Hi All,
The Olympic flame sparks to life in Athens in a matter of hours. I love
these times as the world gets a single focus to celebrate humanity. It would
be great if everyone with a weapon or in war could take a vacation from the
fighting.
Violence has hit hard in our areas too, sadly. There is much to do.
It seems to me that if we were spending more time in efforts to create
literate Olympians, every week, we'd be much safer, stronger, and smarter in
our quests to know ourselves and our communities.
Today's invite and personal plea: Please visit and comment at:
http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/
You too might consider starting your own blog. Then we can link their
feeds in a hub in the weeks to come.
Stay safe. And GO OLYMPIANS!
Ta.
Mark Rauterkus http://rauterkus.blogspot.com/
xCoach at Rauterkus.com http://CLOH.Org http://Rauterkus.com
412-298-3432 = cell
Thursday, August 05, 2004
Getting Volunteers for Community TV Efforts
If you'd like to be part of a new class of recruits to become a "PRODUCER" at our COMMUNITY TV STATION, PCTV 21, then contact me. Mark@Rauterkus.com
On the advice of a blast email reader, we'll be setting up a tour or two of the PCTV 21 Studios. A simple, short show-and-tell can be organized before we get into the education and details of being a volunteer for full productions.
Thanks for the consideration. This will be a lot of fun.
Tour Invites Expected
On the advice of a blast email reader, we'll be setting up a tour or two of the PCTV 21 Studios. A simple, short show-and-tell can be organized before we get into the education and details of being a volunteer for full productions.
Thanks for the consideration. This will be a lot of fun.
To Few Olympians in Western PA
To few -- PG Article
We have two in Athens. That is a sad statement for both the region and city. In 2000, we had five. We should have dozens.
I don't agree with Dejan, the writer, that we have "an abundant, varied selection of athletic programs at the formative levels and beyond." We are failing our kids, ourselves and our stretches to world-wide performances.
Perhaps those that are closest to the issue who struggle for a definitive answer are fooling themselves.
Pitt has a rising NCAA Division I program, but it lacks a track that can host a meet. Finishing in the middle of the pack in the Big East and fielding Olympian are not so similar. Good point to make that NONE on Pitt's track team come from the city league.
One city league facility, South Stadium, has a track. But, there isn't a program there that uses the facility. And, no public uses occurs at the stadium. If we have facilities and no access -- we don't have facilities. Just as with the Rec Centers. They are there -- but not open. So, first things first.
Yes, we do have some problems within the coaching ranks in the region too. You can't expect coaches to flourish when given so many challenges that have nothing to do with the athletes and the sports challenges.
We have two in Athens. That is a sad statement for both the region and city. In 2000, we had five. We should have dozens.
I don't agree with Dejan, the writer, that we have "an abundant, varied selection of athletic programs at the formative levels and beyond." We are failing our kids, ourselves and our stretches to world-wide performances.
Perhaps those that are closest to the issue who struggle for a definitive answer are fooling themselves.
Pitt has a rising NCAA Division I program, but it lacks a track that can host a meet. Finishing in the middle of the pack in the Big East and fielding Olympian are not so similar. Good point to make that NONE on Pitt's track team come from the city league.
One city league facility, South Stadium, has a track. But, there isn't a program there that uses the facility. And, no public uses occurs at the stadium. If we have facilities and no access -- we don't have facilities. Just as with the Rec Centers. They are there -- but not open. So, first things first.
Yes, we do have some problems within the coaching ranks in the region too. You can't expect coaches to flourish when given so many challenges that have nothing to do with the athletes and the sports challenges.
Running on empty
By December, the city is projecting a cash shortfall of $8.8 million, said the budget director. The City Controller's office said the shortfall could be up to $12 million.
The budget director said, "When we see this picture, we just don't sit back." Meanwhile, the city's reserve fund had been in past years as great as $80-million. That fund balance has dropped by $20-$30 million each of the past few years. Now it is running to empty.
Fear not. The city is not hiring. Many are retiring. Attrition is high.
