Saturday, May 31, 2008

Newspaper: PA must change the way it funds schools

Republican lawmakers are pushing for the elimination of property taxes in Pennsylvania. Democrats want a new way to fund public education.

That is the $10 billion dilemma that has been facing Harrisburg for decades.

The two sides should be working together, says The Mercury in its editorial, "Tax-reform plan and school funding formula should go hand-in-hand"

From the editorial:
It's time for a bi-partisan solution. The local tax burden and shortfalls in school funding go hand in hand. But every time resolution draws near, legislators on both sides back down for fear of losing local control of schools if the state holds the purse strings.

This is not about losing control, it’s about fixing a broken system. The two issues of tax reform and school funding go hand in hand. Why not reach across the aisle and join them?
Read the full editorial here.

'Making business in Pa. less taxing'

House Republicans are pushing a package of bills that would ease the tax burden on Pennsylvania residents and small business owners.

Gov. Ed Rendell and his Democratic Party puppets in the Legislature aren't keen on the idea of returning your money back to you.

Read about the GOP's efforts to stimulate the state's economy by reducing taxes in this article, "Making business in Pa. less taxing," published in The Mercury

RNC - Obama: Myth vs. Fact on Iraq

RNC - Obama: Myth vs. Fact on Iraq

RNC Statement on Obama & Kerry Attacks

RNC Statement on Obama & Kerry Attacks

Friday, May 30, 2008

120 liberal bloggers in one room

Truth will be in short supply at the Democratic National Convention in Denver. Not only will the liberal mainstream media be providing nonstop propaganda in its effort to get Barack Obama elected president, but 120 liberal bloggers will also be on hand in the "bloggers lounge" to spread the gospel according to Obama.

DNCC Credentials Record Number of Blogs To Cover 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver

Demand action on property taxes

There are still a few seats available on buses to take part in the Save Our Homes Rally in Harrisburg Monday.

For $20, you can be part of a taxpayer movement designed to save every homeowner in Pennsylvania thousands of dollars in school property taxes.

If you're retired or you can take the day off from work, what better way to spend the day than stand with fellow citizens to demand action on property taxes?

Bus transportation has been arranged by the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition to take residents to the Save Our Homes Rally at the State Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg on Monday, June 2. The rally starts at 11 AM.

This could be the last chance this year to get the Legislature to act on property tax reform.

From Lancaster County Area:

Bus for the Eastern Lancaster County/Western Chester County area will be leaving from the Christiana Fire House at 8:30 AM with a pickup stop in Lancaster city. Contact John McCartney of the PCTA's CLASTA group at johnjhere30@comcast.net

From York County Area:

Bus will leave from the Southeastern York County area (Delta, Fawn Grove, Peach Bottom) with a pickup stop near York City. Contact Margie Lavin of the PCTA's SETRC group at info@setrc.net or Warren Bulette of the PCTA's YCTC group at bulette@juno.com

From Pottstown Area:

Bus will be leaving from the Wal-Mart in the Pottstown Center on Shoemaker Road at 8:30 AM. Contact Gene Endress of the PCTA's Owen J. Roberts taxpayer group at gendre1@comcast.net You can also call Gene at 610-323-3914 or 610-698-0553 for reservations.

From Reading Area:

Bus will be leaving from the K-Mart at Rt. 222 and Rt. 724, Shillington, at 8:30 AM. Contact David Baldinger of the PTCC at taxrally@mail.com

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Rohrer: Abolish school property taxes now

A guest column today by state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who is leading the fight to eliminate school property taxes in Pennsylvania.

Abolish school property taxes now

The state's impending budget negotiations beg Gov. Ed Rendell and the legislature to remember the lessons learned from the credit crunch fallout: If you cannot afford it, do not expect someone else to pay for it.

Case in point: $6.2 billion dollars is a price that Pennsylvania taxpayers cannot afford to pay for the governor's leviathan 2008-2009 educational funding program. Even if state government agreed to give the governor a blank check to spend on education it would not fix the school funding crisis in Pennsylvania.

With the Boston Globe highlighting increased prices in every market over the past year (26 percent in milk prices, 40 percent in egg prices, and 300 percent in wheat prices), financially unstable school districts will no longer be able to force fiscally strapped homeowners to pay higher property taxes. This unconstitutional and oft-raised tax will lead to the inevitable foreclosure of countless more privately owned properties.

