South Side Geese Still Dead and Gone
About a dozen people protested and passed around propaganda to drivers along Second Avenue on Thursday about the killing of a group of South Side geese by the US Dept. of Agriculture on October 10. The reaction from the public was encouraging.
The "honk against geese slaughter" signs prompted a chorus of responses (including from an 18-wheeler on the Parkway) and several drivers stopped to ask in disbelief if we were talking about "the geese by the boat launch." A lawyer who received one of the leaflets emailed to tell he was filing his own FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) request about the killings.
Lynn Cullen, radio show host, came out against the slaughter on WPTT 1360 on Thursday. [http://www.stationcaster.com/stations/wptt/?d=AM - halfway through Hour 1 of the 10/25 show].
The Post Gazette published an article in which a USDA official claims that "to the best of her knowledge" the kills happened on private land http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07299/828624-338.stm.
Try telling that to the local residents who witnessed it! Doesn't the USDA know where it's operating? Their main spokesperson confirmed last week that the round-up happened in River Front Park.
Write letters to the Post-Gazette expressing outrage over the killing of the South Side geese. Let the public know that this slaughter did happen on public land and absolutely no effort was made to use non-lethal methods at the Park.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
TV 11 debate rehash and some coaching from myself on various issues
It is nice to watch the debate at fast speed on the web.
The opening by Mark DeSantis went straight at the negative mailer that Luke Ravenstahl sent out. It set the record straight. DeSantis didn't work for this President. Rather, he was in the White House in the term of George H.W. Bush. He is a 'moderate Republican' along with the legacy of the late Senator John Heinz.
Meanwhile, Luke said he was driven to the debate today, by the future. I guess he didn't get a ride in the Yukon nor from Mr. Zober or Mr. Ford.
"It fell to me.
"This city's future is what drove me to run for city council when I was a young 23 year old. This city's future is what drives me here today."
If I'm Mark DeSantis, I say to Luke, "If I'm Mayor, the city workers will NOT want to move out. If you are mayor, the fraud as to where some of the police reside will linger. If you are mayor, you'll need to and want to continue to enslave workers here. You'll continue to run with a policy that bribes businesses to either stay or to move here. And, all along, you'll think it is FAIR to demand that others be less free.
This is an issue of freedom. DeSantis has yet to hit upon that core concept. Freedom and liberties are "pet sounds" for me. When they get said, I take note.
As mayor, (or as controller, etc.), one of my most fundamental goals is to advance freedom. I want to grow in personal liberties. And, with the expansion of freedom in our shared urban setter, we'll grow our city. More people will move here to be more free than they are somewhere else. Otherwise, when freedom is taken away, and taken away by GOVERMENT, and taken away by EMPLOYERS, and taken away by layers of red tape -- people see what's really going on. People don't like to wear a ball and chain.
As freedom diminishes, as it has for the past generations in Pittsburgh, people vote with their feet. People leave. People head to the hills. People want to give what is best to their children. This is why people depart Pittsburgh. This is why Pittsburgh is less than half of what it has been.
Luke Ravenstahl does not understand freedom. Luke wants a workforce that is less free than what I want.
A workforce that is limited as to where they live is going to be less productive, less talented, less loyal, less motivated and less willing to stay.
In the end, I want all the city employees to live and work, worship and learn, heal and even morn from time to time -- all in community -- all within our midst. The borderline at Edgewood, or Avenworth, or Baldwin shouldn't be like the "IRON CURTIN."
Pittsburgh should not be like an East Berlin for City Employees.
When we open the floodgates and end the residency requirement, we'll need to hold our breaths. We should take measure of who we are and what value the city offers to its residents. We need to monitor our performance as it relates to all aspects of life.
As we become more and more free within the city, people will flock back to the city.
Police are understaffed in the city now. The mayor has not hired as many police as required by the overlords. There are too many openings on the police force today -- because the police force is over worked.
When we can hire anyone to the police force, regardless of where they reside, we'll more easily get to the designated staffing levels.
Furthermore, existing members of the police force and recent members of the Pgh Police force have been known to resign and depart their city jobs to work elsewhere. Employee retention is an issue. They're taking other jobs. Some pay more. Some pay less. The revolving door among the ranks of the Pgh Police Force would slow if we give people the flexibility to live elsewhere.
Finally, there is fraud. People who "have to" live in the city might really sleep most of the time some where else. It is not right to ask anyone to live a lie. Let's be honest. Let's be real. Live and let live. Do it here. Do it elsewhere. We need the police and detectives to be on the job when it counts.
I don't want to pay people for sleeping. You should not get money for sleeping in the city as to sleeping in the burbs. The mayor feels it is okay to pay people who ONLY sleep in the city. If you sleep outside the city, your pay check is in jeopardy. That is bunk. Let's put this issue to rest, shall we.
Live and let live. I want to be the mayor of free people. I want to be mayor in a city that is 100% square and honest with its residents and its employees.
