Free Me, another motherload hit

Welcome… at Free Me: "…to the home of the Free Me DVD on the web. My hope here is to provide lots of links and extra information that there just wasn’t room for on the disc.

Parenting advice: The BABY's NAME

Marty, when we were expecting, we named the kid before it was born. Our unborn baby had a name as he/she had a personality, health, place in our lives -- even before being born.

Our first was called "Dirt."

Our second was called "Pip Squeek."

My parents, as well as my mother in law, were very worried that we would name our kid "Dirt." This was just what I wanted. Let them worry about something, other than what really mattered. Then, later, when the real name was picked -- it would be way better than 'Dirt' -- and they'd be thrilled.

I want the fusses to be contained in boxes that I control.

Furthermore, we had the opinion that we'd be able to see the baby -- and hold him/her (we didn't want to know the gender) -- and make sure that the name fit the new face.

Your first caller to the show was right on with the reservations. Keeping the name a 'secret' makes some sense. Or, do what we've done, -- release a really bad name as a spoof name.

Live blogging: I should be on KDKA Radio, within the hour

KDKA - Homepage Listen Live
Listen On-line Now
Click here to listen to KDKA right now!

Call in:

412-333-KDKA.

That is 412-333-5352.

Link to some background insights posted to this blog recently.

Fact refresher:
Blast from the past. Mechanical voting machines.

Third party candidates for Allegheny County's county-wide offices require 2,345 signatures.

Third party candidates for City of Pittsburgh offices that are 'city wide' (such as Mayor and Controller) requires 804 signatures.

To run for City Council, district 3, (my district) in the election slated for November, requires 100 signatures.

To run for Allegheny County Council in district 13, (my district), requires 270 signatures.

Needed: Libertarian candidates, or even every-day citizens who are willing to run a 'paper campaign' are still needed as Judges, District Attorney, Allegheny County Treasurer (row office), Sheriff, plus candidates for various city council, county council and municipal offices. Individuals are needed right now, even place holder names.

Who wants to help with a voter registration drive at all future Pens games?

Sign at last nights Pens game, hung at the Civic Arena, as politicians visited with Pens ownership in Philly.

Let's do a voter registration drive.

I'm serious.

Pittsburgh plans brainstorming session to boost pension fund - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Pittsburgh plans brainstorming session to boost pension fund - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl plans to call together mayors and elected leaders from across the state to discuss how to increase funding of municipal pensions"

All the king's horses and all the king's men, could not put Humpty together again.

Missing from this statement -- the people.

The fix is in.

The one's the make the mess are least capable of cleaning it up.

When, and if, the people are pulled into the discussion -- like I will do -- as in an open-source software model -- THEN we'll get real solutions that really work.

[412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM

This email just went out to my email blast list.

[412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM [412] Doing it again -- with PRIDE -- within Our House -- and on the radio Friday AM at 10 on 1020AM

I generally try to avoid putting in the word, "free" so high in the message. That can choke spam filters. But, I'm getting a good deal of response in the first 20 minutes.

Tonight we mingle and celebrate some fast spashes

I'll get to mingle with these guys tonight at the Frick Middle School Swim Team Banquet. That's Allegheny County Council President, Rich Fitzgerald (on the left). The other good looking guy is the mascot for the Frick Middle School Team. The photo was taken at the city league's middle school championships last month at Oliver H.S.

Mr. Fitz and I are both proud dads of swimmers, --- err, fast swimmers.

We rush there after our swim practice. Personally, I need to be swimming more so I can swim with the Hector Dolphins and prepare for my upcoming race (Pgh Triathlon).

kdka.com - Line-Up Of Candidates Running For Office Official

kdka.com - Line-Up Of Candidates Running For Office Official

Hits upon the lack of candidates in Allegheny County. Incumbents are smiling.

Other countys in Western PA present opportunities and choices among voters.

But, I beg to differ with the news reporting. It isn't "all democrats." Libertarians are filling the void of the absent Republicans.

