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Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Fwd: Swim Coach Terry Laughlin comes to Pittsburgh, and Other Spring Events
Monday, April 23, 2012
The envelope please. Governor Foxx announces her succussor
First 1:44 has poor audio. Sorry.
Around 4 minutes the suspense builds!
Bethany Foxx, YAG Governor, said, "... It is both my honor and pleasure to announce the 66th Youth Governor for the Pennsylvania YMCA Youth and Government program. Your new Governor, congratulations to Erik Rauterkus. (Timeline 4:40)
Around 4 minutes the suspense builds!
Bethany Foxx, YAG Governor, said, "... It is both my honor and pleasure to announce the 66th Youth Governor for the Pennsylvania YMCA Youth and Government program. Your new Governor, congratulations to Erik Rauterkus. (Timeline 4:40)
Mark Rauterkus, Bethany Foxx, Erik Rauterkus
Photo of Mark Rauterkus, PA YMCA and PPS Obama Academy volunteer, Bethany Foxx, former PA Youth Governor from Hershey, and Erik Rauterkus, South Side resident and PA's Youth Governor as of April 2012.
Harrisburg & Pittsburgh Crashes with Youth Elections in Pennsylvania
by Angela Perfetti, senior at Pittsburgh's Obama Academy
(Sunday, April 22, 2012)
Twenty five high school students from Obama Academy of International Studies, an I.B. school within Pittsburgh Public Schools, were in a charter bus that was hit on the PA Turnpike while on travels home from Harrisburg after the conclusion of the YMCA Youth and Government model convention in the state capital today. None of the students nor the teacher nor two other adult volunteers were injured in the Sunday evening accident, westbound around Murrysville, mile marker 65. The bus driver as well as the driver of the semi-truck were both unhurt.
The bus and the semi truck carrying new Mercedes sedans bumped sides and scraped together while heading in the same direction. All of the exterior windows along the right side of the bus were broken and shattered, but the glass never reached the interior by the passengers.
“Wind seemed to push the truck into the bus through a turn and the driver did a great job to avert a more catastrophic accident,” said Tobias Rather, a junior within the school club. “State police were called and no arrest nor citations were made to our knowledge.”
Traveling on the bus were the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the Editor in Chief of Pennsylvania's Youth Government. All had been just been voted upon and sworn into office just hours prior in the PA State House Chambers. The student delegation had been to a four-day, model-government convention directed by the Pennsylvania YMCA (YAG). YAG brought together more than 400 students from across the state to participate in government events.
Students at YAG run their own government, electing a student Governor, presently Erik Rauterkus (junior from Pittsburgh's South Side); Lieutenant Governor, Ben Junker (junior from Bloomfield); and Editor in Chief, Anna Vitti (junior from Highland Park). Two other elected officials come from elsewhere in the state: The Speaker of the House is from Hershey and the Chief Justice is from East Shore Y in Harrisburg.
These leaders facilitate YAG members in a year-long quest to write, debate, amend and vote for bills with committee and floor sessions. Bills are signed or vetoed by the Governor. Others win or lose court cases, report on top stories, and lobby for new PA laws. Some YAG legislation has been introduced and passed into real law within Pennsylvania.
“YAG has been a well-respected state program for many decades,” said Erik Rauterkus, now the 66th Youth Governor in PA.
“The YAG program clearly demonstrated various perceptions among citizens from suburban and rural delegations who have notoriously dominated the events in Harrisburg,” said Matt Lampl, Obama junior, Squirrel Hill.
“Only two out of 24 delegations come from within Philadelphia or Pittsburgh city limits. Naturally, the leadership tended to sway toward delegates from rural, rather than urban, areas, as they represented the majority. But the Obama delegation of 2012 made unprecedented impact this year.”
“Ours was an amazing feat, sweeping three out of the five main leadership positions,” said Annie Widom, junor, Squirrel Hill. Widom held a lobby position this week at YAG.
Rauterkus claimed the top spot in the election for Governor by besting a veteran YAG member, Erin Agnew, from Springfield, which is also the largest delegation.
The bus crash was the second major crash for Rauterkus this week. Just two days prior to the trip to Harrisburg, Rauterkus, one of the areas top junior competitive cyclists and captain of the school's swim team, was rushed to Presbyterian Hospital after experiencing a major tumble within a sprint in a race at the Bud Harris Cycling Oval. Suffering from plenty of road rash and soreness, he persevered and still attended the youth leadership event.
Ben Junker, a swimming and waterpolo teammate of Rauterkus, pulled off a similar victory, narrowly beating five other peer members for the role of Lieutenant Governor. One of his duties is to preside over the Senate. Junker also was awarded the Outstanding Senate Committee Chair in the final joint session.
The new Editor-in-chief for YAG, Anna Vitti, was elected to that position by her peers and moved from her role as reporter.
Obama freshman, Rohun Joseph, was the fourth member of the squad who got put onto the YMCA invite list to attend CONA, the USA version for Youth Government. Adult advisers evaluate the students throughout the year and select an all-star cadre of youth leaders to meet for a week in North Carolina in July. Only 26 students in Pennsylvania get that opportunity.
This was the first year of the Obama delegation, as it replaced the recently closed Schenley High School. “The students made a great impression with their skills and leadership abilities, said YMCA Program Director, Adoree DeLuca-Johnson. “They brought the Obama Academy and Pittsburgh names to the state.”
The YAG members were reminded in an opening speech by Governor Tom Corbett, “Youth are the future of this world.” In the closing session, the Lieutenant Governor, Jim Cawley spoke about voting and duties as citizens.
“The key role we play in the YAG program may indicate the beginning of better relationship among the urban, suburban and rural areas of our Commonwealth in both policy and politics” said Demetri Lardas, Obama junior, from the Oakland area of Pittsburgh.
James Hill, 2011 Schenley graduate, from Stanton Heights and a former YAG participant said, “I'm thankful that no one was hurt in the bus crash. It must have been in exciting end to an exciting weekend. I'm immensely proud of Erik, Ben, and Anna for making a smash this year. Working with them in the past, I know that they are great kids and that they are going to work hard to make YAG even better next year. I'm very proud that they're making there own legacy and proving inner city schools have what it takes."
###
Angela Perfetti, Senior, Pgh Obama, Reporter at YAG
Mark Rauterkus, PA YAG volunteer, Mark@Rauterkus.com, 412-298-3432
Photos available.
Also see:
The PA YMCA site: http://www.ymcapa.org/index.html
PA YAG blog: http://payagpress.tumblr.com/
PA YAG YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/PaYouthandGov
(Sunday, April 22, 2012)
Twenty five high school students from Obama Academy of International Studies, an I.B. school within Pittsburgh Public Schools, were in a charter bus that was hit on the PA Turnpike while on travels home from Harrisburg after the conclusion of the YMCA Youth and Government model convention in the state capital today. None of the students nor the teacher nor two other adult volunteers were injured in the Sunday evening accident, westbound around Murrysville, mile marker 65. The bus driver as well as the driver of the semi-truck were both unhurt.