I'm here to promote honesty and freedom. And, I realize that we need to operate in the most frugal ways possible. We'll save money and do a better job when we are able to unlock the ball and chain from the legs -- or pillows -- of our employees.
The future of the city is what drove Luke here today. He came here from the North Side, not from Cranberry, where the last mayor would have driven from. The future of the city hinges upon the amount of freedom that we are able to build for ourselves and each other. Pittsburghers know, and they are about to understand better than any other people in the world, what it means to be free and responsible. Every ounce of freedom comes with an equal measure of responsibility.
These are keen and critical factors to a productive and prosperous life. I won't ever forget these facts nor lessen the priority I put upon being free.
Live where you and your family want. Do it joyfully. Put down some deep roots. I say, "Come Live Over Here." Others can join in that chant, from their neighborhoods. The verses will change, but the refrain is the same. Come here with an attraction, not out of a restriction.
The opening by Mark DeSantis went straight at the negative mailer that Luke Ravenstahl sent out. It set the record straight. DeSantis didn't work for this President. Rather, he was in the White House in the term of George H.W. Bush. He is a 'moderate Republican' along with the legacy of the late Senator John Heinz.
Meanwhile, Luke said he was driven to the debate today, by the future. I guess he didn't get a ride in the Yukon nor from Mr. Zober or Mr. Ford.
"It fell to me.
"This city's future is what drove me to run for city council when I was a young 23 year old. This city's future is what drives me here today."
If I'm Mark DeSantis, I say to Luke, "If I'm Mayor, the city workers will NOT want to move out. If you are mayor, the fraud as to where some of the police reside will linger. If you are mayor, you'll need to and want to continue to enslave workers here. You'll continue to run with a policy that bribes businesses to either stay or to move here. And, all along, you'll think it is FAIR to demand that others be less free.
This is an issue of freedom. DeSantis has yet to hit upon that core concept. Freedom and liberties are "pet sounds" for me. When they get said, I take note.
As mayor, (or as controller, etc.), one of my most fundamental goals is to advance freedom. I want to grow in personal liberties. And, with the expansion of freedom in our shared urban setter, we'll grow our city. More people will move here to be more free than they are somewhere else. Otherwise, when freedom is taken away, and taken away by GOVERMENT, and taken away by EMPLOYERS, and taken away by layers of red tape -- people see what's really going on. People don't like to wear a ball and chain.
As freedom diminishes, as it has for the past generations in Pittsburgh, people vote with their feet. People leave. People head to the hills. People want to give what is best to their children. This is why people depart Pittsburgh. This is why Pittsburgh is less than half of what it has been.
Luke Ravenstahl does not understand freedom. Luke wants a workforce that is less free than what I want.
A workforce that is limited as to where they live is going to be less productive, less talented, less loyal, less motivated and less willing to stay.
In the end, I want all the city employees to live and work, worship and learn, heal and even morn from time to time -- all in community -- all within our midst. The borderline at Edgewood, or Avenworth, or Baldwin shouldn't be like the "IRON CURTIN."
Pittsburgh should not be like an East Berlin for City Employees.
When we open the floodgates and end the residency requirement, we'll need to hold our breaths. We should take measure of who we are and what value the city offers to its residents. We need to monitor our performance as it relates to all aspects of life.
As we become more and more free within the city, people will flock back to the city.
Police are understaffed in the city now. The mayor has not hired as many police as required by the overlords. There are too many openings on the police force today -- because the police force is over worked.
When we can hire anyone to the police force, regardless of where they reside, we'll more easily get to the designated staffing levels.
Furthermore, existing members of the police force and recent members of the Pgh Police force have been known to resign and depart their city jobs to work elsewhere. Employee retention is an issue. They're taking other jobs. Some pay more. Some pay less. The revolving door among the ranks of the Pgh Police Force would slow if we give people the flexibility to live elsewhere.
Finally, there is fraud. People who "have to" live in the city might really sleep most of the time some where else. It is not right to ask anyone to live a lie. Let's be honest. Let's be real. Live and let live. Do it here. Do it elsewhere. We need the police and detectives to be on the job when it counts.
I don't want to pay people for sleeping. You should not get money for sleeping in the city as to sleeping in the burbs. The mayor feels it is okay to pay people who ONLY sleep in the city. If you sleep outside the city, your pay check is in jeopardy. That is bunk. Let's put this issue to rest, shall we.
Live and let live. I want to be the mayor of free people. I want to be mayor in a city that is 100% square and honest with its residents and its employees.
I'm here to promote honesty and freedom. And, I realize that we need to operate in the most frugal ways possible. We'll save money and do a better job when we are able to unlock the ball and chain from the legs -- or pillows -- of our employees.
The future of the city is what drove Luke here today. He came here from the North Side, not from Cranberry, where the last mayor would have driven from. The future of the city hinges upon the amount of freedom that we are able to build for ourselves and each other. Pittsburghers know, and they are about to understand better than any other people in the world, what it means to be free and responsible. Every ounce of freedom comes with an equal measure of responsibility.