Sala's first line of questions was to the timing of additional borrowing. The slogan "tax-and-spend Democrats" won't fit any more. Rather the new slogan needs to be "borrow, spend and beg" -- and in that order.
"We know that 2005 will bring a balanced budget," said the budget director. To bad the last two years saw illegal budgets.
Every year for at least the next three year, Pittsburgh will need a tax note at the start of the year to borrow some $30-million.
The hole that Mayor Murphy and the others in leadership positions have been digging is very deep. And, the real digging has yet to end.
The budget director said, "When we see this picture, we just don't sit back." Meanwhile, the city's reserve fund had been in past years as great as $80-million. That fund balance has dropped by $20-$30 million each of the past few years. Now it is running to empty.
Fear not. The city is not hiring. Many are retiring. Attrition is high.
Sala's first line of questions was to the timing of additional borrowing. The slogan "tax-and-spend Democrats" won't fit any more. Rather the new slogan needs to be "borrow, spend and beg" -- and in that order.
"We know that 2005 will bring a balanced budget," said the budget director. To bad the last two years saw illegal budgets.
Every year for at least the next three year, Pittsburgh will need a tax note at the start of the year to borrow some $30-million.
The hole that Mayor Murphy and the others in leadership positions have been digging is very deep. And, the real digging has yet to end.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
South Side Summer Street Spectacular Sucks
The South Pittsburgh Reporter newspaper on the 2004 event: "It's the worst thing that South Side ever came up with," citing the "nastiness, urine, and puke."
Seniors, especially, suffer as they are fearful of leaving their homes.
You've got until August 13, 2004 to fill out a five question survey from the South Side Local Development Company. Like they didn't even plan this years event until June. Rush to give that feedback.
Residents' Survey
Business Survey
The event should be terminated. There are many other, better things that should be done. Frankly, I'd love to see the field used as a ballfield.
The South Side Spring Sports Showcase should occur with partnership of Pitt. Pitt's spring football game should be played at South Stadium. A parade should go from UPMC's football facility to South with players, coaches, tailgaters, and other sports activities throughout the neighborhood.
Seniors, especially, suffer as they are fearful of leaving their homes.
You've got until August 13, 2004 to fill out a five question survey from the South Side Local Development Company. Like they didn't even plan this years event until June. Rush to give that feedback.
The event should be terminated. There are many other, better things that should be done. Frankly, I'd love to see the field used as a ballfield.
The South Side Spring Sports Showcase should occur with partnership of Pitt. Pitt's spring football game should be played at South Stadium. A parade should go from UPMC's football facility to South with players, coaches, tailgaters, and other sports activities throughout the neighborhood.
Football Fumbles with City League out of sync with WPIAL
My rant is a follow up to the call to merge with City League with the WPIAL and the spledid story in the Trib.
Mt. Washington's REAMS swim pool - opening
Citiparks has some 16 swim pools that did NOT open this summer. These are mostly outdoor, neighborhood pools that were opened last summer until mid August. In August 2003 a major ax swing shut down most of the pools and closed the Recreation Centers.
One of the now closed pools, in Mt. Washington, next to a Rec Center, is about to re-open. Thanks to a lot of pushing and pulling by some locals and community folks -- money has been raised, water has been flowing, and the grounds are ready for patrons.
REAM pool had its big, grand opening on August 6, 2004.
Learning of the terms of the deal will be interesting. Happy swimming. Photos soon.
One of the now closed pools, in Mt. Washington, next to a Rec Center, is about to re-open. Thanks to a lot of pushing and pulling by some locals and community folks -- money has been raised, water has been flowing, and the grounds are ready for patrons.
REAM pool had its big, grand opening on August 6, 2004.
Learning of the terms of the deal will be interesting. Happy swimming. Photos soon.
Fire Response Time on Ballot - show for PCTV?
So, the firefighters got a petition together and a question seems to be on the ballot for November's election. Well done. I love it when issues are put to the people for a vote. Democracy (with a small "d") rules.
