Friday, April 09, 2010
Today's Meetings at Univ of Pittsburgh in advance of the visit from Bangladesh
Title IX audit report - chatter from Pure Reform blog
Title IX audit report
One of my comments in a thread there:
Ther is no talk in the Title IX audit about the new PPS theme schools that I'm aware of.
The sooner that the audit is just a distant dot in the rear view mirror in our discussions the better. The sooner the audit consultant is a distant memory the better as well.
We need to look forward, not backward.
We need to make progress with those here now, not with some template issued audit advice that makes for more exposure than anything that hints of a single solution.
The audit dodged the hard questions fully.
The audit was a sink and a delay ploy. If it lingers, we sustain the sinking.
Lay the shovel down.
Now let's demand progress and let's talk about what really needs to occur.
To publicly spank booster groups that are NOT even created yet is to say sports are hard work so let's not even have them.
What about the 6-12 school sports? Great question. Let's talk. But above all, let's not go to the audit for solid answers to pressing questions as we won't find meaningful insights there.
The audit is more like a jolt of caffine needed to get us (PPS Administration) going after a long, deep slumber.
One of my comments in a thread there:
Ther is no talk in the Title IX audit about the new PPS theme schools that I'm aware of.
The sooner that the audit is just a distant dot in the rear view mirror in our discussions the better. The sooner the audit consultant is a distant memory the better as well.
We need to look forward, not backward.
We need to make progress with those here now, not with some template issued audit advice that makes for more exposure than anything that hints of a single solution.
The audit dodged the hard questions fully.
The audit was a sink and a delay ploy. If it lingers, we sustain the sinking.
Lay the shovel down.
Now let's demand progress and let's talk about what really needs to occur.
To publicly spank booster groups that are NOT even created yet is to say sports are hard work so let's not even have them.
What about the 6-12 school sports? Great question. Let's talk. But above all, let's not go to the audit for solid answers to pressing questions as we won't find meaningful insights there.
The audit is more like a jolt of caffine needed to get us (PPS Administration) going after a long, deep slumber.
Thursday, April 08, 2010
PoliticsPA: Debate questions trip Onorato | Politics PA
PoliticsPA: Debate questions trip Onorato | Politics PA: "Debate questions trip Onorato"
Pittsburgh, suburban public schools listed high in quality study
Pittsburgh, suburban public schools listed high in quality study The Pittsburgh area ranks No. 7 in the nation for its public schools among cities with populations above 300,000, according to GreatSchools, a nonprofit organization that compiles school data nationwide.
GreatSchools, located in San Francisco, included 160 schools with Pittsburgh addresses in its results, said Pamela Ardizzone, spokeswoman for GreatSchools.
The list includes Pittsburgh Public Schools, which has 66 schools, as well as some suburban schools and charter schools.
Activist calls for Justice Melvin to resign
Activist calls for Justice Melvin to resign: "Mr. Stilp claimed that Justice Melvin 'had to be deaf, dumb and blind not to know what was going on in her campaign' for the high court last year. He said the conduct board should ask 'what did she know and when did she know it?'"
I wish people would be more politically correct and not slander the deaf, dumb and blind so easily.
Resign. Defend oneself. Then if you are found not guilty, run again. Same too for Senator Orie.
Here is an update to the Census
Respected City Residents and Community Members;
Although the City’s numbers are up; our projected returned census questionnaires are still below the National, State and County rates. As of this morning, the census response rates are as follows:
National returned rate is - 63%
State – 68%
County – 69%; and the
City at 61%. (The City of Pittsburgh’s return rate for Yr 2000 was at 69%)
You can continue to monitor the census returned rate progress at the web-site link provided below:
http://2010.census.gov/2010census/take10map/
By April 10, 2010, USPS will deliver 2010 Census replacement questionnaires to those who have not returned their forms. As the City, we are nearing the end of that final push and that we need to strategically position ourselves; in reiterating the importance of completing the census forms and why this is important for the City. Please also refer to the attached flier on how you assist with this initiative.
Relatively low response rates are noted in the identified neighborhoods; and again if we could all work together in targeting these neighborhoods, it would be much appreciated. The identified neighborhoods are as follows:
- Arlington- Northside - Perrysville Avenue- Homewood North- Hill District- East Liberty- Hazelwood
4. This is our one last push in ascertaining that everyone is counted. Your time and attention to this matter is greatly appreciated
Noor Ismail, AICPDirector of City Planning, City of Pittsburgh
Former Chartiers Valley superintendent named to interim post
Less is seldom best.
Sure, the laws of one state won't exactly match that of another state. Fine. But people of one state can step into another state and be effective. The laws of one's prior state are not a burden with the arrival to the new location. Come now.
Former Chartiers Valley superintendent named to interim post: "Director Patti Frey said that a recent school conference in Phoenix convinced her that conducting a national search for a new superintendent is not in the district's best interests.Win by addition.
School laws vary widely, making out-of-state appointments potentially difficult, she said. Mrs. Frey further noted that finding the best superintendent is especially crucial to Chartiers Valley because the district does not have a permanent assistant superintendent."