Feelings about Pens and meeting on the March 8

I'm just pondering. Perhaps I'll vent and then take this post away after the real news comes. But, if I was a betting guy, and I'm not, I'd predict the following outcome from the meeting slated to occur on Thursday. They'll huddle out of town and include the NHL boss.

My hunch is that a one-year extension will be forthcoming. The Pens will play another year at the Civic Arena. Other decisions will be made later. Meanwhile, the Pens will continue to talk to and pursue all options, in Pittsburgh and elsewhere.

Just a hunch, not a wish.

Libertarianism: Past and Prospects

Cato Unbound - Blog Archive - Libertarianism: Past and Prospects by Brian Doherty

I recently published a book called Radicals for Capitalism: A Freewheeling History of the Modern American Libertarian Movement (PublicAffairs, 2007). I always thought the libertarian movement’s story was fascinating and important, filled with vivid, peculiar, and heroic characters with many little-understood influences on American culture. It is also a story sadly undertold, ...

Heavy, historic and honest.

When the Libertarian Party began, founder David Nolan did not promise electoral victories. (On the national and statewide level, his lack of promise has mostly been kept.) He suggested, rather, that the Libertarian’s existence could lead to increased media attention for libertarian ideas, which might bring more latent libertarians out from hiding, and create a permanent institution to spur them into action, and help further a breakdown of political dominance by the traditional right and left by providing a pro-liberty home to forces on either end of the political spectrum who might not feel comfortable with the rest of their electoral coalition.

I'm not going to promise electoral victories in my quest as I stand for office in 2007. I do exist. The Libertarian Party is present. We are making efforts so as to show up. I care about media attention so as to advance libertarian ideas. I want to do outreach and bring out and along others with some warmth to various libertarian approaches. We need to create a more permanent community and network to spur others into action. We need to breakdown one party political dominance. I want to provide insights so our home and region can be known as a pro-liberty place.

Tip: Check out the comments for some tidbit snips and worthy quotes.

Suspension for e-mail baffles Mt. Lebanon dad

Here comes another goofy story from the Blue Devils of Mt. Lebo. It centers upon parenting, email, a police raid on a party, under age drinking, some swear words, and honesty. Plus, it unfolded in Mt. Lebo, of all places.

Suspension for e-mail baffles Mt. Lebanon dad 'I am with the coaches in regard to Shane. If they feel his e-mail crossed the line, they are well within their right to suspend him, and I can live with that,' the father said. 'But, if you are going to suspend a kid for [sending] an e-mail to a coach, how in the world do you not suspend ... kids for going to a drinking party and one of them for getting arrested there?

'Even if it is just that they are suspended by not starting the game, or being suspended for a quarter or something. By not doing anything to the other kids, who I feel did something far worse, Joey David is a hypocrite.'

Ollie Phillips said David has asked Shane to sit on the bench, in uniform, at the game on Saturday even though he won't be allowed to participate.

'That will not happen,' the elder Phillips said. 'He'll sit there in a coat and tie and be supportive, but he will not be paraded out there in a uniform if he's not going to play. Joey David will not embarrass my son.'

I don't know the facts well enough to say what I would do if I was in this situation. At first glance, I'm sure that there is a 'teachable moment' woven in the saga. One of goals is to be, raise and coach "literate athletes." How to use email, and how to write for clarity and self-expression in important.

The dad's acts of supporting the coach concerning the punishment is fine. To wear a coat and tie or else a uniform is interesting.

Insights welcomed.

15 years: Bill Ogden's Weight Room in Crafton

From people & vips

News from Bill Ogden.

I wanted to give you a heads up. We are celebrating our 15th year in business.

You can get 12 months for only $139. Three months for only $39.

There are only 100 of these discounted Gym memberships available. Personal Training is also on sale. 100 PT's only $795 and 50 PT's only $495

Please tell everyone you know. Thanks! We rely on your Word of Mouth recommendations. Please tell your friends and relatives. Thanks! We accept: Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express.

IF YOU STILL HAVE TIME LEFT ON YOUR MEMBERSHIP, NOW'S A GOOD TIME TO ADD MORE TIME TO IT AT BARGAIN PRICES!

