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Saturday, December 23, 2006
We'll destory that bridge when we get to it
The statement, "The fix is in", became a buzz statement back in September, 2005, and pressed on people's minds for more than a year. It may or may not go away in 2007.
View of the speakers.
This is the day when Tom Murphy said, "The fix is in."
Tom Murphy was able to scold the media for not reporting on how 'the fix is in.' But he wouldn't name names and be transparent as he expected the media to be. Some mayor. Then can Bob O'Connor, then Dennis Regan. Now Luke, the young Jedi, in full campaign mode. But, the casino choice was made and the North Side won -- the dark horse.
What is the deal now with the West End Pedestrian Bridge?
West End Bridge from the water. The Pedestrian Bridge might be built on the downtown side of this span. It would be a smooth connection to the North Shore (shown on the left) and the pending slots parlor.
What is the deal with the North Side's outdoor concenrt venue to be built by the Steelers? Two years ago Gov. Ridge promised $4-million in grants to that deal, sadly.
Watch the Video
Yesterday I posted these 'old photos' and then today (Sunday) the Trib put this in the paper, proving that this is a quote that didn't go away easily.
And another:
View of the speakers.
This is the day when Tom Murphy said, "The fix is in."
Tom Murphy was able to scold the media for not reporting on how 'the fix is in.' But he wouldn't name names and be transparent as he expected the media to be. Some mayor. Then can Bob O'Connor, then Dennis Regan. Now Luke, the young Jedi, in full campaign mode. But, the casino choice was made and the North Side won -- the dark horse.
What is the deal now with the West End Pedestrian Bridge?
West End Bridge from the water. The Pedestrian Bridge might be built on the downtown side of this span. It would be a smooth connection to the North Shore (shown on the left) and the pending slots parlor.What is the deal with the North Side's outdoor concenrt venue to be built by the Steelers? Two years ago Gov. Ridge promised $4-million in grants to that deal, sadly.
Watch the Video
Yesterday I posted these 'old photos' and then today (Sunday) the Trib put this in the paper, proving that this is a quote that didn't go away easily.
Wrong again, Mr. Murphy.
Anyone remember Pittsburgh Mayor Tom Murphy alleging the "fix" was in last year to award the city's sole slots license to Harrah's Entertainment for a Station Square casino?
Thomas "Tad" Decker, head of the state Gaming Control Board, certainly did.
Shortly after awarding a bunch of casino licenses across the state -- including one to a group headed by Detroit's Don Barden, who will operate the Majestic Star on Pittsburgh's North Shore -- Decker became irked when asked by reporters about Murphy's remark.
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"It's hogwash. It's nonsense," he said. "Who was fixing what? It's insane."
Care to elaborate, Mr. Decker?
"How can people accuse us of this not being on a level playing field without having some facts? It irritates the hell out of me because it's not true."
Given the inaccuracy of the former mayor's comment, which he quickly retracted, it's hard to blame Decker for being a bit upset.
And another:
The Citizens Voice - Loaded questionsThis is a town where backroom deal-making is part of everyday business, so it shouldn’t be surprising that some people believed — and will continue to believe — that clandestine deals were behind the awarding of the state’s slots licenses.
Today is Festivus!
Happy Festivus. A holiday for the rest of us.
Grant has been saying, "Have a kicking Kwanza."
Teliban Teachers a no-no
Detention never looked like this:
We shouldn't send soldiers. Rather, we should educate their daughters at fine educational institutions such as Smith, Kenyon, Chattam and Carlow -- and then send them back home.
Sturmgeschutz and Sorcery Taliban are explicitly forbidden from working as teachers for the government. The Taliban sees the growing number of schools, especially those that educate girls, as the most dangerous threat. If the Taliban can get to a teacher, they must first warn them to stop teaching. If that is ignored, the teacher is to be beaten. If that doesn't work, the teacher is to be killed. So far this year, twenty teachers (male and female) have been killed by the Taliban, and hundreds beaten, and even more threatened.The best way to get revenge on those elements of culture isn't with war, but with education.
We shouldn't send soldiers. Rather, we should educate their daughters at fine educational institutions such as Smith, Kenyon, Chattam and Carlow -- and then send them back home.
Quiz: Where am I?
This is a game at JumpCut. The video asks, Where am I?
The correct reply has not yet been left on that groups page.
This post is dedicated to those in Hays and near Mifflin who have been without water, given all (now 10 or so) their water main breaks. Do you think we'd ever see man-hole covers and craftmanship like this around our streets and sidewalks?Bits&Bytes: CMU kids ponder city-wide wi-fi
Noodle heads noodle behind closed doors:
The Pgh Downtown Partnership picked the cherry in the wi-fi landscape. The next move for city-wide wi-fi is stalled. No doubt: "The wi-fi to the whole city would require additional financial resource." Darn you!
I still think that the downtown wi-fi plan that was to hatch by the All-Star Game (but didn't come on time) was a bad deal for the entire city. I am proven correct -- still.
I'd love to see the report and give it my serious feedback. It might be better to have me address it with my sharp insights and skeptical peer-review, before it goes out to the world.
Bits&Bytes: Comcast unveils higher rates after FCC eases rules A group of Carnegie Mellon University students are putting the final touches on a report considering what a citywide Wi-Fi Internet access could mean to Pittsburgh, but stops short of telling the city what to do.This is what I've been saying all along. The effort to make the city covered with robust wi-fi is going to present some places where there will be profits and other places where there will be losses. Downtown's might and density is a cherry. One should NOT give away the cherry of the region. The cherry needs to go out as the rest of the city gets coverage.
'It's not our job to say what's best,' said Jon M. Peha, an associate director of CMU's Center for Wireless and Broadband Networking, whose class of about 21 undergraduate and graduate students spent the fall semester doing the work free of charge.
The report, likely to be released to the public sometime in January, sought to present scenarios estimating how much a citywide Wi-Fi Internet network might cost, what one or multiple Wi-Fi providers could expect to earn from each neighborhood, and how city government and services might use the Wi-Fi network.
The class presented its analysis to an invitation-only panel that included city Councilman Bill Peduto, telecom attorney and former city Councilman Dan Cohen, a representative from Verizon and technology nonprofit 3 Rivers Connect. The class is tweaking the report before making it widely available.
There are trade-offs to blanketing the city with Wi-Fi, Dr. Peha said. 'Some parts oft he city are probably profitable' for a Wi-Fi provider but to bring Wi-Fi to the whole city would require additional financial resources, he said.
The Pgh Downtown Partnership picked the cherry in the wi-fi landscape. The next move for city-wide wi-fi is stalled. No doubt: "The wi-fi to the whole city would require additional financial resource." Darn you!
I still think that the downtown wi-fi plan that was to hatch by the All-Star Game (but didn't come on time) was a bad deal for the entire city. I am proven correct -- still.
I'd love to see the report and give it my serious feedback. It might be better to have me address it with my sharp insights and skeptical peer-review, before it goes out to the world.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Call to Flip Side -- ends in a quick click
Happy Festivus Eve.
Headline in today's Tribune Review: "Pens start looking out of town." Exactly!
The Pens should move off The Hill. Move to an Allegheny County destination. Build the new arena near the airport.
The prior caller said, "Show me the money." That isn't ideal. Rather, we've got to guide the conversation into "Show me the upside." There is no room for expansion into other ventures if it stays on The Hill.
Build out an Olympic Village complex with a new arena. Insert RMU grad housing. Set a new vision with room to grow.
The small minded broadcasters said, "The location decision has been established." click.
Going down this pathway, then, the location decision is out of state. The location decision is UP IN THE AIR. Put all options on the table. Pick a place with big upside. Pick a place that people can get to, in their cars, near their homes, near the airport, with room for expansion.
Headline in today's Tribune Review: "Pens start looking out of town." Exactly!
The Pens should move off The Hill. Move to an Allegheny County destination. Build the new arena near the airport.
The prior caller said, "Show me the money." That isn't ideal. Rather, we've got to guide the conversation into "Show me the upside." There is no room for expansion into other ventures if it stays on The Hill.
Build out an Olympic Village complex with a new arena. Insert RMU grad housing. Set a new vision with room to grow.
The small minded broadcasters said, "The location decision has been established." click.
Going down this pathway, then, the location decision is out of state. The location decision is UP IN THE AIR. Put all options on the table. Pick a place with big upside. Pick a place that people can get to, in their cars, near their homes, near the airport, with room for expansion.
flower currency
flower currency A Hippyesque Post-Hippie Approach To Changing the World
A project to explore a value exchange system, created and owned by children, to enable artists to collaborate on the creation of interdisciplinary art works.
Judge Puts Allegheny Co. Smoking Ban On Hold - News
Judge Puts Allegheny Co. Smoking Ban On Hold - News Judge Puts Allegheny Co. Smoking Ban On Hold
Injunction Stands Until April
On the 12th day of Christmas, Another water main break.
Another water main break repaired in W. Mifflin Another water line in the West Mifflin area developed a leak last night, but this time Pennsylvania American Water Co. reports that it was able to make repairs quickly.
ThePensblog.com comes up with a solution to the new arena funding problem
Funny.
There is a vote under way too. And, I picked a whinner!
Clever.
ThePensblog.com: 2. The 'Shoeless Joe Jackson' InitiativeI love it as gambling was at the root of the fussing. Use gambling to get the arena back on track.
This would be tough for us to execute because we hate to see our Pens lose. However, our plan is to contact the Pens and have them throw the rest of their season; losing every game while keeping an eye on the spread and the over/under for every game. Pens fans everywhere bet against the Pens for the rest of the season. $290 million dollars. New Arena.
There is a vote under way too. And, I picked a whinner!
Clever.
Come To the Island of Misfit Reformers!
Crank Up the Radio; Pick Up the Phone. Stream.Dates, times and pointers are on the Google Calendar of Mark Rauterkus and Running Mates.
Join activists Russ Diamond and Eric Epstein as they fill in for two of talk radio's greatest assets in Central Pennsylvania during the holiday season!
Russ and Eric fill in for talk radio host Bob Durgin on WHP 580 AM from 3:00 - 6:00 pm on Friday, December 22, Tuesday, December 26 and Wednesday, December 27, 2006. The Bob Durgin Show’s toll-free talk line is 1 800 724 5801.WHP 580 website
The fun continues with The Gary Sutton Show on Newsradio WSBA 910 AM from 9:00 am - noon on Wednesday, December 27 and Thursday, December 28, 2007. The Gary Sutton Show’s toll-free talk line is 1 800 357 0910.Listen to the Gary Sutton Show live on the internet. Link to the The Gary Sutton Show
Call in and talk about reform issues, the future of responsible government in Pennsylvania, or whatever else is on your mind! One never knows where the conversation will lead with these two at the helm.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Bill Toland casino chat transcript
Bill Toland casino chat transcript We must not forget our third new arena in the area paid by the state. The Peterson Event Center. The cost over runs alone could have paid a large chunk of the new arena. Why did Pitt not look to combine a multi-use arena with the Pens at that time? They would have had more seatting than the Pete.FYI: I was against Pitt's building of The Pete on its present location as a basketball only venue. That was a bad deal.
Pitt should have kept Pitt Stadium for one game a year, Akron, etc. And Pitt Stadium was used around the clock for practices for many sports teams and even the band. Pitt Stadium could also have been conditioned to hold graduate housing on an upper ring.
Pitt's new basketball facility should have been able to do ice too. That should have been built at Pitt's new River Campus, down Panther Hollow - in Hazelwood -- at the foot of the Parkway East and perhaps one end of the Mon Valley Toll Road.
More Pitt buildings, such as more graduate student housing, and the UPMC Sports Fields could have been put back on campus. Then they'd have spaces for intramurals and such.