Sure, the laws of one state won't exactly match that of another state. Fine. But people of one state can step into another state and be effective. The laws of one's prior state are not a burden with the arrival to the new location. Come now.
Athletics in city high schools is a losing proposition
Let the Games Begin! In this case, the games are really not about play -- but rather discussions.
I do not think that the following key statement was ever talked about at the table, "Athletes in the Pittsburgh Public Schools generally have low self esteem because of a lack of high-quality programs and resources." Much of what was in the report was not said. Rather, the spoken direct points to the PPS was fairy tale and dream-world pats-on-the-back about being a model for the rest of the nation. Say what?
The unspoken theme from the consultant was "Rehire me! I'll still give you all a gold star for effort in hiring me."
My global point: It does not take a women rocket scientist to reveal "pervasive and severe" inequities in the PPS athletic opportunities. And, these are so pervasive that boys and girls suffer greatly. To bring the girls games to an equal position of that enjoyed by the PPS boys is a perfect formula for getting nobody to win much of anything of value. As a system, the boys opportunities are very, very poor and the girls opportunities are very, very, very poor. Getting them all to just double poor would be a world-class fumble. The gender disparities among athletes is tiny when contrasted to the generally low emphasis on student sports.
"The interscholastic athletic program overall appears to suffer from poor self-esteem," said Ms. Pennepacker of High School Title IX Consulting Services.
I am not paid $10,000 for my comments. And, I'm not two years late in making them, just prompt, present and polite.
Dr. John Thompson, prior PPS Superintendent, didn't do much with the sports and athletics efforts in the PPS either.
Even Mr. Lopez talked about how sports in the city have "De-Volved." That is from a Tenn Vol, too. (pun alert) We've been standing still or getting worse in many regards -- so he said at the all coaches meeting.
In 2009, as a volunteer coach, I began a new sports team -- well -- three really. We started a non-varsity water polo program for girls, boys and even a 'co-ed' team. I've expanded female athletic opportunities in PPS with fall water polo. I want that to continue in the spring and the summer.
Water polo, like swimming, is for both boys and girls. And, we've got slightly more girls on the teams than boys, but for the most part it is sorta even. The boys do show up for practices a little more than the girls did this past year. But, we've had more scholastic swim practices at Schenley this year than any other program in the city -- perhaps twice as many.
Where are there strong booster groups in PPS now?
Schenley Volleyball has a booster group. We'll have a Schenley swim banquet this weekend organized by parents, a swim booster function. Carrick's hockey team had a booster group in the past. I had meetings with them when we still had a closed indoor ice rink in the South Side. There are tons of booster activities associated with the South Side Sabers, a youth football team. But that isn't PPS.
Marching Band Boosters are often the most organized examples in the WPIAL.
PPS does not need Booster Oversight as there is little to inspect. We do need Booster Incubators. However, boosters are a big deal in most sports settings elsewhere.
Athletics in city high schools is a losing proposition Athletics in city high schools is a losing propositionThe Board of Education, or really just a sub group of the board, the Education Committee, talked about athletics and opportunities for girls for 90 minutes at last night's meeting. But most of the talking was from a consultant who has been marked tardy with the report in the past on this blog. A litany of interactions occurred with the process including the use of some crude and shallow tools that netted passionate replies.
By Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Athletes in the Pittsburgh Public Schools generally have low self esteem because of a lack of high-quality programs and resources.
I do not think that the following key statement was ever talked about at the table, "Athletes in the Pittsburgh Public Schools generally have low self esteem because of a lack of high-quality programs and resources." Much of what was in the report was not said. Rather, the spoken direct points to the PPS was fairy tale and dream-world pats-on-the-back about being a model for the rest of the nation. Say what?
The unspoken theme from the consultant was "Rehire me! I'll still give you all a gold star for effort in hiring me."
My global point: It does not take a women rocket scientist to reveal "pervasive and severe" inequities in the PPS athletic opportunities. And, these are so pervasive that boys and girls suffer greatly. To bring the girls games to an equal position of that enjoyed by the PPS boys is a perfect formula for getting nobody to win much of anything of value. As a system, the boys opportunities are very, very poor and the girls opportunities are very, very, very poor. Getting them all to just double poor would be a world-class fumble. The gender disparities among athletes is tiny when contrasted to the generally low emphasis on student sports.
"The interscholastic athletic program overall appears to suffer from poor self-esteem," said Ms. Pennepacker of High School Title IX Consulting Services.
I am not paid $10,000 for my comments. And, I'm not two years late in making them, just prompt, present and polite.
The consultant, who signed a $10,000 contract with the district said that her survey of student athletes and coaching staff found that they have a "general notion of apathy, hopelessness and anger regarding the quality and perceived lack of importance that the school district in general places on interscholastic athletics."
Mark Rauterkus, a swimming and water polo coach at Schenley High School said he was not surprised by the report's conclusions.
"We have known this all along. I haven't seen any types of reforms in student athletics in a long time," Mr. Rauterkus said.
Dr. John Thompson, prior PPS Superintendent, didn't do much with the sports and athletics efforts in the PPS either.