What we can afford and must address is comprehensive school finance reform. Again frivolously throwing more money at the school system will not provide the solution to a collapsing funding system.

In fact, school districts nationwide have been given access to unlimited funds with the goal of fixing problems-from underperformance to desegregation. Yet despite these "strategic investments," (a.k.a. increased taxes, increased spending and increased debt), these problems remain unresolved.

For example, a recent Cato Institute policy analysis revealed that Sausalito, California school district tax payers who "invested" $12,300 per pupil were rewarded with the lowest student test scores in the country.

Alarmingly all too similar, the Pennsylvania Legislature's Costing Out Report guesstimates that it will now cost $12,057 per pupil to bring statewide academic performance up to par with national standards.

Rather than relying on the mirage of expanded gaming revenue to avoid future astronomical property tax increases, Pennsylvania students and taxpayers deserve a fair and flexible solution leading to comprehensive educational funding reform.

Taxpayer-funded costing out study or not, the school property taxes remains one of the most unfair and completely immoral taxes since it is completely disconnected from the taxpayer's ability to pay.

However, by replacing our current "pay or you go" funding system with a "pay as you go" system, the School Property Tax Elimination Act (HB 1275) provides a broad-based, same-rate sales tax that allows Pennsylvania's economy to flourish as a 0 percent, School Property Tax FREE Zone, via a tax that is not only progressive but also allows us to remain economically competitive to our neighboring states.

While home values decrease, foreclosures continue to increase. As a result, many school districts are near financial distress because lowering property values are stressing revenue for already under-funded districts.

Again, under House Bill 1275, equality can be restored to each of Pennsylvania's 501 school districts by deriving funds from a voluntary, consumption-based tax based on the broadest public base-virtually anyone that purchases goods and services.
Districts will receive necessary funding, regardless of previous designation as "impoverished districts," through the state's Education Operating Fund to which all sales tax revenue is deposited. Additionally, local school boards will retain the decision-making power to allocate these funds without intervention from the state.

In an effort to make our public schools as efficient as possible, while providing a high-quality, properly-funded education, school districts will have the added advantage of implementing state-of-the-art, data-driven decision making (D3M) technology to accurately measure school spending and academic performance.

Other longstanding, unsolved challenges are fully addressed, such as long overdue equity adjustments that are realized through the designation of gaming revenues; legitimate discipline in spending that recognizes regular and necessary increases, indexing growth rates to sales tax collection; and the inclusion of local voter approval for future borrowing.

Finally and most importantly, true property ownership will be fully restored by House Bill 1275 through the total elimination of the school property tax for every homeowner.

In short, by relying on the flexible and fair, same-rate sales tax, we can restore the Constitutional right to own private property for every Pennsylvanian, while improving the economy of the state and of the individual through the comprehensive reform provided by the School Property Tax Elimination Act.

Join me and 27 taxpayer groups in support of this historic piece of legislation by participating in the Save Our Homes Rally on June 2 from 11:00 a.m. to noon in the Capitol Rotunda. For further information, please visit http://ptcc.us

State Rep. Sam Rohrer is a Republican who represents the 128th House District in Berks County.

Barack Obama and William Ayers

In Case You Missed It: Dr. Sen. Tom Coburn (R-OK) on Barack Obama and William Ayers

Obama Flip-Flops on Foreign Leaders = Failed Judgment

Republican National Committee: Flip-Flops on Foreign Leaders = Failed Judgment

100,000 demand new drilling for U.S. oil

From the AmericanSolutions.com blog:

We Reached 100,000 Signatures!

Last night we reached our goal of 100,000 signatures for the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition! The response has been so amazing, we've decided to set a new goal of 200,000 by next week.

Click here if you would like to sign the petition to get Congress moving to find a solution to the growing gas price crisis.

We need cool heads on global warming debate

Two posts at TONY PHYRILLAS put the global warming hysteria into perspective:

Bad News for Al Gore: The Earth is Cooling!

You and I Will End Up Paying for 'Inconvenient Truths'

Contact your member of Congress before the environmental extremists lead the U.S. down a path of fiscal ruin.

