming. Based on the kid's progress this year it was a good decision.
Then Lu from Monroeville posted about having 5 neighborhood pools that are volunteer run, and kids only have to swim a length to be on a team (ours gives 6 weeks of daily lessons for 45$). Most neighborhoods are attached at some point to a park; ours has a dog park and a walking trail in the woods. Lately people have been down there playing cricket. So it's an interesting place!
Right on! Swimming and international sports. See the trend yet?
Pittsburgh Public Schools has some way better than 'decent' music and sports opportunities -- but its hit or miss. And, at times, things in those realms can suck.
People are moving to the area, but not to the city so much, based upon some clearly seen opportunities to play well with others and all that sports brings to their lives. Pittsburgh needs some type of sports reform in these matters.
Sunday, May 08, 2011
Friday, May 06, 2011
My political hero!
I didn't get a chance to watch the whole debate last night, but here's a condensed version with Ron Paul's answers:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMmVwW8h4Ho
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMmVwW8h4Ho
Parkways to display estimated travel times
Parkways to display estimated travel times: "Parkways to display estimated travel times"
So is this going to be a signal as to how many text messages one can reply to then?
I would rather see a display of available sparking spaces as one enters the South Side, or the North Shore, or the Arena area.
Or, how about a display of the minutes until the bus arrives posted at the bus stop?
Or, how about, minutes until the draw bridge lifts, ... wait. We don't have one of those. Never mind.
How about the number of minutes for the length of term of some local politicians?
Education Week: Let's Focus on Gaps in Opportunity, Not Achievement
Education Week: Let's Focus on Gaps in Opportunity, Not Achievement: "Let's Focus on Gaps in Opportunity, Not Achievement"The opportunity gap is large when considering the opportunities of those in suburban schools and the others in the Pittsburgh Public Schools in terms of sports and athletics.
What happens in the WPIAL is not like what happens in the City League.
What happens at WPIAL schools is not like what we provide to PPS schools.
Who the he'll is this unknown Daniel Malloy?
By Daniel Malloy, Post-Gazette Washington Bureau
"Lesser known." What hole has he been living in for the past decade?
Ron Paul is a member of the US Congress. You would think a Washington based reporter would know that. And this is the third time Doctor Paul has run for the office of US President. First as a Libertarian, then as the last one standing in the last election where McCain got the nomination of the Rs.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11126/1144518-84.stm
Thursday, May 05, 2011
Sports is out of whack | Professional | NewJerseyNewsroom.com -- Your State. Your News.
Two decades later, sports is out of whack | Professional | NewJerseyNewsroom.com -- Your State. Your News.: "Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson moving as much earth as he could to try and keep the city's National Basketball Association team in team in town despite the fact that the unemployment level had hit 12 percent in his region. At the same time he was rounding up $10 million in marketing partnership for the owners of the NBA Kings, the Maloof brothers, Johnson was cutting workers at the city's police and fire departments and school administrators were trying to figure out whether they can keep sports going in Sacramento public schools."If professional sports teams in North America had RELIGATION, then that problem in Sacramento would not happen. We need to insist that cities that want to have big league teams PLAY into those leagues by insisting that the worst of the major league teams drop down to a minor level to make room for the new arrivals. Moving a team is NOT an option. Then all are held hostage. But, building a team, from the bottom or from minors is a great option. Furthermore, those that squander a slot in the top league need to know performance matters, or else.
Wednesday, May 04, 2011
The Pittsburgh Comet hits against Bruce Kraus too
The Pittsburgh Comet: "Koch gets Kraus on Campaign Ethics Issue"Bruce Kraus is not well suited to be in elected office in this country.