These are keen and critical factors to a productive and prosperous life. I won't ever forget these facts nor lessen the priority I put upon being free.
Live where you and your family want. Do it joyfully. Put down some deep roots. I say, "Come Live Over Here." Others can join in that chant, from their neighborhoods. The verses will change, but the refrain is the same. Come here with an attraction, not out of a restriction.
For mayor: Mark DeSantis is the choice for a new Pittsburgh
Michael Lamb, D, status quo candidate for the city-wide office of controller must be shaking in his boots reading about how the P-G is endorsing change and the ouster of one party domination. This type of thinking has to carry over to trouble for him too.
The P-G must just be waiting to the last minute, say next Sunday, to give its endorsement to me for Controller. I was the first of the endorsement meetings weeks ago. I left them a copy of the DVD. Watching that would have turned their opinions about me to positive.
Plus, the federal government is NOT in check. Hardly. It isn't in check when Congress does not approve of the war, yet more than 3,000 service men and women have died.
So, having both D and Rs in DC are not a guarantee. But, at least there is a 10-term member of the US House who is against unconstitutional wars. We have heard from him and seen his popularity rise throughout the nation and even within the ranks of those in the military.
Going from Blue to Red -- as in Blue Dem and Red Rep -- is a hard leap for the PG. Going to Indie is easier. But, it doesn't really break the log jam as others have won with the "I" label. But, making a shift to the 'purple' Liberarian, might be the best ticket yet for Pittsburgh's mindset.
The P-G must just be waiting to the last minute, say next Sunday, to give its endorsement to me for Controller. I was the first of the endorsement meetings weeks ago. I left them a copy of the DVD. Watching that would have turned their opinions about me to positive.
For mayor: Mark DeSantis is the choice for a new Pittsburgh A Democratic mayor and a nine-member Democratic council have robbed the city of the robust political competition that renews the state and keeps the federal government in check. We see the invigorating value of shifting party control in Harrisburg and Washington, but on Grant Street we see rust, cobwebs and a city bravely trying to manage its own decline.Well, a Democratic mayor, council and controller has been the forumla for robbing the city of its robust political competition.
Plus, the federal government is NOT in check. Hardly. It isn't in check when Congress does not approve of the war, yet more than 3,000 service men and women have died.
So, having both D and Rs in DC are not a guarantee. But, at least there is a 10-term member of the US House who is against unconstitutional wars. We have heard from him and seen his popularity rise throughout the nation and even within the ranks of those in the military.
Going from Blue to Red -- as in Blue Dem and Red Rep -- is a hard leap for the PG. Going to Indie is easier. But, it doesn't really break the log jam as others have won with the "I" label. But, making a shift to the 'purple' Liberarian, might be the best ticket yet for Pittsburgh's mindset.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Red Sox have SOME spoiled NEWBIE fans
Boston Red Sox - Red Sox have spoiled some fans - The Boston Globe There are people who claim to be members of Red Sox Nation who have no idea that Bucky Dent's middle name is Bleeping.Some great lines in that article.
My wife, with her Boston roots, wants victory in 4. She says 'take no prisoners.' She wondered if after the game 1 blow out if the team could bank a few of those runs for the next game.
My son was upset that the first game went on. Why didn't they use the 10-run rule, he wondered.
DeSantis raised more than mayor since June - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
DeSantis raised more than mayor since June - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Former Lt. Gov. Bill Scranton's Grow PA political action committee donated $85,333 worth of in-kind contributions.There is more to this than what is being reported.
Bill Scranton's team has made the Mark DeSantis campaign a skirmish in advance of the next race for PA Governor. Scranton pulled out of the race the last time after Lynn Swann arrived, much like Bill Peduto pulled out of the D party primary in 2007.
Scranton's fine. The team is fine. Great to have the buzz and help for DeSantis. But, my goals and their goals don't overlap 100%.
I want to fix Pittsburgh. I want to better this region. I want to be a part of a movement that makes our public life and governmental landscape more open and honest. Teamwork and outreach matter. Sustaining discussions and building future leadership is important.
We need to work together to craft excellent solutions. Those policies need to be tweeked, packaged, promoted and re-tooled.
That's what I crave from those at the top of the ticket. I'm hungry for real change, still.
LTE to Politicians
Letters to the editor: "A promise to politicians who waste trees and my time"Carol didn't mention CDs nor DVDs. So, I'm in the clear.
I'm not killing trees. Rather, I using recycled electrons.
Pittsburgh Laurels & Lances - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
The Trib left my name off of this suggestion. That's okay. More gets done when you don't take credit for it.
By the way, I spoke about this at city hall. I gave the statement to J.B. of the Trib and R.L. of the P-G. And, I talked with Frank G. of KQV about this too. Not that I didn't try.