The bus and the semi truck carrying new Mercedes sedans bumped sides and scraped together while heading in the same direction. All of the exterior windows along the right side of the bus were broken and shattered, but the glass never reached the interior by the passengers.
“Wind seemed to push the truck into the bus through a turn and the driver did a great job to avert a more catastrophic accident,” said Tobias Rather, a junior within the school club. “State police were called and no arrest nor citations were made to our knowledge.”
Traveling on the bus were the Governor, Lieutenant Governor and the Editor in Chief of Pennsylvania's Youth Government. All had been just been voted upon and sworn into office just hours prior in the PA State House Chambers. The student delegation had been to a four-day, model-government convention directed by the Pennsylvania YMCA (YAG). YAG brought together more than 400 students from across the state to participate in government events.
Students at YAG run their own government, electing a student Governor, presently Erik Rauterkus (junior from Pittsburgh's South Side); Lieutenant Governor, Ben Junker (junior from Bloomfield); and Editor in Chief, Anna Vitti (junior from Highland Park). Two other elected officials come from elsewhere in the state: The Speaker of the House is from Hershey and the Chief Justice is from East Shore Y in Harrisburg.
These leaders facilitate YAG members in a year-long quest to write, debate, amend and vote for bills with committee and floor sessions. Bills are signed or vetoed by the Governor. Others win or lose court cases, report on top stories, and lobby for new PA laws. Some YAG legislation has been introduced and passed into real law within Pennsylvania.
“YAG has been a well-respected state program for many decades,” said Erik Rauterkus, now the 66th Youth Governor in PA.
“The YAG program clearly demonstrated various perceptions among citizens from suburban and rural delegations who have notoriously dominated the events in Harrisburg,” said Matt Lampl, Obama junior, Squirrel Hill.
“Only two out of 24 delegations come from within Philadelphia or Pittsburgh city limits. Naturally, the leadership tended to sway toward delegates from rural, rather than urban, areas, as they represented the majority. But the Obama delegation of 2012 made unprecedented impact this year.”
“Ours was an amazing feat, sweeping three out of the five main leadership positions,” said Annie Widom, junor, Squirrel Hill. Widom held a lobby position this week at YAG.
Rauterkus claimed the top spot in the election for Governor by besting a veteran YAG member, Erin Agnew, from Springfield, which is also the largest delegation.
The bus crash was the second major crash for Rauterkus this week. Just two days prior to the trip to Harrisburg, Rauterkus, one of the areas top junior competitive cyclists and captain of the school's swim team, was rushed to Presbyterian Hospital after experiencing a major tumble within a sprint in a race at the Bud Harris Cycling Oval. Suffering from plenty of road rash and soreness, he persevered and still attended the youth leadership event.
Ben Junker, a swimming and waterpolo teammate of Rauterkus, pulled off a similar victory, narrowly beating five other peer members for the role of Lieutenant Governor. One of his duties is to preside over the Senate. Junker also was awarded the Outstanding Senate Committee Chair in the final joint session.
The new Editor-in-chief for YAG, Anna Vitti, was elected to that position by her peers and moved from her role as reporter.
Obama freshman, Rohun Joseph, was the fourth member of the squad who got put onto the YMCA invite list to attend CONA, the USA version for Youth Government. Adult advisers evaluate the students throughout the year and select an all-star cadre of youth leaders to meet for a week in North Carolina in July. Only 26 students in Pennsylvania get that opportunity.
This was the first year of the Obama delegation, as it replaced the recently closed Schenley High School. “The students made a great impression with their skills and leadership abilities, said YMCA Program Director, Adoree DeLuca-Johnson. “They brought the Obama Academy and Pittsburgh names to the state.”
The YAG members were reminded in an opening speech by Governor Tom Corbett, “Youth are the future of this world.” In the closing session, the Lieutenant Governor, Jim Cawley spoke about voting and duties as citizens.
“The key role we play in the YAG program may indicate the beginning of better relationship among the urban, suburban and rural areas of our Commonwealth in both policy and politics” said Demetri Lardas, Obama junior, from the Oakland area of Pittsburgh.
James Hill, 2011 Schenley graduate, from Stanton Heights and a former YAG participant said, “I'm thankful that no one was hurt in the bus crash. It must have been in exciting end to an exciting weekend. I'm immensely proud of Erik, Ben, and Anna for making a smash this year. Working with them in the past, I know that they are great kids and that they are going to work hard to make YAG even better next year. I'm very proud that they're making there own legacy and proving inner city schools have what it takes."
###
For more information:
Angela Perfetti, Senior, Pgh Obama, Reporter at YAG
Mark Rauterkus, PA YAG volunteer, Mark@Rauterkus.com, 412-298-3432
Photos available.
Also see:
The PA YMCA site: http://www.ymcapa.org/index.html
PA YAG blog: http://payagpress.tumblr.com/
PA YAG YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/PaYouthandGov
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Obama Academy Award Winners
Anna Vitti, Rohun Joseph, Ben Junker and Erik Rauterkus all got awards in the State Capital in Harrisburg.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Fwd: Heicklen jury tampering case dismissed
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Julian P Heicklen
Date: Thursday, April 19, 2012
Subject: Heicklen jury tampering case dismissed
To: Julian Heicklen <jPH13@psu.edu>
Hi Tyranny Fighters:
Today, I was notified by Sabrina Shroff, my federal defender stand-by counsel and by Ben Weiser, the federal court reporter for the New York Times that the jury tampering case against me in the U. S. District Court in Manhattan, NY Has been dismissed. This means that the jury has the right, actually the duty, to judge the law as well as the facts. I have not yet seen either the dismissal order nor the court opinion.
This is a great victory for the country and will keep me out of federal prison. However all the federal judges in the United States should be removed from office and tried for perjury with the intent to obstruct justice, since they all instruct the jury that it must uphold the law as they give it. This is a double lie. If the jury decides to uphold the law, it must be the law in the written statute. If the judge does not provide the jury with the written statute, the jury MUST find the defendant not guilty, because of reasonable doubt.
On Monday, April 23, 2012, I will be distributing jury nullification literature on the plaza in front of the U. S. Federal Courthouse at 500 Pearl Street, Manhattan, NY 10007, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. You all are invited to join me. At 1:30 pm there will be a victory luncheon for everyone who wishes to attend at their own expense at one of the best Chinese restaurants in near-by China Town. Please send me your suggestion for which restaurant you prefer.
The luncheon will to thank Sabrina Shroff and Steven Statsinger, my federal defender stand-by counsels, for their invaluable work to bring the case to a successful solution. I hope to see as many of you as possible at either the distribution or the luncheon, or both. If you plan to attend the luncheon, let me know, so that I can notify the restaurant of how many of us there will be.
One small step for a shabby old man, but a giant leap for justice and our country. On to Orlando on Tuesday, May 8, 2012.