A pending idea is floated at S6, my special events sub-site. Read it there and react if you can.
http://S6.CLOH.Org/whynot/fire-response-show.html
A pending idea is floated at S6, my special events sub-site. Read it there and react if you can.
http://S6.CLOH.Org/whynot/fire-response-show.html
US Senate Race goes five ways -- it seems??
PG article
Thanks for doing the whole story in the story of Specter and Hoeffel debates. Seems that the two men are going to have two debates. But, the race is larger than just a D and R. I'm glad you, Jeffrey Cohan, and the PG made mention of Jay Russel of the Libertarians.
But, the Constitution and Reform parties made a submission of signatures to get candidates on the ballot -- but -- what are the names of these men and/or women?
Please cover the entire story. Our democracy (small "d") depends on the watchdogs doing their jobs to the fullest.
And, when are we going to hear about others beyond Nader who have gotten onto the ballot for the President? I've asked Tom Barnes -- and don't have a reply yet.
Thanks for doing the whole story in the story of Specter and Hoeffel debates. Seems that the two men are going to have two debates. But, the race is larger than just a D and R. I'm glad you, Jeffrey Cohan, and the PG made mention of Jay Russel of the Libertarians.
But, the Constitution and Reform parties made a submission of signatures to get candidates on the ballot -- but -- what are the names of these men and/or women?
Please cover the entire story. Our democracy (small "d") depends on the watchdogs doing their jobs to the fullest.
And, when are we going to hear about others beyond Nader who have gotten onto the ballot for the President? I've asked Tom Barnes -- and don't have a reply yet.
$15,000 for Highland Park fountain
City council voted to spend $15k on the entrance and fountain at Highland Park. This is a turn-back the clock upgrade to make the entry like it used to be near the turn of the century -- not 2000 but 1900. That's a great example of how Pittsburgh's leaders sum up the progress in our parks today.
X-Game, Dirt Biker
http://pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/sports/nationalsports/s_206486.html
The photo in the Trib on Aug. 4, 2004, page C13, of the X-games athlete, Chris Doyle of Plum, on an airborn bike, without a helmet is shameful. The photo editors, photojournalist and athlete should be scolded.
Good to see the coverage in the paper. Good luck in the games. But, athletes and media pros need to be responsible to the physical body and only loosers are wreckless.
The headline, Taking to the air, might be fitting. Going to the air isn't the hard part. The trick is landing. Good to see the photo off of the web site already.
The photo in the Trib on Aug. 4, 2004, page C13, of the X-games athlete, Chris Doyle of Plum, on an airborn bike, without a helmet is shameful. The photo editors, photojournalist and athlete should be scolded.
Good to see the coverage in the paper. Good luck in the games. But, athletes and media pros need to be responsible to the physical body and only loosers are wreckless.
The headline, Taking to the air, might be fitting. Going to the air isn't the hard part. The trick is landing. Good to see the photo off of the web site already.
Wylie Ave deal -- typical smoke and folly
So, let's have a public authority own the land and the developer own the buildings. Then we ask for a PILOT (payment in lew of taxes).
Sala, it is underhanded to have the land owned by someone and the building by another. That is underhanded and underfooted and under the foundation junk wrangling.
The sweetheart deals are deals that are not freemarket deals. The well of the marketplace has been tainted with poor deals in the past. Real development and real prosperity would flow into Pittsburgh once City Council stands up to these lame efforts.
"It is a new day!" said Councilwoman Carlise. However the old way of thinking came when it was time to vote. This 9-0 means more of the same.
Sala, it is underhanded to have the land owned by someone and the building by another. That is underhanded and underfooted and under the foundation junk wrangling.
The sweetheart deals are deals that are not freemarket deals. The well of the marketplace has been tainted with poor deals in the past. Real development and real prosperity would flow into Pittsburgh once City Council stands up to these lame efforts.
"It is a new day!" said Councilwoman Carlise. However the old way of thinking came when it was time to vote. This 9-0 means more of the same.
Another one bites the dust - PDP boss departs
Ms. Geyer, head of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, (PDP), is leaving town with no major disappointments during her tenure. Accomplishments include bike racks, new trash cans and a back alley facelift.