Even Mr. Lopez talked about how sports in the city have "De-Volved." That is from a Tenn Vol, too. (pun alert) We've been standing still or getting worse in many regards -- so he said at the all coaches meeting.
School administrators "have been focused on other things for a while now, and yet we know that student athletes can be even better students when they are given the support they need," he added.
Mr. Rauterkus said the school district "now knows that this is something they need to pay more attention to and the fact that we are talking about it shows they understand that we have a problem."
The 140-page audit report, which assessed all aspects of student athletics -- including practice and training facilities, the number of experienced coaches and staff and availability of sports uniforms -- at the nine city high schools found that, compared to the national average, far fewer city high school girls participate in sports.
Despite the district's shortcomings, Ms. Pennepacker commended it for opening itself to public scrutiny on the question of gender disparity in sports.She did deliver some wild assertions that put the district in an inflated place.
Heather Arnet, executive director of the Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest Pennsylvania, and a former school board member who pushed for the audit, agreed.
"This took courage on the part of the school board because they knew it would shine a light on the district," she said. "But you can't fix the problem until you quantify it and now we know the disparity."
Another key finding of the report was that city schools have not taken steps in recent years to significantly expand sports programs for female students.
And because female athletes in the district remain significantly under-represented in interscholastic athletics, Ms. Pennepacker recommended that the district develop a strategic action plan to expand female athletics and create a timetable for implementation.
In 2009, as a volunteer coach, I began a new sports team -- well -- three really. We started a non-varsity water polo program for girls, boys and even a 'co-ed' team. I've expanded female athletic opportunities in PPS with fall water polo. I want that to continue in the spring and the summer.
Water polo, like swimming, is for both boys and girls. And, we've got slightly more girls on the teams than boys, but for the most part it is sorta even. The boys do show up for practices a little more than the girls did this past year. But, we've had more scholastic swim practices at Schenley this year than any other program in the city -- perhaps twice as many.
Part of that plan, she added, should explore the idea of creating some oversight over high school sports booster clubs, which can create a disparity because of their fundraising for certain sports.This booster mention makes me chuckle. I often talk about boosters as a way to put forth improvements, not only in sports but in other areas of the PPS. I'm part of a 'booster group' for male engagement in PPS. We help with Take a Father to School Day. I suggested that the PPS Afterschool Czar (coordinator) form a booster group. Often I talk with others at PPS about booster groups and hear, "What's that?"
Where are there strong booster groups in PPS now?
Schenley Volleyball has a booster group. We'll have a Schenley swim banquet this weekend organized by parents, a swim booster function. Carrick's hockey team had a booster group in the past. I had meetings with them when we still had a closed indoor ice rink in the South Side. There are tons of booster activities associated with the South Side Sabers, a youth football team. But that isn't PPS.
Marching Band Boosters are often the most organized examples in the WPIAL.
PPS does not need Booster Oversight as there is little to inspect. We do need Booster Incubators. However, boosters are a big deal in most sports settings elsewhere.
Among her recommendations, Ms. Pennepacker said the district ought to create a Title IX compliance officer position, specifically to oversee what would be the implementation of the school system's Title IX action plan.I'm going to suggest that the Schenley Principal, Ms. Sophia Facaros, be pegged as the one to be the PPS Title IX compliance officer.
Derrick Lopez, assistant superintendent for secondary schools said the district is already taking steps to implement such a plan.The girls swimmers at Perry High School were talked about by the consultant. Perry added the team the year before while the consultant was doing some the early work. This year, Schenley swam Perry in our first city league meet and again in the second meet. The girls squad at Perry had less than 4 swimmers in the first meet. Schenley had 25 or so. In the second meet, at Perry, none of the girls showed up. Oh well. Frankly, I am a 'fix it kinda guy.' The wiki I began is called "Fix PA." It isn't titled, "QUANTIFY THE SINS." Of course fixes can be made before losses are racked up and quantified. A coach does not conduct a season or TWO, and watch how the ball moves while keeping stats. Then, after the seasons have ended, go to the players and say that the stats reveal basement-level performances. It must be some wacky lawyer/bureaucrat speak to feel accomplished so as to only conclude that there is sufficient reason to believe that improvements will be taught to those on the teams in the future. As for courage, think again. No doubt, the district has courage like a bull. However, getting that bull to take a jog in the realm of sports and athletics is still unseen. So, I'll continue to wave colorful flags and try to garner attention. But, I'm not really wishing for the courage so as to make a rush of a bull in a china shop. Courage and confidence comes with doing the right things, day to day, moment to moment. My long-time comment was said in a context of multiple superintendents. Mr. Roosevelt told me in past years that sports issues were on the "back burner." The PPS Administrators had other challenges that were more pressing. Then around the first of the year (January 2010), he emailed me to say that sports is moving to the front burner, finally.
Fw: LibertarianList Returns
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
-----Original Message-----
From: LibertarianList <info@libertarianlists.com>
Date: Thu, 8 Apr 2010 03:24:45
To: <mark04@rauterkus.com>
Subject: LibertarianList Returns
LibertarianLists is Back! We have a new website that is finally taking
shape and we will be gaining new features in days to come. Though we
are registered on "white lists" it is always a good idea to recognize
our emails as such in your email client.