Let's get ready to rumble! 9 PM 2012 GOP debate on Thursday
Debate day moneybomb: http://www.debateday.com/
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/05/04/gop-hopefuls-ready-rumble-2012-presidential-debate/
Debate Day MoneyBomb
When: Thursday, May 5, 2011 9:00 PM
Debate Day Money Bomb: NEW CAMPAIGN SITE http://www.ronpaul2012.com/
The first nationally televised Republican presidential debate in the 2012 election cycle will be held on May 5, 2011. Because of this, it is imperative to showcase Ron Paul as the leading frontrunner in the race. On May 5, 2011, we will hold an online money bomb in support of Ron Paul for President 2012. A money bomb is a 24-hour fundraising event aimed at dramatically increasing funds for a specific candidate. In November 2007, Ron Paul raised more than $4.2 million in a single day. In December 2007, Ron Paul raised the most money in the history of American politics in a single day, raising more than $6 million; a record that still holds strong to this very day.
Please invite your friends, and tell them that it is essential that we all donate to Ron Paul on May 5, 2011, in preparation for the first nationally televised Republican presidential debate for 2012.
The money bomb will likely be held on Ron Paul's official campaign website, which will be linked here once it is created. For now, please visit http://www.LibertyPAC.com, and consider making a donation before the official money bomb. OR you can visit http://www.debateday.com/ and pledge your donation today as well.
http://www.foxnews.com/
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2011/05/04/gop-hopefuls-ready-rumble-2012-presidential-debate/
Debate Day MoneyBomb
When: Thursday, May 5, 2011 9:00 PM
Debate Day Money Bomb: NEW CAMPAIGN SITE http://www.ronpaul2012.com/
The first nationally televised Republican presidential debate in the 2012 election cycle will be held on May 5, 2011. Because of this, it is imperative to showcase Ron Paul as the leading frontrunner in the race. On May 5, 2011, we will hold an online money bomb in support of Ron Paul for President 2012. A money bomb is a 24-hour fundraising event aimed at dramatically increasing funds for a specific candidate. In November 2007, Ron Paul raised more than $4.2 million in a single day. In December 2007, Ron Paul raised the most money in the history of American politics in a single day, raising more than $6 million; a record that still holds strong to this very day.
Please invite your friends, and tell them that it is essential that we all donate to Ron Paul on May 5, 2011, in preparation for the first nationally televised Republican presidential debate for 2012.
The money bomb will likely be held on Ron Paul's official campaign website, which will be linked here once it is created. For now, please visit http://www.LibertyPAC.com, and consider making a donation before the official money bomb. OR you can visit http://www.debateday.com/ and pledge your donation today as well.
http://www.foxnews.com/
Republicans Deny They Plan to End Medicare
Recently the U.S. House of Representatives passed a measure that would drastically change the Medicare program. The measure, part of a budget authored by Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, passed with the votes of all but four Republicans and not one Democrat.
Now the Democratic Congressional Committee is running an ad in selected congressional against Republican congress members thought to be vulnerable. The ad, which portrays seniors having to work at odd jobs to pay for their medical care, includes the line, “Congressman [name] voted to end Medicare forcing seniors to pay $12,500 for private health insurance, without guaranteed coverage.”
A spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee calls the ad “shameless scare tactics” on the part of Democrats. In particular, they say they are not ending Medicare, put reforming it to save it.
Who is telling the truth? It’s important for voters to understand this issue, which may dominate next year’s elections. A recent Washington Post/ABC News poll found that 78 percent of Americans are opposed to cutting Medicare. For more than 40 years American seniors have relied on Medicare for their essential, and often expensive, health care needs. For example, the deadly lung cancer mesothelioma is nearly always diagnosed in people in or approaching their Medicare years.
The Republian position was bolstered by the fact-check site PolitiFact.com, which judged the ad to be misleading.
“Yes, the Republican plan would be a huge change to the current program, and seniors would have to pay more for their health plans if it becomes law. Democrats, including President Barack Obama, have said they are strongly opposed to the plan.
“But to say the Republicans voted to end Medicare, as the ad does, is a major exaggeration. All seniors would continue to be offered coverage under the proposal, and the program’s budget would increase every year.”
The primary point of the ad was that seniors would pay more for health care under the Republican plan, and PoliFact admits this is true. But Republicans aren’t ending Medicare, just changing it.