By the way, Bob O'Connor loved those ideas. I delivered them to city council in 1999ish.
Another idea that has merit to speak of again, but not mine, comes when talking about the new stadiums for the Pirates and Steelers, but the Pens were left out. A guy had a great vision of building PNC Park on top of a sunken ice facility. The same footprint would hold both the baseball and hockey venues.
The baseball field is the roof of the hockey facility. Much of the stands and fan infrastucture can be shared. That would have been great.
Today, I guess we could still flood the ballfield and play outdoor hockey with the red line about the pitchers mound.
Wooden Nickles, from running mate, Mark C (again)
At the Allegheny County LPPGH Holiday Party (12/20/2006) one of our speakers, Johannes Ernharth (a past LPPGH chair and financial planner), spoke about some of the deep financial problems facing the country.
He mentioned that it's now illegal to take more than some set amount of change out of the country and that it's illegal to melt our coinage for the value of the metal.
That's the sad result of a money policy that inflates our currency and, thus, drives up the apparent value of most everything else in terms of that inflated currency.
FYI, here is an interesting web site:
www.coinflation.com
It shows the value of our coin money based on its alloy composition and the current value of metals. Note that even that today's lowly penny (largely zinc) is now worth less than the equivalent amount of zinc and copper. At this rate, can we expect wooden nickels sometime after the 2008 election?
Mark
PS -- If you didn't hear about illegal coin melting read this:
http://www.coinflation.com/turn_off_the_smelters.html
Johannes Ernharth digs in his pocket, for a wooden nickle perhaps. On the left is Chuck M, recent chair of the Pennsylvania Libertarian Party and on the right is Harold, a long-time leader among the Allegheny County Libertarian movement.
PA Government on the hook for past is greater than the present
Keystone Politics :: Pennsylvania Politics, PA Government, Harrisburg Gossip Preliminary calculations put the price tag at $33.8 billion during the next 30 years -- a figure larger than the Pennsylvania government's entire budget for the current year.Here comes an advance thought. New idea alert.
Every retired municipal employee and benefit holder who lives outside of Pennsylvania should have checks cut by 90-percent until this issue is resolved.
A retired teacher, firefighter, policeman, lawmaker -- whatever -- who worked in PA and gets a PA pension but now lives in Florida, or anywhere outside PA, should get notice that the amount is going to be cut by 90% by next year. Else, move back to Pennsylvania.
Help me think this through....
Gettysburg's anti-slots group rejoices
Another reason to cheer:
In life, decision are generally made to either preserve capital or grow capital. You are either playing defense or offense.
The best offense comes when there is no defense.
In Gettysburg as with the situation in The Hill and at Station Square -- there were clashes. Opposition had mob appeal. Traps were set. Perhaps there was wisdom when choices were presented. Why go there when you can go elsewhere and have a clear pathway.
Uncertainty and doubt came with the Gettysburg site. Best to avoid it.
Gettysburg's anti-slots group rejoices : The Morning Call Online ''I just don't think this is the place for it,'' Blanc continued. ''This is history, not gambling. I just think it would have taken away from the history of Gettysburg.''There might be a theme here.
In life, decision are generally made to either preserve capital or grow capital. You are either playing defense or offense.
The best offense comes when there is no defense.
In Gettysburg as with the situation in The Hill and at Station Square -- there were clashes. Opposition had mob appeal. Traps were set. Perhaps there was wisdom when choices were presented. Why go there when you can go elsewhere and have a clear pathway.
Uncertainty and doubt came with the Gettysburg site. Best to avoid it.
Keystone Politics dishes out some gifts of note
Keystone Politics :: Pennsylvania Politics, PA Government, Harrisburg Gossip For Pittburgh’s mayor, Luke Ravenstahl… we give a box of “Just for Men”, because we know the graying process is going to start early for you.
The Burgh Report hits a home run
Do read his posting. Then ponder my reactions below.
Developers are not falling all over themeselves to build and maintain a public arena in Pittsburgh because everyone has pointed to them to locate the facility in the city. The city is not the ideal spot. Not now. Not in this marketplace. Not with our traffic, our demographics, our footprints. The scale and the potential make the central location (be it North Shore, Hill, or even Strip) a mega risk.
However, once the ties to the space are cut and all locations in the county are considered -- then the upside becomes much more obvious. The project has real merit if it comes somewhere else and not in The Hill.
Land in the city's core is just too tight. Expansion is too much of a headache. The infrastructure is old. The roads are going to need more than a redd up around the facilities.
More can be done elsewhere.
No one has stepped forward with a plan for a privately financed, state-of-the-art arena project because everyone has worn blinders concerning its location. The arena does NOT need to be on a bus line.
How many people take the bus to the circus?
How many people take the bus to a Pens game?
How many people take a bus HOME from a Pens game?
How many season ticket holders walk from Crawford Square to see the Pens play more than 30 times a year?
No one would dare, is right. Why dare the investement for a city with a government that is on the brink. Why dare build a parking structure when parking taxes yo-yo. One year parking tax is 35% then it is 50%. Now it is to go to 45% and next year 40%.
One year parking is made free for all downtown spaces in December. The next year it isn't. And when it is made free, they decide the day before.
Central services from rodent control to lids on dumpsters can present a quagmire of red tape from week to week.
Rodeos are out. Scalping of tickets is only by those who can stand on their heads. T-shirt vendors have to grease the undercover inspectors. SMG, blah, blah, blah. There are hundreds of reasons why serious players choose to sit on their hands.
People vote with their feet. And investment flows like water and avoids uphill challenges.
Governement does stand in the way. Your blog posting is right on the mark.
Why not us? Because we can't think again. Because we choose to only use half our brains. Because we allow the media to set an agenda. Because power aims to sustain its power. Because the status quo is far too sacred. Because those who rock the boat are called names, such as 'naysayers.'
We need to be open minded. We need to get out of the little boxes and little labels. We need wide-open discussions, thinking and sustainable conversations where criticism is not just tolerated, but welcomed.
We need to be able to spot 'lockstep boosterism' for what it is -- and brand that as evil.
FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt) must be squashed in high level public sector circles. When FUD is the best tool deployed by those in control, we need to yank them from their seats. And if they don't go, we need to a revolution.
We have one-party rule in the city. And in the county when another party is present, they are without a dime's worth of difference. Generally, the powerful elite in Pittsburgh, both D and R, have a corporate agenda that hates community and challenges.
The Burgh Report most of the nicer, newer ones - were built by private interests and are run for a profit.Exactly.
Developers are not falling all over themeselves to build and maintain a public arena in Pittsburgh because everyone has pointed to them to locate the facility in the city. The city is not the ideal spot. Not now. Not in this marketplace. Not with our traffic, our demographics, our footprints. The scale and the potential make the central location (be it North Shore, Hill, or even Strip) a mega risk.
However, once the ties to the space are cut and all locations in the county are considered -- then the upside becomes much more obvious. The project has real merit if it comes somewhere else and not in The Hill.
Land in the city's core is just too tight. Expansion is too much of a headache. The infrastructure is old. The roads are going to need more than a redd up around the facilities.
More can be done elsewhere.
No one has stepped forward with a plan for a privately financed, state-of-the-art arena project because everyone has worn blinders concerning its location. The arena does NOT need to be on a bus line.
How many people take the bus to the circus?
How many people take the bus to a Pens game?
How many people take a bus HOME from a Pens game?
How many season ticket holders walk from Crawford Square to see the Pens play more than 30 times a year?
No one would dare, is right. Why dare the investement for a city with a government that is on the brink. Why dare build a parking structure when parking taxes yo-yo. One year parking tax is 35% then it is 50%. Now it is to go to 45% and next year 40%.
One year parking is made free for all downtown spaces in December. The next year it isn't. And when it is made free, they decide the day before.
Central services from rodent control to lids on dumpsters can present a quagmire of red tape from week to week.
Rodeos are out. Scalping of tickets is only by those who can stand on their heads. T-shirt vendors have to grease the undercover inspectors. SMG, blah, blah, blah. There are hundreds of reasons why serious players choose to sit on their hands.
People vote with their feet. And investment flows like water and avoids uphill challenges.
Governement does stand in the way. Your blog posting is right on the mark.
Why not us? Because we can't think again. Because we choose to only use half our brains. Because we allow the media to set an agenda. Because power aims to sustain its power. Because the status quo is far too sacred. Because those who rock the boat are called names, such as 'naysayers.'
We need to be open minded. We need to get out of the little boxes and little labels. We need wide-open discussions, thinking and sustainable conversations where criticism is not just tolerated, but welcomed.
We need to be able to spot 'lockstep boosterism' for what it is -- and brand that as evil.
FUD (fear, uncertainty, doubt) must be squashed in high level public sector circles. When FUD is the best tool deployed by those in control, we need to yank them from their seats. And if they don't go, we need to a revolution.
We have one-party rule in the city. And in the county when another party is present, they are without a dime's worth of difference. Generally, the powerful elite in Pittsburgh, both D and R, have a corporate agenda that hates community and challenges.
blip.tv has a new utility to ease the uploading of video clips
Problems loom large however. I'm getting continual error messages and the files are not uploading. The message comes as 95% of the file seems to upload and then a dialog box shows.
blip.tv (beta) UpperBlip is a downloadable program that lets you publish many videos to blip.tv all at one time. You can drag files into it, add titles and descriptions, and upload them all at once!"My site: Rauterkus.blip.tv
Downsize DC: Big government harms you, hurts your family, and injures your neighbors
Prude alert:
Downsize DC: Big government harms you, hurts your family, and injures your neighbors Stop the 100 hour legislative orgy
Another reason to avoid Pittsburgh
Mark Crowley of Plum, fellow Libertarian, wrote about Peduto's red-light cameras. They give reasons to avoid Pittsburgh. Sure, we'll have safe streets when nobody is here. Drive out the people and businesses and the streets will only be filled with tumbleweed.
As a solution, put those cameras where the sun doesn't shine, so to speak. Point the cameras at the politicians on a 24-hour basis. Then we'll all be able to see these governmental officials in action, or not.
My vision was more like that guy on Saturday Night Live who wore a helmet fitted with a small dish and a ton of wires. That guy was on the front lines of the war, and it was all for the humor. But, I wanted to have him follow Leeper, Murphy, Cox and Birru.
Wonder if I could find one of those skits from SNL on YouTube now?
As a solution, put those cameras where the sun doesn't shine, so to speak. Point the cameras at the politicians on a 24-hour basis. Then we'll all be able to see these governmental officials in action, or not.
Politician cameras? - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Suppose we mandate surgically attached cameras and microphones for all Pittsburgh politicians.This idea isn't new to me. I had advocated continual monitoring of Steven Leeper in the past. We should have had a tv uplink on him as the convention center and stadium deals went down and the resulting constuction contracts unfolded.
It stands to reason that 24/7 monitoring of Pittsburgh politicians might have prevented, or at least identified, those complicit in the fiscal crimes and policy blunders that have besieged Pittsburgh and spread costs far beyond city limits.
If monitoring politicians stops just one bribe, patronage job, eminent-domain seizure, misuse of public money or shady backroom deal, then aren't a few implants worth it for the greater good?
Mark Crowley
My vision was more like that guy on Saturday Night Live who wore a helmet fitted with a small dish and a ton of wires. That guy was on the front lines of the war, and it was all for the humor. But, I wanted to have him follow Leeper, Murphy, Cox and Birru.
Wonder if I could find one of those skits from SNL on YouTube now?
Mean Gene has the best blog headline of the month
Mean Gene Bye Bye Birdie; or, Glad I Didn't Buy That Malkin JerseyThis made me smile.