Yours in freedom and justice—Julian
--
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Fw: Hope to See You on Sunday
Sent from my BlackBerry®
From: "Ron Paul" <ron_paul@ronpaul2012.com>
Date: Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:55:25 -0700
To: Mark Rauterkus<mark@rauterkus.com>
ReplyTo: ron_paul@ronpaul2012.com
Subject: Hope to See You on Sunday
 Dear Mark, Don’t believe the establishment’s lie that this race is over. I can’t tell you how much energy and encouragement I’ve received from our record-breaking crowds at recent meetings. At one event in California alone, over 8,500 people came out to hear the message of liberty! When I talk about restoring America now, you can be sure it’s more than a campaign slogan. It can be a reality if we stay committed to this race and spreading the word about freedom. So I hope you’ll take advantage of a chance this Sunday, April 22, to bring your neighbors, family, and friends out to the Independence Mall in Philadelphia to hear about our ideas of fiscal responsibility and constitutionally limited government. And with the Pennsylvania and Delaware primaries just around the corner on April 24, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. The event will start at 1 pm on the lawn of the Independence Visitor Center. Musicians including supporter Jordan Page will kick things off, and Michael Scheuer, former head of the CIA’s Bin Laden unit, will speak right before me. Click here for more details. If you’re planning to attend, please RSVP to help give us an idea of how many we can expect. I’m excited about this opportunity to speak in the city where our Founders declared their independence from tyranny, and I hope you’ll join me in declaring our own trust in the message of freedom. For Liberty,  Ron Paul P.S. I’m coming to Philadelphia on Sunday, April 22, and I hope you will join me, Michael Scheuer, Jordan Page, and more for what is sure to be an exciting time. The event starts at 1 pm on the lawn of the Independence Visitor Center. Click here for all the details and please RSVP right away if you plan to attend. And, for those who can make a special contribution to my campaign, I am hosting a dinner reception at 6 pm Sunday night at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. Click here for more information on this opportunity. |
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Fw: AMAZING TRAINING OPPORTUNITY FOR ANYONE WORKING WITH AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS
Sent from my BlackBerry®
From: Stephen MacIsaac <macisaac2@wireless-neighborhoods.org>
Date: Tue, 17 Apr 2012 13:53:53 -0400
To: Training RSVPs<trainings@neighborhoodlearning.org>
Subject: AMAZING TRAINING OPPORTUNITY FOR ANYONE WORKING WITH AFRICAN AMERICAN STUDENTS
We need your help getting this distributed!!!!!
Please consider coming to this amazing training opportunity or please pass this along to anyone who serves African American students, particularly males. Neighborhood Learning Alliance, Hill House Association and Bloomfield Garfield Corporation have the great privilege of presenting a 3-part series lead by Malcolm Thomas, Keith Murphy and Tony Mitchell, three of the strongest leaders in the city of Pittsburgh around Rites of Passage, Manhood Development and African-centered programming. The trainings are completely free of charge to anyone who can benefit from insights and strategies for better engaging African American males or for those who just want to deliver more culturally appropriate programming for our African American children. Please see the flyer below and if interested in attending call or email as soon as possible to RSVP. A copy of the flyer is also attached to the email if you want to print a copy out. Thanks. Hope to see you at the training.
--
Stephen MacIsaac
Executive Directors
Neighborhood Learning Alliance
United Way Agency Code: 1528678
Great reasons to avoid any permit parking on the South Side
This comes from a friend on Facebook.
Back in November, I was visiting my parents and had their visitor;s pass on my dash. When I went to my car, I had a ticket for 'expired visitor's permit.' The permit was visible and clearly had valid dates (in fact, that particular pass became effective on Nov 1). I scheduled a hearing at traffic court. Before doing so, though, I called the PPA and complained. I was told that the parking enforcement officer ticketed me for having two expired stickers on my rear drivers side window (from when the permits used to be stickers, not placards). The parking officer even took photos of my window. I forgot they were even still on the window, but that still doesn't change the fact that the placard on my dash was valid and visible. At court, the magistrate produced the photos which were in my file and reduced the fine down to $20, which I paid, even though I thought the whole thing was bullshit. Heck, I've seen cars with a dozen of those old stickers on their windows. Someone recently sent me a picture of such a car -- it had at least six stickers -- that is regularly parked in almost the exact spot, in front of my parent's house, where I was ticketed. The car didn't have a ticket. And there are other cars without valid permits and parked for months without being moved that aren't being ticketed. Those jagoffs will come along and ticket someone visiting their parents, with a valid placard, though. This parking permit program only added another layer of useless bureaucratic shit and enables even more harassment of visitors to our city. My advice would be to do whatever you can to nix this plan because once you have it, it is nearly impossible to get rid of.
Back in November, I was visiting my parents and had their visitor;s pass on my dash. When I went to my car, I had a ticket for 'expired visitor's permit.' The permit was visible and clearly had valid dates (in fact, that particular pass became effective on Nov 1). I scheduled a hearing at traffic court. Before doing so, though, I called the PPA and complained. I was told that the parking enforcement officer ticketed me for having two expired stickers on my rear drivers side window (from when the permits used to be stickers, not placards). The parking officer even took photos of my window. I forgot they were even still on the window, but that still doesn't change the fact that the placard on my dash was valid and visible. At court, the magistrate produced the photos which were in my file and reduced the fine down to $20, which I paid, even though I thought the whole thing was bullshit. Heck, I've seen cars with a dozen of those old stickers on their windows. Someone recently sent me a picture of such a car -- it had at least six stickers -- that is regularly parked in almost the exact spot, in front of my parent's house, where I was ticketed. The car didn't have a ticket. And there are other cars without valid permits and parked for months without being moved that aren't being ticketed. Those jagoffs will come along and ticket someone visiting their parents, with a valid placard, though. This parking permit program only added another layer of useless bureaucratic shit and enables even more harassment of visitors to our city. My advice would be to do whatever you can to nix this plan because once you have it, it is nearly impossible to get rid of.
Monday, April 16, 2012
An update from Mark @ Rauterkus . com - Five points of interest
Hi Friends and Neighbors,
It has been many months since my last email blast, as I'm using Facebook most of the time. Join me there, please: http://www.facebook.com/rauterkus
1)
This week on WEDNESDAY at 10 am, there is a ribbon cutting at the brand new YMCA on Centre Ave in The Hill District. Let's check it out together.
I'm running (with the great help of the nonprofit, Neighborhood Learning Alliance) a five week Swim and Water Polo Camp as part of Pgh Public Schools' Summer Dreamers this summer. We'll swim at that Y and also at a Citiparks pool too. So, I'm looking for some employees, volunteers and equipment donations as well.
2)
If you have some used sports equipment you'd like to donate, such as balls, old trophies, medals, and even banners with one side available -- let me know. I can come over and take them off of your hands and re-leverage them with some of our efforts with the city kids this summer.