Others argue PoliFact was bamboozled by Republican talking points and didn’t see reality. Steve Benen writes for Washington Monthly,
“Medicare is a single-payer health care system offering guaranteed benefits to seniors. The House Republican budget plan intends to do away with the existing system and replace it with something very different — a privatized voucher plan. It would still be called “Medicare,” but it wouldn’t be Medicare.
“It seems foolish to have to parse the meaning of the word “end,” but if there’s a program, and it’s replaced with a different program, proponents brought an end to the original program. That’s what the verb means.”
What about the $12,500 figure? PoliFact acknowledges that the number comes from an analysis by the Congressional budget Office. PoliFact argues that the number is misleading, however, because it includes the amount of premiums seniors already pay. “The CBO estimates beneficiaries would contribute about $6,150 in premiums in 2022 if the program isn’t changed at all. So the extra money seniors need to pay under the Republican proposal is more like $6,350.” Oh, good; the premium would only be more than doubled.
But that’s only in 2020. The Ryan plan provides for keeping increases in Medicare tied to the Gross National Product figure, which has not been rising nearly as fast as heath care cost. So the “difference” that seniors would have to pay would get bigger every year.
Now the Democratic Congressional Committee is running an ad in selected congressional against Republican congress members thought to be vulnerable. The ad, which portrays seniors having to work at odd jobs to pay for their medical care, includes the line, “Congressman [name] voted to end Medicare forcing seniors to pay $12,500 for private health insurance, without guaranteed coverage.”
A spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee calls the ad “shameless scare tactics” on the part of Democrats. In particular, they say they are not ending Medicare, put reforming it to save it.
Who is telling the truth? It’s important for voters to understand this issue, which may dominate next year’s elections. A recent Washington Post/ABC News poll found that 78 percent of Americans are opposed to cutting Medicare. For more than 40 years American seniors have relied on Medicare for their essential, and often expensive, health care needs. For example, the deadly lung cancer mesothelioma is nearly always diagnosed in people in or approaching their Medicare years.
The Republian position was bolstered by the fact-check site PolitiFact.com, which judged the ad to be misleading.
“Yes, the Republican plan would be a huge change to the current program, and seniors would have to pay more for their health plans if it becomes law. Democrats, including President Barack Obama, have said they are strongly opposed to the plan.
“But to say the Republicans voted to end Medicare, as the ad does, is a major exaggeration. All seniors would continue to be offered coverage under the proposal, and the program’s budget would increase every year.”
The primary point of the ad was that seniors would pay more for health care under the Republican plan, and PoliFact admits this is true. But Republicans aren’t ending Medicare, just changing it.
Others argue PoliFact was bamboozled by Republican talking points and didn’t see reality. Steve Benen writes for Washington Monthly,
“Medicare is a single-payer health care system offering guaranteed benefits to seniors. The House Republican budget plan intends to do away with the existing system and replace it with something very different — a privatized voucher plan. It would still be called “Medicare,” but it wouldn’t be Medicare.
“It seems foolish to have to parse the meaning of the word “end,” but if there’s a program, and it’s replaced with a different program, proponents brought an end to the original program. That’s what the verb means.”
What about the $12,500 figure? PoliFact acknowledges that the number comes from an analysis by the Congressional budget Office. PoliFact argues that the number is misleading, however, because it includes the amount of premiums seniors already pay. “The CBO estimates beneficiaries would contribute about $6,150 in premiums in 2022 if the program isn’t changed at all. So the extra money seniors need to pay under the Republican proposal is more like $6,350.” Oh, good; the premium would only be more than doubled.
But that’s only in 2020. The Ryan plan provides for keeping increases in Medicare tied to the Gross National Product figure, which has not been rising nearly as fast as heath care cost. So the “difference” that seniors would have to pay would get bigger every year.