The stadiums should be sold to the teams. The Stadium Authority should be liquidated. And, in the process, the fields and venues should be absorbed by the new Pgh Park District along with the RAD Tax.
That is the leverage that Michael Lamb can't see. His vision would do nothing.
Tell the teams we are selling the stadiums to the teams. And, until they are sold to the teams, they are going to be the property of the new Pittsburgh Park District. Then the Park District Trustee can use them as they wish for recreational matters and income generation.
Likewise, the RAD board too.
Perry High School could be playing its home football at PNC Park.
Some have called for a re-opener of the Firefighters contract. Be that as it may. I want to re-open the contracts for the public ownership of the facilities. That old lease would be in limbo cause there is new ownership with new attitudes.
Pittsburgh Laurels & Lances - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review An observation: Acting Pittsburgh Controller Tony Pokora says the point behind his noting that the city is missing out on millions of dollars in annual property taxes because PNC Park, Heinz Field and Mellon Arena are owned by a tax-exempt government authority is the need for state revenue sharing to make up the difference. Actually, the point should be that sports franchises are big businesses, should own the facilities in which they do business and should pay property taxes. Period.The Trib makes it an "observation." Well, Tony Pokora is a lame duck. The Trib could have made it a "LAUREL" and taken my counter to Tony's plan.
By the way, I spoke about this at city hall. I gave the statement to J.B. of the Trib and R.L. of the P-G. And, I talked with Frank G. of KQV about this too. Not that I didn't try.
The stadiums should be sold to the teams. The Stadium Authority should be liquidated. And, in the process, the fields and venues should be absorbed by the new Pgh Park District along with the RAD Tax.
That is the leverage that Michael Lamb can't see. His vision would do nothing.
Tell the teams we are selling the stadiums to the teams. And, until they are sold to the teams, they are going to be the property of the new Pittsburgh Park District. Then the Park District Trustee can use them as they wish for recreational matters and income generation.
Likewise, the RAD board too.
Perry High School could be playing its home football at PNC Park.
Some have called for a re-opener of the Firefighters contract. Be that as it may. I want to re-open the contracts for the public ownership of the facilities. That old lease would be in limbo cause there is new ownership with new attitudes.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Ravenstahl doubles spending of DeSantis
Ravenstahl doubles spending of DeSantis The campaign finance reports were filed today with the Allegheny County elections division.BTW, I'm exempt from needing to file. I've been a good boy with the campaign so as to not needlessly cut down trees to make lawn signs, hurt the environment, nor cause global warming. I'm investing in recycled electrons with the internet.
My friends are all urged to donate to the campaign of Ron Paul for President. It seems more important and pressing to we the US out of senseless wars abroad.
Mayoral Debate, live at the JCC
ONLY Mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Mark DeSantis -- with the Libertarian, Tony Oliva left out in the cold.
When: Sunday, October 28
Time: 10:30- 11:30 am. Televised live on WPXI
Where: JCC, Katz Theater, 5738 Darlington Road
RSVP: Call 412-992-5251 or visit http://pittsburgh.planitjewish.com
Admission: No charge
Seating: Seating will take place between 9-10 am
There will be no admittance to the auditorium after 10:00 am
Questions go to: 412 992 5243
Fighting back. The PCTV 21 Debate went up in smoke
Tony for Mayor: Fighting back It gets pretty frustrating when the media tries to influence an election so strongly. You see, they say I have no legitimate shot so they exclude me...but in truth they exclude me and thus try to negate any shot that I would have. Hence my using the term, Self Fulfilling Prophecy.
Open Thread: S.V. school strike -- from the Baron on the Blogs
You ask, I deliver.
Chat away about the Seneca Valley Teachers Strike in this thread.
Chat away about the Seneca Valley Teachers Strike in this thread.
Students for Liberty Conference in NY in 2008
Libertarian Party of Pennsylvania encourages students to participate
Harrisburg, PA – The first Students for Liberty Conference will be held February 22-24, 2008, at Columbia University in New York City. The purpose of this conference is to bring undergraduate and graduate students together to learn more about the cause of liberty and how best to promote liberty as college students. This is an opportunity for students from all over to meet others with a common interest in liberty and learn effective practices to bring back to their respective college campuses.
LPPa Media Relations Chair, Doug Leard, indicated “We are proud to promote an event dedicated to promoting the principles of freedom for the future leaders of our Commonwealth and our country.”
Keynote Speakers:
David Boaz, Executive Vice President of the Cato Institute.
Dr. Alan Kors, Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and founder of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education.
Other highlights of the conference include workshops on effective campus organization and lectures on subjects of liberty. A Liberty Fair will bring a variety of organizations dedicated to liberty to speak with students about their organization, employment opportunities and other avenues by which to promote liberty (analogous to a career fair). Nightly socials will be held to encourage further discourse and interaction between participants and speakers.