Climate Bill Poses Dire Forecast for States' Jobs, Economies

Climate Bill Poses Dire Forecast for States' Jobs, Economies

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts Begins Fall Enrollments

Pennsylvania Pre-K Counts Begins Fall Enrollments

Celebrate 'World No Tobacco Day' on May 31

PA State Health Officials Encourage Smokers to Quit on 'World No Tobacco Day'

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

RNC Launches Online Clock Counting Days Since Obama's Last Visit to Iraq

RNC Launches Online Clock Counting Days Since Obama's Last Visit to Iraq

'How Pennsylvania Will Be Affected by the Lieberman-Warner Global Climate Change Legislation'

A must-read post at The Heritage Foundation Web site on "How Pennsylvania Will Be Affected by the Lieberman-Warner Global Climate Change Legislation"

You and your family will end up paying for Al Gore's fantasy about climate change. It could mean your job. It will mean higher taxes. Get on the phone to Bob Casey and Arlen Specter and tell them Pennsylvania isn't buying what Al Gore is selling.

For more on the global warming hysteria, click here.

RNC Statement on Obama's False Claim

RNC Statement on Obama's False Claim

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

RNC: Obama's Iran Reversal

RNC: Obama's Iran Reversal

House Republicans push for tax cuts

State Rep. Tom Quigley, R-Montgomery, and the House Republican Policy Committee are hosting a public hearing on the Economic Stimulus Tax Cut proposal, which would roll back Pennsylvania's personal income tax (PIT) rate.

The event, which starts at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, will be held in the community room of the Pottstown campus of Montgomery County Community College, 101 College Drive.

"This legislation takes a big step toward controlling government spending and our being better stewards of Pennsylvanians’ hard-earned money," Quigley said in a written release announcing the meeting. "Even more so during the difficult financial times we are experiencing, it is important to keep more of our citizens’ dollars in their own hands."

The bill reduces the PIT to 2.935 percent from the present 3.05 percent rate and will save Pennsylvania taxpayers more than $270 million annually.

"The state experienced a revenue surplus of $649 million last year, and the current fiscal year to date has been a good one," Quigley stated. "That sounds like over-taxation to me and should translate into revenue returned to our constituents."

The proposal also implements Compete PA business tax relief, which includes removing the cap on net operating losses and shifting from a 70 percent to a 100 percent sales factor for calculating the Corporate Net Income (CNI) tax, Quigley said. "In addition, House Bill 2270 reduces the consumer electric gross receipts tax by 50 percent, phasing in over five years."

"Gov. Rendell likes to talk surplus and the lack of need to raise taxes," Quigley added. "Those extra dollars belong in the wallets of the people who worked for them and with the small businesses that are the backbone of our economy, not as part of some pet project. Enacting this legislation means more money in the pockets of Pennsylvanians and makes for a better the business climate, a condition that has not existed during the Rendell administration."

Quigley is a member of the House Finance Committee.

What's the Deal With the Electric Car?

What's the Deal With the Electric Car?

Obama, the one-man gaffe machine

And this guy has the nerve to make fun of John McCain's age?

What the FARC Was Obama Talking About?

Friday, May 23, 2008

OBAMA'S CUBA CONVERSION: Democrat Nominee Tries to Shed Ropa Vieja

OBAMA'S CUBA CONVERSION: Democrat Nominee Tries to Shed Ropa Vieja

Should Kanjorski resign for lying?

In light of U.S. Rep. Paul Kanjorski admitting that Democrats lied to the American people about the war in Iraq to gain control of Congress in 2006, Pennsylvania Republican Party Chairman Robert A. Gleason Jr. is asking for Kanjorski's resignation.

Gleason released the following statement:
"In light of his admission that he and other members of the Democrat Party lied, I believe that Congressman Paul Kanjorski should do the honorable thing and resign immediately. He violated the trust of the people of his district and betrayed them through his purposefully deceitful remarks. I demand that other members of the Democrat delegation come clean as well and let the public know if they were part of this conspiracy.

"Paul Kanjorski said that the Democrats 'stretched the facts' for political reasons during the 2006 election cycle. As a veteran, I find Congressman Kanjorski's admission to lying about the facts of the War startling. The fact that Paul Kanjorski and the Democrats put their own political interests and thirst for power above the lives of the brave men and women fighting to protect our country sickens me. By misleading the nation and the world about the progress being made in Iraq, Kanjorski and the Democrats put the lives of our troops in danger, and they should be deeply ashamed of themselves. This is a sad day in American political history."
At a recent event, Congressman Kanjorski told a crowd the following about the Democrats 2006 election strategy:
"I'll tell you my impression. We really in this last election, when I say we...the Democrats, I think pushed it as far as we can to the end of the fleet, didn't say it, but we implied it. That if we won the Congressional elections, we could stop the war. Now anybody was a good student of Government would know that wasn't true. But you know, the temptation to want to win back the Congress, we sort of stretched the facts...and people ate it up."
Kanjorski's opponent in November is Lou Barletta, the crusading mayor of Hazleton, Pa.