ATTEND ORGANIZING 2.0 by Charles Lenchner
Edited slightly:
You should attend Organizing 2.0 on May 10, 2011:
1. You work for an organization that does not use online tools except for some email and a low quality website. Join us for hands on training on relevant software, case studies on organizations in your situation, and suggestions for best next steps that even under-resourced groups can realistically take.
2. You work for an organization that pays for and uses online tools – just not very well. How can you make good use of what you are already paying for? Learn how to move from having an online presence, to using it effectively to achieve mission goals.
3. You work for an organization that uses online tools quite well – but only in specific pockets of your work. We’re bringing together experience labor and organizing professionals figuring out (together) what works best to win campaigns, serve members, and drive up individual engagement. Join us to learn – and to share your own knowledge.
Now for another question. Why are we doing this?
Our experience is that in many organizations the introduction of technology is disruptive. At various levels, from the top to the bottom, questions about what works and why are often suppressed out of ignorance, fear and uncertainty. The gap between status power and expertise often leads to situations where anyone who “knows” can’t decide, and anyone with enough power to decide almost certainly doesn’t “know” how to do online organizing. Exactly how many union presidents come with experience as digital strategists? How many new hires who are digital natives get to decide on budgets? We haven’t met ANY. And it shows. (We've got stories!)
Our solution is to organize. Our targets are the decision makers and front line staff of labor unions and community organizing groups fighting around economic justice issues. Victory for us means advancing an organizations’ effectiveness through the appropriate use of online technologies. We win when online organizers are hired with the power to implement real online organizing strategies, when the
right kind of consultants are consulted and heard, when resources are spent wisely, when risk averse institutions embrace experimentation.
It’s hard; many of us have to bite our tongues much of the time. If we were highly paid consultants we’d probably lose clients or put out a lot of creative ideas that are then ignored. We’re taking our available assets – expertise, community and autonomy – and using them as best we can. This is the one time a year where we get together to ‘tell it like it is.’
If you’re reading this and haven’t already embraced our vision, consider these questions:
* Are Organizing 2.0’s trainers coming from labor, community organizing groups and progressive political organizations?
Yes.
* Have they done this before?
Yes.
* Are important organizations endorsing and participating?
Yes.
* Is the labor movement in New York doing so well that we can afford to continue with business as usual?
NO.
http://www.organizing20.org/pgh/
Join Us for a Special Young Professionals Reception
|
Today is Day Against DRM
May 4, 2011, is the third annual international Day Against DRM!
The Day Against DRM is an opportunity to unite a wide range of projects, public interest organizations, web sites and individuals in an effort to raise public awareness to the danger of technology that requires users to give-up control of their computers or that restricts access to digital data and media. This year, individuals and groups are working together to create local actions in their communities. Actions range from protesting an unfriendly hardware vendor to handing out informative fliers at local public libraries -- or in my case, making a blog posting.
Thanks to DefectiveByDesign.org for leading this effort.
The Day Against DRM is an opportunity to unite a wide range of projects, public interest organizations, web sites and individuals in an effort to raise public awareness to the danger of technology that requires users to give-up control of their computers or that restricts access to digital data and media. This year, individuals and groups are working together to create local actions in their communities. Actions range from protesting an unfriendly hardware vendor to handing out informative fliers at local public libraries -- or in my case, making a blog posting.
Thanks to DefectiveByDesign.org for leading this effort.
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Save it!
Go here too and pass it on:
http://www.causes.com/causes/609476-reuse-the-igloo/about
http://www.change.org/petitions/reuse-the-igloo-pittsburgh-civic-arena#?opt_new=f&opt_fb=t
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Reuse-the-Igloo-Mellon-Arena/222742696638
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=77267039224
$60 million Texas High School football stadium nearing completion
$60 million Texas High School football stadium nearing completionMeanwhile, in Pittsburgh, we have a nice football stadium on the South Side, for many teams. And, it isn't at any high school.
To join the WPIAL, our city league teams would have about two home games as all the others would need to be AWAY contests. Or, we'd have to build-up a few more fields to be able to host Friday night football games.