The SFLC is organized by an Executive Board consisting of five students from five different Universities: Alexander McCobin (University of Pennsylvania), Sloane Frost (Cornell University), Pin-Quan Ng (Columbia University), Sam Eckman (University of Pittsburgh), and Ricky Tracy (Seton Hall University).
Inquiries concerning the Conference can be sent to SFLConference@gmail.com.
Harrisburg, PA – The first Students for Liberty Conference will be held February 22-24, 2008, at Columbia University in New York City. The purpose of this conference is to bring undergraduate and graduate students together to learn more about the cause of liberty and how best to promote liberty as college students. This is an opportunity for students from all over to meet others with a common interest in liberty and learn effective practices to bring back to their respective college campuses.
LPPa Media Relations Chair, Doug Leard, indicated “We are proud to promote an event dedicated to promoting the principles of freedom for the future leaders of our Commonwealth and our country.”
Keynote Speakers:
David Boaz, Executive Vice President of the Cato Institute.
Dr. Alan Kors, Professor at the University of Pennsylvania and founder of the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education.
Other highlights of the conference include workshops on effective campus organization and lectures on subjects of liberty. A Liberty Fair will bring a variety of organizations dedicated to liberty to speak with students about their organization, employment opportunities and other avenues by which to promote liberty (analogous to a career fair). Nightly socials will be held to encourage further discourse and interaction between participants and speakers.
The SFLC is organized by an Executive Board consisting of five students from five different Universities: Alexander McCobin (University of Pennsylvania), Sloane Frost (Cornell University), Pin-Quan Ng (Columbia University), Sam Eckman (University of Pittsburgh), and Ricky Tracy (Seton Hall University).
Inquiries concerning the Conference can be sent to SFLConference@gmail.com.
The Libertarian Party is the third largest political party in both Pennsylvania and the United States. Nationwide there are over 200,000 registered Libertarians with organizations in all 50 states. Libertarians serve in hundreds of elected offices throughout the nation. Please visit www.LP.org or www.LPPA.org for more information.
Ron Paul on with Jay Leno on Oct 30
Ron Paul supporters from all across the country are sending a special thank you to Jay Lenno and the Tonight Show for inviting Dr. Paul on their show on October 30th.
Burgess in District 9: The Democrat has skills to help the community
The P-G editorial board paints itself into another weird position.
If the editorial review board of the P-G really wants to understand the crime prevention plan, come to the press event on Monday at 5 pm at St. James AME Church parking lot. Dave Adams will be talking about his plan, from A-to-Z, before that evening's debates. The debates begin at 6:30 pm. However, the plan gets released to the press with follow-up questions and discussions at 5 pm.
The Adams plan from his "Conscious Group" is a work that has taken years to mold, pitch, build, modify and launch. The blue-print isn't like saying clean, green and nice. No way. His plan claims to be comprehensive and it can work throughout the city, as well as throughout the 9th council district.
One of the most pressing statement in the endorsement article about Adams talks about his working with other council members. P-G: "Adams betrays a lack of interest in working closely with other council members." YES!
That is the problem with city council. City council allowed the corruption of Twanda to linger. Council, with Luke Ravenstahl as its president, covered up for each other. Council needs people to be elected that are skeptical of everything council does. Council needs people to speak for others from outside the party. Council needs to have an insider that isn't operating on a wink-wink basis. When the going gets rough, they all work closely to cover up corruption for each other.
Rev. Ricky Burgess is a Dem. That makes him unqualified to step in the same post that was cloaked in corruption, by a prior Dem. He is guilty by association -- as they are all guilty by association -- as they are all working in a lock-step style. The city is falling apart. District 9 has it the worst.
Adams betrays the machine. That is exactly what the citizens need to know. That is what the voters need to celebrate.
The District 9 residents have not had many 'benefits' in the community because they have people who have understood the political process. What a joke from the P-G: "The people of District 9 deserve a representative who understands the political process and can use it to benefit the community."
With an understanding of that political process -- we get more blight, more crime, more vacant properties, more decline, more cronies, more special-interest tax deals that help developers and hurt residents and the marketplace.
Be bold. Betray the machine. Restore trust and hope with citizens.
When the politicians stick together, when the thugs and citizens stick together, when the police stick together -- we all loose.
I have faith that Dave Adams will have the skills and ambition to go nose to nose with anyone in the community, in the region and in D.C. and elsewhere in the government.
Did the P-G endorse Twanda in the past?
Furthermore, seems that Burgess is full of double speak. He is saying one thing to the editorial review board and another in the community. The wires of loyalty with him might twist in the wind.
The Rev Ricky Burgess might have the temperament of a lamb. We don't need lambs as the city is on the brink. I'll take an ex-Marine when our homeland is under such a dire attack.