3)
This weekend I go to Harrisburg to volunteer with another YMCA program called, YOUTH & Government. About 400 well supervised kids from around the state take over both chambers of the state capital and even some court rooms and hold a MOCK government. It is a fun experience and so educational. I'm helping to lead the PRESS and REPORTERS. With that, some of our interactions could be with citizens and real media opportunities. If you'd like to help me in a virtual way with these tasks, perhaps being interviewed on a topic, ghost editing articles on a wiki, or following along as bills are debated and voted upon, let me know with an email. I'll invite you to our trusted wiki space. Mark@Rauterkus.com.
4)
A living hero of mine comes back to his home town, Pittsburgh, while I'm in Harrisburg on Friday at 7 pm at Soldiers and Sailors Hall in Oakland. Ron Paul, candidate for President, is holding a town hall. If you can attend, do so -- regardless if you want the USA to keep bombing other nations around the world and increasing government debt by TRILLIONS. Understand this: Ron Paul can still win the nomination and be the R on the ballot in November. The mainstream media has been getting it wrong. Recently, insiders are aware that Ron Paul won the most delegates in Colorado.
5)
The Steel City Showdown, a bike race in downtown Pittsburgh across the Clemente & Warhol Bridges and with a start / finish line by PNC Park, is on Sunday, in two weeks. My sons ride and race and we'd love to see you come out to cheer on all the riders. Erik races twice: as a Junior (at 8:30 am) and Cat 4 (at 11:30 am). Volunteers are needed too. *
* Currently, we are seeking individuals to assist with registration, to act as course marshals, to help with early morning set-up, or to stick around for the afternoon clean-up. Each volunteer receives a t-shirt, and food will be provided; coffee and doughnuts in the morning, pizza in the afternoon. If you are interested in volunteering, please e-mail Ben Stephens or Maura Spillane at steelcityshowdownvolunteers@gmail.com.
Plus, from 3 to 4 pm, the Downtown bike course is OPEN for a FREE ride for anyone to enjoy. It is sorta nice to be able to spin around the bridges in a festive setting on a Sunday afternoon without traffic. So, we hope to see you there on Sunday, April 29.
Be safe this spring.
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
It has been many months since my last email blast, as I'm using Facebook most of the time. Join me there, please: http://www.facebook.com/rauterkus
1)
This week on WEDNESDAY at 10 am, there is a ribbon cutting at the brand new YMCA on Centre Ave in The Hill District. Let's check it out together.
I'm running (with the great help of the nonprofit, Neighborhood Learning Alliance) a five week Swim and Water Polo Camp as part of Pgh Public Schools' Summer Dreamers this summer. We'll swim at that Y and also at a Citiparks pool too. So, I'm looking for some employees, volunteers and equipment donations as well.
2)
If you have some used sports equipment you'd like to donate, such as balls, old trophies, medals, and even banners with one side available -- let me know. I can come over and take them off of your hands and re-leverage them with some of our efforts with the city kids this summer.
3)
This weekend I go to Harrisburg to volunteer with another YMCA program called, YOUTH & Government. About 400 well supervised kids from around the state take over both chambers of the state capital and even some court rooms and hold a MOCK government. It is a fun experience and so educational. I'm helping to lead the PRESS and REPORTERS. With that, some of our interactions could be with citizens and real media opportunities. If you'd like to help me in a virtual way with these tasks, perhaps being interviewed on a topic, ghost editing articles on a wiki, or following along as bills are debated and voted upon, let me know with an email. I'll invite you to our trusted wiki space. Mark@Rauterkus.com.
4)
A living hero of mine comes back to his home town, Pittsburgh, while I'm in Harrisburg on Friday at 7 pm at Soldiers and Sailors Hall in Oakland. Ron Paul, candidate for President, is holding a town hall. If you can attend, do so -- regardless if you want the USA to keep bombing other nations around the world and increasing government debt by TRILLIONS. Understand this: Ron Paul can still win the nomination and be the R on the ballot in November. The mainstream media has been getting it wrong. Recently, insiders are aware that Ron Paul won the most delegates in Colorado.
5)
The Steel City Showdown, a bike race in downtown Pittsburgh across the Clemente & Warhol Bridges and with a start / finish line by PNC Park, is on Sunday, in two weeks. My sons ride and race and we'd love to see you come out to cheer on all the riders. Erik races twice: as a Junior (at 8:30 am) and Cat 4 (at 11:30 am). Volunteers are needed too. *
* Currently, we are seeking individuals to assist with registration, to act as course marshals, to help with early morning set-up, or to stick around for the afternoon clean-up. Each volunteer receives a t-shirt, and food will be provided; coffee and doughnuts in the morning, pizza in the afternoon. If you are interested in volunteering, please e-mail Ben Stephens or Maura Spillane at steelcityshowdownvolunteers@gmail.com.
Plus, from 3 to 4 pm, the Downtown bike course is OPEN for a FREE ride for anyone to enjoy. It is sorta nice to be able to spin around the bridges in a festive setting on a Sunday afternoon without traffic. So, we hope to see you there on Sunday, April 29.
Be safe this spring.
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Friday, April 13, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Early Education Policy Forum to be in Pittsburgh on April 19
You Are Invited to Attend
PENNSYLVANIA EDUCATION POLICY FORUM
"Western PA Breakfast Series"
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Continental Breakfast - 8:00 a.m.
Program - 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Holiday Inn Pittsburgh University Center
(100 Lytton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213)
Sponsored by the Pennsylvania Association for the Education of Young Children and
The Education Policy and Leadership Center
The Education Policy and Leadership Center
SUBJECT:
Why Investing in Early Education Matters,
Even in These Difficult Economic Times
Even in These Difficult Economic Times
SPEAKERS:
Dr. Cathy Lobaugh, Coordinator of Early Childhood Programs, McKeesport School District
Tom Smith, Executive Director, Long Run Children's Learning Center
Donna Furnier, Superintendent, Jefferson-Morgan School District
Elizabeth (Betty) Lisowski, Executive Director, Riverview Children's Center
Patrick M. Graczyk, Assistant to the Superintendent, Highlands School District
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Share school district successes and challenges in supporting quality learning experiences. Hear from local school districts and early learning providers about how they have worked together to maintain early learning as an integral part of the school districts' overall goals. Learn how quality early learning can contribute positively to a community's economic success.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
While there is no registration fee, seating is limited and an RSVP is required.
RSVP on-line at
Please feel free to share this information with colleagues who may like to attend.
Olympic Trials on TV
We get to watch the USA Women's Water Polo team play on July 8, just before the start of Summer Dreamers Swim and Water Polo Camp. I think we should have some gatherings to get the kids together to watch as a group.