The field at U-Prep in The Hill, the field at Carrick, and perhaps the field at Brashear are the best available to expand. Carrick's is a Citipark field. There is a hope that the Perry or Oliver team could use PNC Park, in my dreams.
Monday, May 02, 2011
Wednesday May 4th: Day Against DRM just two days away
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
-----Original Message-----
From: "Defective by Design" <info@defectivebydesign.org>
Date: Mon, 02 May 2011 18:13:15
To: Mark@Rauterkus.com<Mark@Rauterkus.com>
Reply-To: reply-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087-Mark=Rauterkus.com@defectivebydesign.org
Subject: [DBD] Wednesday May 4th: Day Against DRM just two days away
2011 has been a bad year for DRM. Sony is using legal actions to
harass and intimidate individuals who are modifying their own PS3
systems. And libraries are being replaced by companies like Amazon and
Apple seeking to control access to books and monitor who reads what
where. We need to send a clear message: No DRM!
So, clear your schedule for a worldwide day of action against DRM. On
Wednesday, May 4th, we will be taking action to raise the stakes and
increase awareness about the threats of Digital Restrictions
Management -- in a very significant way!
Please set some time aside in your day on Wednesday to join us for
this once-a-year opportunity! We hope you'll work with us against DRM
year-round, but coordinating online and physical events on one day
amplifies all of our voices.
* Read the blog post for some ways you can get involved.
<http://www.defectivebydesign.org/2011-day-against-drm-action-ideas>
* Check out our 2011 Day Against DRM banners for your website or blog.
<http://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:DefectiveByDesign/Day_Against_DRM_2011/Banners_guide>
-------------------------------
Stop email from this list, but still allow us to contact you occasionally: unsubscribe-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087@defectivebydesign.org.
Stop receiving all emails from DefectiveByDesign.org: optOut-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087@defectivebydesign.org.
DefectiveByDesign.org is a project of the Free Software Foundation -- Fifty One Franklin Street, Fifth Floor
Boston, 02110
-----Original Message-----
From: "Defective by Design" <info@defectivebydesign.org>
Date: Mon, 02 May 2011 18:13:15
To: Mark@Rauterkus.com<Mark@Rauterkus.com>
Reply-To: reply-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087-Mark=Rauterkus.com@defectivebydesign.org
Subject: [DBD] Wednesday May 4th: Day Against DRM just two days away
2011 has been a bad year for DRM. Sony is using legal actions to
harass and intimidate individuals who are modifying their own PS3
systems. And libraries are being replaced by companies like Amazon and
Apple seeking to control access to books and monitor who reads what
where. We need to send a clear message: No DRM!
So, clear your schedule for a worldwide day of action against DRM. On
Wednesday, May 4th, we will be taking action to raise the stakes and
increase awareness about the threats of Digital Restrictions
Management -- in a very significant way!
Please set some time aside in your day on Wednesday to join us for
this once-a-year opportunity! We hope you'll work with us against DRM
year-round, but coordinating online and physical events on one day
amplifies all of our voices.
* Read the blog post for some ways you can get involved.
<http://www.defectivebydesign.org/2011-day-against-drm-action-ideas>
* Check out our 2011 Day Against DRM banners for your website or blog.
<http://libreplanet.org/wiki/Group:DefectiveByDesign/Day_Against_DRM_2011/Banners_guide>
-------------------------------
Stop email from this list, but still allow us to contact you occasionally: unsubscribe-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087@defectivebydesign.org.
Stop receiving all emails from DefectiveByDesign.org: optOut-1-429-1198744-d4ad5b66c4dcba616ab4860b2ef2c40c877df087@defectivebydesign.org.