Burgess in District 9: The Democrat has skills to help the communityMr. Adams is a Marine veteran and a neighborhood activist who has his own three-pronged plan: cut crime, raise motivation and develop power.The plan to cut crime has been released here and there in bite-sized measures. It was not something that can be put onto the table before the P-G editorial review board in the micro meeting they hold with candidates. And, it would be presented before the opposition. That isn't the time nor the place for such a release of the most comprehensive crime prevention plan this city has ever seen.
If the editorial review board of the P-G really wants to understand the crime prevention plan, come to the press event on Monday at 5 pm at St. James AME Church parking lot. Dave Adams will be talking about his plan, from A-to-Z, before that evening's debates. The debates begin at 6:30 pm. However, the plan gets released to the press with follow-up questions and discussions at 5 pm.
The Adams plan from his "Conscious Group" is a work that has taken years to mold, pitch, build, modify and launch. The blue-print isn't like saying clean, green and nice. No way. His plan claims to be comprehensive and it can work throughout the city, as well as throughout the 9th council district.
One of the most pressing statement in the endorsement article about Adams talks about his working with other council members. P-G: "Adams betrays a lack of interest in working closely with other council members." YES!
That is the problem with city council. City council allowed the corruption of Twanda to linger. Council, with Luke Ravenstahl as its president, covered up for each other. Council needs people to be elected that are skeptical of everything council does. Council needs people to speak for others from outside the party. Council needs to have an insider that isn't operating on a wink-wink basis. When the going gets rough, they all work closely to cover up corruption for each other.
Rev. Ricky Burgess is a Dem. That makes him unqualified to step in the same post that was cloaked in corruption, by a prior Dem. He is guilty by association -- as they are all guilty by association -- as they are all working in a lock-step style. The city is falling apart. District 9 has it the worst.
Adams betrays the machine. That is exactly what the citizens need to know. That is what the voters need to celebrate.
The District 9 residents have not had many 'benefits' in the community because they have people who have understood the political process. What a joke from the P-G: "The people of District 9 deserve a representative who understands the political process and can use it to benefit the community."
With an understanding of that political process -- we get more blight, more crime, more vacant properties, more decline, more cronies, more special-interest tax deals that help developers and hurt residents and the marketplace.
Be bold. Betray the machine. Restore trust and hope with citizens.
When the politicians stick together, when the thugs and citizens stick together, when the police stick together -- we all loose.
I have faith that Dave Adams will have the skills and ambition to go nose to nose with anyone in the community, in the region and in D.C. and elsewhere in the government.
Burgess in District 9: The Democrat has skills to help the community - Friday, October 26, 2007 - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
In last May's Democratic primary, Pittsburgh Councilwoman Twanda Carlisle faced a field of eight challengers in District 9 all vowing not to be the next Twanda Carlisle.
Weary of scandal and corruption allegations against the incumbent, Democratic voters nominated the Rev. Ricky Burgess, 50, the pastor of Nazarene Baptist Church and the executive director of Concerned Citizens Community Creations Center. Running on a three-point platform of fiscal responsibility, crime reduction and economic development, the nominee promised meaningful reform for a part of Pittsburgh that has not had effective representation for years.
District 9 includes Homewood, East Liberty, East Hills, Lincoln-Lemington, Larimer, Belmar and parts of Friendship, North Point Breeze and Garfield.
Mr. Burgess has one more hurdle to clear before taking a seat on council. His opponent in the Nov. 6 election is independent candidate David Adams, 49, of East Hills. Mr. Adams is a Marine veteran and a neighborhood activist who has his own three-pronged plan: cut crime, raise motivation and develop power.
While Mr. Burgess speaks at length about trying to attract businesses and working with other council members to ensure that the district isn't an afterthought, Mr. Adams promises to build community consensus by slashing crime by 40 percent and promoting the cultivation of cultural pride. He declined, however, to detail his crime-fighting plan for the editorial board.
As to reviving the neighborhood's economy, he warned against gentrifying developers who want "to push us out." He said, "We have to protect our black areas and we don't want white people to come in."
Mr. Burgess countered by saying, "This district is not an African-American district," and that he'd work to build Pittsburgh's diversity. Both candidates are black.
Mr. Adams is ambitious, but he betrays a lack of interest in working closely with other council members. The people of District 9 deserve a representative who understands the political process and can use it to benefit the community.
The pastor has the right approach. Mr. Burgess' emphasis on reviving business, enhancing safety and dealing on Grant Street with Pittsburgh's fiscal crisis are sound priorities. While we encourage Mr. Adams to share his ideas on fighting crime with city officials, there's only one member of this duo with the skill and temperament to represent the community: Ricky Burgess.
Did the P-G endorse Twanda in the past?
Furthermore, seems that Burgess is full of double speak. He is saying one thing to the editorial review board and another in the community. The wires of loyalty with him might twist in the wind.
The Rev Ricky Burgess might have the temperament of a lamb. We don't need lambs as the city is on the brink. I'll take an ex-Marine when our homeland is under such a dire attack.
Wi-Fi carrier sought for Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
This is a set back. But, I never liked the deal in the first place. I was a naysayer.
