Note to Booman: We criticize the President to prevent Democratic Party losses.
Posted using ShareThis
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Message of Tuesday's election clear: Produce or go home
I don't think these elections are necessarily indicative of the future of the Democratic Party for 2010. I do think that the lesson it draws is that people need a reason to vote. One of the frustrating things about writing on the Internet is that if you read a lot on the Internet you can always find someone who can phrase things better than you.
I think that Chris Bowers and Markos from the Daily Kos summed it up best.
The Bowers take is that it's basically the economy, stupid. 10 percent unemployment won't cut it in 2010 or 2012.
If the unemployment rate was rapidly dropping, real income was increasing, and health care was more affordable, does anyone really think Democrats would be facing any electoral worries whatsoever? The biggest flaw in the post-election spin is the tendency of politicians and pundits to consider most swing voters ideologically-driven news junkies, instead of the results-oriented, low-information participants in the political process that they are...When most voters believe their lives are getting better, then the party in power will benefit politically. Ideological abstractions about the size of government or appealing to the base don't matter quite as much. It really is, as Mike argued yesterday, about delivering the goods. I happen believe that progressive-left policies are the best way to make most people's lives better. Even if you disagree with that assessment, the smart post-election political argument for a governing party should be about what policies they can pass that will improve people's lives, not about how to appeal to voters on a more abstract level.
Markos sums up the situation this way:
Motivate the base
by kos
Thu Nov 05, 2009 at 11:10:12 AM PST
If I sound like a broken record, it's because the obvious lesson from Tuesday's elections is being lost on way too many people:
If you want Democrats to turn out and vote for you next year, start delivering on the 2006 and 2008 campaign promises. If you don't, Democrats will stay home. It's that simple.
There are, at best, even in the most conservative districts, only a handful of Democrats in the House that can survive reelection without Democratic support. The lower the Democratic turnout, the more Democratic casualties we'll have next year, and those losses will be inordinately high among Blue Dog and New Democrats. So really, it's in their best interest to see the Democrats succeed in Congress. Sure, it might p__s off their corporate benefactors, but corporate benefactors don't vote.
Conservadem logic is actually kind of funny:
Do nothing this year, so they can get reelected
So they can do nothing again next cycle, so they can be reelected
So they can stick around to name post offices and issue "National Bratwurst Day" proclamations
Inspiring!
Luckily, there are Democrats who have figured out what really happened on Tuesday.
Blaming election setbacks on a drop in voter enthusiasm, Congressional Democrats said Wednesday that losses in governors’ races in Virginia and New Jersey — and a striking House win in New York — should give new urgency to their legislative agenda, including a sweeping health care overhaul.
As they assessed the results, Democratic lawmakers and party strategists said their judgment was that voters remained very uneasy about the economy and did not see Democrats producing on the health, energy and national security changes they promised when voters swept them to power only a year ago.
"Most of us ran on that," said Representative Gerald E. Connolly, Democrat of Virginia and president of the party’s freshman class. "We must deliver. I need to give Democrats something to be excited about."
And while conservatives may not like it, the two races that centered on federal issues -- the two federal races -- were won by you-know-who.
While not discounting the Republican wins in Virginia and New Jersey, Democrats said the New York and California House races were the only contests that centered on Congressional issues and Democrats won both despite months of Republican attacks on the legislative priorities of President Obama and Congressional Democrats.
"The governors of Virginia and New Jersey don’t have a vote on the Obama agenda," said Representative Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee.
Again: give Democratic voters a reason to turn out, and they will. Abandon the Democratic agenda, and they won't. And if you lose because you quit on the party and the nation? We'll cheer.
I would only disagree with that last statement. I don't think the country can handle another four years of republican rule.
Can't access www.threeriversonline.com right now...
I'm having some trouble accessing my Three Rivers Online so I'll be posting here and in my Examiner site. My service provider has trouble with "migration" issues apparently.
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Here's the Planned Parenthood voting guide that I will be following in today's voting.
Well, I'm off to vote. To be honest, I was kinda thinking of blowing off this election (I don't live in Pittsburgh or the mayor's race would have drawn some of my interest other than my endorsement of Franco Dok Harris...) but these judge's ads made my think I need to vote against Joan Orie and the other predictably evil republican nominees to the courts.