Thank you for your attention...

Sincerely, Bill Ogden

Joe Weinroth goes for Judge -- not controller

The Trib is reporting that Joe Weinroth won't be a GOP candidate for mayor nor controller. He went to where his heart told him to go. He is running for the bench.

I was wrong in my posting that he'd go into the city's controller race. Munch, munch.

A herd of GOP elephans did not materialize for the GOP Primary in 2007. From texture - misc.

Joe and I spoke on the phone. I may need to munch on prior words again. Seems he was being realistic in his choice most of all. His heart may say Mayor and Controller, but the voters of the city present little hope of getting him elected to those posts. Joe is the lone Republican. But, most of the candidates cross-file.

Joe now has stepped away from his 'R party' roles with a leave of absence for his election as judge candidates need to be 'non-political.'

GOP takes pass on key Allegheny races - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Democrat vs. Democrat: GOP takes pass on key Allegheny races - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review The surprise this election season in Allegheny County is not who will be on the ballot.

It's who won't.

My "back channel" Ping Pong Diplomacy with Marty Griffin of KDKA

Yesterday, Tuesday, March 6, 2007, Marty Griffin, KDKA radio show host and investigative reporter, had Jim Roddey on the air. Roddey's worthy of another rant. Roddey is one of the main reasons there is a lack of opposition from the Republicans. But, back to this thread with late-breaking news and the 'Inside

Marty was talking about Dan Onorato, a frequent guest. Dan is slated to be on the show on Thursday with his talk to the County Executive segment. The show host's comments touched a nerve. Right after the show, I wrote Mr. Griffin via his web form.

---

There are people who are running against Dan Onorato -- including ME.

Either you lie by design or you play ignorant for unknown reasons. What's up investigative reporter?

You were going to book me on the show -- then the convention center floor fell. ???

We are recruiting candidates and you are NOT helping as you spread silly statements that are not true.

I kept you posted. You can reply to me now.

---

Marty's reply:

So help me...
I lie by design?
I'm ignorant?
And you want me to help you.
You should NOT be in sales.
Regarding my response to you.
So...i get 1000 to 1500 e-mails per week and im supposed to jump all
over your kind words?
Things that make you go hmmmmmmmmmm
Good luck with the campaign

---

My reply, sent in the afternoon of the same day.

> You should NOT be in sales.
I'm NOT in sales. I'm looking to defend freedom and liberty in these parts.

I'm in education, Marty. You know better.

You don't fail me as much as you fail your kid (s) and my kids with your willingness to trumpet the status quo by squashing the truth. (Dan Onorato has TWO opponents.) Plus, the squashing of idealism within this region hurts them the most.

I'm looking to raise my kids in an open society. Others have equal values. This explains why the city is bleeding its people.

---

Marty's reply, Mar 6 (21 hours ago)

Funny...
Don't see anyone buying what you're trying to sell...
No newspapers...tv stations...radio stations...other talk show hosts.
Let me help you....
Next time you want to appear on a highly rated talk show...that would be
ours....it might help to stay away from calling the host...that would be
me....an idiot.
Regarding the lack of response.
I get 1000 to 2000 e-mails per week.
I answer them myself.
Sometimes it takes a while.
For the slow response....I'm sorry.
Good luck with the campaign.

---

Last night's email message from me to Marty:
Marty,

I did not call you an idiot.

Thanks for saying "sorry" about the slow response.

Your statement today, on the air, implying that Dan Onorato has NO OPPOSITION for the pending elections is WRONG. Two opponents exist. Candidates, myself included, have chosen to run against Mr. Onorato.

More than a month ago, before the Convention Center collapses, I offered to be on the air with you to follow up on some segments you hosted. You called for candidates in no uncertain terms. I answered the call you made. My decisions to run wasn't 'because of you. Our process was already in the works. I was hopeful that I'd be booked to the show because of communications off the air to me from your show.

Perhaps you decided that I wouldn't be a worthy guest or that this topic didn't fit for some reason some weeks ago. I don't know why because I never heard again from you or the producers.