For our inaugural allert, we would like to discuss a campaign shaping
up down in Texas.
Tip O'Neill once said that "all politics is local."
Let's look at an example: Everyone knows the 14th Congressional
District of Texas - Ron Paul's district. Are you aware that many
high ranking GOP members within this district actually work against
Dr. Paul? While Dr. Paul carries a message of liberty to not only his
constituents, but to the whole nation, there are those who would
prefer that this icon of freedom was silenced. Indeed, a portion of
his district hosts many within the neoconservative ranks. They control
virtually every portion of government except for Dr. Paul's seat. In
doing so, they utilize tax dollars as a revenue basis to fund his
opponents time and time again.
These 'neoconservatives' are absolutely opposed to free markets and
competition. They establish political "machines" which serve to
insure their interests are served in government above all others and
at the expense of the taxpayers. They obtain government "no bid"
contracts, receive special tax breaks and use their ill-gotten gains
to perpetuate ever more oppressive burdens on the communities they
afflict. Perhaps calling them corporatists, crony capitalists or
corporate welfare queens would be more fitting.
So if the 'local' folks are working against someone like Dr. Paul, how
can anyone else outside of that area try to make a difference and
help?
There is hope.
Former Texas LP Vice-Chairman Kevin Tunstall has battled these same
forces for years. Running for City Council in Missouri City
(population 70000) in 2007, Tunstall garnered 46% of the vote on a
very modest budget, despite an opponent who received significant
financial backing from these nefarious political interests.
During his campaign, he discovered many activities by the local
government that were deemed illegal by the state, but carried no
enforcement provisions or criminal penalties. Additionally, he
uncovered a cottage industry of lawyers and property managers
contracted with certain neighborhood associations whose purpose was to
prey on elderly homeowners by initiating foreclosures for trivial
purposes. Even when homeowners decided against such practices and
voted out their association boards, they fall victim to the very same
lawyers who then support the board members who refuse to vacate their
positions upon removal. This is of course illegal, but again there is
no enforcement of the law.
We've been informed that Tunstall is running once more. At the
urging of two sitting council persons and a former council
representative, he has tossed his hat into the ring and caused a stir.
When we spoke with Tunstall, he stated: "Missouri City is a
"closed" city for general development. There is a monopoly of
developers and vendors who receive all permits and outsiders are not
welcome. This cartel of businesses then drain the government coffers
by obtaining all of the contracts outside of the bidding process and
virtually all of the contracts available for bidding while inflating
the costs of projects. They will then fund their candidates,
regardless of whether they are Democrat or Republican, who will help
protect their monopoly. It is a 'pay to play' system."
"Whenever we see a grass-roots movement to unseat or defeat one of the
vendor network candidates, the political operatives crawl out of the
shadows and begin denigrating and marginalizing the concerns of
sincere and honest citizens while they attempt to destroy the
candidates who promote open and honest government."
What is the strategy?
"How does this affect the Liberty Movement, Kevin? Why should folks
from around the country help your local campaign?" we asked. Tunstall
replied "We all have to focus on one city at a time. One race at a
time. You can choose where to give your pro-liberty support, and
hopefully you'll spend them locally, at the town and city levels, if
there is a worthwhile race there. But what if there isn't? Where
should you give then?"
Being specific, he added "Missouri City has a 5 to 2 split on the
council right now. Should we be successful , we will
have a majority and the city will be lost to the cartel. We can then
refocus our efforts on Sugar Land, Richmond and Rosenberg, and
continue our campaign to rid our government institutions from those
who oppose the interests of the taxpayers, and stop them from spending
our money against our interests."
"We need successful races. We must start at the local level and work
our way up to the county, state and national levels. As we build a
cadre of representatives who promote our interests, we will be force
to be reckoned with" he concluded.
It sounds pretty ambitious until you realize that the liberty
candidates running in the Missouri City race not only look viable, but
the Mayoral challenger is currently a sitting council person. Kevin's
picked a race that he can win and he isn't running a paper candidacy
like so many other races that ask for your funds. Considering that
Tunstall has not only lead a good race in the past, he's served the LP
at the county and state levels, and managed other high-profile
campaigns, we believe he knows what he is talking about here.
We can think of no better candidate to lead our efforts to revitalize
the Libertarian List. Our primary goal: reach pro-liberty folks all
over, and ask them to help where and when it really counts, where
their dollars might make a real difference this time. We know it's
tight all over, but if everyone who gets this email gave just a few
dollars, Kevin's campaign chest will be filled and ready for action.
We know his opponents are funded by the very people who oppose Dr.
Paul. Let us show them that we too, the Pro-Liberty forces can mount
viable campaigns.
We ask that you give, and give generously, to Tunstall's campaign
efforts. Click the link below and let's get this guy elected and get
that ball rolling.
Additionally, forward this email and get every liberty minded person
you know to sign up for Libertarian Lists. As we grow, so does the
power of our message.