The Civic Arena is a dump. A historical dump. And, it is a dump that is paid for. Leather seats and corporate boxes are nice and perhaps needed for the NHL and Pens. But, they are not needed for a high school basketball tournament nor a graduation.
When the Pens leave the Civic Arena, it should not be torn down. The Pens should leave the city too. Move to a site near the Airport, please.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Sorta justifies the tunnel under the river
The North Side location for the slots parlor can justify the tunnel under the river -- to a degree. We shouldn't be building the tunnel. But, at least we have a use for it now, on a year-round basis.
Will the light rail run 24 hours a day, like the slots parlor.
Will the light rail run 24 hours a day, like the slots parlor.
DelMonte and Equitable Gas -- not happy
Giggle.
DelMonte and Equitable can move office workers back to downtown locations. Plenty of office space is available in our downtown neighborhood. Move into the space now used by PAT, for starters. Better to put employees farther away from a slots parlor. I'd not be happy if I was Equitable. But then again, Equitable choose to build a new building, with handsome perks, in an entertainment district.
How do you think Duquesne University and parents of those who send their young scholars to D.U. would have felt if a slots parlor would have moved to the edge of its campus. Employees are farther away physically than the college students would have been. And, employees are older, wiser, more responsible.
The Carnegie Science Center isn't upset about the new neighbor.
Any complaint from the Steelers and Pirates should come with a quick objection. Neither the Pirates nor the Steelers own their stadiums. They are not owners. If they want the voice of ownership -- buy their stadiums from the public.
DelMonte and Equitable can move office workers back to downtown locations. Plenty of office space is available in our downtown neighborhood. Move into the space now used by PAT, for starters. Better to put employees farther away from a slots parlor. I'd not be happy if I was Equitable. But then again, Equitable choose to build a new building, with handsome perks, in an entertainment district.
How do you think Duquesne University and parents of those who send their young scholars to D.U. would have felt if a slots parlor would have moved to the edge of its campus. Employees are farther away physically than the college students would have been. And, employees are older, wiser, more responsible.
The Carnegie Science Center isn't upset about the new neighbor.
Any complaint from the Steelers and Pirates should come with a quick objection. Neither the Pirates nor the Steelers own their stadiums. They are not owners. If they want the voice of ownership -- buy their stadiums from the public.
Democracies Online - Time Magazine think’s so
Steven Clift’s Notes - Democracies Online � Blog Archive � Are you the Person of the Year? Time Magazine think’s so Person of the Year? Time Magazine think’s so.Shall we take a bow together?
Welcome “Citizens of the New Digital Democracy” to the cover of Time magazine.
Celebrate Festivus with Jim Babka
DownsizeDC.org Blog | Celebrate Festivus with Jim Babka Today is your chance to celebrate Festivus with Jim Babka, on his radio show. In fine Festivus tradition you can participate in 'an airing of grievances' and 'feats of strength.'
The 'airing of grievances' is easy. Tell us what really irks you -- about government, politics, other institutions, Downsize DC, or even Jim Babka. Jim will attempt to show sympathy, or perhaps something else. As for the 'feats of strength,' brag about something you claim you can do, if you want to. Maybe Jim will believe it.
"At this point, our franchise has entered a period of uncertainty."
This is a direct quote:
The Blackberry guy stood before the gaming board and talked about the IOC plan being a 'certain' -- and days later he bailed.
Now the period of being uncertain dawns! Now that the IOC didn't get the slots license!
Think again.
Mr. Craig Patrick and Upside-down-guy. "Put the factory near the customers" Photo taken at an airport area chamber of commerce meeting in January, 2006.
"At this point, our franchise has enters a period of uncertainty."There is that concept -- 'certainty' -- raising its ugly head again.
The Blackberry guy stood before the gaming board and talked about the IOC plan being a 'certain' -- and days later he bailed.
Now the period of being uncertain dawns! Now that the IOC didn't get the slots license!
Think again.
Official Home of the Pittsburgh Penguins: STATEMENT FROM KEN SAWYER, CEO OF THE PITTSBURGH PENGUINS ... At this point, our franchise enters a period of uncertainty, ...
Mr. Craig Patrick and Upside-down-guy. "Put the factory near the customers" Photo taken at an airport area chamber of commerce meeting in January, 2006.
Memo to David Caliguri. Don't be a part of the legal challenge.
Franco, the same message fits for you too.
Don't cry over spit milk. It didn't just spillllll.
David, in a few years, we'll forgive you for your role in the IOC plan. That will be old news if it becomes old news soon.
David, I hope the IOC work paid well. Fine. You gotta make a living. More power to you. But, I also hope that you can display that you're a good sport.
I'd hate to see any challenges to the decision.
But, let's be clear. If there is some ethical problems, holes in the plans, constructive critical insights -- spill the beans. Scrutiny is welcomed. Air grievances in the name of Festivus! David Caliguri might be able to walk that edge and reveal his opposition research for the benefit of the city. But, this needs to be about moving forward, not asking for a re-do.
Don't cry over spit milk. It didn't just spillllll.
David, in a few years, we'll forgive you for your role in the IOC plan. That will be old news if it becomes old news soon.
David, I hope the IOC work paid well. Fine. You gotta make a living. More power to you. But, I also hope that you can display that you're a good sport.
I'd hate to see any challenges to the decision.
But, let's be clear. If there is some ethical problems, holes in the plans, constructive critical insights -- spill the beans. Scrutiny is welcomed. Air grievances in the name of Festivus! David Caliguri might be able to walk that edge and reveal his opposition research for the benefit of the city. But, this needs to be about moving forward, not asking for a re-do.
Let's get this straight: Plan B uses public money!
"Plan B" is on. Well, they don't want us to use the handle, "plan b" any longer. Rather, it is to be called a "finance plan."
Well, "Plan B" uses public money because this deal leverages the windfall from the low-ball price of the slots license. The real worth of the slots license wasn't $50-million. It was much greater. The higher sums of money that didn't come can't be used for tax relief. Rather, the money that didn't come is part of the promise for a new hockey arena.
The money didn't come from taxes. But, the money comes from the broken promise of tax relief.
It isn't a lie when only half the truth is told. But, this is a half-truth. The promise was to allow for gambling so we'd have property tax relief. Gambling came and the property tax relief is much less because the funding of the new arena.
Furthermore, Plan B is going to cost the public treasury with ongoing operations. If they build the new arena with the windfall of the low-ball price on the slots license application, fine. But, after it is built, keep it. The public should not be with the ongoing burden of ownership.
Well, "Plan B" uses public money because this deal leverages the windfall from the low-ball price of the slots license. The real worth of the slots license wasn't $50-million. It was much greater. The higher sums of money that didn't come can't be used for tax relief. Rather, the money that didn't come is part of the promise for a new hockey arena.
The money didn't come from taxes. But, the money comes from the broken promise of tax relief.
It isn't a lie when only half the truth is told. But, this is a half-truth. The promise was to allow for gambling so we'd have property tax relief. Gambling came and the property tax relief is much less because the funding of the new arena.
Furthermore, Plan B is going to cost the public treasury with ongoing operations. If they build the new arena with the windfall of the low-ball price on the slots license application, fine. But, after it is built, keep it. The public should not be with the ongoing burden of ownership.
Hey Penguins. Take a deep breath. Stick around. Let's build with your money in the airport area
I think it makes great sense to build a new arena out by the airport.
Keep the Civic Arena where it is for decades to come. Put some energy into the Civic Arena and allow it to thrive without the Penguins, after the Pens move out. The Civic Arena can have an evolution in the years to come. But let's be honest about putting up a new arena. Let's put the new arena in Allegheny County out by the airport.
One plus one equals two. That provides a net gain. When one new comes and one old goes, there is no net gain.
Even with the two North Side stadiums, PNC Park and Heinz Field, we lost 3RS and Pitt. The formula there was plus two and minus two with no net gain.
Some have told me that there are many game day Penguin tickets provided to students at Pitt and D.U., as well as the other smaller schools such as the Arts and Culinary students. Those folks who live in the center city will not be as quick to get to the Pens games if the new arena is built in the airport corridor. However, those who go to RMU will take their place, as will those at W&J.
All in all, I don't like the efforts of development at the airport. I think it causes sprawl. The movement to the airport area comes at an expense of the urban core. However, the hockey building and efforts with an entertainment venue in the west suburban reaches would fit the suburban lifestyle and make for a great addition.
Let's call the NHL team the "Pittsburgh PENNSYLVANIA Penguins."
The Pens could play a few games each year in the Arena, perhaps with the roof open, with turn-back-the-clock night festivities.
Of course, the building, operations and on-going ownership of the new hockey facility should be a private venture, not owned by the stadium authority.
Public officials should be part of the mix in working out the deals. We need leaders who lead. But, the public officials are not going to make nor break the deals and have much of a say nor sway in the marketplace.
Keep the Civic Arena where it is for decades to come. Put some energy into the Civic Arena and allow it to thrive without the Penguins, after the Pens move out. The Civic Arena can have an evolution in the years to come. But let's be honest about putting up a new arena. Let's put the new arena in Allegheny County out by the airport.
One plus one equals two. That provides a net gain. When one new comes and one old goes, there is no net gain.
Even with the two North Side stadiums, PNC Park and Heinz Field, we lost 3RS and Pitt. The formula there was plus two and minus two with no net gain.
Some have told me that there are many game day Penguin tickets provided to students at Pitt and D.U., as well as the other smaller schools such as the Arts and Culinary students. Those folks who live in the center city will not be as quick to get to the Pens games if the new arena is built in the airport corridor. However, those who go to RMU will take their place, as will those at W&J.
All in all, I don't like the efforts of development at the airport. I think it causes sprawl. The movement to the airport area comes at an expense of the urban core. However, the hockey building and efforts with an entertainment venue in the west suburban reaches would fit the suburban lifestyle and make for a great addition.
Let's call the NHL team the "Pittsburgh PENNSYLVANIA Penguins."
The Pens could play a few games each year in the Arena, perhaps with the roof open, with turn-back-the-clock night festivities.
Of course, the building, operations and on-going ownership of the new hockey facility should be a private venture, not owned by the stadium authority.
Public officials should be part of the mix in working out the deals. We need leaders who lead. But, the public officials are not going to make nor break the deals and have much of a say nor sway in the marketplace.
North Shore Slots Parlor. Majestic Star gets it.
I'm fine with this decision. I'm even going to say, "I love it."
The slots parlor gets built on the river's edge. That's good. It goes in next to the family centric Science Center. The North Side choice has less of an impact upon any home owners.
I loved that the Majestic Star was the only plan that talked about a bus depot. Buses were my worst fear of the Station Square project.
PITG had made strong promises to complete the development in the Hill District, in terms of neighborhood.
Next challenge, thinking again about a new arena for the Penguins.
The slots parlor gets built on the river's edge. That's good. It goes in next to the family centric Science Center. The North Side choice has less of an impact upon any home owners.
I loved that the Majestic Star was the only plan that talked about a bus depot. Buses were my worst fear of the Station Square project.
PITG had made strong promises to complete the development in the Hill District, in terms of neighborhood.
Next challenge, thinking again about a new arena for the Penguins.
Slots Parlor decision: Choke, ... not!
Marty Griffin (KDKA-Radio) has a feeling that the decsion won't come today on the slots parlor.
They will choke. I have little doubt that the commissioners, behind closed doors, are going to choke. But, I was wrong. I eat my words. Chomp, chomp.
Now, what happens when the news comes. Another elected official told me he expects to see a lot of ugly clashes in the streets after this news comes. Some bad blood has been flowing. Ministers are clashing with each other, in the open.