U.S. OLYMPIC COMMITTEE AND NBC SPORTS GROUP ANNOUNCE SCHEDULE FOR 2012 U.S. OLYMPIC TEAM TRIALS COVERAGE
A Record 67 1/2 Hours of Trials Coverage; 43 Hours on NBC Sports Network, 24 1/2 Hours on NBC
47 Hours of Live Trials Coverage Including 15 1/2 Hours on NBC in Primetime
Every Night of Swimming Trials Live in Primetime on NBC
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. and NEW YORK - April 4, 2012 - The United States Olympic Committee and the NBC Sports Group today announced the television schedule for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials. A record 67 1/2 hours of event coverage - 43 on NBC Sports Network and 24 1/2 on NBC - will feature 10 sports, including live primetime coverage of trials for diving, swimming, gymnastics and track & field, as well as events for water polo and field hockey.
Trials coverage begins on Sunday, April 22, on NBC Sports Network with wrestling competition from Iowa City, Iowa, and concludes on Sunday, July 8, with the U.S Women's Water Polo Olympic Team taking on the Chinese Olympic Team.
The 67 1/2 hours of coverage on NBC and NBC Sports Network marks the most ever for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, topping the 49 hours of trials coverage in 2008 and 40 1/2 hours in 2004. Additionally, NBC Sports Network and Universal Sports will re-air a combined 117 hours of trials coverage (74 hours on NBC Sports Network and 43 hours on Universal Sports).
"We are thrilled to present a record number of hours of Olympic Trials on NBC and NBC Sports Network - which will serve as the home of Team USA during the London Games" said Gary Zenkel, President, NBC Olympics. "Our extensive coverage gives fans a head start to follow the U.S. Olympians as they prepare for London 2012."
"Over the next 100 days, America's best athletes will compete for a place on the U.S. Olympic Team, providing fans of Olympic sport with inspiring performances and stories ahead of the London Games," said Scott Blackmun, chief executive officer, USOC. "NBC is a great partner to the Olympic Movement and NBC Sports Group's commitment to broadcasting the U.S. Olympic Team Trials will help build interest in the London 2012 Olympic Games while introducing Americans to the athletes who will represent the United States as members of the U.S. Olympic Team this summer."
Olympic Trials coverage highlights:
· 47 hours of LIVE trials coverage on NBC and NBC Sports Network including 15 1/2 on NBC in primetime;
· For the first time, every night of the swimming trials live in primetime on NBC;
· Sunday, July 1: four hours of live primetime track & field, swimming and gymnastics coverage on NBC.
2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials and Exhibition Events - Television Schedule
Date Time Network Event
Sun., April 22 4-7 p.m. ET NBCSN Wrestling - Finals (next day coverage)
Mon., April 23 3-6 p.m. ET NBCSN Wrestling - Finals (next day coverage)
Sun., May 13 3-5 p.m. ET NBCSN Volleyball - Men's Olympic Qualification Tournament Final (next day coverage)
Sun., May 27 3-4:30 p.m. ET NBCSN Water Polo - USA Men vs. Hungary (live)
Tues., June 19 12-2 a.m. ET NBCSN Diving - Semifinals: Men's 10-meter (live)
Wed., June 20 10 p.m.-2 a.m. ET NBCSN Diving - Semifinals: Men's 3-meter (live); Women's 10-meter (live); Women's 3-meter (next day coverage)
Thurs., June 21 10 p.m.-12 a.m. ET NBCSN Diving - Synchro Finals: Women's 3-meter; Men's 10-meter (live)
Fri., June 22 9-11 p.m. ET NBCSN Track & Field - Finals (live) 11 p.m.-12 a.m. ET NBCSN Diving - Synchro Finals: Men's 3-meter (live)
Sat., June 23 1:30-3:30 p.m. ET NBCSN Field Hockey - USA Women vs. Argentina (live) 4-6 p.m. ET NBC Diving: Men's 10-meter - Finals (live) 6-7:30 p.m. ET NBCSN Rowing (from June 11-14) and BMX (from June 16) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Track & Field - Finals (live)
Sun., June 24 3-6 p.m. ET NBC Diving: Men's 3-meter, Women's 10-meter, Women's 3-meter - Finals (live) 7-8 p.m. ET/PT NBC Track & Field - Finals (live)
Mon., June 25 6:30-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live) 9-11 p.m. ET NBCSN Track & Field - Finals (live)
Tues., June 26 6:30-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live)
Wed., June 27 7-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live)
Thurs., June 28 4:30-5:30 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 5:30-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Gymnastics - Men's Competition (live) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live) 9-11 p.m. ET NBCSN Track & Field - Finals (live)
Fri., June 29 4:30-6 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 6-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Track & Field - Finals (live) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live) 9-11 p.m. ET/PT NBC Gymnastics - Women's Competition (live)
Satur., June 30 4-6 p.m. ET NBC Gymnastics - Men's Final (live) 6:30-8 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live) 9-10 p.m. ET/PT NBC Track & Field - Finals (live)
Sun., July 1 6-7 p.m. ET NBCSN Swimming - Qualifying Heats (same day coverage) 7-8 p.m. ET/PT NBC Track & Field - Finals (live) 8-9 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live) 9-11 p.m. ET/PT NBC Gymnastics - Women's Final (live)
Mon., July 2 8-8:30 p.m. ET/PT NBC Swimming - Finals (live)
Sun., July 8 6-7:30 p.m. ET NBCSN Water Polo - USA Women vs. China (live)
About the USOC
Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., the U.S. Olympic Committee serves as both the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States. As such, the USOC is responsible for the training, entering and funding of U.S. teams for the Olympic, Paralympic, Youth Olympic, Pan American and Parapan American Games, while serving as a steward of the Olympic and Paralympic Movements throughout the country. For more information, visit TeamUSA.org.
About NBC Olympics
A division of the NBC Sports Group, NBC Olympics is responsible for producing, programming and promoting NBCUniversal's Olympic coverage. It is renowned for its unsurpassed Olympic heritage, award-winning production, and ability to aggregate the largest audiences in U.S. television history.
Having produced every summer Olympic Games since Seoul in 1988 and every Olympic Winter Games since Salt Lake City in 2002, the networks of NBCUniversal are synonymous with the Games in the United States. In 2011, NBCUniversal acquired the U.S. media rights on all platforms to the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games, the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the Pyeongchang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, and the 2020 Olympic Games. At the conclusion of the 2020 Games, NBCUniversal will have presented 17 total Olympic Games and 11 consecutive, the most for a U.S. media company in both categories.
NBC has won an unprecedented 91 Emmy Awards for its Olympics coverage, as well as a prestigious Peabody Award for its presentation of the Beijing Opening Ceremony in 2008, which USA Today said was "the best overall Olympic experience ever provided by a U.S. network."
In addition to its unsurpassed heritage and award-winning production, NBCUniversal is known for aggregating large Olympic audiences, as nine of the top 11 most-watched U.S. television events of all time are Olympic Games presented across the networks of NBCUniversal. The Beijing Olympic Games rank No. 1 with 215 million viewers.