As an added bonus, The "Liberty Campaign for Texas PAC" has just
endorsed Tunstall. If you contribute as a result of this email,
Liberty Campaign for Texas PAC will match your contribution. This is
an exciting way to bring local (Texas) dollars into play while
assisting a high profile, pro-liberty candidate.
Donate to the Tunstall Campaign at
http://libertarianlists.com/lists/lt.php?id=NxpWVQBVWE9cS1UDBwY%3D
If you wish to leave our list, we understand, and we'll be sorry to
see you go.
Best Regards,
Seth Cohn
Director
LibertarianList.com
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-----Original Message-----
From: LibertarianList <info@libertarianlists.com>
Date: Thu, 8 Apr 2010 03:24:45
To: <mark04@rauterkus.com>
Subject: LibertarianList Returns
LibertarianLists is Back! We have a new website that is finally taking
shape and we will be gaining new features in days to come. Though we
are registered on "white lists" it is always a good idea to recognize
our emails as such in your email client.
For our inaugural allert, we would like to discuss a campaign shaping
up down in Texas.
Tip O'Neill once said that "all politics is local."
Let's look at an example: Everyone knows the 14th Congressional
District of Texas - Ron Paul's district. Are you aware that many
high ranking GOP members within this district actually work against
Dr. Paul? While Dr. Paul carries a message of liberty to not only his
constituents, but to the whole nation, there are those who would
prefer that this icon of freedom was silenced. Indeed, a portion of
his district hosts many within the neoconservative ranks. They control
virtually every portion of government except for Dr. Paul's seat. In
doing so, they utilize tax dollars as a revenue basis to fund his
opponents time and time again.
These 'neoconservatives' are absolutely opposed to free markets and
competition. They establish political "machines" which serve to
insure their interests are served in government above all others and
at the expense of the taxpayers. They obtain government "no bid"
contracts, receive special tax breaks and use their ill-gotten gains
to perpetuate ever more oppressive burdens on the communities they
afflict. Perhaps calling them corporatists, crony capitalists or
corporate welfare queens would be more fitting.
So if the 'local' folks are working against someone like Dr. Paul, how
can anyone else outside of that area try to make a difference and
help?
There is hope.
Former Texas LP Vice-Chairman Kevin Tunstall has battled these same
forces for years. Running for City Council in Missouri City
(population 70000) in 2007, Tunstall garnered 46% of the vote on a
very modest budget, despite an opponent who received significant
financial backing from these nefarious political interests.
During his campaign, he discovered many activities by the local
government that were deemed illegal by the state, but carried no
enforcement provisions or criminal penalties. Additionally, he
uncovered a cottage industry of lawyers and property managers
contracted with certain neighborhood associations whose purpose was to
prey on elderly homeowners by initiating foreclosures for trivial
purposes. Even when homeowners decided against such practices and
voted out their association boards, they fall victim to the very same
lawyers who then support the board members who refuse to vacate their
positions upon removal. This is of course illegal, but again there is
no enforcement of the law.
We've been informed that Tunstall is running once more. At the
urging of two sitting council persons and a former council
representative, he has tossed his hat into the ring and caused a stir.
When we spoke with Tunstall, he stated: "Missouri City is a
"closed" city for general development. There is a monopoly of
developers and vendors who receive all permits and outsiders are not
welcome. This cartel of businesses then drain the government coffers
by obtaining all of the contracts outside of the bidding process and
virtually all of the contracts available for bidding while inflating
the costs of projects. They will then fund their candidates,
regardless of whether they are Democrat or Republican, who will help
protect their monopoly. It is a 'pay to play' system."
"Whenever we see a grass-roots movement to unseat or defeat one of the
vendor network candidates, the political operatives crawl out of the
shadows and begin denigrating and marginalizing the concerns of
sincere and honest citizens while they attempt to destroy the
candidates who promote open and honest government."
What is the strategy?
"How does this affect the Liberty Movement, Kevin? Why should folks
from around the country help your local campaign?" we asked. Tunstall
replied "We all have to focus on one city at a time. One race at a
time. You can choose where to give your pro-liberty support, and
hopefully you'll spend them locally, at the town and city levels, if
there is a worthwhile race there. But what if there isn't? Where
should you give then?"
Being specific, he added "Missouri City has a 5 to 2 split on the
council right now. Should we be successful , we will
have a majority and the city will be lost to the cartel. We can then
refocus our efforts on Sugar Land, Richmond and Rosenberg, and
continue our campaign to rid our government institutions from those
who oppose the interests of the taxpayers, and stop them from spending
our money against our interests."
"We need successful races. We must start at the local level and work
our way up to the county, state and national levels. As we build a
cadre of representatives who promote our interests, we will be force
to be reckoned with" he concluded.
It sounds pretty ambitious until you realize that the liberty
candidates running in the Missouri City race not only look viable, but
the Mayoral challenger is currently a sitting council person. Kevin's
picked a race that he can win and he isn't running a paper candidacy
like so many other races that ask for your funds. Considering that
Tunstall has not only lead a good race in the past, he's served the LP
at the county and state levels, and managed other high-profile
campaigns, we believe he knows what he is talking about here.