Jon Delano said, before the decision was announced, that the decision of the pending ownership to pull out of the Pens deal put a monkey wrench into the decision. Perhaps???
They will choke. I have little doubt that the commissioners, behind closed doors, are going to choke. But, I was wrong. I eat my words. Chomp, chomp.
Now, what happens when the news comes. Another elected official told me he expects to see a lot of ugly clashes in the streets after this news comes. Some bad blood has been flowing. Ministers are clashing with each other, in the open.
Jon Delano said, before the decision was announced, that the decision of the pending ownership to pull out of the Pens deal put a monkey wrench into the decision. Perhaps???
Trashy government takes a holiday. Visions of sugar plums dance too.
I've posted policy advice about these situations in the past. It surfaces again. They don't have the best solution. I think I have a better approach.
Furthermore, when something is done, a postcard with Luke's photo can be sent to everyone's address. So, I look for four or five versions of the trash pick-up schedule, each with its own postcard and magnet for the the refrig.
Holidays present a problem for government. Government never sleeps. Police, firefighters and water should never take off. Same too for road treatments with snow and ice. Travel needs are always present. People need to park and expect traffic lights to work, even on holidays.
I don't think government should take any holidays.
Trash build-up doesn't take a holiday. Often, our biggest days of trash is on a holiday, because of the holiday.
The trash collection is just as important as the other duties of government.
I hate that the recreation center was closed on election day, because it was called a 'holiday.' That's not logical. On the 4th of July, I want to go to the swim pool. I don't want them to take a holiday.
On the day of Bob O'Connor's funeral, Mayor Ravenstahl, at the last possible moment, called for a city holidy. That was wrong, in my book. Senior centers had to close that day. Lunch was not provided. Socialization didn't occur. The seniors could have gathered at the senior centers to reflect on Bob's life, on their interactions with him, and spend time in community -- a vital role of life and a mission of government.
On the 4th of July, we want to watch fireworks. We want the parks to be open.
My trash day is on Thursday. I don't want to have it on Friday after a Monday holiday because more than half of the residents, myself included, can't remember the holiday schedule and tons of trash show up on the streets for days when a holiday schedule is used. The extra trash on the streets stinks -- literally. The mess gets spread.
To redd up -- we've got to have regular trash pick ups. We need to count on it and have a mission critical schedule that never changes.
I think we should take one holiday -- the 4th of July. And on that day, everyone with a government job should work a double shift because the citizens and voters want to have their services working.
So, the fix for the trash pick-ups for Squirrel Hill is simple. I'd want to tell the residents that trash gets picked up on a certain day of the week, every week of the year.
The workers should have vaction days, sick days, subs, temp workers and what ever else is needed to do the job. But the job needs to be done. This is what management does -- manage the work force as best as possible.
City Council puts brakes on traffic camera proposal Mr. Peduto asked Public Works Director Guy Costa to change the trash collection schedule for part of Squirrel Hill. It is currently set for Fridays, but holidays push it to Saturdays, creating problems for strict Jews who cannot take out garbage during the Jewish Sabbath.Clearly, a problem exists. Something should be do so as to fix this situation. Those on grant street don't want to offend those in Sqirrel Hill.
Mr. Costa said he will consider switching two East End collection routes.
Furthermore, when something is done, a postcard with Luke's photo can be sent to everyone's address. So, I look for four or five versions of the trash pick-up schedule, each with its own postcard and magnet for the the refrig.
Holidays present a problem for government. Government never sleeps. Police, firefighters and water should never take off. Same too for road treatments with snow and ice. Travel needs are always present. People need to park and expect traffic lights to work, even on holidays.
I don't think government should take any holidays.
Trash build-up doesn't take a holiday. Often, our biggest days of trash is on a holiday, because of the holiday.
The trash collection is just as important as the other duties of government.
I hate that the recreation center was closed on election day, because it was called a 'holiday.' That's not logical. On the 4th of July, I want to go to the swim pool. I don't want them to take a holiday.
On the day of Bob O'Connor's funeral, Mayor Ravenstahl, at the last possible moment, called for a city holidy. That was wrong, in my book. Senior centers had to close that day. Lunch was not provided. Socialization didn't occur. The seniors could have gathered at the senior centers to reflect on Bob's life, on their interactions with him, and spend time in community -- a vital role of life and a mission of government.
On the 4th of July, we want to watch fireworks. We want the parks to be open.
My trash day is on Thursday. I don't want to have it on Friday after a Monday holiday because more than half of the residents, myself included, can't remember the holiday schedule and tons of trash show up on the streets for days when a holiday schedule is used. The extra trash on the streets stinks -- literally. The mess gets spread.
To redd up -- we've got to have regular trash pick ups. We need to count on it and have a mission critical schedule that never changes.
I think we should take one holiday -- the 4th of July. And on that day, everyone with a government job should work a double shift because the citizens and voters want to have their services working.
So, the fix for the trash pick-ups for Squirrel Hill is simple. I'd want to tell the residents that trash gets picked up on a certain day of the week, every week of the year.
The workers should have vaction days, sick days, subs, temp workers and what ever else is needed to do the job. But the job needs to be done. This is what management does -- manage the work force as best as possible.
Grand opportunity to see exactly how government truly operates in the Commonwealth.
Who Watches The Watchers?
The case of former State Representative Mark McNaughton gives Pennsylvanians a grand opportunity to see exactly how government truly operates in the Commonwealth.
For the unaware, McNaughton decided to retire from the legislature instead of facing the voters of his district after supporting the Great Pay Raise of 2005. He was subsequently appointed to a seat on the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board by Speaker of the House John Perzel, who cited McNaughton’s steadfast opposition to gambling and a desire to make sure the slots law is meticulously followed as significant reasons for the appointment.
As a result, the former legislator is slated to get a boost in pay after all, from roughly $72,000 to a whopping $145,000 plus some lavish perks. Unfortunately for McNaughton, The Philadelphia Inquirer recently discovered that he failed to list thousands of dollars of personal gambling winnings over the past few years on his Statements of Financial Interest, which are required by the State Ethics Commission from each lawmaker every year.
Oddly, McNaughton’s failure to report gambling winnings would not have even registered on the radar had he not abused the power of his former position by attempting to quash certain information in a very messy divorce proceeding. As a result, some of his federal tax returns, on which he did report the winnings, are now part of the public record.
McNaughton claimed ignorance in regard to the omissions, although instructions on the Statement of Financial Interest clearly list “prize winnings” as one of the sources of income to be reported. But even if we were to give him the benefit of the doubt and consider the matter an oversight, is this a quality we’d want in someone charged with overseeing the activities of a multi-billion dollar industry?
While it’s all a bit ironic - on many different levels - it could become even more so.
The penalties for violating the ethics regulations are a fine of up to $1,000 and up to one-year imprisonment. Such a finding would need to be reached by the State Ethics Commission and could potentially disqualify McNaughton from serving on the seven-member Gaming Control Board or in any other official capacity in the Commonwealth.
Coincidentally, the State Ethics Commission also consists of seven members appointed to their positions in exactly the same fashion as the Gaming Control Board: one appointee each from four leaders of the legislature and three from the Governor.
An optimist might view this scattered appointment system on the ethics panel as a way to keep things balanced so no individual is singled out for political punishment. A pessimist might view it as insurance to protect everyone’s cronies - a slightly twisted version of “equal protection under the law.”
While any citizen of Pennsylvania is entitled to file a formal complaint on this matter with the State Ethics Commission, Section 21.2 of the ethics regulations permits the Commission to launch its own inquiry.
The Inquirer story was subsequently picked up by the Associated Press and widely disseminated across Pennsylvania. Between seven appointed Commissioners and nineteen staffers listed on the State Ethics Commission’s website, surely one of these 26 must have caught this latest tidbit regarding McNaughton. If not, they’re not doing their jobs.
Here’s hoping that for once, a government entity in the Commonwealth will step up to the plate, do what’s best for its citizens and give them some hope that the public outcry launched after July 7, 2005 is actually being heard somewhere in Harrisburg. Even better, however, would be for Mark McNaughton to withdraw his name for consideration as a member of the Gaming Control Board.
Who watches the watchers? We’ll find out soon enough.PACleanSweep is a non-partisan effort dedicated to returning honor, dignity and integrity to government in Pennsylvania. For more information, please visit www.PACleanSweep.com.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Sports Montage: The Sports Blog That Strikes First, Strikes Hard, No Mercy
Sports Montage: The Sports Blog That Strikes First, Strikes Hard, No Mercy “I’ve never heard of a government turning down $290 million of private money to build a public facility." - Mario LemieuxThe Wabash Tunnel is a 'public facility.' The new arena is NOT a public facility.
The Wabash Tunnel was built with federal money but is owned now by PAT, a different public agency.
PAT owns the tunnel and wants to unload it. PAT does NOT want to maintain the tunnel. PAT knows that ownership has many downsides that can be long-term, significant and expensive.
Maintaining a new arena isn't on the list of top priorities for good government. We've got schools, courts, roads, and matters of democracy to attend to in this region. Watching millionairs skate and brawl on ice isn't high on the list when it comes to core activities.
If the Penguins want to be a good neighbor and a good corporate citizen in Pittsburgh -- the Penguins should invest in its own property and have control of its ownership.
US Steel owned the land and the mills to produce its products.
UPMC owns buildings and hospitals to employ its health care workers and care for patients.
Even the Salvation Army demanded ownership rights to land for the building of its Kroc Recreation Centers.
Get rid of SMG. Get rid of any and all hurdles to making its own opportunities flourish.
The key to this discussion isn't to look back ten years. The key is to look forward ten years. They key is to look forward 20 and 25 years too.
Final argument for moving Penguins -- could be more "iron clad" if the Pens owned the new building
Isle of Capri makes final argument for license ... the agreement between the Penguins and the Isle of Capri required any new owner to stay in Pittsburgh for at least 20 years if casino operator wins the coveted license.The "at least 20 years" deal and the liquidation is something to bank upon. But, the outlook of saying, 'we'll sue' doesn't give much confidence.
'Anybody who buys [the Penguins] is required to step into their shoes,' he said.
He added that any potential owner who breaks the agreement could be subject to liquidated damages -- hundreds of millions of dollars, according to one estimate -- and possible court action to block any move.
I think the Pens should plan, design, build, and keep the new arena. Then the team can sell the seats, program it, insure it, heat it, upgrade it and do as they wish with the new building without needing to get the lame stadium and exhibition authority involved.
Then, should the Penguins want to move out of town, they'd have to manage a liquidation of the new arena.
The word on the street is that it will take $7-million to tear down the Civic Arena.
If the Penguins left town and had a building in Pittsburgh, perhaps we'd be sure to get a minor-league team associated with the Pens to play here.
Perhaps the Penguins leave in 2012 and want to tear down its building that opened in 2009. Fine. They could do that -- if -- they didn't tear down the Civic Arena in 2008 or 2009. The Civic Arena is a building that the Penguins do not own. The Pens only have a lease.
When a renter leaves an apartment that had been rented, even for a long time, the lease holder can't demolish the property. Moving out makes a vacancy, not an ownership switch.
Dan Onorato defending himself on arena and slots deals dealings
Dan Onorato is on the counter-attack with the noise generated by recent 'fix is in' talk. He went onto the Honz Man show on Tuesday afternoon at 2 pm. John Stagerwald has been on a few shows making noise about how the gambling mess and saying there was a lot of back channel arm twisting.
I ranted a bit about this buzz at city hall today in a 3 minute pitch.
Dan Onorato denies the saga that was unfolded by the journalist. Onorato wants names to be named too.