Read more at http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2012/04/04/us-olympic-committee-and-nbc-sports-group-announce-schedule-for-2012-us-olympic-team-trials-coverage-988104/20120404nbc01/#dQzGhOEeMRQUJCr3.99
Fwd: Invite to Screening at United Nations in NYC
Subject: Invite to Screening at United Nations in NYC
We have really exciting news! This Earth Day, April 22nd, as part of our
Worldwide Global Screening event, we will show the One Day on Earth feature
film in the UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY -- and you're invited. Ladies
and Gentlemen of the One Day on Earth community. . . WE DID IT.
This is a huge honor and we can't wait to fill the room with our supporters.
If you can make it to the UN in New York City for this special viewing,
please RSVP via the link below. Space is limited and the seats are free.
This is the flagship event of over 200 screenings happening in 160+
countries on Sunday, April 22nd. Please visit our homepage for more info on
the other amazing screenings happening worldwide on Earth Day.
UNITED NATIONS SCREENING RSVP:
http://www.onedayonearth.org/generalassembly
Cheers!
Kyle, Brandon, and the One Day on Earth Team
Please be sure to friend us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/onedayonearth
And, follow us on twitter: http://twitter.com/onedayonearth
--
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Sunday, April 08, 2012
Fwd: [ACA Google Group] Riding two abreast
FYI.
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Chris Mayhew
I've now been pulled over twice in South Park (the park) for riding
two abreast. Both Allegheny County Sherrifs cited the new 4 foot
passing rule as grounds for pulling me over. I didn't listen to the
full explanation. Setting aside what you think I should have done or
what the law actually states, it's clear that this is how they are
going to enforce the law for the time being, at least in South Park,
but perhaps North Park as well (same cops). And, having a copy of the
law on you won't matter. I in fact did today. To quote the cop " I
don't care what you have.". Apparently the fine is $110.
Good luck out there.
--
Chris Mayhew
www.jbvcoaching.com
--
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Chris Mayhew
I've now been pulled over twice in South Park (the park) for riding
two abreast. Both Allegheny County Sherrifs cited the new 4 foot
passing rule as grounds for pulling me over. I didn't listen to the
full explanation. Setting aside what you think I should have done or
what the law actually states, it's clear that this is how they are
going to enforce the law for the time being, at least in South Park,
but perhaps North Park as well (same cops). And, having a copy of the
law on you won't matter. I in fact did today. To quote the cop " I
don't care what you have.". Apparently the fine is $110.
Good luck out there.
--
Chris Mayhew
www.jbvcoaching.com
--
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Saturday, April 07, 2012
Heavyweights
Heavyweights In Ron Pauls Corner Help Change The MSM Story!
Posted by: "geckoontheceiling" geckoontheceiling@yahoo.com geckoontheceiling
Fri Apr 6, 2012 1:37 pm (PDT)
These speakers are familiar with the language used by the target audience and can relay Dr. Paul's message to them better than he could himself. Any help YOU could give me in promoting these speakers to new media, talk radio and the MSM would be hugely appreciated. Feel free to share my contact information with producers, editors, reporters and show hosts, and I'll line em' up!zakrevolution@yahoo.com 206-501-9221
There are 3 key coalition groups that we need to win over the GOP - and when we do it will be a Ronslide from there on out!
1. National Defense (Represented by Veterans For Ron Paul 2012)
Colonel Doug Macgregor (ret) is a decorated combat veteran, the author of four books, a PhD, and a spokesman of the Veterans for Ron Paul 2012. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v
Adam Kokesh, http://www.adamvstheman.com/ veteran and co-founder of Veterans for Ron Paul 2012 is also available for interviews representing this coalition. http://www.facebook.com/#!/
Michael Scheuer, former head of the CIA's Bin Laden unithttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M
2. Bible (Represented by Christians For Ron Paul) Pastor Brian Jacobs of the Metroplex Family Church http://metroplexfamilychurch.c
Minister Derrick Grayson, (aka TMOT) is also a spokesman of Christians For Ron Paul and has been making hard hitting and entertaining videos in support of Ron Paul.http://www.youtube.com/user/tm
Dr. Walter Block http://www.walterblock.com/ is a founding member of Jews for Ron Paul http://www.facebook.com/
3. 2nd Amendment (Represented by Gun Owners For Ron Paul) Gary Marbut is the President of the Montana Shooting Sports Associationhttp://www.mtssa.org/ and is also spokesman of Gun Owners For Ron Paul 2012. http://www.facebook.com/
To liberal, independent and libertarian media I've been promoting Robin Koerner. Robin is the founder and editor of watchingamerica.com, also writes at the Huffington Post and has started the "Blue Republican" movement of Democrats and Independents supporting Ron Paul. You can read his article that started it all here - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/
The facebook group and website that has grown from this article can be found here - http://www.facebook.com/
And last but definitely not least I've been promoting Jun Dam to libertarian media. Jun is the founder of Grassroots for Liberty SuperPAC, is also behind http://rp2012.org/ (check out their petition drive!) has set up a phone for Ron Paul from home program, has hosted contests, and helped get supporters to Iowa.http://www.youtube.com/user/rp
Even if you don't have personal media connections, just sending out emails/faxes and making phone calls is a huge help!
To Victory! Ron Paul 2012!
In Liberty, Zak Carter
http://cvrp2012.com/
Thursday, April 05, 2012
Educational read on school reform and politics
Hired Guns on Astroturf:
How to Buy and Sell School Reform
For Barkan’s other writing on the self-proclaimed “education reform movement,” click here, here, and here.
If you want to change government policy, change the politicians who make it. The implications of this truism have now taken hold in the market-modeled “education reform movement.” As a result, the private funders and nonprofit groups that run the movement have overhauled their strategy. They’ve gone political as never before—like the National Rifle Association or Big Pharma or (ed reformers emphasize) the teachers’ unions.
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Fw: COUNCILMAN LAVELLE INTRODUCES CIVIC ARENA PARKING TAX RESOLUTION
I say, get 90 or 100 percent of the new tax for Hill District redevelopment.
Good for Mr. Lavelle.
Good for Mr. Lavelle.
Sent from my BlackBerry®
From: City Council District 6 - DISTRICT 6 NEWS <no-reply@apps.pittsburghpa.gov>
Date: Wed, 4 Apr 2012 15:24:00 -0400 (EDT)
To: Subscribers<no-reply@apps.pittsburghpa.gov>
ReplyTo: no-reply@apps.pittsburghpa.gov
Subject: COUNCILMAN LAVELLE INTRODUCES CIVIC ARENA PARKING TAX RESOLUTION
 | ||||
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© 2012 City of Pittsburgh | City Council District 6 |  |  Having trouble seeing this message? Click here to view it in your browser. If you would like to unsubscribe from DISTRICT 6 NEWS, please click here. |
Fwd: The end of bees, thanks to Bayer's chemical?
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Corinne Ball, Change.org
EPA: Ban the pesticide that's threatening American bees with extinction
Sign Susan's Petition
Here's the buzz: American honey bees are disappearing at an alarming rate and the government knows why.