DefectiveByDesign.org is a project of the Free Software Foundation -- Fifty One Franklin Street, Fifth Floor
Boston, 02110
EPLC Education Notebook - #11-14 - May 2, 2011
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
From: Ron Cowell <cowell@eplc.org>
Date: Mon, 2 May 2011 16:37:35 -0400
To: Ron Cowell<cowell@eplc.org>
Subject: EPLC Education Notebook - #11-14 - May 2, 2011
The Education Policy and Leadership Center
800 North Third Street, Suite 408, Harrisburg, PA 17102
717-260-9900 - www.eplc.org
_________________________________________________________________
EPLC EDUCATION NOTEBOOK
Monday, May 2, 2011
Content in this edition:
Pennsylvania Policymakers
- House
- Senate
US Department of Education
PA Bulletin
Announcements
Datebook
The EPLC Education Notebook (current and past editions) also is available by visiting the EPLC website at www.eplc.org/publications_wpn.shtml
PENNSYLVANIA POLICYMAKERS
House
Ø On April 26, the House Education Committee reported the following bills which are awaiting further action by the full House:
- House Bill 285 (Rep. Mark Keller, R-86) would increase the bid limits for school construction projects from $10,000 to $25,000 and the bid limits for written or telephonic quotations from $4,000 to $7,000. It also increases the bid limits under which a school entity’s staff can perform its own work from $5,000 to $7,000. Under HB 285, bid limitations will be adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The provisions of the bill would apply to all public school entities, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, and the institutions of the State System of Higher Education (SSHE). The bill was unanimously approved.
- House Bill 1330 (Rep. Thomas Quigley, R-146) would expand the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program by increasing the available tax credits to businesses donating to Scholarship Organizations (ESO), Pre-K Scholarship Organizations (PSO) and Educational Improvement Organizations (EIO). Under HB 1330, tax credits available to businesses donating under this program would be increased from $75 million in FY 2011-2012 to $100 million in FY 2011-2012 and $200 million in FY 2012-2013. HB 1330 would also increase the maximum household income limits from $50,000 to $60,000 from June 30, 2011 through June 30, 2012 and to $75,000 after June 30, 2012. Beginning July 1, 2012, the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) would adjust the household income amounts annually based on the Consumer Price Index. The bill was amended in Committee to set the maximum tax credit to a business firm donating to an ESO or EIO to not exceed $400,000 in FY 2011-2012 before increasing to $750,000 in FY 2012-2013. Additionally, the amendment sets the maximum tax credit to a business firm donating to a PSO to not exceed $200,000 in FY 2011-2012 before increasing to $250,000 in FY 2012-2013. The bill was approved by a vote of 23-2.
- House Bill 1345 (Rep. John Taylor, R-177) would provide for the movement of the Safe School Advocate in school districts of the first class (School District of Philadelphia) from the PDE to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. The bill was unanimously approved.
Last week, the following bills were introduced and referred to the House Education Committee:
- House Bill 1348 (Rep. Thomas Killion, R-168) would allow charter and cyber charter schools to enter into concurrent enrollment agreements with institutions of higher education and award appropriate credits to students concurrently enrolled under the agreement. HB 1348 would also repeal the current charter school law and replace it with a new article entitled “Charter Schools and Cyber Charter Schools.”
- House Bill 1359 (Rep. Todd Rock, R-90) would amend the Public School Code to provide for uniform standards for the certification of school crossing guards.
- House Bill 1363 (Rep. Kathy Rapp, R-65) would suspend the requirements for continuing professional development for certificated educators until June 30, 2013.
- House Bill 1371 (Rep. Katharine Watson, R-144) would establish the Volunteer First Responders Loan Forgiveness Program within the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA).
- House Bill 1377 (Rep. Chelsa Wagner, D-22) would establish the Community College Educational Assistance Act. The act would direct PHEAA to disregard one third of an eligible student's expected family contribution (EFC) and Federal Pell Grant award amount when calculating the eligible student's Pennsylvania State grant.
- House Bill 1378 (Rep. Dennis O’Brien, R-169) would require special education services to nonpublic students be provided by the intermediate unit in which the nonpublic school is located in accordance with standards set by the Secretary of Education.
- House Resolution 231 (Rep. Tim Mahoney, D-51) would encourage school districts in the Commonwealth to study the fiscal impact of consolidating the administrations of school districts within their county.