We might be splitting hairs in this one point, but Dan says that under any of the proposals, local tax dollars won't be used for the building, as is the case with PNC Park and Heinz Field. Zero is the amount, he contends, go from public sources into the building. To Dan, that was a good position to be in.
The IOC plan puts for $290-million, clean, and simple, so says Dan. There is no local money. This is a total different position that is out there.
I ranted a bit about this buzz at city hall today in a 3 minute pitch.
Dan Onorato denies the saga that was unfolded by the journalist. Onorato wants names to be named too.
We might be splitting hairs in this one point, but Dan says that under any of the proposals, local tax dollars won't be used for the building, as is the case with PNC Park and Heinz Field. Zero is the amount, he contends, go from public sources into the building. To Dan, that was a good position to be in.
The IOC plan puts for $290-million, clean, and simple, so says Dan. There is no local money. This is a total different position that is out there.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Business Times say China slow-down with foreign investments
Business Times China, which has lured US$622.4 billion from overseas since 1978 and surpassed the US in 2003 as the largest recipient of foreign investment, is turning off the tap that helped feed two decades of growth.
With new restrictions on investment, China risks impeding its own modernisation efforts and invites a backlash from its trading partners, China specialists say.
Pittsburgh City Council overwhelmingly approves underwhelming budget
It is nice that there won't be any new taxes. It is nice that the ticket tax for consumers attending events hosted by nonprofits is going to be less. The parking tax drop of 5-percent was due to the state legislature's mandate. That's more like a bad joke as savings won't be passed to the consumers. But, all in all -- the new budget is an underwhelming work from a city still on the brink. Additional fallout is expected from the Murphy Administration. Some bad news gottchas still loom large. No real salvation is in sight.
AP Wire - Pittsburgh City Council overwhelmingly approves budget overwhelmingly approves budget
Legal Okay given to NOT advertise public meetings!
G.W. -- a Running Mate like few others -- sent me this letter. Here is a snip.
Friends of the Zeiss On Monday, City Council held a “Post-Agenda” session on funding for The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. As with all Post-Agenda sessions, this session was open to the general public. This was also one of the relatively few Post-Agenda sessions that was broadcast on the City’s Government Communications Cable Television Channel, City Channel Pittsburgh, on Comcast channel 13.
However, I only found out about this Post-Agenda session, inadvertently, when two people who attended the December 5 regular legislative session of City Council, where the Post-Agenda time and date was announced, informed me of the meeting. I did not attend the December 5 meeting, as I was scheduled to attend another meeting at that time.
As with many of the Post-Agenda sessions held in the past, the December 11 Post-Agenda included discussion of important City business, including the request for significant City funding from a major City institution. Yet few people knew this Post-Agenda would occur since it was not posted or advertised in any public location.
I discussed this matter with the City Clerk, and she informs me that the City Law Department has told her that posting or advertising the date and time of Post-Agenda sessions is not legally required. I would disagree with this legal interpretation.
Roll -- advice to backstrokers
Two guys doing backstroke at the Pitt Christmas Meet yesterday. The guy in the lead has a wave off his shoulder. The one in the back has a much better shoulder roll without the wave of water pushing on the brakes.
Honz Man: Bi-Partisan Fix Is In with John Stagerwald
On the radio with KDKA-1020 AM, John Stagerwald, sports, talks about the Pens and gambling and explains how there has been a bi-partisan fix about gambling.
There were no Libertarians who were part of these raw deals -- as were the Ds and Rs.
Furthermore, John S, name names. I'm not so happy to hear about a big scoop on how the fix is in -- but names are not named. This was exactly the same thing that Tom Murphy did.
There were no Libertarians who were part of these raw deals -- as were the Ds and Rs.
Furthermore, John S, name names. I'm not so happy to hear about a big scoop on how the fix is in -- but names are not named. This was exactly the same thing that Tom Murphy did.
Former Pa. lawmaker who opposed slots won $15K at casinos and a $150k job
The truth hurts. Then this player asks, 'it's not illegal?' -- but he was part of the process to make it legal. Duhh...
Report: Former Pa. lawmaker who opposed slots won big at casinos - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Former Rep. Mark McNaughton, who voted against the state's slots law in 2004 and opposed gambling for years before that, won $15,500 between 2003 and last year, according to tax returns obtained by The Philadelphia Inquirer.
McNaughton, a five-term Republican from Harrisburg, disclosed his winnings on federal income taxes, but not on his state ethics forms, the newspaper reported. He is set to take his $145,000-a-year post on the gaming board by the middle of next month.
'It's not illegal to gamble, is it?' McNaughton told the newspaper Friday.
Spoke today in city hall
I went to City Council Chambers to speak again today for 3 minutes. Some notes follow:
The meeting last week in city council chambers about the Carnegie Library's request for more funding was not advertised. It was a post agenda and was on TV, but not on the web site. We need the business of city governement to occur in public with notice. When meetings happen -- advance notice is justified.
The meeting schedule for next week is not posted yet today -- on either the web site or the little bulletin board in the reception area of the 5th floor of city hall. Telll the people in advance when the meetings are going to be held.
Using a simple Google Calendar, as set up already, for Pgh City Hall, would be effective and free. When I called 3-1-1 with this request -- they were worthless.
When a simple meeting schedule can't be posted in advance with clarity -- people wonder if more complicated things such as the budget can be managed. Or, what the heck are they trying to hide.
The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is looking for the cover of darkness, however. They've messed up the North Side branch and want to build a new library and abandon its historic, paid for, branch in the public park. I would not be willing to give the Carnegie Library additional funds as they are messing up what treasures and assets they've been charged to preserve.
I worry about 'broken promises' such as the Pittsburgh Promise. What about paying for the college education of those who have been home schooled or attend private / Cathlolic schools and reside in the city? And the funding amounts are 10-times too low, at least. It seems to be another promise that looks like it will be broken.
In other hidden business, I'm still upset at Dan Onorato and the Allegheny County Board of Elections for stopping the Libertarian Party's designated poll watcher from a witness to the tabulations for the November 2006 general election. What's up with that? What are they trying to hide? The law says that parties are allowed three people to witness all tabulations and vote counts. We don't want to run to the courts. I want to see a memo of understanding and letter from the Allegheny County Chief Executive, Dan Onorato, a Board of Election member. Dan can clear up the sins of the past unethical policy. What happened in the past was wrong. Tell the world that it won't happen again.
There were goofy things happening on election night. These facts came out at the Board of Elections meeting when I was there to protest our denied access. Five times a worker who was employed by someone other than the election department, pulled out a 'smart stick' (USB DRIVE) and inserted that into the electronic voting system / network. Witness to vote hi-jacking is strong and should not be ignored.
There are problems. A lack of trust is throughout. The way to fix these troubles is not to be more closed. Rather, be sure to be open, as described by the law and then some.
If Onorato was smart, he'd insist that five, not three, designated people from the Libertarian Party be present for all vote counts and tabulations. Go overboard. The law says three. But he should bend over backwards to welcome scrutiny. Fix it. Don't hide it. And pledge that it won't happen again -- on your letter head in an open letter to the workers and the voters.
Then comes the scrutiny of the 'red light cameras.' I asked Bill Peduto to look at the blog to learn what they are doing in New Mexico. I think if he made such a move in the legislation due in 2007 then there would be more support for the bill.
The tax lein by-back was on the agenda too. Here is another example of another ill set in place by Tom Murphy's Administration that city council played a role in allowing. City council is at fault too, as well as Murphy. But, that was then and some on council today were not part of those decisions. However, they are here now for the clean-up of the mess. But, if they don't understand the history and how their oversight was lacking back then -- they'll be sure to repeat many of the same mistakes.
I don't want to have the tax lein buy backs present opportunities for ONLY the LDCx. The LDCs are Local Development Corporations. Pittsburgh has a slew of LDCs and these LDCs presented a good deal of Tom Murphy power bases. The LDCs have played along with Tom Murphy's ploys and screwed up our city in serious ways. This $6-million investement today should not be another tool in our tool bag -- for LDCs only. Citizens and taxpayers and voters and private individuals should be able to move on these properties -- along with the LDCs. We should not see favored treatments to cronies. Even cronie organizations.
An additional point didn't get raised but was on the agenda. Again, it is a place where Tom Murphy screwed up in the past and the city pays today. And, the city council was sleeping at the wheel in the past.
Bill No. 2006-1008 reads: Resolution providing that the City of Pgh enter into a temporary professional services Contrace or Contracts with UPMC Work Partners for the purpose of paying Workers' Compensation medical claims for expenses which were incurred prior to December 31, 2005, at a cost not to exceed $716,353.
More than a half-million dollars is going out the door because folks in higher level Murphy positions didn't do their jobs. And, city council didn't do its job and be proactive in fixing things before a $700,000 bill must be paid.
I know people at UPMC and at AGH (Allegheny General Hospital). The contract for medical services was switched. Fine. But, it was switched poorly. Now the city pays dearly.
What's $700,000 -- well -- that much pays for all the city's crossing guards. That amount pays for four or five rec centers. It is a good bit of money. That's a big problem that makes for a big fumble. And the oversight is not to be found.
Another gloomy day in the city when looking at the actions of city hall.
The meeting last week in city council chambers about the Carnegie Library's request for more funding was not advertised. It was a post agenda and was on TV, but not on the web site. We need the business of city governement to occur in public with notice. When meetings happen -- advance notice is justified.
The meeting schedule for next week is not posted yet today -- on either the web site or the little bulletin board in the reception area of the 5th floor of city hall. Telll the people in advance when the meetings are going to be held.
Using a simple Google Calendar, as set up already, for Pgh City Hall, would be effective and free. When I called 3-1-1 with this request -- they were worthless.
When a simple meeting schedule can't be posted in advance with clarity -- people wonder if more complicated things such as the budget can be managed. Or, what the heck are they trying to hide.
The Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh is looking for the cover of darkness, however. They've messed up the North Side branch and want to build a new library and abandon its historic, paid for, branch in the public park. I would not be willing to give the Carnegie Library additional funds as they are messing up what treasures and assets they've been charged to preserve.
I worry about 'broken promises' such as the Pittsburgh Promise. What about paying for the college education of those who have been home schooled or attend private / Cathlolic schools and reside in the city? And the funding amounts are 10-times too low, at least. It seems to be another promise that looks like it will be broken.
In other hidden business, I'm still upset at Dan Onorato and the Allegheny County Board of Elections for stopping the Libertarian Party's designated poll watcher from a witness to the tabulations for the November 2006 general election. What's up with that? What are they trying to hide? The law says that parties are allowed three people to witness all tabulations and vote counts. We don't want to run to the courts. I want to see a memo of understanding and letter from the Allegheny County Chief Executive, Dan Onorato, a Board of Election member. Dan can clear up the sins of the past unethical policy. What happened in the past was wrong. Tell the world that it won't happen again.
There were goofy things happening on election night. These facts came out at the Board of Elections meeting when I was there to protest our denied access. Five times a worker who was employed by someone other than the election department, pulled out a 'smart stick' (USB DRIVE) and inserted that into the electronic voting system / network. Witness to vote hi-jacking is strong and should not be ignored.
There are problems. A lack of trust is throughout. The way to fix these troubles is not to be more closed. Rather, be sure to be open, as described by the law and then some.
If Onorato was smart, he'd insist that five, not three, designated people from the Libertarian Party be present for all vote counts and tabulations. Go overboard. The law says three. But he should bend over backwards to welcome scrutiny. Fix it. Don't hide it. And pledge that it won't happen again -- on your letter head in an open letter to the workers and the voters.