We can think of no better candidate to lead our efforts to revitalize
the Libertarian List. Our primary goal: reach pro-liberty folks all
over, and ask them to help where and when it really counts, where
their dollars might make a real difference this time. We know it's
tight all over, but if everyone who gets this email gave just a few
dollars, Kevin's campaign chest will be filled and ready for action.
We know his opponents are funded by the very people who oppose Dr.
Paul. Let us show them that we too, the Pro-Liberty forces can mount
viable campaigns.
We ask that you give, and give generously, to Tunstall's campaign
efforts. Click the link below and let's get this guy elected and get
that ball rolling.
Additionally, forward this email and get every liberty minded person
you know to sign up for Libertarian Lists. As we grow, so does the
power of our message.
As an added bonus, The "Liberty Campaign for Texas PAC" has just
endorsed Tunstall. If you contribute as a result of this email,
Liberty Campaign for Texas PAC will match your contribution. This is
an exciting way to bring local (Texas) dollars into play while
assisting a high profile, pro-liberty candidate.
Donate to the Tunstall Campaign at
http://libertarianlists.com/lists/lt.php?id=NxpWVQBVWE9cS1UDBwY%3D
If you wish to leave our list, we understand, and we'll be sorry to
see you go.
Best Regards,
Seth Cohn
Director
LibertarianList.com
--
If you do not want to receive any more newsletters,
http://libertarianlists.com/lists/lt.php?id=NxpWVQBSUU9cS1UDBwY%3D
To update your preferences and to unsubscribe visit
http://libertarianlists.com/lists/lt.php?id=NxpWVQBSUE9cS1UDBwY%3D
Forward a Message to Someone
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Fw: [Carlynton Happenings] The Feasibility Study and the Future ofCarlynton
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From: Aria <fmodugno@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, 8 Apr 2010 05:03:26 -0700 (PDT)
To: <mark.rauterkus@gmail.com>
Subject: [Carlynton Happenings] The Feasibility Study and the Future of Carlynton
In my opinion, the first step before taking either of those paths should be to conduct a study on whether it would be more beneficial for the education of the students to consider merger with another school district or to consider disbanding Carlynton and merging the 3 communities into different school districts. The school board has chosen to ignore this possibility, although their own data show declining enrollment in the district.
There are several adjoining school districts with declining enrollment, just like Carlynton. Rather than undertake new construction or an update of existing structures, both of which will put the district back into debt and likely lead to an increase in taxes, merger with another district or districts will likely lead to a decrease in taxes and and possibly an increase in student performance. As well, ALL the adjacent districts provide more academic and enrichment programs than Carlynton. There will be more opportunities for our children.
The school district and parents should first assess the feasibility of the long term viability of Carlynton, one of the smallest school district in the county but with one of the highest tax rates. Only after that is done should the district determine its next move.
The following is information that I was asked to post:
IMPORTANT INFO:
If you are a current Carlynton resident and you do not want Crafton and Carnegie Elementary schools closed, Please use one of the links below (or all) to make your voice heard!
Carlynton SOS Website
Sign the Petition
Facebook page
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Posted By Aria to Carlynton Happenings at 4/08/2010 07:53:00 AM
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
Thanks for the post agenda still to come in April.
Dear Council President,
Thanks for setting up the post agenda to listen to the visitors from Bangladesh. Wow. This will be a fun challenge and could be a magical moment for us in Pittsburgh and for many around the world in a human rights battle.
Thanks again.
Mark Rauterkus
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Thanks for setting up the post agenda to listen to the visitors from Bangladesh. Wow. This will be a fun challenge and could be a magical moment for us in Pittsburgh and for many around the world in a human rights battle.
Thanks again.
Mark Rauterkus
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Fw: MSNBC & NTU discover property tax issue
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From: "Bob Logue" <ucblogue@verizon.net>
Date: Wed, 07 Apr 2010 20:05:56 -0400
To: <Undisclosed-Recipient:;><Invalid address>
Subject: MSNBC & NTU discover property tax issue
MSNBC and the National Taxpayers Union have discovered just one small aspect of how corrupt and inaccurate the property tax on residences is. It's great that more people are demanding the values of their homes be reduced because of the current economic problems in our country.
In Pennsylvania you have the right to file an appeal every year. You need not wait for a reassessment. Problem is they county may increase instead of decrease your property assessment.
In reading this story you will note there is now an industry forming of lawyers filing property tax appeals for 50% of the savings for the first year.
Lastly, note the wealthy home owner and how much he got his taxes reduced. He could afford to hire an attorney and an appraiser...but unless one can find an attorney willing to take the 50% deal mentioned above, the cost for most attorneys is around $350. Appraiser perhaps $500. Most lower and fixed income citizens can't take the risk of spending that kind of money and perhaps not getting a tax reduction at all. An appeal of an unfavorable decision at the county level can be filed in common pleas court. Filing fee $63. Attorney representation at the court hearing, maybe $500. Appraiser testifying...who knows...let's say $300. It's worth the crap shoot for wealthy homeowners...but the lower income folks can't afford all of that.