That was my whole gripe. It was only about downtown. And, when they pick the cherries, the rest get dirt.
I didn't celebrate when 3RS went into rubble.
I didn't celebrate when the Pittsburgh Promise was launched with a hefty $10,000 first donation.
I didn't celebrate when Lazarus closed, nor when it opened.
I didn't celebrate when Lord and Taylor's remodeling finished, nor when it moved out of town.
I didn't celebrate when the TIF at Deer Creek Crossing passed, nor after it crashed under its own weight.
I didn't celebrate when Pitt Stadium was trucked away. We knew then that Pitt football had better move to the Mid American Conference.
The fumbles of downtown wi-fi, something that I do NOT use (It is unsecure) are typical illustrations of the folly of Grant Street actions. Their aim-low decisions hurt the city.
A robust economic landscape does not begin with bribes, hype and over-reaching government cutting special-interest deals with some and excluding others.
Now Pittsburgh has Wi-Fi operating out the the goodness his heart.
Re-tool. Think Again. It is silly to stay committed to making sure Downtown has free Wi-Fi. That's nuts. STOP. Lay the shovel down.
We need someone to step up. Let's be committed to getting city-wide Wi-Fi. The kids need the net for homework. Kids don't live downtown. The rich business folks already have 'secure Wi-Fi' Downtown if they need it. And, they can afford it.
Put Wi-Fi throughout the neighborhoods.
The Wi-Fi deal was bad news when it was hatched, launched and operational.
Let's make headway to a great deal concerning technology.
Wi-Fi carrier sought for Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review: "he Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership hopes to reach an agreement sometime in the next three months with a new long-term provider for the city's Wi-Fi network.They are NOT looking for a wi-fi carrier for "PITTSBURGH." No, they are only worried about downtown. Unless something has changed.
Mike Edwards, president and CEO of the partnership, said Thursday that the organization terminated its contract with US Wireless Online, which had been operating the system, because the company has declared bankruptcy and can't fulfill the contract."
That was my whole gripe. It was only about downtown. And, when they pick the cherries, the rest get dirt.
I didn't celebrate when 3RS went into rubble.
I didn't celebrate when the Pittsburgh Promise was launched with a hefty $10,000 first donation.
I didn't celebrate when Lazarus closed, nor when it opened.
I didn't celebrate when Lord and Taylor's remodeling finished, nor when it moved out of town.
I didn't celebrate when the TIF at Deer Creek Crossing passed, nor after it crashed under its own weight.
I didn't celebrate when Pitt Stadium was trucked away. We knew then that Pitt football had better move to the Mid American Conference.
The fumbles of downtown wi-fi, something that I do NOT use (It is unsecure) are typical illustrations of the folly of Grant Street actions. Their aim-low decisions hurt the city.
A robust economic landscape does not begin with bribes, hype and over-reaching government cutting special-interest deals with some and excluding others.
Now Pittsburgh has Wi-Fi operating out the the goodness his heart.
Re-tool. Think Again. It is silly to stay committed to making sure Downtown has free Wi-Fi. That's nuts. STOP. Lay the shovel down.
We need someone to step up. Let's be committed to getting city-wide Wi-Fi. The kids need the net for homework. Kids don't live downtown. The rich business folks already have 'secure Wi-Fi' Downtown if they need it. And, they can afford it.
Put Wi-Fi throughout the neighborhoods.
The Wi-Fi deal was bad news when it was hatched, launched and operational.
Let's make headway to a great deal concerning technology.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Chapter 7 of the Value Added Mini Series - covers some South Side insights
I rushed this to the web, jumping over chapter 6, due soon, as it has the woderful song that calls the city and voters to "Lay The Shovel Down."
Same 10-minute video hosted at Video.Google.com:
Same 10-minute video at Rauterkus.blip.tv.
Why should black voters vote for Mark Rauterkus?
How many black businesses are there on East Carson Street?
Same 10-minute video hosted at Video.Google.com:
Same 10-minute video at Rauterkus.blip.tv.
Why should black voters vote for Mark Rauterkus?
How many black businesses are there on East Carson Street?
Sierra Club Allegheny Group -- Politics of Ignorance
Sierra Club Allegheny Group � Politics: "This was the key step for Bruce and Patrick to gain their seats on City Council in January, 2008."Ignorant. Take a civics lesson. Some should know better.
Specific quotes from Pgh City Paper article: The Third Degree -- Third-party candidates say their perspectives deserve airing too
THE THIRD DEGREE (Main Feature Extra)The specific points about me in the article are re-typed below. The article starts on page 26 and ends on 27.
Third-party candidates say their perspectives deserve airing too
By: Charlie Deitch, Melissa Meinzer and Chris Young - October 25, 2007
http://www.pittsburghcitypaper.ws//gyrobase/Content?oid=37509
Meanwhile, probably the best known of the city's third party candidates, Mark Rauterkus, is running for two offices simultaniously, city controller and city council district 3. (He abandoned a mayoral run.)The article was written by three reporters: Charlie Deitch, Melissa Meinzer and Chris Young. I guess it is no wonder I get so little ink. It takes three of them to cover the third party.