Scientists say a pesticide called clothianidin, made by chemical giant Bayer, is strongly linked to the rapid decline in bee populations. When exposed to the chemical, bees get lost: they are literally unable to find their way home back to the hive and drop dead from exhaustion.
Susan Mariner uses her backyard garden to grow extra fruits and veggies for her family and teach her children where their food comes from -- and in the past few years, she's seen the decline in bees firsthand.
When Susan heard about the recent studies linking this specific chemical to the widespread death of the bees who pollinate our food, she started a petition on Change.org to get the chemical banned. Click here to sign Susan's petition asking the Environmental Protection Agency to ban these bee-killing pesticides ASAP.
One-third of the U.S. food supply relies on honey bees. Without bees to pollinate crops, many essential (and favorite) foods are at risk, including apples, squash, tomatoes, strawberries, almonds, and even chocolate.
Several countries, including Germany and France, have already banned clothianidin. And after the bans, bee populations began to rise again.
But in the U.S., clothianidin is used on millions of acres of crops and American beekeepers report losses of up to 90% of their bees. Many worry that their hives won't survive another season. Sign Susan's petition urging the EPA to save the bees and immediately end the harmful pesticide's use.
Thanks for being a change-maker,
- Corinne and the Change.org team
--
--
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Friday, March 30, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
School news and request letter from parents of Phillips and South Side
Also, for Phillips parents and incoming parents for next year, there's a letter circulating for parents to sign (I believe that there are close to 100 signatures already) to Deputy Superintendent Rudiak asking that with the budget cuts that the district make three commitments to Phillips. One is to fund a Spanish teacher position out of district funds rather than the individual school budget just as the Post-Gazette reported this week that the District already agreed to do at Colfax, which is a Spanish magnet just like Phillips. A second is that the district will agree to stick to its practice of funding an additional paraprofessional position for grades where enrollment hits the maximum numbers out of additional district funds rather than out of the existing Phillips budget. The third is that with the elimination of two teaching positions and the hiring of a FTE to cover some classrooms, that Phillips be able to hire one of the displaced teachers who already knows the school and students.
Below is a copy of the letter in case you and/or your spouse/significant other wish to sign on and send, or there are parents collecting signature before and after school. I'll have a copy of the letter with me at POPS. Parents of students entering school next year are welcome to sign, too. It's authored by Michele Margittai and Carey Harris (related by marriage to POPS Peter Margittai and John Werling).
Scott
Pittsburgh Phillips K-5 PSCC / PTO / Guardians
c/o 1901 Sarah Street
Pittsburgh PA 15203
March 30, 2012
Dr. Barbara Rudiak
Pittsburgh Public Schools
341 South Bellefield Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Dear Dr. Rudiak –
We are writing, on behalf of 315 Pittsburgh Phillips K-5 students, regarding the changes to occur in the 2012/13 school year at Pittsburgh Phillips K-5.
As you know, the parents/guardians of Phillips students have actively collaborated for many years with the school’s administration to create and sustain an excellent school environment. This family engagement has resulted in many successes at the school including:
• an engaged PSCC that meets with school administration about various school issues.
• an active PTO that provides financial and other support for student enrichment activities.
• excellent attendance by families at school’s events in support of the students’ work (e.g., Fiesta de la Paz, Are You Smarter than a 3rd/4th Grader?)
Not only have these efforts helped Phillips K-5 to be recognized locally as an excellent public school, but its family engagement efforts have also been recognized nationally, by PTO Today.
As a result of the recent budget cuts, Phillips is entering a critical time of challenges and transitions. Families again are asking, “What can we do?” Through the PSCC, families have already met several times with our school’s principal. Based on these discussions, we are writing to request clarity from the district, regarding several issues of concern:
· Principal Transition: We are looking forward to working with the new principal who will be appointed to lead Phillips – particular in addressing changes that will occur regarding the budget cuts. When will the new principal be available to start working with us and what will his/her availability be for meetings in May through August?
· Class Size: We are concerned about the kindergarten class sizes, and want to provide those classrooms with the maximum amount of support. Our current understanding is that a paraprofessional will be provided to support a kindergarten classroom if that class size reaches or exceeds the maximum allowed in the Collective Bargaining Agreement. These additional staff members would be provided at the district’s expense, and not out of Phillips’ site-based budget. We would like to confirm with the district that this understanding is correct.
· FTE /ITL2: Phillips will lose at least two classroom teachers for the 2012/13 school year. We understand that district and building seniority will determine which teachers must leave. We request that the FTE, who will be assigned to Phillips to supplement the schedule of the ITL2, be offered to one of the teachers whose current position will be eliminated or who will be bumped due to district transitions. . Our current teachers are part of the culture and understand the expectations of Phillips. As such, they are in the best position to work effectively with our students, staff, and families. An assigned FTE who is new to Phillips, would only exacerbate an already challenging year.
· Spanish Teacher: We noted in the Monday, March 26th Pittsburgh Post Gazette article that the District is providing a Spanish teacher to Colfax to continue that school’s Spanish program. Will the district provide the same resource to Phillips, if needed, to ensure that all of our students receive Spanish instruction at least periods per week?
Dr. Rudiak, thank you, in advance, for your time spent providing us with answers to these important questions. Our PSCC meets again on April 17th. It would be extremely helpful to receive a response prior to that meeting.
We look forward to working with you and your colleagues.
Sincerely,
Pittsburgh Phillips PSCC
Parent Representative
Cc: Dr. Jeannine French
Pittsburgh Phillips Students’ Parents / Guardians:
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Spring break: Spain or Oakmont on a bike
If you can not get to Spain to ride your bike next week, we have the next best thing. Go to Cycling Fusion for some free rides, if you are up for the challenge.
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|
We want to get our Pittsburgh kids swimming and playing water polo soon -- before we do Summer Dreamers again
Hi Friends in Pittsburgh,
Last year our staff of 12 and about 150 middle school students had a wonderful time swimming and playing water polo. I loved coaching and teaching swimming to PPS students with Summer Dreamers at Peabody High Schools' pool. We had five great weeks. Now the challenge is to get that going again, this spring and summer, for campers and even some beyond the specific Summer Dreamers program.
You are invited to attend any of the THREE informational meetings in the community in April, at different times and places, to talk about the changes for the 2012 Summer Dreamers Swim and Water Polo Camp -- and to give details for getting the kids into the water in April, May and June -- before the start of the official program July 9, 2012.
We are NOT at Peabody in the summer of 2012, but the venue shifts to UPREP and The Hill District.
Swim and Water Polo Camp is held in conjunction with PPS Summer Dreamers, 2012 with
Neighborhood Learning Alliance
5429 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Phone: (412) 363 - 1910
We want you swimming and playing water polo again, real soon!
New players are welcome too.