NOTE: We have sent a wealth of information to the National Taxpayers Union and they did not appear interested in the corrupt property tax issue. So, it is encouraging to see them starting to show interest. Bob Logue, STOP Primary Residence Protection Plan. Learn more at
By Kristina Dell
msnbc.com
updated 7:32 a.m. ET, Wed., April 7, 2010
Now that the housing bubble has burst, up to 60 percent of the nation's taxable property may be overassessed, meaning owners are paying thousands of dollars more in taxes than they need to, experts say.
That is leading to a flood of appeals in many markets from homeowners eager to cut their taxes and speed the process of aligning tax valuations with reality.
While home prices have fallen by 30 percent on average since their 2007 peak, according to the Case-Shiller Home Price Index, many counties only reassess every three to five years and have little incentive to move faster considering how important property taxes are to funding local government operations.
So homeowners are increasingly appealing the valuations, although the number is still a tiny fraction of the total — 2 to 4 percent, according to the National Taxpayers Union.
"People forget they need to appeal," said Barbara Payne, executive director of the Fulton County Taxpayers Foundation in Georgia. "Everyone should have appealed more than once in the last five years or you're paying too much."
Those who appeal are getting mixed results. Only 20 to 40 percent of those who challenge their assessment walk away with a victory, the NTU said.
"Appeals have become more difficult in the last two years now that municipalities are fighting tooth and nail for everything," said Anthony Sarro, president of eTaxReductions.com, a company that represents people on property tax appeals.
A success story
Stuart Sendell, a retired mortgage banker living in Morristown, N.J., was ultimately successful but said the process took 14 months to complete.
After reading a report that found the average assessed value of real estate in his town had increased by 5 percent, Sendell paid a visit to his local assessor's office to examine the calculations.
"Everyone knew housing values were dropping like a brick," he said, remembering that he thought the report "couldn't be right."
| Stuart Sendell's home was estimated by the township to be worth $1.6 million, but his appraiser concluded his home was worth only $970,000. After appealing his property assessment, he accepted a 25 percent reduction after a lawyer for the township asked to strike a deal. |
Two months before his court date the lawyer for the township asked to strike a deal. Since New Jersey law gives assessors a 15 percent margin of error for assessments, Sendell accepted a 25 percent reduction, which showed up in his taxes. He was awarded a $5,400 tax refund — a savings he now banks each year.
Sendell's experience isn't unique. "There has been a ramp-up in requests that began well over a year ago," said Peter Sepp, vice president for policy and communications at the NTU. "People are getting sticker shock over assessments that have yet to be adjusted to the realities of the depressed real estate market."
Filing an appeal
Attorney Arthur Semetis, a resident of Westchester County, N.Y., used a law firm to file his tax grievance two years ago. "They know what the courts are looking for," he said, referring to the law firm, "and work with the judges all the time."
His lawyer was initially unsuccessful in negotiating with the tax authority but knew to stick with the process. The firm ended up winning him a tax reduction of 12 percent on the second go around in the judicial hearing.
An industry has cropped up around the process, with companies filing appeals on behalf of residents in exchange for a cut of the winnings. Most firms work on a contingency basis, taking about 50 percent of the savings for the first year.
Linux in Community
WPLUG is hosting a general user meeting on Saturday, April 10th from
10:30a until 12:30p to be held at the Wilkins School Community Center.
Kristopher "Piki" Gamrat will be speaking on the topic of The
Advantages of Linux in the Community. Do you think free software
would be a good choice at work? Would the people at your favorite
non-profit use Linux? How about the members of your family? This
presentation will challenge you to consider Linux beyond the typical.
The result would be the people you care about using the best software
available!
Further details available at: http://www.wplug.org/wiki/Meeting-20100410
Dave
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
10:30a until 12:30p to be held at the Wilkins School Community Center.
Kristopher "Piki" Gamrat will be speaking on the topic of The
Advantages of Linux in the Community. Do you think free software
would be a good choice at work? Would the people at your favorite
non-profit use Linux? How about the members of your family? This
presentation will challenge you to consider Linux beyond the typical.
The result would be the people you care about using the best software
available!
Further details available at: http://www.wplug.org/wiki/Meeting-20100410
Dave
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
False gods peeked into PPS Meeting tonight.
Some of Title IX is like a plague that has caused and continues to cause much anguish. You never win by subtraction. Put that as part of the law. Judges and Legislators seldom make elegant solutions. Getting to the "sweet spot" isn't through them.
I was far more interested in the risk management statements from the consultant / AD.
Video in a day or two.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
I was far more interested in the risk management statements from the consultant / AD.
Video in a day or two.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®
Fw: DR News: Orie Sisters Charged
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From: Tim Potts Democracy Rising PA <tim@democracyrisingpa.com>
Date: Wed, 7 Apr 2010 17:55:48 -0400 (EDT)
To: <mark.rauterkus@gmail.com>
Subject: DR News: Orie Sisters Charged
Democracy Rising Pennsylvania | |||||
|
Title IX report: Hold onto your hat and sox too
We might be blown away by the Title IX report, due today. Part of it was read to me on the phone. Good golly Miss Molly.