Rauterkus, a South Side political advocate and vice chair of the Allegheny County Libertarian Party, doesn't deny the third party curse.
"Conventional wisdom says my chances are not very good," he says, hit tie almost completely shielded by a name tag and two large "Elect Rauterkus" pins. "But [Libertarians] have to fight the good fight and not give up. We help to keep the other candidates honest."
For Rauterkus, that means raising questions about corporate tax incentives and other big-dollar development initiatives that have often failed to deliver the promised benefits.
"The first thing you do when you dig yourself a hole is you put the shovel down. You can't keep digging the same hole."
In his council race against endorsed D, ... Rauterkus says he could provide new energy and leadership to council's Citiparks and Youth Policy committee. Boasting his experience as a swim coach, Rauterkus says he is "phenomenally more qualified" to oversee Citiparks from a council seat than any other candidate.
As for the city controller position, Rauterkus says his opponent, Prothonotary, ... is a "Bureaucrat who won't rock the boat" while Rauterkus calls himself a "tireless, vigilant watchdog."
While he hasn't spent much money campaigning, Rauterkus say he has used his blog, Rauterkus.blogspot.com, as an open-source campaign tool.
"Mo opinions are up there for peer review," he says. "My advisers are everyone. In fact, a lot of my ideas are really just other peoples' ideas."
BTW, my buttons are not so large. They are very attractive. Each is different. And, the text of the button is my website, Elect.Rauterkus.com. The new website and the new DVDs didn't get mentioned. But the song, "Lay the Shovel Down" -- did get great exposure.
Updated from 10 pm on the 24th.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Where's the fire. No sense rushing into anything -- like in a hurry
This report was due after the election for mayor concluded. Imagine the shock when it hits!
Pittsburgh has way too many abandoned houses. Each makes for a ticking fire trap. So, they double the spending on demolitions -- yet -- NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON. The increase rate of tear downs will hardly match the increased rate of buildings that are becoming abandoned.
The city needs to get its police force up to 900 officers, so mandates the agreement with the overlords. So, a new class of recruits is to join the force. However, "NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON." Seems that lots of other members of the police force are departing for other jobs in other cities. The new hires can only slightly increase the others being replaced.
The city fires eleven managers of various departments to show that a new leader is at the helm of this burgh. National searches occur. NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON.
A special task force swarms the South Side on weekend nights and dish out 804 citations for pissing in public in the course of five months. Meanwhile, NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON. Lots of people get tickets. However, behaviors don't change.
Overlords get assigned to the city to watch that the budget makes sense and spending is within acceptable ranges. The city's bond rating improves from XXX to PG-13. Yet the city's five year projection from some has the city back in bankruptcy again in the 'out years.' NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON.
The city issues a RFP for the closed indoor ice rink. The deadline comes and folks are eager to re-open the facility, with private money. NO CHANGE EXPECTED SOON. The news in September is that the proposals all suck. Failed applicants get the news in October and cry foul.
Water main break, traffic jams, cracking bridges, under performing schools -- NO CHANGE EXPECTED SOON.
Go Red Sox!
City fire study recommends closing stations City fire study recommends closing stationsThat could be the city's motto. If it printed money, and it should or would if it could, they'd use that slogan, "NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON."
No changes expected soon, mayor says.
Pittsburgh has way too many abandoned houses. Each makes for a ticking fire trap. So, they double the spending on demolitions -- yet -- NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON. The increase rate of tear downs will hardly match the increased rate of buildings that are becoming abandoned.
The city needs to get its police force up to 900 officers, so mandates the agreement with the overlords. So, a new class of recruits is to join the force. However, "NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON." Seems that lots of other members of the police force are departing for other jobs in other cities. The new hires can only slightly increase the others being replaced.
The city fires eleven managers of various departments to show that a new leader is at the helm of this burgh. National searches occur. NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON.
A special task force swarms the South Side on weekend nights and dish out 804 citations for pissing in public in the course of five months. Meanwhile, NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON. Lots of people get tickets. However, behaviors don't change.
Overlords get assigned to the city to watch that the budget makes sense and spending is within acceptable ranges. The city's bond rating improves from XXX to PG-13. Yet the city's five year projection from some has the city back in bankruptcy again in the 'out years.' NO CHANGES EXPECTED SOON.
The city issues a RFP for the closed indoor ice rink. The deadline comes and folks are eager to re-open the facility, with private money. NO CHANGE EXPECTED SOON. The news in September is that the proposals all suck. Failed applicants get the news in October and cry foul.
Water main break, traffic jams, cracking bridges, under performing schools -- NO CHANGE EXPECTED SOON.
Go Red Sox!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