Informational meetings for parents, guardians and others with an interest in the program are going to be held with Coach Mark Rauterkus,
Mark@Rauterkus.com, 412-298-
At 7 pm on Thursday, April 12, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Bloomfield Garfield Corporation
5321 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, 412 441-9833
https://sites.google.com/a/
At 6 pm on Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Homewood-Brushton YMCA
7140 Bennett Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15208-1477, 412 243-2900
https://sites.google.com/a/
At 8 pm on Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Hill House
1860 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, 412 281-8482
https://sites.google.com/a/
Our Swim and Water Polo Camp has proven to be a fun-filled option for students in PPS.
Thanks for the consideration. Feel free to forward this email or send me any additions or changes to the list.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Last year our staff of 12 and about 150 middle school students had a wonderful time swimming and playing water polo. I loved coaching and teaching swimming to PPS students with Summer Dreamers at Peabody High Schools' pool. We had five great weeks. Now the challenge is to get that going again, this spring and summer, for campers and even some beyond the specific Summer Dreamers program.
You are invited to attend any of the THREE informational meetings in the community in April, at different times and places, to talk about the changes for the 2012 Summer Dreamers Swim and Water Polo Camp -- and to give details for getting the kids into the water in April, May and June -- before the start of the official program July 9, 2012.
We are NOT at Peabody in the summer of 2012, but the venue shifts to UPREP and The Hill District.
Swim and Water Polo Camp is held in conjunction with PPS Summer Dreamers, 2012 with
Neighborhood Learning Alliance
5429 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Phone: (412) 363 - 1910
We want you swimming and playing water polo again, real soon!
New players are welcome too.
Informational meetings for parents, guardians and others with an interest in the program are going to be held with Coach Mark Rauterkus,
Mark@Rauterkus.com, 412-298-
At 7 pm on Thursday, April 12, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Bloomfield Garfield Corporation
5321 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, 412 441-9833
https://sites.google.com/a/
At 6 pm on Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Homewood-Brushton YMCA
7140 Bennett Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15208-1477, 412 243-2900
https://sites.google.com/a/
At 8 pm on Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Pittsburgh CONNECTS, Hill House
1860 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, 412 281-8482
https://sites.google.com/a/
Our Swim and Water Polo Camp has proven to be a fun-filled option for students in PPS.
Thanks for the consideration. Feel free to forward this email or send me any additions or changes to the list.
Mark Rauterkus Mark.Rauterkus@gmail.com
PPS Summer Dreamers' Swim and Water Polo Camp Head Coach with Neighborhood Learning Alliance
http://Rauterkus.blogspot.com
http://FixPA.wikia.com
http://CLOH.wikia.com
412 298 3432 = cell
Monday, March 26, 2012
Bringing the Community to Schools, a national webinar.
The "community school" model is turning school buildings into vibrant neighborhood hubs of activity. In addition to the academic program offered to students during the day, community schools provide a wide range of services to children in partnership with local organizations. The services include breakfast and dinner for low-income children; early-childhood programs; after-school recreation; academic enrichment; and adult education.
One thriving program with a long track record in this field is the 13-year-old SUN Community Schools network in Portland, Ore., which stands for "Schools Uniting Communities." The network now includes 64 schools in six districts serving high numbers of poor and minority students across Portland and Multnomah County, and it says it has improved student academic growth while providing other neighborhood needs. Join us for a discussion about the SUN Community School model and how it interacts with students and their families.
Guests:
Diana Hall, program supervisor, SUN Community Schools
Lynn Blevins, principal, Lynch View Elementary School
Ginny Scelza, SUN site manager, Lynch View SUN Community School
This webinar will be moderated by Christina A. Samuels, staff writer, Education Week
Register now for this free live webinar.
Webinar Date: Tuesday, March 27, 2-3 p.m. ET
Can't attend? All Education Week webinars are archived and accessible "on demand" for up to six months after the original live-streaming date.
One thriving program with a long track record in this field is the 13-year-old SUN Community Schools network in Portland, Ore., which stands for "Schools Uniting Communities." The network now includes 64 schools in six districts serving high numbers of poor and minority students across Portland and Multnomah County, and it says it has improved student academic growth while providing other neighborhood needs. Join us for a discussion about the SUN Community School model and how it interacts with students and their families.
Guests:
Diana Hall, program supervisor, SUN Community Schools
Lynn Blevins, principal, Lynch View Elementary School
Ginny Scelza, SUN site manager, Lynch View SUN Community School
This webinar will be moderated by Christina A. Samuels, staff writer, Education Week
Register now for this free live webinar.
Webinar Date: Tuesday, March 27, 2-3 p.m. ET
Can't attend? All Education Week webinars are archived and accessible "on demand" for up to six months after the original live-streaming date.
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Obama Academy is in East Liberty. School newspaper re-reprint
|
Posted: 24 Mar 2012 04:55 AM PDT
If you didn’t know that our school is in the neighborhood of East Liberty, you should, because you’ve probably walked or taken a bus down Penn Avenue numerous times. What you probably didn’t know, or never would have guessed, is that it used to be a booming business district. However, it’s not so booming anymore. Many of the stores are boarded up and the ones that are open don’t get the business a store in the mall might get.
The East Liberty Business District wasn’t always like that. In fact, it thrived and flourished during the 1940s and 50s. To add to the prosperous commercial businesses, the residents of East Liberty were all very close, creating a tight community. Sometimes, it was referred to as Pittsburgh’s “second downtown.” In 1958, East Liberty’s strength was put to the test when they experienced their first commercial vacancies. In response, the major business owners began one of the biggest urban renewal projects. However, the project had the opposite effect that many people had hoped it would have; the small local businesses were replaced with one-story retail stores placed up and down the streets, and Penn Circle was built, which actually drew the traffic away from the business district. The failure of the renewal project was the reason so many businesses closed and families moved away. In 1979, the East Liberty Development, Inc. was founded (ELDI) to organize the revitalization of East Liberty. However, many of their attempts to get businesses up and running again failed and East Liberty remained in the same economic situation. Starting in the 1990s ELDI began to plan more development projects and became determined to bring the booming business district back to life. Looking at East Liberty now, we could say they have done a pretty good job. A Target was just opened this past summer on the corner of Penn Avenue. In the vacant lot next to Eastminister Presbyterian Church they are starting the construction of new townhouses, just like the ones on Negley Avenue. In the plaza on Center Avenue, there is a Starbucks, a Whole Foods and many other small chain stores. Down the street there are a bunch of newly opened small restaurants including Spoon and Paris 66, which are both very nice and expensive places to eat. We can’t forget about Bakery Square, which is right across the street from our school and has become a popular place to go for coffee at Coffee Tree and subs at Jimmy John’s. East Liberty has come so far since its economic downfall in the late 1950s. Its business district is quickly expanding in a variety of different directions and the residential area continues to slowly make a comeback. ELDI continues to plan for development projects and look at traffic patterns. East Liberty is slowly but surely continuing to make its return to the popular, booming business district it was in the 1940s and 50s. http://www.eastliberty.org/ |
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