I can't wait.
Stay tuned.
I can't wait.
Stay tuned.
Constitutional experts seem all the rage
Wrong!
Many of us have cared a great deal about the Constitution for a long, long time.
Meanwhile, Tonya Payne doesn't care for the Constitution. She said so. Bruce Kraus didn't even know that candidates who win elected office are there to uphold the constitutions (Federal, State and City Charter). So, there are plenty out there who are NOT fans of the constitution too. Sadly, those in the dark about the importance of the constitution and justice have been winning too many elections in Pittsburgh for far too long.
To say everyone, as Reg does, is prue BS.
And to say those who care about the bedrock law of the land only care about the 2nd amendment is a joke too.
We Libertarians didn't slept the sleep of the innocent in the Bush times. Far from it.
Watchdogs have been in a slumber for many years, locally, Reg. I've stated that countless times, Reg.
I hate eminent domain -- but the PG digs it. We don't need to go over all the times you got it wrong.
Okay, let me hold your hand. The Constitution, of course, does not specifically mention a federal role in health care. How could it? With another amendment. If health care should become a "right" -- then it should be put into the Constitution. The Constitution is a living document. If it needs to be changed, let's bring on that discussion. That's how, Reg.
Reg, even the logic in your article misses the mark. Congress is given the power "to regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes." But big business is not a foreign nation, nor several states nor a Indian tribe. Reg, think again.
Constitutional experts seem all the rage Constitutional experts seem all the rageThis is such BS.
By Reg Henry, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
One of my colleagues -- herself both an editor and a member of the bar (the legal bar and not the type of bar other journalists have been known to prop up) -- remarked the other day that suddenly every Joe in the country has become an authority on the Constitution.
It is true. Oddly, the people who now care passionately about the Constitution didn't seem to think much about it previously, excepting, of course, the Second Amendment, which they considered the whole constitutional shooting match.
Many of us have cared a great deal about the Constitution for a long, long time.
Meanwhile, Tonya Payne doesn't care for the Constitution. She said so. Bruce Kraus didn't even know that candidates who win elected office are there to uphold the constitutions (Federal, State and City Charter). So, there are plenty out there who are NOT fans of the constitution too. Sadly, those in the dark about the importance of the constitution and justice have been winning too many elections in Pittsburgh for far too long.
To say everyone, as Reg does, is prue BS.
And to say those who care about the bedrock law of the land only care about the 2nd amendment is a joke too.
We Libertarians didn't slept the sleep of the innocent in the Bush times. Far from it.
Watchdogs have been in a slumber for many years, locally, Reg. I've stated that countless times, Reg.
I hate eminent domain -- but the PG digs it. We don't need to go over all the times you got it wrong.
Okay, let me hold your hand. The Constitution, of course, does not specifically mention a federal role in health care. How could it? With another amendment. If health care should become a "right" -- then it should be put into the Constitution. The Constitution is a living document. If it needs to be changed, let's bring on that discussion. That's how, Reg.
Reg, even the logic in your article misses the mark. Congress is given the power "to regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian tribes." But big business is not a foreign nation, nor several states nor a Indian tribe. Reg, think again.
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Kraus seeks audit on delayed Pittsburgh anti-gang program
Kraus seeks audit on delayed Pittsburgh anti-gang program: "Kraus seeks audit on delayed Pittsburgh anti-gang program"Finally!
He seeks an audit. Meanwhile, I was against it ever getting any money. The other on council, Theresa Smith, spoke today too. She said she was sad to have voted for the curfew center at the outset. Too late now. I wanted her and the others to never fund it from the get go. I am glad that they are coming around to my side on this -- finally.
Pittsburgh City Council does the right thing!
Great news. Thanks President Burns.
When a visitor to Pittsburgh from Bangladesh arrives later this month to share insights of work in the apparel factories, Pittsburgh City Council will host a post-agenda meeting to receive the testomony. This is wonderful and just what was hoped for as the next step.
In Pittsburgh, we've pushed to have our purchasing departments go out of its way to obtain items with public dollars that are sure to be supplied from factories where the workers have human rights upheld. We don't want to buy from sweatshops.
But, this isn't happening as promised.
Humm.....
When a visitor to Pittsburgh from Bangladesh arrives later this month to share insights of work in the apparel factories, Pittsburgh City Council will host a post-agenda meeting to receive the testomony. This is wonderful and just what was hoped for as the next step.
In Pittsburgh, we've pushed to have our purchasing departments go out of its way to obtain items with public dollars that are sure to be supplied from factories where the workers have human rights upheld. We don't want to buy from sweatshops.
But, this isn't happening as promised.
Humm.....
Grand jury accuses state Sen. Jane Orie
Busted.
Grand jury accuses state Sen. Jane Orie: "Grand jury accuses state Sen. Jane OrieMy adivce to Jane Orie: Resign from public office and move to the private sector. Then spend what you must ot fight the charges so you don't go to jail for too long of a stay.
Says Republican state senator misused office, staff
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