In fact, Planned Parenthood sent me a handy voter's guide which I intend to follow to the letter where I can. Here it is:
Justice of the Supreme Court
Democrat:
Jack Panella Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Republican:
Joan Orie Melvin endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Judge of the Superior Court
(vote for four)
Democrats:
Robert J. Colville Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Kevin Francis McCarthy Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Anne E. Lazarus Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Teresa Sarmina Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Republicans:
Judy Olson endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Sallie Mundie endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Temp Smith endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Paula Ott unknown
Help Us Continue to Elect Pro-Choice
Candidates in Pennsylvania!
Donate Today.
Judge of the Commonwealth Court
(vote for two)
Democrats:
Barbara Behrend Ernsberger Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Linda S. Judson Endorsed by Planned Parenthood PA PAC
Republicans:
Patricia A. McCullough endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Kevin Brobson endorsed by the PA Pro-Life Federation PAC & LIFEPAC
Pittsburgh Mayor's Race
Mayor
Democrat:
Luke Ravenstahl endorsed by LIFEPAC
Independents:
Kevin Acklin unknown
Franco “Dok” Harris Pro-choice
If this isn't clear, then it should be noted that I won't be casting a vote for anyone endorsed by LIFEPAC. Related: Here are some endorsements by Agent Ska and Maria of 2 Political Junkies.
More About: pro life terrorism · pro choice · Planned Parenthood · Franco Dok Harris · Pittsburgh's mayor's race
Franco Dok Harris is the only logical choice for the next Mayor of Pittsburgh
I really don't think this is a tough call. If its a choice between the former republican and the machine hack, then Franco Dok Harris is clearly the best choice to be the mayor of Pittsburgh. He's also taller.
Luke Ravenstahl is an uninspiring hack although he has managed to stay out of jail on corruption charges, which has surprised me, he's at heart a machine guy with no real vision for the city. Kevin Acklin, whose personal story is interesting, just decided that he's no longer a republican and is now an independent? That's like deciding you're no longer fighting for the South a year before the Civil War ends. Your timing just seems suspicious. Acklin should have just said he couldn't win as a Republican in town. I will confess this though: Acklin would probably be a better mayor than Luke Ravenstahl. I hate admitting that because I truly hate the Republican Party and anybody involved with such a fascist party ("Oh, I resigned from the American Nazi Party and all their horrible Santorum-like party candidates I endorsed. All better now.") but Acklin is clearly better and smarter than Luke. But then again who isn't.
I think Franco Dok Harris is the ony reasonable choice. We need some new blood. I also think, on paper, that Dok Harris is the best qualified person to be the Mayor of Pittsburgh. You might argue that he's inexperienced but they're all young and inexperienced.
Dok Harris has also produced superior television ads. Here's a really hard hitting ad that he's produced. I don't know if he has enough money to put them on air anyplace. This ad also showcases a rare moment of anger from Presiden Barack Obama at the end. I guess I would like to know the context of that.
His video ads seem to be focusing on African Americans. I really think that he's got a good shot if he can get most of the black vote and a good percentage of the Italian vote. This ad where he interviews a distraught African American mother...well, just watch it.
Friday, October 23, 2009
I'm temporarily making Mirror Universe my Home Page for Three Rivers Online
I have to work under the hood over at Three Rivers Online. I'm not even sure if this redirect will work consistently but I'm going to be posting here for the next week or so. I actually haven't been posting much at Three Rivers because of space limitations and, probably, laziness.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Planned Parenthood will be holding a downtown event today at Mellon Square at 2 PM.
Planned Parenthood is holding a downtown event at Mellon Square this afternoon at 2 pm today. Their leadership is worried that abortion and contraception rights will be stripped out of health care reform. I think they're legitimately worried.
Here's the press release that I received:
Dear PHILIP,
It's easy to think of health care reform as something that's happening far away, as lawmakers in Washington hold hearings, schedule votes, and negotiate behind closed doors. But the fact is, the decisions being made now will have a profound impact on women, men and families here in western Pennsylvania — every person, every day, for a generation or more.