You can watch video of Kanjorski at http://www.politickerpa.com/

Save Our Homes Rally on June 2

Bus transportation is being arranged by the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition to take residents to the Save Our Homes Rally at the State Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg on Monday, June 2. The rally starts at 11 AM. This could be the last chance this year to get the Legislature to act on property tax reform.

From Pottstown Area:

Bus will be leaving from the Wal-Mart in the Pottstown Center on Shoemaker Road at 8:30 AM. Contact Gene Endress of the PCTA's Owen J. Roberts taxpayer group at gendre1@comcast.net

From Reading Area:

Bus will be leaving from the K-Mart at Rt. 222 and Rt. 724, Shillington, at 8:30 AM. Contact David Baldinger of the PTCC at taxrally@mail.com

From Lancaster County Area:

Bus for the Eastern Lancaster County/Western Chester County area will be leaving from the Christiana Fire House at 8:30 AM with a pickup stop in Lancaster city. Contact John McCartney of the PCTA's CLASTA group at johnjhere30@comcast.net

From York County Area:

Bus will leave from the Southeastern York County area (Delta, Fawn Grove, Peach Bottom) with a pickup stop near York City. Contact Margie Lavin of the PCTA's SETRC group at info@setrc.net or Warren Bulette of the PCTA's YCTC group at bulette@juno.com

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Department of Justice Commemorates National Missing Children's Day

Department of Justice Commemorates National Missing Children's Day

RNC: Obama Needs A Quick Refresher Course in Cold War History

RNC: Obama Needs A Quick Refresher Course in Cold War History

RNC: They Said It!

RNC: They Said It!

Columnist examines court's role in pay raise fiasco

Philadelphia Daily News columnist John Baer examines the allegations of collusion between the judicial and legislative branches of state government over the ill-fated July 2005 pay raise.

A lawsuit by the Pennsylvania League of Women voters has brought the controversy back in the news.

Baer writes:
"If it's true, it means that the fix is in on stuff of statewide significance.

If untrue, it still feeds the fears of those who think the fix is in.

Either way, it can't help the image of the state court system.

And the state court system is striking back, threatening retaliation.

Ah, Pennsylvania."
Read the full column here.

RNC - Obama: Wrong for Florida

RNC - Obama: Wrong for Florida

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Property Tax Elimination Rally!

From the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition:
This is just a short note today to remind you about the school property tax elimination rally that will be held in the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg on Monday, June 2, from 11:00 AM – Noon. This is a tremendous opportunity for us to take our demands to the unwilling politicians in their own house and to meet and show our support for those lawmakers who understand this vital issue and are who are working for us.

This is shaping up to be a terrific event with a number of great speakers and a lot of taxpayer participation. To make the greatest impression on reluctant lawmakers we need as many folks as possible to attend to voice their support for HB 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act.

Please do all that you can to join in this event and please help to spread the word to others who will be willing to attend. The time for action is NOW!

For those of you who might need transportation to the rally there are a number of bus trips planned in east and central Pennsylvania that still have seats available. This is a convenient way to get to the capitol and to establish camaraderie with others who are working for true education finance reform. A list of available buses and contact names are listed below my signature; all are $20 or less depending on location and will be reserved on a first-come basis.

I hope to meet all of you on June 2!