Fifth - Forbes failures and the lack of a downtown grocery store .... ho hum.
The PDP can go away, along with its executive director.
Fifth - Forbes failures and the lack of a downtown grocery store .... ho hum.
The PDP can go away, along with its executive director.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
Our city: a time of JEOPARDY
www.Post-Gazette.com/pg/04216/355666.stm
The College Championship shows are to air from the Petersen Event Center, one of Oakland's finest food courts. Its grand prize is $100,000.
Quiz, Answers, Comments, -- all welcomed.
Quiz Utility at CLOH.Org
You can roll your own quiz for placement on the web at the URL above.
Wishing again for a MN political landscape
Those open-minded folks in MN are at it again, freethinkers making their points, based upon what and how one thinks -- not based upon a lockstep of mental numbness and norms established by some conformity.
The point of this story is to show that people elsewhere break ranks. People in power, even mayors, can endorse candidates of other parties. In Pittsburgh, we are too old school. In Pittsburgh, our "lockstep style" is a turn off. In Pittsburgh, those who break ranks are forced to vote with their feet and leave town. Pittsburgh is half of what it was because of the culture that demands lockstep actions. As we shrink in our freedoms and are held back by past anchors, our local dispair will sustain.
What elected DEM in the city would endorse a Republican?
The conventional wisdom and standing joke is that the devil himself could get 100-percent support and endorsements with local Dems. Could that be true? I have heard variations on the same story many time on the streets in Pittsburgh.
However, it was very interesting to note that Al Fondy of the Teachers Union passed an endorsement of Senator Spector, R, -- for re-election of his umpteenth term with a huge campaign war-chest. How can that be explained? Perhaps it is don't back the looser? Perhaps it is don't buck the establishment?
On the flip side, there are a number of GOPers who would and do endorse Dems. Jim Roddey won't help a Republican candidate. Western PA's Barbara H supported the Dem for PA Gov. while she was holding state office as a Republican.
St. Paul Mayor Randy Kelly (a DEMOCRAT) Endorses President Bush
snips of news... St. Paul, MN -- In a remarkable show of support, St. Paul Mayor, Randy Kelly announced his endorsement for the re-election of Bush-Cheney.
Democrat Senator Zell Miller (D-GA) stated, "I am really pleased Mayor Randy Kelly has joined me in the effort to re-elect George W. Bush. Mayor Kelly knows, as I do, that George W. Bush represents the values of America's heartland. President Bush is a man Democrats and all Americans can rely on to stand by his commitments to fight terrorism and support our troops. The President is also making sure that working people keep more of their hard earned money and send their kids to schools that give every child a good start in life. These are values that my fellow Democrats and all Americans can support."
"Mayor Kelly today again proved what I have long known: he is a fine man, whose first priority is not partisanship, but the wellbeing of St. Paul and the entire nation. Mayor Kelly recognizes that jobs are being created and that tax cuts have stimulated that job growth. He has done the same for St. Paul. He also understands that we are engaged in a war on terror and now is not the time to change horses in mid-stream. The mayor has never been afraid to reach across party lines to get things done. I applaud him for following his conscience and his concrete convictions. This is bipartisanship at its finest,” stated Bush-Cheney '04 Minnesota Campaign Co-Chair Senator Norm Coleman.
Kelly concluded, "With just over 90 days left before the election I feel extremely confident that the message, priorities, and policies of President George W. Bush will better serve America and the people of Minnesota over the next four years."
The point of this story is to show that people elsewhere break ranks. People in power, even mayors, can endorse candidates of other parties. In Pittsburgh, we are too old school. In Pittsburgh, our "lockstep style" is a turn off. In Pittsburgh, those who break ranks are forced to vote with their feet and leave town. Pittsburgh is half of what it was because of the culture that demands lockstep actions. As we shrink in our freedoms and are held back by past anchors, our local dispair will sustain.
What elected DEM in the city would endorse a Republican?
The conventional wisdom and standing joke is that the devil himself could get 100-percent support and endorsements with local Dems. Could that be true? I have heard variations on the same story many time on the streets in Pittsburgh.