That means we can't afford to sit back and let the process unfold without us — we need to take action here to make sure that health care legislation protects and expands access to health care. If we don't, there's a very real chance that the women of western Pennsylvania will be worse off after health care reform than they are now.
Will you join us for a day of action on Tuesday, October 20 at Mellon Square (6th avenue and William Penn Place)? We'll be showing our support and mobile phone banking from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. — and we need all the help we can get. Email Volunteer@PPWP.org to let us know you're coming, or just come on out when you can.
We're not going to have another chance to get this right. As I write this, anti-choice groups are increasing their efforts to hijack reform to undermine women's health. They're going to keep trying to pressure and persuade lawmakers from now until the last vote in Congress is cast — and that means we need to keep pushing for health care reform that protects all women.
Join fellow supporters of Planned Parenthood this Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Mellon Square. The negotiations may be happening on Capitol Hill, but this is our chance to make a difference here.
Thank you for everything you do for Planned Parenthood and the women, men, and families we serve.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Cavanaugh, JD
Vice President for Public Affairs
Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania
Here's the press release that I received:
Dear PHILIP,
It's easy to think of health care reform as something that's happening far away, as lawmakers in Washington hold hearings, schedule votes, and negotiate behind closed doors. But the fact is, the decisions being made now will have a profound impact on women, men and fam
Publish Post
That means we can't afford to sit back and let the process unfold without us — we need to take action here to make sure that health care legislation protects and expands access to health care. If we don't, there's a very real chance that the women of western Pennsylvania will be worse off after health care reform than they are now.
Will you join us for a day of action on Tuesday, October 20 at Mellon Square (6th avenue and William Penn Place)? We'll be showing our support and mobile phone banking from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. — and we need all the help we can get. Email Volunteer@PPWP.org to let us know you're coming, or just come on out when you can.
We're not going to have another chance to get this right. As I write this, anti-choice groups are increasing their efforts to hijack reform to undermine women's health. They're going to keep trying to pressure and persuade lawmakers from now until the last vote in Congress is cast — and that means we need to keep pushing for health care reform that protects all women.
Join fellow supporters of Planned Parenthood this Tuesday at 2 p.m. at Mellon Square. The negotiations may be happening on Capitol Hill, but this is our chance to make a difference here.
Thank you for everything you do for Planned Parenthood and the women, men, and families we serve.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Cavanaugh, JD
Vice President for Public Affairs
Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
You Can Fight for the Public Option Three Ways Today in Pittsburgh
Public Option Action: Health Insurance Now Noon Bus Ride with US Rep. Mike Doyle
This can also be found at 2 Political Junkies. MoveOn informed me as well.
Flagstaff Hill Becomes Health Care Reform Hill
There's both a rally and a vigil tomorrow for health care reform tomorrow.
"Health Insurance Reform Now" Bus Tour Stop
Where: Schenley Park (Flagstaff Hill), 4532 Schenley Drive, Pittsburgh, PA
When: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, Doors Open: 11:00 AM, Start Time: 12:00 PM
Speakers include Congressman Mike Doyle and Organizing for America Deputy Director Jeremy Bird -- and OfA will present thousands of Pennsylvanians' declarations of support for reform
I hope Obama understands that anything without the public option but with employee mandate--where you have to buy it or pay expensive fines, even jail time--is not reform that I want.
Public Option Action 2: We Can't Afford to Wait Vigil at 7:30 PM Today
If the noon event isn't enough, then there's also a vigil planned tonight at Flagstaff Hill, Schenley Park.
We Can't Afford to Wait Vigil
Where: Schenley Park (Flagstaff Hill), 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
When: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7:30 PM
"We're organizing vigils across the country for everyone who is suffering under our broken health care system. We'll send our members of Congress back to Washington, D.C. with a somber reminder of what's at stake by reading the names and telling the stories of thousands of people who have been denied...(more) needed treatments, faced bankruptcy because of a sudden illness, and even died because they lacked coverage." RSVP here.
I hope these events are well attended.