Then comes the scrutiny of the 'red light cameras.' I asked Bill Peduto to look at the blog to learn what they are doing in New Mexico. I think if he made such a move in the legislation due in 2007 then there would be more support for the bill.
The tax lein by-back was on the agenda too. Here is another example of another ill set in place by Tom Murphy's Administration that city council played a role in allowing. City council is at fault too, as well as Murphy. But, that was then and some on council today were not part of those decisions. However, they are here now for the clean-up of the mess. But, if they don't understand the history and how their oversight was lacking back then -- they'll be sure to repeat many of the same mistakes.
I don't want to have the tax lein buy backs present opportunities for ONLY the LDCx. The LDCs are Local Development Corporations. Pittsburgh has a slew of LDCs and these LDCs presented a good deal of Tom Murphy power bases. The LDCs have played along with Tom Murphy's ploys and screwed up our city in serious ways. This $6-million investement today should not be another tool in our tool bag -- for LDCs only. Citizens and taxpayers and voters and private individuals should be able to move on these properties -- along with the LDCs. We should not see favored treatments to cronies. Even cronie organizations.
An additional point didn't get raised but was on the agenda. Again, it is a place where Tom Murphy screwed up in the past and the city pays today. And, the city council was sleeping at the wheel in the past.
Bill No. 2006-1008 reads: Resolution providing that the City of Pgh enter into a temporary professional services Contrace or Contracts with UPMC Work Partners for the purpose of paying Workers' Compensation medical claims for expenses which were incurred prior to December 31, 2005, at a cost not to exceed $716,353.
More than a half-million dollars is going out the door because folks in higher level Murphy positions didn't do their jobs. And, city council didn't do its job and be proactive in fixing things before a $700,000 bill must be paid.
I know people at UPMC and at AGH (Allegheny General Hospital). The contract for medical services was switched. Fine. But, it was switched poorly. Now the city pays dearly.
What's $700,000 -- well -- that much pays for all the city's crossing guards. That amount pays for four or five rec centers. It is a good bit of money. That's a big problem that makes for a big fumble. And the oversight is not to be found.
Another gloomy day in the city when looking at the actions of city hall.
Direct Action @ Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
| Civil disobedience by Philadelphia residents in protest of the Gaming Control Board's not responding to their demands for good information on the casinos proposed for their neighborhoods. keywords: PGCB, Casino-free Philadelphia, slots, casino, gambling, Pennsylvania, hallwatch | |
Notice that a member of the media got arrested. When was the last time a member of the Pittsburgh media got arrested for justice? Well, at least we have some who are blogging now, if that is any peace of mind.
The Busman's Holiday
The Busman's Holiday I have great respect for those bloggers who are so prolific and creative that they’re posting through the day with charm and passion.Thanks Bob. Back at you. But, I name names. =;0
Perhaps you could take your workshop to this page and do a bit of an update on the Platform.For-Pgh.org wiki page. Think of it as a workshop assignment.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
URA to Crush Longtime Pittsburgh Landlords
The Three Rivers Post & Standard � URA to Crush Longtime Pittsburgh Landlords You gotta love government meddlers when it comes to development. Their supporters always crow, crow, crow about what they build — even when it fails, as have many of their initiatives in the downtown Pittsburgh area . We are always reminded that nothing would have happened if the meddlers didn’t do their deals.
City Hall intrigue does not take a holiday during the holiday season - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
City Hall intrigue does not take a holiday during the holiday season - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Talk in certain Grant Street hallways has Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl considering offering Allegheny County Prothonotary Michael Lamb a high-level position in his administration.
But would Lamb accept?
I hope so. He should. He needs a job. He would be a good addition to the administration as he'll continue to offer the city fine public service.
But would Lamb accept?
I hope so. He should. He needs a job. He would be a good addition to the administration as he'll continue to offer the city fine public service.
Downtown efforts leave empty feeling - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Here is the rub. Chamber of Commerce folks and the PDP (Pgh Downtown Partnership) want big programs, big taxes, big organizations and big lies. Meanwhile, real people vote with their feet. The marketplace is too fluid and too much of a force for the big central planning types who are big, slow and stupid.
At this point in time, the volume of merchants who know best are long gone. There are not enough of the sensible around to counter act the big-time jokers who aim to soil our landscape by grabbing what they can for themselves with the next massive programming ploy.
Those who make the rules, rule.
I have no hope that the new investment of $35-million for Point State Park will save downtown.
I have no hope that the new T-stop at Gateway Center is really needed to revitalize Fifth & Forbes.
I have no hope that the half-billion dollar tunnels under the Allegheny River will turn things around either. What's the attraction of the underground T? Were people afraid to swim across the river for shopping and cheering for the Pirates?
The surge in residential units is because the value of commercial spaces is at such an all time low.
We have more people willing to move downtown because less are willing to live in our neighborhoods.
They are thinning. They are taking away high-rise buildings and replacing them with green spaces. They are getting rid of density. They are putting capacity out by the airport and other green fields while they are doing demolitions on density and urban spaces.
Our economic engine is not on a rebound. We've choked the hope. We have places to sleep, but few place to earn a pay check are willing to locate here.
We're turning into a slumbering little town. Everyone that says we are building momentum are sleeping. Wake up soon, before the marketplace leaves the state.
At this point in time, the volume of merchants who know best are long gone. There are not enough of the sensible around to counter act the big-time jokers who aim to soil our landscape by grabbing what they can for themselves with the next massive programming ploy.
Downtown efforts leave empty feeling - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Taxes are a problem, said Gerald Schiller, part-owner of several family-owned properties along Forbes Avenue and a frequent critic of government-driven rehabilitation efforts. 'Retailers are deserting Downtown, because they are being phased out of business by the city's tax policy.'We need real benchmarks too. Let's say things are going well, when they are not. Let's look at office vacancy rates -- but exclude the Lazarus Building. What's up with that? We have way to many blind spots, by design.
Schiller is particularly disturbed by a Business Improvement District tax increase on retailers. The 3.92-mill assessment, which provides money for the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, will increase by 5 percent annually for the next five years. The tax is levied against property owners in a 90-block area.
Barbara McNees, president of the Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, supports the tax increase.
'We must keep Downtown safe and clean, not only for its current retailers and residents, but for visitors, new residents and others in the Downtown area,' she said.
Those who make the rules, rule.
I have no hope that the new investment of $35-million for Point State Park will save downtown.
I have no hope that the new T-stop at Gateway Center is really needed to revitalize Fifth & Forbes.
I have no hope that the half-billion dollar tunnels under the Allegheny River will turn things around either. What's the attraction of the underground T? Were people afraid to swim across the river for shopping and cheering for the Pirates?
The surge in residential units is because the value of commercial spaces is at such an all time low.
We have more people willing to move downtown because less are willing to live in our neighborhoods.
They are thinning. They are taking away high-rise buildings and replacing them with green spaces. They are getting rid of density. They are putting capacity out by the airport and other green fields while they are doing demolitions on density and urban spaces.
Our economic engine is not on a rebound. We've choked the hope. We have places to sleep, but few place to earn a pay check are willing to locate here.
We're turning into a slumbering little town. Everyone that says we are building momentum are sleeping. Wake up soon, before the marketplace leaves the state.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Jumpcut - Group Game called, "Where am I?"
Have you seen Jump Cut yet? Check out this new group there to play a game called, "Where am I?" I've uploaded three mini videos there. You watch and comment. Jumpcut - Group Where am I?
Here's the game: Shoot a short video from wherever you find yourself - with enough scenery so that someone could guess where you are, but not too much - and post it here. The first person to guess the location in a comment wins.
tags: travel game
Upload
Here's the game: Shoot a short video from wherever you find yourself - with enough scenery so that someone could guess where you are, but not too much - and post it here. The first person to guess the location in a comment wins.
tags: travel game
Upload
Sarah Heinz House, hard hat tour photos
See dozens of images from a major expansion of a boys and girls club being built by Dick Corporation. It isn't as nice nor expensive as the Polar Bear exhibit at the zoo, but hey -- its for our kids! They are still looking for a couple million to close out the building campaign.
Ex-member of the US Congress, from Georgia, quits the Republican Party and joins the Libertarians.
Down South Jukein from R to L. Do you know the song?
This fall, there has been a lot of talk about 'turn overs.' Pittsburgh needs a push to juke from various parties to the Libertarian team.
The Lynyrd Skynyrd song came to mind -- Down South Jukin'. Search Google on "Down South Jukeing" and notice the 5th hit is this blog. I'm high on the list for a miss-spelled rockin tune titles.
BREITBART.COM - Ex-Rep. Barr Quits GOP for Libertarians Ex-Rep. Barr Quits GOP for LibertariansClick the comments for the entire article. Or, see the link above.
By BEN EVANS, Associated Press Writer
WASHINGTON
A former Georgia congressman who helped spark President Clinton's impeachment has quit the Republican Party to become a Libertarian, saying he is disillusioned with the GOP on issues such as spending and privacy.
Bob Barr, who served eight years as a Republican congressman before losing his seat in 2002, announced Friday that he is now a 'proud, card-carrying Libertarian.' And he encouraged others to join him.
This fall, there has been a lot of talk about 'turn overs.' Pittsburgh needs a push to juke from various parties to the Libertarian team.
The Lynyrd Skynyrd song came to mind -- Down South Jukin'. Search Google on "Down South Jukeing" and notice the 5th hit is this blog. I'm high on the list for a miss-spelled rockin tune titles.
I post one happy holiday message with the song, "Oh Abraham" -- and then get this call
Hi. My name is Eugene Gershin. Perhaps we have met online, but more probably you don't know me from Adam. I monitor blogs for SamsonBlinded, and came across your post.The things we see on the net are wild, from time to time. Last week when there was a missing young adult, sadly, the thread got attention from his friends. Life.
I'd like to welcome you to look at Obadiah Shoher's blog. Obadiah - an anonymous Israeli politician - writes extremely controversial articles about Israel, the Middle East politics, and terrorism.
Shoher is equally critical of Jewish and Muslim myths, and advocates political rationalism instead of moralizing.
Google banned our site from the AdWords, Yahoo blocked most pages, and Amazon deleted all reviews of Obadiah's book, Samson Blinded: A Machiavellian Perspective on the Middle East Conflict.
Nevertheless, 170,000 people from 78 countries read the book.
Various Internet providers ban us periodically, but you can look up the site on search engines. The mirror www.terrorism-in-israel.org/blog currently works.
Please help us spread Obadiah's message, and mention the blog in one of your posts, or link to us from rauterkus.blogspot.com. I would greatly appreciate your comments.
Best wishes,
Eugene Gershin
Told ya.
Poppa Penguin says, 'hold the phone" on the adoption.
Certainty chatter is a sure stinker.
So, one thing is for certain. My rant about "being certain" as a top priority (Dec. 13, 2006) rings like a bell.
Photos of bells I've used and seen are below. Play the video of the one on the bike -- for effect.
Watch the Video
Historic bells of an emperor (above) and a religious bell tower from a structure in a temple is below.
Photos of bells I've used and seen are below. Play the video of the one on the bike -- for effect.
Watch the Video
Historic bells of an emperor (above) and a religious bell tower from a structure in a temple is below.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Oh, Abraham. A song from the past. Chanukah -- a stretch. But worth a listen.
New video for these times.
Chanukah began tonight.
From a new photo album that features Amy Carol Webb.
Chanukah began tonight.
From a new photo album that features Amy Carol Webb.
Amy Carol Webb MP3 Downloads - Amy Carol Webb Music Downloads - Amy Carol Webb Music Videos: "Faith Fortitude Friends
Citizenship Celebration today for David
See my Google Calendar for the details.