However, it was very interesting to note that Al Fondy of the Teachers Union passed an endorsement of Senator Spector, R, -- for re-election of his umpteenth term with a huge campaign war-chest. How can that be explained? Perhaps it is don't back the looser? Perhaps it is don't buck the establishment?
On the flip side, there are a number of GOPers who would and do endorse Dems. Jim Roddey won't help a Republican candidate. Western PA's Barbara H supported the Dem for PA Gov. while she was holding state office as a Republican.
Monday, August 02, 2004
KQV voters had it right in poll about paying for conventions
The Libertarian Party asked the Republicans and Democrats to pay for their own conventions. The Libertarians say the Republicans and Democrats each receive $14.5 million from the Federal Election Commission. Security costs add another $25 million. Taxpayers foot the bill for nearly $40-million for each event.
Do you agree with the Libertarians that the Republican and Democratic parties should pay the full cost of their conventions?
Results: 90 percent of the voters did agree with the Libertarians.
Get the data at http://www.kqv.com/phonepoll.php?vo=9
Do you agree with the Libertarians that the Republican and Democratic parties should pay the full cost of their conventions?
Results: 90 percent of the voters did agree with the Libertarians.
Get the data at http://www.kqv.com/phonepoll.php?vo=9
Afterschool Funding as Campaign Issue
Candidates for school superintendent, mayor, Congress and even President are vowing to increase funding for afterschool programs in recognition of the importance of the issue and its appeal to voters.
Support for afterschool makes good political sense. A poll conducted for the Afterschool Alliance last fall found that nine in ten voters (94 percent) agree there should be some type of organized activity or place for children and teens to go after school every day that provides opportunities for them to learn. The poll found that support for afterschool was strong across all demographic and party lines.
In a measure of the growing support, the bi-partisan U.S. Conference of Mayors rallied behind afterschool programs in June, 2004. At their 72nd annual meeting, the mayors passed a resolution calling on President Bush to increase funding for the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) afterschool initiative to $2 billion next year.
The resolution urges federal, state and local governments to increase their investment in afterschool programs because afterschool programs "provide a way for communities to reduce the risk of youth involvement in crime, violence, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and gangs" and "enhance the physical, social, emotional and moral development of youth."
John Kerry recently unveiled a plan that would provide full funding for the 21st CCLC initiative. The "School's Open 'Til 6" plan would significantly increase funding for afterschool programs, keep schools open later, and offer reliable transportation so children can get home safely.
Senator Kerry also pledged to fully fund the "No Child Left Behind Act," which would increase afterschool funding from its current $1 billion level to $2.5 billion in 2007. This would give afterschool opportunities to 3.5 million students - a significant increase from the 1.4 million children currently served by federally funded afterschool programs.
"Increasingly, candidates from both political parties recognize that afterschool is a winning issue because there is a compelling and urgent need for safe, reliable afterschool care," Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Judy Y. Samelson said. "Today in America, one in three middle school students care for themselves after school. With juvenile crime spiking between 3 and 6 PM, we all benefit when youth are in safe, learning, supervised activities."
In another noteworthy move, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole (R-NC) wrote a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee leaders in July urging them to increase funding for afterschool programs in Fiscal Year 2005.
"My request for a modest ten percent increase of $100 million would allow 140,000 more youth - 3,200 in North Carolina - the opportunity to participate," the Senator said in her letter. "It is a step in the right direction... I believe that an investment of $1.1 billion for the 21st CCLC Program is the right thing to do for our communities, for working families, and for children throughout America."
"Senator Dole has demonstrated that she is a true champion for children by asking for an increase in federal afterschool funding next year," Samelson said. "Afterschool funding has been stalled at $1 billion for four years, and millions of children are missing out on the learning opportunities and other experiences these programs provide. As an important new voice, Senator Dole's actions have helped to raise the level of debate on this vital issue in the Senate."
More information on how afterschool advocates can raise the issue in the context of elections, in a nonpartisan way, at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org. Click on the "2004 Elections Guide" button on the upper right.