Public Option Action 3: Yet Another Health Care Vigil Held Outside of Jason Altmire's Office
This is being held at 7:30 as well so you'll have to choose. By the way, I usually support, and support wholeheartedly, actions like this one. But I'm not sure how effective lobbying is on Jason Altmire, who made his living as an insurance lobbyist. I think he's a sincere no vote on any kind of insurance reform that would actually help the public. On the other hand, its nice to catalog these issues so that we know where we stand come the next election cycle. Anyone who doesn't support the public option deserves a primary run.
We Can't Afford to Wait Vigil (@ Atmire's Office)
Where: Outside of Rep. Altmire's Office, 2124 Freeport Rd, Natrona Heights, PA 15065
When: Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7:30 PM
"We will read the names and tell the stories of thousands of people who have been denied needed treatments, faced bankruptcy because of a sudden illness, and even died because they lacked coverage. Bring your own stories too - let's remember that the REAL death panels are corporate insurance panels!" RSVP here.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Support Open Left and Thank You Andy Stern
ITEM: If you just sign up to support the SEIU's effort at a public health care option, they will donate one dollar to Open Left. I signed up even though I already get the SEIU's mailings.
I also left this comment::
Thank You Andy Stern and the SEIU (4.00 / 1)
I know there are people who are upset with the SEIU ads that are running over at the Daily Kos but I think those people couldn't be more wrong. Look, we've had a business press and business press only for years now. If the SEIU wants to create a proxy labor press by investing in liberal blogs then let them do so. I suppose that might affect influence but you know what I agree with the SEIU on most issues anyway!
This would create the situation that they have in Europe where different factions have their own papers. That's a good thing. Right now, we have an allegedly "objective" business press that reflects wealth and power on all the important issues, and certainly never gets tired of their half hour infomercial documentaries or their GEICO ads--another reason you will never see real criticism of the insurance industry in the business press. We have a business press and, not surprisingly on a number of issues, one business party. Those facts are related. That has to change and creating a labor press is one way to do it.
What Andy Stern is doing is a good thing. I just wish the rest of the labor movement would wake up and realize that they need to support their liberal blogger friends as well!
Philip Shropshire
www.threeriversonline.com
PS: My site could use some ads too!
PPS: Labor needs its own party! You have the resources. You should run my old ACT co worker Tom Huffman or Braddock's John Fetterman or even Chris Bowers for that PA. Senate seat. If you want access, then elect one of your own...! You have the power to do it...!
PPPS: And start your own labor press...but it looks like you're already moving there. Hell, if you pay me one hundred bucks a week I'll write about labor issues fulltime here....!
by: Steelydan3 @ Fri May 29, 2009 at 15:23
[ Reply ]
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Cool Art and Smart Political Art
May 28 (originally published)
ITEM: Paul Pope's Adam Strange. I'm not sure if this is a new online comic or something that will appear on the stands. It looks great though. Related: Legendary 80s comic (Kaluta and Lee) Starstruck is also making a return. Below: Controversial Memorial Day toon by Mr. Fish.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Talented Pittsburgh Arts Festival Artists
June 14th PST
ITEM: I'll be featuring the best artists (IMHO) I saw at the Three Rivers Arts Festival all this week. This is Mr. Hooper. He's from Nashville. Looks like he's ready for the cover of Juxtapoz.
Friday, June 12, 2009
A Quick 8 Links O Science Around the Internets
A Quick 8 Links O Science Around the Internets
Kewl New Band Name: Radioactive Wasps
How To Build Your Own DIY UAVs. Not to be used by bad people, ever.
New and Free Video Capture Software
Something That Couldn't Possibly Go Wrong
Something That Couldn't Possibly Go Wrong Part II
Interesting Site Called Wise Geek
New Anonymous and Free Bittorrent Client...Which You Shouldn't Use!