David S, a 911 operator, North Sider, who recently ran for Pittsburgh City Council in the special election for Luke's former seat, is getting to take his oath of citizenship today. Way to go.
I hope he runs for public office again. He was talking about issues, more than personality.
David S, a 911 operator, North Sider, who recently ran for Pittsburgh City Council in the special election for Luke's former seat, is getting to take his oath of citizenship today. Way to go.
I hope he runs for public office again. He was talking about issues, more than personality.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
More photos. Picasa only takes 500 per album
Buy some corn on the cob from a vendor selling from a hot pot built into the back of his bike.
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| From china - bike ... |
The org, Downsize DC is up in arms about this bill
Search Results - THOMAS (Library of Congress) H.R.4682
Title: To provide more rigorous requirements with respect to disclosure and enforcement of ethics and lobbying laws and regulations, and for other purposes.
Sponsor: Rep Pelosi, Nancy [CA-8] (introduced 2/1/2006) Cosponsors (162)
Red Light Camera - insights about a new law for Pgh
I've crafted a 98 second movie about the pending bill that would bring 'red light cameras' to Pittsburgh's busy streets and intersections.
The devil is in the details. Here what they've found in New Mexico. I'd be okay with this as part of the deal in Pittsburgh too.
Do you think that those in Pittsburgh would insist that the same treatments be put into effect here?
Hope you watch the segment and agree. The photos are from my collection from our visits to China. Check out the crossing guards too.
The audio is from a podcast I'm enjoying, FreeTalkLive.com.
Examining the Libertarian Vote in Depth
This is a great article. Give it a read.
TCS Daily - Examining the Libertarian Vote in Depth By David Kirby & David BoazAnother telling quote:
Libertarian Party candidates may have cost Sens. Jim Talent and Conrad Burns their seats, tipping the Senate to Democratic control. In Montana, the Libertarian candidate got more than 10,000 votes, or 3 percent, while Democrat Jon Tester edged Burns by fewer than 3,000 votes. In Missouri, Claire McCaskill defeated Talent by 41,000 votes, a bit less than the 47,000 Libertarian votes.
This isn't the first time Republicans have had to worry about losing votes to Libertarian Party candidates. Sens. Harry Reid, Maria Cantwell, and Tim Johnson all won races in which Libertarian candidates got more votes than their winning margin.
But a narrow focus on the Libertarian Party significantly underestimates the role libertarian voters played in 2006. Most voters who hold libertarian views don't vote for the Libertarian Party. Libertarian voters likely cost Republicans the House and the Senate—also dealing blows to Republican candidates in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Nevada, New Hampshire, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
President Bush and the congressional Republicans left no libertarian button unpushed in the past six years: soaring spending, expansion of entitlements, federalization of education, cracking down on state medical marijuana initiatives, Sarbanes-Oxley, gay marriage bans, stem cell research restrictions, wiretapping, incarcerating U.S. citizens without a lawyer, unprecedented executive powers, and of course an unnecessary and apparently futile war. The striking thing may be that after all that, Democrats still looked worse to a majority of libertarians.
re-public: re.imagining democracy - Richard Stallman - The free software movement
re-public: re.imagining democracy - Richard Stallman - The free software movement Could you explain free software activism?
Richard Stallman: First I’d better explain what free software means. Free software means software that respects the user’s freedom. There are four essential freedoms that the user of any software ought to have:
Freedom 0: the freedom to run the program, as you wish.
Freedom 1: the freedom to study the program’s source code and then change it so that it does what you wish.
Freedom 2: the freedom to distribute copies of the program when you wish.
Freedom 3: the freedom to distribute copies of our modified versions, when you wish.
Freedom 2 is the freedom to help your neighbor; freedom 3 is the freedom to contribute to your community. Both of them include both private distribution and publication–whichever you wish. Both include gratis distribution as well as sale of copies, whichever you wish
So what is free software activism? It is the struggle to establish and maintain these freedoms. This is a struggle because most computer users do not have these freedoms. They were taken away back in the 1970s, when a tiny fraction of society used computers; when use of computers spread widely in the 90s, what spread was the use of user-subjugating proprietary software.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Pens open to Plan B concept - Certain is as certain does
First published on Dec 13, 2006I'm certain that being certain should not be the top priority, for sure.
The guy who has Blackberry -- the company that took a gamble on patents and nearly went dark and off the air a year ago -- is full of talk to the gambling control board.
How can you have a slots parlor and have certain results? To gamble is to take risks. There is mystery and uncertainty when you drop the money and panic and are left with the cold-hard-results.
The value of being certain falls to an owner of a sports team with a deal on the table who doesn't even own the team yet. Everyone thinks he'll own the team. But, it didn't close yet.
Pens open to Plan B concept - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review 'Our plan is the only plan that brings certainty to this entire process,' McMackin said. 'There's clear-cut certainty the Penguins will stay in Pittsburgh. Under the concept of the other plan there is nothing but uncertainty.'Sports is about living in the present and not knowing what's going to happen, especially when played on ice with a little rubber puck at the center of attention.
Under the backup plan, Forest City or Majestic Star would pay $7.5 million a year for 30 years, while the state would pay $7 million a year. The Pens would have to pay $8.5 million up front and $2.9 million a year, while forgoing $1.1 million a year in naming rights.
Balsillie said Isle of Capri's proposal is the best plan because it removes any doubt about the team's future and doesn't use 'taxpayers' money.'
'I see a three-for-one here,' Balsillie said, adding that Isle of Capri's proposal provides a sports and entertainment destination, economic revitalization in the neighborhood and a gambling facility.
'The promise of being a good neighbor isn't just a promise,' Balsillie said. 'It has to be fulfilled.'
Balsillie said he hopes to conclude his purchase of the Penguins by the end of the week.
I'm certain that taxpayer money is going to go into this new arena. For starters, the new arena is going to be built and then given to the public to operate. If they want to build a new arena -- do so and keep it.
I'm certain that the public will pay dearly for the new arena as their plans call for the take down of the old arena. When 1 + 1 = 2 we'll have a net gain. But, we're getting 1 - 1 = 0. We own the civic arena. We have it paid for now. We don't need luxery boxes for Disney on Ice nor a high school graduation.
I'm certain that we'll not have a civic venue with the new arena with low-rental costs, like we can manage wit the existing facility that will be torn down, according to their plan. We've got a historic structure that is authentic -- for sure -- for certain.
So much for a sure bet. The guarantee seems to be a broken heart and upside down priorities.
Pennsylvania using Google Earth to promote tourism | News.blog | CNET News.com
Pennsylvania using Google Earth to promote tourism | News.blog | CNET News.com Pennsylvania using Google Earth to promote tourism
Tourism is nice. But why not leverage the utilities to service the people that are local, here now. Too often we're trying to make our Pennsylvania places, including our home town, into something that it isn't.
Google Earth and other tech tools can be used to help understand our places -- for those that live here, pay taxes and raise our kids here.
To jump on the notion of Google Earth for tourism is another tiny example of the tail wagging the dog.
Heck, the Governor wants to sell the PA Turnpike. It would go, we expect, to a firm with finance resources that resides outside the USA.
Wait. Perhaps there is a connection. Get Google Earth to help sell the PA Turnpike.
Perhaps Google Earth could have been used by locals to give feedback to the PA Turnpike Commission -- to point out potholes -- so it wouldn't have been so miss-managed and in need of a bailout.
Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Superintendent Mark Roosevelt Announce Partnership to Create The Pittsburgh Promise
Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Superintendent Mark Roosevelt announced a collaboration between the City of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Public Schools to develop The Pittsburgh Promise, a college access program and revitalization strategy for the City of Pittsburgh.What is this saying?
“Our goal with The Pittsburgh Promise is to help our children and their families plan, prepare and pay for education after high school,” said Superintendent Roosevelt. The Pittsburgh Promise would make higher education achievable for all Pittsburgh Public Schools students regardless of need or income. It also would enhance the economic development of the City.
“To advance the economic vitality of the City of Pittsburgh we need to invest in our neighborhoods, create a business friendly environment and strengthen our school district,” said Mayor Ravenstahl.
The Pittsburgh Promise will prepare students for success in the 21st Century by addressing the three primary barriers to college access: academic preparation, accessibility and affordability. As an integral part of the District’s Excellence for All plan for improving student achievement, The Pittsburgh Promise will begin working with students at a young age to make post-secondary education an achievable goal for
everyone.
The Pittsburgh Promise anticipates making funds available to Pittsburgh Public Schools graduates for tuition at an accredited post-secondary institution within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Students would be required to make regular progress toward the completion of a degree or certification-seeking program and remain in good standing at the post-secondary institution. It is expected that the Pittsburgh
Promise will be funded through an endowment and an annual fundraising campaign from private donors.
An official cost analysis is currently underway. The Mayor and the Superintendent will be forming a joint task force to develop a comprehensive plan for The Pittsburgh Promise. Preliminary work has been done by members of the District’s High School
Reform Task Force and the Mayor’s Business and Economic Development Committee.
An official analysis is underway. Perhaps someone got a clue that there might be some link between economics and education in this city.
If you get great grades and make serious progress in academic areas, kids will get into college. No joke. If you have a heartbeat, you'll be able to get into some college these days.
Isn't need also part of income too.
I don't think this is much of anything.
I'd love to see a deal cut with Mark Roosevelt and Mark Nordenburg. I'll broker it. It would go like this:
1. Every kid who graduates from any Pgh Public School and is in the top 20 in his/her class gets three years, including summers, of paid tuition to Pitt, CMU, Duquesne, RMU or Point Park.
2. Every PPS High School grad in the top 100 of his or her class gets automatic admission and a one year tuition scholarship to those schools.
3. Everyone who graduates from a PPS high school in good standing (regardless of class rank) gets a one year academic scholarship to CCAC.
4. Any kid that graduates from a PPS high school and presents a 4-year degree from any college/university within five years of his or her graduation gets a ticket into an semi-annual lottery run by the city so as to pick a free piece of property in the city-owned inventory. The graduate has to own the property for three years, or else some of the sale income goes back into the Pittsburgh fund. (i.e., 50% of sales price in year one; 40% of sales price in year two; 30% of sales price in year three.)
In the past, I've ranted about how the city should present a program to liquidate much of its land / property holdings on a regular basis to college grads and grad students who make a pittsburgh pledge.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
A+ Schools Report in today's PG and on the web
A+ Schools has published the second annual "Report to the Community on Public School Progress in Pittsburgh," as an insert in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The report contains data about each school with a few blindspots.
The Report is based on the 2005-06 school year. So, the new Accelerated Learning Academies (ALAs) were not included in this year's Report. They were "reconstituted." The K-8s that were elementary schools last year are listed in the elementary section of the Report.
More to come from me.
In general, in my humble opinion, A+ Schools is but a bad joke. The organization used to have a web-based discussion group -- but that was taken down. I've never been able to see any minutes to any of the A+ School meetings. Who attends? When? What is said? The bold support from A+ schools for the 'right-sizing' came without a board vote.
The organization is built for political leverage and little else. Michael Lamb is associated with the effort, and that is one of the worst things he has ever done.
There are hundreds of things that A+ Schools could and should be doing. Our schools need lots of help and support with critical thinking among many sectors of the community. But, we've got another entity that strives for a scripted, elitist, top-down agenda.
Just as I don't want my schools to cater to some students and ignore others -- nor do I want organizations that are about our schools to do the same.
A comprehensive look at the schools that isn't comprehensive is fine. But, trouble comes when they say and think this is a comprehensive view. If they called it what it was -- I'd be fine with that approach.
There are serious blind spots in this report about our schools, about our school district and about our communities.