I've "pinged" you a few times since. We have some history. So, today's statement from you on your wildly popular show about the lack of ANY COMPETITION for Onorato justifies a poke from me.

What's up?

The first word you used in the recent email reply was "Funny." Marty, this is serious. I'm serious. I don't stick my neck out as a joke. I'm standing for office. I work on, within and for our community. You can choose to ignore me. You can choose to hate me. But, expect a reply when your acts are wreckless with the truth and the aims go to damage our shared public spaces.

Thanks for listening.

I hope mom, baby and you have great health and wonderful times in the
months to come.

---

On today's (Wed, March 7, 2007), Marty mentioned my name on the radio and also said that I called him an idiot. Sigh. He also hinted that I'd be on the show tomorrow. Thursdays are for Onorato. But Timira just called (2:50 pm on Wed). I'm now booked for Friday at 10:15 am. I guess I'm on for "Fun Friday."

Stay tuned.

Penguins' letter pointed to a lack of collaboration in negotiations

Text of the Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato The risk has been magnified by what we perceive as a lack of collaboration from the public sector in the negotiations. That does not bode well for the public/private partnership necessary to successfully navigate the multiple issues of an arena development of this magnitude.

I contend that the lacking element is the lack of a philosophical base in the negotiations. Onorato was quick to say, at first blush, that he wanted to negotiate. That isn't how it is done. In sales, one qualifiies the buyer.

Once the deal boils down to money on the table from the public treasury -- then we'll all suffer. The fan base, loyalty, disruption to business and vision needed to be prime components in the negotiations and dealings.

The next line of the letter from the Pens talks about "value." They are begging for that type of talk.

... we visited Kansas City and were greeted with open arms by arena officials and political and business leaders and were treated as valued new partners in the community.

Value matters. Values matter. Philosophy flows from values.

Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato

David Caliguri can be blamed for this.

Text of the Penguins' letter to Rendell, Ravenstahl and Onorato The recent appeals filed with the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, which may delay even further the awarding of the slots license and the primary funding source of the arena plan, cause us great concern. A project of this scope, with so many complex issues, can ill afford further delays that add more risk and more uncertainty.

FWIW, and it isn't much, soon after the award was announced, I asked the others to NOT file an appeal.

The Pens got into bed with the IOC (Isle of Capri). Then the IOC goes ahead and puts in a challenge. Now the IOC takes $10-million from the Pens for their deal gone bad. Plus, the IOC pounds on for an appeal.

Furthermore, how about the PA Supreme Court's lazy ways. Get on the job. Hold the hearing ASAP.

As this goes to court, all bets are off. Don Barden is smart to hold off on the building.

More FUD. FUD from the state's top court is as deep as it comes. Perhaps it should be FUDD -- with two Ds. The second is for 'delay.'

California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux. Linux - Conquering a Windows Based World

Victory looks like this. Pittsburgh needs to move quickly before the rest of the world passes us by, again.

California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux � Linux - Conquering a Windows Based World: California School District Changes From Microsoft to Linux

conflicting school closing information: 2 hour delay OR closed

Update at 8:25 am:

Pgh Public Schools are CLOSED for today, Wednesday, March 7, 2007.

Udate at 8:10 am:

Everyone is saying Pgh Public Schools has a two hour delay, except Y108. The radio station, Y108 says Pgh Public Schools is CLOSED.

My son listens to Y108. He screams. Then we check their web site. But, the Pghboe.net site still says 2-hour delay, as does WPXI.com.

Humm... Snip from the Y108 web site:

Pine-Richland
Closed


Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School
2 HR Delay


Pittsburgh Public Schools
Closed


Pittsburgh Urban Christian School
2 HR Delay

In the Hundred Acre Woods, Pooh, a French Canadian Penguin and a Philly Politician ...

From Pens Village

At another blog I posted about FUD.

This entire deal is full of FUD.

Fear. Uncertainty. Doubt.

They all are smearing FUD in every direction.

The Pens can rush the ice with lots of jukes and jives. Great. However, I don't want government full of FUD.

Rendell, Onorato, and Ravenstahl are FUD makers.