15 Year Old Creates Algae Based Energy System
Saturday, June 06, 2009
List of Comics
Don Asmussen
Scott Bateman
Alison Bechdel
Jennifer Berman
Eric Bezdek
Ruben Bolling
The Boondocks
Bill
Bill Brown
Clay Butler
Max Cannon
Jack Chick Publications
Lloyd Dangle
Derf
Barry Deutsch
Doonesbury
Tim Eagan
Emily S. Flake
Marian Henley
Keith Knight
Tim Kreider
Peter Kuper
Aaron McGruder
Stephanie McMillan
Kevin Moore
Stephen Notley
Eric Orner
Greg Peters
David Rees
Mikhaela Blake Reid
Brian Sendelbach
Joe Sharpnack
Jim Siergey
Andy Singer
Jen Sorensen
Ward Sutton
Neil Swaab
Tom Tomorrow
Tak Toyoshima
Shannon Wheele
Matt Wuerkerr
Matt Wuerker
Jason Yungbluth
Zippy the Pinhead Brown
Clay Butler
Max Cannon
Jack Chick Publications
Lloyd Dangle
Derf
Barry Deutsch
Doonesbury
Tim Eagan
Emily S. Flake
Marian Henley
Keith Knight
Tim Kreider
Peter Kuper
Aaron McGruder
Stephanie McMillan
Kevin Moore
Stephen Notley
Eric Orner
Greg Peters
David Rees
Mikhaela Blake Reid
Brian Sendelbach
Joe Sharpnack
Jim Siergey
Andy Singer
Jen Sorensen
Ward Sutton
Neil Swaab
Tom Tomorrow
Tak Toyoshima
Shannon Wheele
Matt Wuerkerr
Matt Wuerker
Jason Yungbluth
Zippy the Pinhead
Monday, June 01, 2009
Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania plans vigil tonight for murdered Dr. George Tiller.
I just received this from Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania.
Dear PHILIP,
All of us at Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania are outraged and deeply saddened at the murder of Dr. George Tiller by an abortion protester on Sunday morning. Our most sincere sympathies go out to Dr. Tiller's family, to his dedicated and brave staff, and to the thousands of women who have benefited from Dr. Tiller's courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to women's health care.
Please join the pro-choice community this evening, June 1st, from 7:30 to 8:30 for a candlelight vigil to honor Dr. Tiller. The vigil will be held at the East Liberty Presbyterian Church on the corner of Highland Avenue and Penn Avenue. We urge you to show your support and join us in mourning and solidarity.
***
"Make no mistake, this battle is about self-determination by women of the direction and course of their lives and their family's lives. Abortion is about women's hopes and dreams. Abortion is a matter of survival for women." - Dr. George Tiller, physician and advocate
Sunday, May 31, 2009
More Evidence that Sestak is Putting his Hat in the Ring
ITEM: Read all about it: Joe Sestak strongly leaning toward a primary run against Arlen Specter.
(I actually wrote most of this over at my gig as the Progressive Examiner.)
It looks like the US Rep. Joe Sestak might be making a run against new democratic Senator Arlen Specter. Good for Joe if that's the case. That appears to be the news coming from TPM. From the link:
(I actually wrote most of this over at my gig as the Progressive Examiner.)
It looks like the US Rep. Joe Sestak might be making a run against new democratic Senator Arlen Specter. Good for Joe if that's the case. That appears to be the news coming from TPM. From the link:
Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA) is privately telling supporters that he intends to run for Senate, TPMDC has confirmed.
"He intends to get in the race," says Meg Infantino, the Congressman's sister, who works at Sestak for Congress. "In the not too distant future, he will sit down with his wife and daughter to make the final decision."
The move would constitute a primary challenge to Sen. Arlen Specter (D-PA), who intends to run for re-election in 2010, after having switched parties earlier this year.
Earlier today, a Sestak volunteer and contributor received a handwritten note from Sestak himself, announcing his intent to run and asking for a contribution. The source provided TPMDC a scan of the letter:
If this is true then this is excellent news. Sestak is a little too conservative for my tastes but at least he's been a loyal democrat and its also clear that labor supports him. I don't trust Arlen and I'm not thrilled with the hardball that's coming from Party Leaders asking me to accept Arlen as a loyal democrat when, of course, Arlen is on record as stating that he never promised to be "a loyal democrat." The truth of the matter is that you could throw any two dozen statewide leaders into a room, aim a rock, and you would come up with a Democrat that would better represent both the party and the state better than Arlen Specter.
