Smearing example

Some dude with the handle, "kumufa", email address NUKED by intent, wrote in part:

Do we want to get together and watch his sorry ass make some stupid suggestions about the health care crisis?

My reply:

Perhaps it would be good to show a little more respect. If anyone who was working in my campaign spoke that way in a public email about a US Congressman and "LOYAL OPPONENT" -- I'd censor if not fire him or her.

We've got a duty. It isn't about smearing. Poke holes in the programs and the outcomes, please. Knock em out of the park if you can, on merit and with measured distinctions.

Look to the comment area for his entire email. He is working for a Doctor candidate, Mark Boles, a Dem. I like seeing health care talk and candidates with medical experiences in various races. And, the target, Tim Murphy, is also with his own expert background, perceptions and came from the psych profession.

PSO and Wilkinsburg Music

Efforts with the Pittsburgh Symphony and Wilkinsburg's music program are great. Bravo!

My grandfather, Dr. Joseph A. Rauterkus, started Pittsburgh's Symphony Orchestra as a work project venture in the Great Depression. Grandpa also started the school of music at DU and spent many years with Central Catholic, the VA doing music therapy, and even directed the musicians union at 4th of July concerts at North Park, when I was a young lad.

Furthermore, my mom and dad both grew up in Wilkinsburg. Dad marched in the Tiger band (baritone) and mom was a co-leader of the majorettes.

Today's musical leaders should contact UPMC's Eye and Ear Institute and talk to my wife and get hearing protection for the instructors and participants. Especially with all the drumming activities now in place. All the Pgh Public School educators got exposed to some quality health care advice via the launch of this new program in 2002-03. Now that program is taking root and will spread to other school districts.

The price is right, due to some grant funds. And, those precious hair cells don't grow back after being damaged.