The ALAs (Accelerated Learning Academies) have been reconstituted. But, the kids that go to those schools have not been reconstituted. And, the performance of the schools that closed are just ignored and not a part of the report. What's up with that? If we reconstitute schools every year, we'll never need to put important data into a report.
Furthermore, getting base-line numbers of the old system is not welcomed when you have a new system. Let's erase all hopes of being able to fail. Don't publish the numbers of the old schools. Then the new schools numbers are never going to be worse that that of the old school -- because we're not going to reveal the numbers from the old school.
Shame on the report for selective reporting by not sharing results that enable us to look back. Perhaps 'history' isn't part of the new accelerated math and reading programs -- and that's another failure.
How did Knoxville Middle School stack up? How did Greenway Middle School stack up? Those schools just are NUKED from the report. There were kids that went to those schools last year. Those schools fed into other high schools.
The best thing we learned about Knoxville -- Hanna Montana was in a movie that was filmed there last month. The place is a nice movie set now. That's it. That's their version of comprehensive.
Perhaps they should have done a phone book. Perhaps they are trying to make a hype and PR brochure to get people to move into downtown loft apartments.
The expansion into the realm of charter schools is welcome. Next, let's see an expansion into private schools and catholic schools too.
My big knock when it came to the report last year was that there were no benchmarks as to how the kids in the city did with a contrast to those in suburban schools. Face the facts. A family that is able to move from one school setting because they see that the kids are not progressing as they should won't look at this booklet and say -- humm.... Frick vs. South Brook vs. Schiller ... ??? No way. People who are pulling their kids out of the school district are moving outside the city. The choices are South Brook vs. Baldwin. Or, Frick vs. Shaler. Or, South Hills or Montour.
This isn't being framed well. It isn't really a battle among city schools. The real contrasts need to be among schools in the region, city and not, public and not.
On the last page of the report is a call for opinions. I've given my opions on a number of topics central to our schools and communities -- at the A+ Web Forums in the past. Then they pulled the plug on that communication tool. They don't really want to hear my opinions.
With watchdogs like A+ Schools, we're sure to stay in a heap of trouble. Comprehensive trouble.
The Report is based on the 2005-06 school year. So, the new Accelerated Learning Academies (ALAs) were not included in this year's Report. They were "reconstituted." The K-8s that were elementary schools last year are listed in the elementary section of the Report.
More to come from me.
In general, in my humble opinion, A+ Schools is but a bad joke. The organization used to have a web-based discussion group -- but that was taken down. I've never been able to see any minutes to any of the A+ School meetings. Who attends? When? What is said? The bold support from A+ schools for the 'right-sizing' came without a board vote.
The organization is built for political leverage and little else. Michael Lamb is associated with the effort, and that is one of the worst things he has ever done.
There are hundreds of things that A+ Schools could and should be doing. Our schools need lots of help and support with critical thinking among many sectors of the community. But, we've got another entity that strives for a scripted, elitist, top-down agenda.
Just as I don't want my schools to cater to some students and ignore others -- nor do I want organizations that are about our schools to do the same.
A comprehensive look at the schools that isn't comprehensive is fine. But, trouble comes when they say and think this is a comprehensive view. If they called it what it was -- I'd be fine with that approach.
There are serious blind spots in this report about our schools, about our school district and about our communities.
The ALAs (Accelerated Learning Academies) have been reconstituted. But, the kids that go to those schools have not been reconstituted. And, the performance of the schools that closed are just ignored and not a part of the report. What's up with that? If we reconstitute schools every year, we'll never need to put important data into a report.
Furthermore, getting base-line numbers of the old system is not welcomed when you have a new system. Let's erase all hopes of being able to fail. Don't publish the numbers of the old schools. Then the new schools numbers are never going to be worse that that of the old school -- because we're not going to reveal the numbers from the old school.
Shame on the report for selective reporting by not sharing results that enable us to look back. Perhaps 'history' isn't part of the new accelerated math and reading programs -- and that's another failure.
How did Knoxville Middle School stack up? How did Greenway Middle School stack up? Those schools just are NUKED from the report. There were kids that went to those schools last year. Those schools fed into other high schools.
The best thing we learned about Knoxville -- Hanna Montana was in a movie that was filmed there last month. The place is a nice movie set now. That's it. That's their version of comprehensive.
Perhaps they should have done a phone book. Perhaps they are trying to make a hype and PR brochure to get people to move into downtown loft apartments.
The expansion into the realm of charter schools is welcome. Next, let's see an expansion into private schools and catholic schools too.
My big knock when it came to the report last year was that there were no benchmarks as to how the kids in the city did with a contrast to those in suburban schools. Face the facts. A family that is able to move from one school setting because they see that the kids are not progressing as they should won't look at this booklet and say -- humm.... Frick vs. South Brook vs. Schiller ... ??? No way. People who are pulling their kids out of the school district are moving outside the city. The choices are South Brook vs. Baldwin. Or, Frick vs. Shaler. Or, South Hills or Montour.
This isn't being framed well. It isn't really a battle among city schools. The real contrasts need to be among schools in the region, city and not, public and not.
On the last page of the report is a call for opinions. I've given my opions on a number of topics central to our schools and communities -- at the A+ Web Forums in the past. Then they pulled the plug on that communication tool. They don't really want to hear my opinions.
With watchdogs like A+ Schools, we're sure to stay in a heap of trouble. Comprehensive trouble.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Court battle over 'base year' assessment system starts today
Court battle over 'base year' assessment system starts today The plaintiffs, homeowners from Pittsburgh, Franklin Park, Mt. Lebanon, Braddock and other Allegheny County municipalities, are mounting a 'full frontal challenge' of Allegheny County's 2002 base-year property assessment system, arguing the taxation method violates the Pennsylvania Constitution.Uniform is good. Onorato's plan is bad.
They want to see the county's system -- which relies on property values frozen indefinitely four years ago during the last full reassessment -- declared unconstitutional, and therefore invalid. The state constitution calls for uniform taxation of property.
Commencement Dates at Mellon Arena
Commencement Dates Allderdice High School 1:00 PM
Sunday, June 17, 2007 Mellon Arena
Mellon Arena is the venue for high school graduations for:
Allderdice,
Brashear,
Carrick,
Oliver,
Peabody,
Perry, and
Schenley.
Do you really need luxery boxes for a high school graduation? Do you really want to go to a slots parlor after the high school graduation?
Perhaps the Mellon Arena can be turned into a charter school, say for bank tellers and those in cash businesses.
My point is that we should keep the building and turn it into a 'civic arena' again. Let the Pens do Plan B or whatever with the IOC. But don't let the Pens knock down an important civic building that has many uses beyond NHL games.
Excellence for All Parent Steering Committee
Excellence for All Parent Steering CommitteeWhy are all of the Excellence for All Parents Meetings scheduled from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. All the parents can't make the evening times.
I'd be happy if that meeting was taped and put onto the net. Or, if there was a morning briefing the next day.
Some parents can't make ANY of the evening meetings because we are with our kids.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Let's call a spade a spade -- and nothing else, please. It will be a SLOTS PARLOR.
Everyone.
The gambling license will be awarded shortly. A Slots Parlor is to open. It isn't a 'casino.' They have the right to conduct gambling at slot machines. That's it.
If we all call it what it is, a slots parlor, then we'll not see an easy expansion to table games -- without another handsome payment.
The stand-alone slots license sold for $50-million.
If there is to be an expansion to table games, we should expect them to pay an additional $300-million to $950-million. And, the approval should come after a voters have their say. And, by all means, the table games license should EXPIRE in the future.
I hate the fact that the slots license does NOT expire.
The worst thing we can do is do what the Post Gazette did in today's Sunday paper. There was a big, color, illustration showing a card game with chips so as to talk about the casino and traffic. Cards and chips won't be a part of this casion -- err --- SLOTS PARLOR. At least not in 2007.
The gambling license will be awarded shortly. A Slots Parlor is to open. It isn't a 'casino.' They have the right to conduct gambling at slot machines. That's it.
If we all call it what it is, a slots parlor, then we'll not see an easy expansion to table games -- without another handsome payment.
The stand-alone slots license sold for $50-million.
If there is to be an expansion to table games, we should expect them to pay an additional $300-million to $950-million. And, the approval should come after a voters have their say. And, by all means, the table games license should EXPIRE in the future.
I hate the fact that the slots license does NOT expire.
The worst thing we can do is do what the Post Gazette did in today's Sunday paper. There was a big, color, illustration showing a card game with chips so as to talk about the casino and traffic. Cards and chips won't be a part of this casion -- err --- SLOTS PARLOR. At least not in 2007.
Isle of Capri's casino proposal still favored City task force says its plan is strongest
Less than two weeks before the Pittsburgh casino license is to be awarded, the city's gaming task force is standing by its near endorsement of Isle of Capri, even as a group of ministers works to prevent the Hill District slots parlor.
The Carbolic Smoke Ball digs at Wikipedia
One of my favorites gets lampooned. Wiki news is there to view as well. I'm loving the Wiki University effort as well. Perhaps I'll restart the Mon U endeavor.
The Carbolic Smoke Ball WIKIPEDIA POSTED EXACT DETAILS OF AUGUSTO PINOCHET'S DEATH TWO DAYS BEFORE IT OCCURRED
Saturday Talk | ajc.com - about Pittsburgh's Ballet sans Musicians
FWIW, our Nutcracker boycott continues. They didn't get a donation from us this year either.
Nice ink about Pittsburgh in an out-of-town newspaper, LTE about music!
We're getting ready for our holiday concerts. Grant plays first chair in the Phillips Elementary School performance as Erik moved to middle school. Erik's gig is Tuesday night.
In other fronts, our church pagent is now with two Marys. The one had a bad case of stage freight in today's dress rehersal. Seems that the dalmation is going to be put into a new role. Joseph -- quite a guy. This year he is Mormon-like and still not inclined to squak about a DNA test.
Nice ink about Pittsburgh in an out-of-town newspaper, LTE about music!
Saturday Talk | ajc.com Live music isn't just mere soundBrova!
While it's good to read that the musicians of the Atlanta Ballet are not struggling financially this holiday season ('Nutcracker joys missed,' Living, Dec. 2), I think this article does a great deal of harm to the cause of live music for the Atlanta Ballet and for any ballet or theater. It gives tacit approval to the replacement of live orchestra with recordings as long as the musicians can make up the money elsewhere. But the harm to the community of musicians, to the art form of ballet, and to the cultural climate of Atlanta is much bigger than whether or not lost income can be made up by teaching a few more lessons or playing another church gig.
Do we want to live in a community that does not value live music? I don't, and it's not just because I'm a musician. The iPod generation already expects music to come through tiny ear pieces. The artistic experience of being in a concert hall or theater with hundreds of other people, all experiencing the power and originality of the live performance, is something I want to have for myself and for my children. Presenting great art isn't about the bottom line; it's about something intangible that will never be replaced by electronic means because it is at heart human. The situation in Atlanta demands that musicians educate the audience to what we already know: live music is worth the price.
Here in Pittsburgh, the public responded with one voice when the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre tried to eliminate their resident orchestra, and the result is a company rededicated to the use of live music. I hope the residents of Atlanta come to the same realization before something precious is lost.
CYNTHIA ANDERSON, Anderson is an oboist with the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Orchestra.
We're getting ready for our holiday concerts. Grant plays first chair in the Phillips Elementary School performance as Erik moved to middle school. Erik's gig is Tuesday night.
In other fronts, our church pagent is now with two Marys. The one had a bad case of stage freight in today's dress rehersal. Seems that the dalmation is going to be put into a new role. Joseph -- quite a guy. This year he is Mormon-like and still not inclined to squak about a DNA test.
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