Related: This is from a Daily Kos post. Here are the issues that Sestak is for and you won't have to wonder if he'll be for them after election day:
Here is a summary of his responses: http://firedoglake.com/...
Does not agree that we have enhanced our security or intelligence thru torture. Believes it has placed service members at greater danger from countries that do torture.
Supports the repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell". Would like to take the lead along with Murphy (D-PA) and Murtha (D-PA)
Supports Sec. Gates' recent proposal to transform the military to where it is not numbers but capability which measures the military.
Supports a health plan similar to one in Mass. which he says is similar to Obama's. Supports Medicare, Medicaid and public plan standards.
Supports stem cell research. Says "It's great having President Obama here."
Completely aware of same things we are: budget reconciliation requires only 51 votes to pass, and healthcare reform package has been virtually guaranteed the same fate...not sure why there was a Specter deal.
Supports labor/EFCA (co-sponsor)
Supports public healh care
opinion[option]Supports Obama's budget resolution (voted for it)
Supports cramdowns (voted for it)
Supports Cap and Trade (co-sponsor of Waxman's bill and Markey's bill)
Voted on bailout bill even though he received over 3500 e-mails and letters from constituents telling him not to. Said he read research
which said the bill was absolutely critical and voted with his brain and not his ideology.Supports regulation in the Federal Reserve, and other institutions. Says we need proper reserves, transparency and reporting of trades. Comments ms. Brofsky of the CFTC who in 1998 tried to implement such.
Supports a commission to find out what really amount of torture occured. Supports using the justice system to punish those responsible for designing the policies.
Will turn down a bid for Senate IF and ONLY "If Arlen Specter truly embraces the principles and policies necessary for good governance and the economic, health, energy/environment, education, and defense securities needed by Pennsylvanians and by our nation...and we believe he will stick to them for the full 6 years"
Supports re-institution of the Assault Weapons ban, child locks, ATF Surprise inspections, etc.
by Tokar on Mon May 04, 2009 at 09:25:20 AM PDT
The trouble though is labor. Even if Specter votes for EFCA--and right now he's against it--they should support Sestak or another Democratic Party nominee. As someone who's lived in Pennsylvania most of his life I don't trust the state's labor organizations to make the right call on this one. And I don't see how Sestak wins without unanimous labor support. He would need the support of both labor factions to make a decent run.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Here's my personal election aftermath for Pittsburgh. Or: Fetterman for Green Party Pgh. Mayoral Run.
Also Published at my Pittsburgh Progressive Examiner site)
I'm obviously happy that Robert Lavelle unseated Tonya (Look, the jobs issue is issue one. I can testify to that.) and that John Fetterman was retained as Braddock Mayor. I think he won with 297 votes. If you divide the one to several million dollars in free national advertising he got doing the carbon caps ads and translate that to votes I think that comes out to 6 thousand to 18 thousand dollars per vote. Well worth it.
Of course, Luke won which puts a damper on all things good and decent. But you know how the old saying goes: There is opportunity in crisis. This would be a great time for the Green Party to run a citywide campaign, a real campaign where you attempt to raise several million dollars, hire a fulltime canvas, etc. That's where you do the things you need to do in order to win a campaign and not just lose "symbolically". As Fetterman shows us, you don't need to be the mayor of a big town in order to have vision. Speaking of Fetterman, why doesn't the Green Party recruit Fetterman to run as the Mayor of Pittsburgh? There is such a thing as dual residency. His name recognition should make him competitive. Of course, that would require a Third Party with the imagination and skillz to organize itself out of a Paper Bag...yeah, the Green Party probably isn't it. Pirate Party anyone...?.
Around the Pittsburgh Internets: Maria has the rundown from most of the other blogs. Agent Ska has some highlights from the winning Rudiak campaign. And apparently Agent Ska, my fake virtual girlfriend and a known enemy to corrupt dem establishment figures within the city, got her car accidently towed. Or not. Mark Rauterkaus is already talking up Republican turned independent Keith Acklin. Mark is probably one of the best informed bloggers in this city but I just don't trust republicans. Maria has already bashed him and deservedly so. Acklin is only running as an independent because the Republican brand has been so tarnished. If only a left of center third party could step up to the plate....