Support for afterschool makes good political sense. A poll conducted for the Afterschool Alliance last fall found that nine in ten voters (94 percent) agree there should be some type of organized activity or place for children and teens to go after school every day that provides opportunities for them to learn. The poll found that support for afterschool was strong across all demographic and party lines.
U.S. Conference of Mayors
In a measure of the growing support, the bi-partisan U.S. Conference of Mayors rallied behind afterschool programs in June, 2004. At their 72nd annual meeting, the mayors passed a resolution calling on President Bush to increase funding for the federal 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) afterschool initiative to $2 billion next year.
The resolution urges federal, state and local governments to increase their investment in afterschool programs because afterschool programs "provide a way for communities to reduce the risk of youth involvement in crime, violence, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and gangs" and "enhance the physical, social, emotional and moral development of youth."
Kerry Proposal
John Kerry recently unveiled a plan that would provide full funding for the 21st CCLC initiative. The "School's Open 'Til 6" plan would significantly increase funding for afterschool programs, keep schools open later, and offer reliable transportation so children can get home safely.
Senator Kerry also pledged to fully fund the "No Child Left Behind Act," which would increase afterschool funding from its current $1 billion level to $2.5 billion in 2007. This would give afterschool opportunities to 3.5 million students - a significant increase from the 1.4 million children currently served by federally funded afterschool programs.
"Increasingly, candidates from both political parties recognize that afterschool is a winning issue because there is a compelling and urgent need for safe, reliable afterschool care," Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Judy Y. Samelson said. "Today in America, one in three middle school students care for themselves after school. With juvenile crime spiking between 3 and 6 PM, we all benefit when youth are in safe, learning, supervised activities."
Support from Senator Dole
In another noteworthy move, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole (R-NC) wrote a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee leaders in July urging them to increase funding for afterschool programs in Fiscal Year 2005.
"My request for a modest ten percent increase of $100 million would allow 140,000 more youth - 3,200 in North Carolina - the opportunity to participate," the Senator said in her letter. "It is a step in the right direction... I believe that an investment of $1.1 billion for the 21st CCLC Program is the right thing to do for our communities, for working families, and for children throughout America."
"Senator Dole has demonstrated that she is a true champion for children by asking for an increase in federal afterschool funding next year," Samelson said. "Afterschool funding has been stalled at $1 billion for four years, and millions of children are missing out on the learning opportunities and other experiences these programs provide. As an important new voice, Senator Dole's actions have helped to raise the level of debate on this vital issue in the Senate."
More information on how afterschool advocates can raise the issue in the context of elections, in a nonpartisan way, at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org. Click on the "2004 Elections Guide" button on the upper right.
Sunday, August 01, 2004
Bloggers: The New Media Or A Fad?
Neither. Bloggers are "new media" and hardly a fad. But, it isn't really new. We've been blogging for years.
Big Media Tried To Steal Bloggers' Thunder at DNC
Blogging Has A Role In National Debate, But It Isn't Journalism
This blog, by the way, has as its principle author an old-school J-School grad. I have a BSJ degree in Journalism from Ohio University. So, blogging can be done by journalists and can be real journalism too.
Bloggers Make Their Presence Felt At DNC and the GOP Invited Bloggers to its convention.
Big Media Tried To Steal Bloggers' Thunder at DNC
Blogging Has A Role In National Debate, But It Isn't Journalism
This blog, by the way, has as its principle author an old-school J-School grad. I have a BSJ degree in Journalism from Ohio University. So, blogging can be done by journalists and can be real journalism too.
Bloggers Make Their Presence Felt At DNC and the GOP Invited Bloggers to its convention.
GOPers in Pittsburgh get nods for various roles
Ron Hicks, a Republican committee member from the South Side, as Solicitor to the County Republican Committee. Ron has assembled a team of twelve Assistant Solicitors who-were they to join forces-would be one of the most formidable law firms in the city. This legal team played a critical role in the GOP's only statewide victory in the last two years when
they worked diligently on the re-count in Susan Gantman's ultimately successful campaign for the Superior Court.