Senate
Ø On April 26, the Senate confirmed the appointment of Ronald J. Tomalis as Secretary of Education.
Ø On April 27, Senate Bill 1 (Sen. Jeffrey Piccola, R-15), which would establish a tuition voucher program and expand the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program, was re-referred to the Senate Education Committee. According to Sen. Piccola, Chairman of the Senate Education Committee, an agreement has been reached with the administration and the bill will be amended in Committee to reflect the Governor’s desired changes.
US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Ø On April 20, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius launched a new initiative to help educate graduating college and university seniors about their new health insurance options under the Affordable Care Act. The initiative provides several resources for graduating students to learn about their options. Information for young adults and parents is available at www.facebook.com/youngadultcoverage. Additional resources for universities or student groups can be accessed by clicking here.
Ø Mid-May is the deadline for submission of applications under several USDE grant competitions, including the Striving Readers Comprehensive Literacy Program (May 9), the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (May 13), and the Advanced Placement Incentive Program (May 16).
PA BULLETIN
Notice has been given in the PA Bulletin (Vol. 41, No.17) that the Office of Open Records (OOR) has updated the Standard Right-to-Know Request Form. This form can be accessed from the OOR's web site at http://openrecords.state.pa.us. For more information, click here.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Ø On April 25, parents from Shippensburg School District organized a “Billion Dollar Bake Sale for Education” at the state capitol to protest the Governor’s severe cuts to basic education funding. Parents from several school districts voiced concern with the Governor’s proposed budget for education and what it means in terms of education quality and program offerings.
Ø On April 26, Hundreds of students and advocates attended the “March for Education” rally in Harrisburg held by the NAACP to protest Governor Corbett’s proposed cuts to education. The NAACP was joined by the Teamsters Union, several state lawmakers and education advocates.
Ø Recently, the Pennsylvania School Funding Campaign, a coalition of more than 30 statewide and regional education and advocacy organizations representing hundreds of thousands of parents, students, educators, school board members, administrators, and other concerned citizens advocating for adequate and equitable funding of Pennsylvania’s public schools, launched a new website encouraging individuals to sign a petition to stop the billion dollar cut to education. To sign the online petition, visit www.stopthebilliondollarcut.org.
Ø Also last week, the Pennsylvania Brain Injury Coalition held a rally at the state capitol to encourage the Legislature to take action on two bills (House Bill 200 and Senate Bill 200) that would establish standards for managing concussions and traumatic brain injuries in student athletes. In addition, the coalition is asking lawmakers to ensure funding for Home and Community-Based Programs, create an Advisory Board, and incorporate brain injury screenings for persons in state programs and facilities.
Ø The Pittsburgh CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) 6-12 is one of 6 finalists (and the only school in Pennsylvania) to have President Obama come to speak at its commencement. The President will visit the winning high school to deliver the commencement address later this spring. For more information, visit www.whitehouse.gov/commencement.
DATEBOOK
· The Pennsylvania House and Senate will reconvene at 1:00 PM on Monday, May 2, 2011.
· The National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is hosting “Teacher Appreciation Week” May 2-6. For more information, click here.
· The Coalition for Labor Engagement and Accountable Revenues (CLEAR) will hold a “Rally for a Responsible Budget” in Harrisburg on May 3 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. For more information, click here.
· The House Education Committee will hold a meeting on Wednesday, May 4 at 9:30 AM to consider the following bills: HB 1363, HB 1407 and HB 1411.
· Primary Election Day is Tuesday, May 17.
· The State Board of Education will hold a meeting in Lancaster on Wednesday, May 18.
For information on upcoming events, please visit www.eplc.org and click on “Events Calendar”.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
EPLC Education Notebook is published by The Education Policy and Leadership Center (EPLC). Permission to reprint or electronically redistribute the Notebook in whole or in part is granted provided attribution to EPLC is provided.