First Draft of my Election Response
May 21
ITEM: I don't have time to do a lot of writing now. I'm obviously happy that Lavelle unseated Tonya and that Fetterman was retained as Braddock Mayor. I think he won with 297 votes. If you divide the several million dollars in free national advertising he got doing the carbon caps ads and divide it I think that comes out to 6000 dollars per vote. Well worth it. Of course, Luke won which puts a damper on all things good and decent. But you know how the old saying goes: There is opportunity in crisis. This would be a great time for the Green Party to run a citywide campaign, a real campaign where you attempt to raise several million dollars, hire a fulltime canvas, etc. That's where you do the things you need to do in order to win a campaign and not just lose "symbolically". As Fetterman shows us, you don't need to be the mayor of a big town in order to have vision. Speaking of Fetterman, why doesn't the Green Party recruit Fetterman to run as the Mayor of Pittsburgh? There is such a thing as dual residency. His name recognition should make him competitive. Of course, that would require a Third Party with the imagination and skillz to organize itself out of a Paper Bag...yeah, the Green Party probably isn't it. Pirate Party anyone...?
Friday, May 22, 2009
Question For the Pgh. Lesbian Correspondents: Does Gay Marriage Trump Third World Conditions and Murders in the Black Community?
(Originally Published May 14 Before the Election)
Question for the Pgh. Lesbian Correspondents: Is Gay Marriage more important than black male joblessness and the resulting parade of drug war corpses that result from that? What issue is more "progressive"?
ITEM: Lavelle creates anti-Tonya website. By the way, I noticed that Maria linked to a piece by the Pgh Lesbian correspondents--which features routinely great writing--and they gave Lavelle the thumbs down because he was unclear on his position on lesbian and gay issues. You can read it for yourself. I also suspect that there's some reluctance about getting rid of a female rep on a mostly male council. Fair enough.
For the record and speaking for myself, the most persuasive case against Tonya came from a woman, otherwise known as Dr. Goddess, although I'm not sure who's she endorsing in the current race or if she's endorsed anyone. I'm fairly certain she hasn't endorsed Tonya.
Here's what she wrote about Tonya:
It's not a grocery store, goddammit! Our children are DYING. Get it? Dying!
I told Pgh United this from the very beginning. We shared this within One Hill. We told them not to let anyone market this bullcrap to us from the start. Of course a grocery store is an easy win and another way to GET MONEY from people in the neighborhood.
And so, I am sick of everybody at this point. And I am most sick of my City Council representative, Tonya Payne, because she has wasted our entire community's time for the last two years. If we had someone really fighting for us, really going to bat for us AND (this is key, so pay attention) in the positions that she has been in (Planning and Zoning, the URA, close association with Mayor Ravenstahl and David Morehouse of the Penguins), we would not have to waste one moment of our time having to protest. We would be able to simply shake hands with the Mayor, shake hands with the Pens, shake hands with Dan Onorato and applaud our collective vision and masterplan for reinvestment.
I suppose if she was writing about this now it would be: "It's not about gay marriage, goddamnit!" I might also note that her critiques rise above "snark". She also wrote this later:
Tonya Payne does not deserve to be our representative. And I am calling on all of the people who remotely thought putting her in office was a good idea to please get your ballots ready to put her OUT.
But I guess the point of the matter for me is that we're facing Third World conditions within the black community. Manning Marable once wrote a book called "How Capitalism Underdeveloped Black America" and it still holds up because its still true. If its a choice between gay marriage and ending this succession of murdered black teens involved in the drug trade then I think you can be a progressive and decide that the latter is more important than the former. I might note that with this stimulus we're looking at these same issues again. The rate of black crime rises proportionally with the elimination of meaningful blue collar work. I don't know if Robert Lavelle can change all that but if you're a person in his district I would think that you would want to give him the chance. To me, anyway, ending this parade of murdered black people trumps gay marriage as an issue, even as a progressive issue. Or, now that I think about it, especially as a progressive issue.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
BPEP is Looking for Election Protection Observers
ITEM: BPEP sends me some more stuff. Would you like to be an election observer?