Ted Owen of Pine will head the Leadership Committee, a group established under our bylaws to ensure that party officers benefit from the insights and experience of other party leaders and elected officials.
The single most important aspect of our work is the development of strong local committees, and it is appropriate that our newly elected Vice Chairman, Dave Majernik, will chair our committee development committee with the able assistance of Dave Weinstein from White Oak. Both have proven track records as the leaders of committees that have shown how to win local
elections even in solidly Democratic areas.
You can't win elections without raising money, and I am pleased that David Jason of Scott has agreed to head our Finance Committee. He brings an innovative approach to this important role, and he will be ably assisted by the committee's vice chairman. John Rangos.
Lou Nudi will chair a committee to review the county party's bylaws and propose any changes they believe to be necessary. A number of local committees have asked that we offer a "modular" set of bylaws they can adopt after making any changes their own circumstances may warrant.
Next year, there will be a minimum of six vacant seats on the Common Pleas Court bench. I have appointed a distinguished lawyer and long-time Republican activist, Woody Turner, to head a committee to interview and screen potential candidates. Last year, Jill Rangos showed that it is possible for a Republican to win one of these seats, and she is today the only Republican on the county bench here. We can elect one or more Republican judges next year, but only if we recruit candidates of the highest caliber to carry our party's banner.
Finally, I have asked Marcy Reed to head a candidate development committee to recruit and work with potential candidates for important city and county offices.
FUND-RAISER FOR JOE PETERS
One of the most important positions to be filled in this year's election is Auditor General. It is vital that we elect a Republican to rein in the spending excesses of Governor Rendell and the Democrats in Harrisburg. I am organizing a fund-raiser for Joe Peters which will be held on Thursday, August 19 at Wildwood Golf Club from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Melissa Hart and Tim Murphy have agreed be our special guests, and nearly every Republican representing our county in the state Senate and House will serve on the host committee. For RCAC members, tickets are $75 per person. We have more information about this event in next week's update.
they worked diligently on the re-count in Susan Gantman's ultimately successful campaign for the Superior Court.
Ted Owen of Pine will head the Leadership Committee, a group established under our bylaws to ensure that party officers benefit from the insights and experience of other party leaders and elected officials.
The single most important aspect of our work is the development of strong local committees, and it is appropriate that our newly elected Vice Chairman, Dave Majernik, will chair our committee development committee with the able assistance of Dave Weinstein from White Oak. Both have proven track records as the leaders of committees that have shown how to win local
elections even in solidly Democratic areas.
You can't win elections without raising money, and I am pleased that David Jason of Scott has agreed to head our Finance Committee. He brings an innovative approach to this important role, and he will be ably assisted by the committee's vice chairman. John Rangos.
Lou Nudi will chair a committee to review the county party's bylaws and propose any changes they believe to be necessary. A number of local committees have asked that we offer a "modular" set of bylaws they can adopt after making any changes their own circumstances may warrant.
Next year, there will be a minimum of six vacant seats on the Common Pleas Court bench. I have appointed a distinguished lawyer and long-time Republican activist, Woody Turner, to head a committee to interview and screen potential candidates. Last year, Jill Rangos showed that it is possible for a Republican to win one of these seats, and she is today the only Republican on the county bench here. We can elect one or more Republican judges next year, but only if we recruit candidates of the highest caliber to carry our party's banner.
Finally, I have asked Marcy Reed to head a candidate development committee to recruit and work with potential candidates for important city and county offices.
FUND-RAISER FOR JOE PETERS
One of the most important positions to be filled in this year's election is Auditor General. It is vital that we elect a Republican to rein in the spending excesses of Governor Rendell and the Democrats in Harrisburg. I am organizing a fund-raiser for Joe Peters which will be held on Thursday, August 19 at Wildwood Golf Club from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Melissa Hart and Tim Murphy have agreed be our special guests, and nearly every Republican representing our county in the state Senate and House will serve on the host committee. For RCAC members, tickets are $75 per person. We have more information about this event in next week's update.
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