The Education Policy and Leadership Center is an independent, non-partisan and not-for-profit organization. The Mission of EPLC is to encourage and support the enactment and implementation of effective state-level education policies in order to improve student learning in grades P-12, increase the effective operation of schools, and enhance educational opportunities for citizens of all ages.
____________________
Ronald Cowell
The Education Policy and Leadership Center
800 North Third Street, Suite 408
Harrisburg, PA 17102
717-260-9900
www.eplc.org
Puppet request from Cheryl
I have a fun opportunity for you and your students to participate in a giant puppet pageant at Three Rivers Arts Festival on Sunday, June 5. I have funding to do free workshops all over the region for anyone that would like to get involved. I know it is late in the year and a crazy time for everyone, but if you are interested let me know right away
I also need older kids to wear giant puppets.
--Cheryl
I will provide:
* One free workshop at your school or other community location (small groups are fine--a scout troop, an art club, etc.)
* All materials and instruction will be provided.
* I will transport all of the puppets created in the workshop to the event
* You can pick from two different workshops:
o Things that Bloom (participants will paint giant paper umbrellas to turn them into beautiful flowers)
o Things that Fly (participants will build flying bugs and birds that will be carried on tall bamboo rod.)
You would need to:
* Provide a location for the workshop sometime in May
* Promote the workshop to your community (I'll provide a simple flyer for you to customize)
* Lead your group at two performances at Three Rivers Arts Festival on Sunday, June 5 between noon and 4 pm.
* Attend one of the two rehearsals (just you) so you can direct your group-you can pick which rehearsal works for you:
o Saturday, May 21 at my studio from 1 to 4 or
o Sunday, June 5 at Point State Park at 9 am
I am also doing a ton of free workshops here at my studio. If you can't host a workshop but would like to get involved or have individual students that might like to participate you are welcome to share this information:
Sunday, May 8 Workshop (all ages) 1 to 4
Tuesday, May 10 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Friday, May 13 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Tuesday, May 17 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Saturday, May 21 Rehearsal (all ages)l 1 to 5
Sunday, May 22 Workshop (all ages) 1 to 4
Monday, May 23 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Thursday, June 2 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Friday, June 3 Workshop (adults) 1 to 4
Saturday, June 4 Finishing touches (all ages) 1 to 4
Sunday, June 5 Rehearsal 9 am
Sunday, June 5 Performance around noon
Sunday, June 5 Performance around 4
Contact her directly at cheryl -at- studiocapezzuti -dot- com.
A chapter ends with the killing of Osama bin Laden.
Libertarian Party celebrates end of bin Laden era
WASHINGTON - Libertarian Party Chairman Mark Hinkle issued this statement today:
"I am glad to hear of the death of Osama bin Laden, who had no qualms about slaughtering American civilians.
"Unfortunately, bin Laden leaves behind an evil legacy in the United States: the Department of Homeland Security, the TSA, the PATRIOT Act, warrantless wiretaps, the 'state secrets' doctrine, and other violations of Americans' civil and economic rights.
"Just like Osama bin Laden, these programs must be terminated.
"President Obama must also end the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya. It's time to stop being the world's policeman. It's time to bring all those troops home.
"Our government should also end its foreign aid programs, which create future terrorists by funding many dictators around the world."
The Libertarian Party platform (section 3.3) states, "American foreign policy should seek an America at peace with the world. Our foreign policy should emphasize defense against attack from abroad and enhance the likelihood of peace by avoiding foreign entanglements. We would end the current U.S. government policy of foreign intervention, including military and economic aid. We recognize the right of all people to resist tyranny and defend themselves and their rights. We condemn the use of force, and especially the use of terrorism, against the innocent, regardless of whether such acts are committed by governments or by political or revolutionary groups."
In 2008, the Libertarian National Committee adopted resolutions calling for an end to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
For more information, or to arrange an interview, call LP Executive Director Wes Benedict at 202-333-0008 ext. 222.
The LP is America's third-largest political party, founded in 1971. The Libertarian Party stands for free markets, civil liberties, and peace. You can find more information on the Libertarian Party at our website.
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