The PA Primary Election on Tuesday is very important and there are several tightly contested races. We need your help to make sure everyone is playing by the rules, help voters trouble shoot obstacles and document voter experiences on Election Day. Whether you are one of the nearly 400 people who have been trained and
participated in Non-Partisan Election Protection previously, or still needing to be trained, the voters need your time and diligence on Tuesday.
CLICK HERE to Sign Up Now for Our Non-Partisan Election Protection Program - May 19 PA Primary - Allegheny County-
You can volunteer as little as 3hrs. You can receive training on Thursday (5/14) at 5:30pm at the Hill House, Monday (5/18) at 6:30pm at Freedom Unlimited or on Election Day. We need attorneys, students, and members of faith groups, non-profits, unions and community organizations to help "Protect The Vote" on May 19, 2009 in Allegheny County. We are committed to protecting voters in "Each and Every Election" by informing voters of their rights, making sure that all votes are counted and every voice is heard.
Please print out our "Rolls to the Polls" flier. B-PEP is pleased to be partnering with the Community Intervention Supervision Program. They are donating their Vans and Drivers to ensure that those who need a ride to the polls will get one. Help us advertise this important program.
The B-PEP monthly meeting is TOMORROW (Thursday) at the Hill House and will be preceded by an Election Protection Training that will begin at 5:30pm.
A big thank you to Pittsburgh Hopes and Pittsburgh Cares for all of the Election Protection Volunteers they are bringing on board.
After you have completed your Election Day Volunteering (in the morning or the afternoon)… consider attending the Thomas Merton Center's New People Awards Dinner with other Election Protection Volunteers. Contact Bob Maddock
412-322-9275
for a seat at the Election Protect/Black Political Empowerment Project/Regional Equity Monitoring Project/Black and White Reunion table OR get information at Election Protection Headquarters on Election Day.
-
- The Hill House is located at 1835 Centre Ave - Pittsburgh 15219- Freedom Unlimited is located at 2201 Wylie Ave - Pittsburgh 15219Chairman Tim Stevens
MoveOn rally for clean energy jobs tomorrow at noon.
MoveOn doesn't like the way the energy bill is being shaped in the US House. They plan a rally for tomorrow in the hope that Mike Doyle will work for a stronger bill. Here's the press release I received from MoveOn
Dear Philip,
This week, Rep. Michael Doyle will help decide the fate of President Obama's clean energy jobs plan. So MoveOn members are heading to his office in Pittsburgh tomorrow to show our support—can you make it?
Rep. Doyle sits on a powerful committee that's about to vote on a huge clean energy jobs bill. The latest draft of the bill came out on Friday—and unfortunately it looks like Big Oil and Coal may have succeeded in weakening key elements of President Obama's plan.
We need to raise our voices now to make sure the final version is as strong as possible. So we'll be at Rep. Doyle's office at 12 p.m. to show that folks in the Pittsburgh area are ready to make the switch to clean energy. And we'll drop off a green hard hat as a symbol of the millions of new, high-paying green jobs that are at stake.
It shouldn't take long—and we want as many people as possible to show our strength. Will you be there at 12 p.m. tomorrow?
For the last several weeks, MoveOn members have been working overtime to pressure the House Energy and Commerce Committee to pass a strong clean energy jobs bill. We've organized tens of thousands of small-business owners across the country, and held meetings with dozens of local congressional offices.
But now the committee is ready to begin voting, and we've got no time to waste. Conservatives on the committee have been working to water down key provisions in the legislation—so our representatives need to hear from constituents who support a strong bill.
Can you join us tomorrow at Rep. Doyle's office in Pittsburgh?
Yes, I'll be there: http://pol.moveon.org/event/events/event.html?event_id=93796&id=16151-3053238-IbkVT.x&t=5
Sorry, I can't make it: http://www.moveon.org/r?r=51373&id=16151-3053238-IbkVT.x&t=6
Thanks for all you do.
–Adam, Lenore, Michael, Carrie and the rest of the team
Related: From 2 Political Junkies on the ad campaign to undermine clean jobs. According to this, Mike Doyle is still a strong supporter of the clean jobs elements of the bill.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)