David Baldinger
PTCC Administrator
Pottstown Area:

Bus will be leaving from the Wal-Mart in the Pottstown Center on Shoemaker Road at 8:30 AM. Contact Gene Endress of the PCTA's Owen J. Roberts taxpayer group at gendre1@comcast.net

Reading Area:

Bus will be leaving from the K-Mart at Rt. 222 and Rt. 724, Shillington, at 8:30 AM. Contact David Baldinger of the PTCC at taxrally@mail.com

Lancaster County Area:

Bus for the Eastern Lancaster County/Western Chester County area will be leaving from the Christiana Fire House at 8:30 AM with a pickup stop in Lancaster city. Contact John McCartney of the PCTA's CLASTA group at johnjhere30@comcast.net

York County Area:

Bus will leave from the Southeastern York County area (Delta, Fawn Grove, Peach Bottom) with a pickup stop near York City. Contact Margie Lavin of the PCTA's SETRC group at info@setrc.net or Warren Bulette of the PCTA's YCTC group at bulette@juno.com

RNC - Obama: Weak on Cuba

RNC - Obama: Weak on Cuba

RNC: Obama's Vulnerable On National Security

RNC: Obama's Vulnerable On National Security

Monday, May 19, 2008

Tax elimination momentum growing

The major criticism of state Rep. Sam Rohrer's House Bill 1275 mostly from Democrats who like the current system of forcing Pennsylvania out of their homes through high property taxes is that elimination of schools taxes won't leave enough money to fund public education.

They're not sure that will happen. They just think it might. So Democrats do what they've always done. Sit on their hands and do nothing.

The Mercury takes a look at HB 1275 and concludes:

"The plan has the potential to boost the economy of Pennsylvania, provide adequate funding for all schools regardless of district wealth, and relieve the tax burden for homeowners."

Read the full editorial here.

Pennsylvania's Draft of State Plan on Aging Now Available for Review

Pennsylvania's Draft of State Plan on Aging Now Available for Review

National Missing Children's Day is May 25

National Missing Children's Day is May 25

National Schools of Character Winners Announced

Congratulations to Bower Hill Elementary School in Venetia, PA, for making the Top 10 list.

National Schools of Character Winners Announced: "Bower Hill Elementary School, Venetia, PA"

Republican National Committee: Bring on the Foreign Policy Debate

Republican National Committee: Bring on the Foreign Policy Debate

Saturday, May 17, 2008

In PA, Home Prices Falling Plus Unemployment Rising Could Equal Further Foreclosures

In PA, Home Prices Falling Plus Unemployment Rising Could Equal Further Foreclosures

2 more chances to catch Tony Phyrillas on TV Sunday

There will be two opportunities Sunday to watch Tony Phyrillas on "Journalists Roundtable."

The program will be shown at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. on the Pennsylvania Cable Network.

PCN is shown on Comcast Channel 78 in the Pottstown area, on Comcast Channel 98 in Berks County and on Service Electric Cable Channel 23 in Berks and Lehigh counties.

The one-hour program is hosted by Bill Bova. The other panelists this week are Chris Potter of the Pittsburgh City Paper and Dennis Roddy of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Consult your cable guide for the Pennsylvania Cable Network channel in your area.

Friday, May 16, 2008

Republican National Committee: Why Is Obama Continuing To Campaign With Landslide Loser George McGovern?

Republican National Committee: Why Is Obama Continuing To Campaign With Landslide Loser George McGovern?

RNC Posts New Web Video: 'Obama and the Second Amendment'

RNC Posts New Web Video: 'Obama and the Second Amendment'

Rohrer wants Rendell to curb state spending

State Rep. Sam Rohrer, R-Berks, writing an op-ed in The Philadelphia Inquirer, is urging Gov. Ed Rendell to curb his voracious appetite for increasing state spending and debt.
Rohrer writes: After increasing spending by more than $7 billion in only five years, the governor is once again clenching his fists and demanding that Pennsylvania taxpayers allow him another opportunity to "strategically invest" at least $2 billion more of our hard-earned money in order to "stimulate" the economy.

If state government has failed to deliver a tangible rate of economic return for Pennsylvania's families in terms of property tax relief, job creation, improved roads and bridges, and reduced energy prices with $7 billion over five years, what reputable financial institution would hand over an additional $2 billion based on even more empty promises? How much spending is enough?
Read the full column here.

The struggle to pay school property taxes

Here's a sampling of the problems many Pennsylvania homeowners are having paying skyrocketing property taxes. For more, check out "In their own words: Real-life stories from Pennsylvania homeowners" at the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition Web site.
"My personal story! I am a senior female 77 years old. I lost my husband last September. When he died, he took half of our income with him. The property tax is $7600. I prepared years ago living on a budget, but always had enough to cover expenses. His death has been difficult for me. We were married 59 years. Our property tax will force me to leave my home. I do not believe this will ever be solved. Hope I am wrong."
– Fran, Boothwyn, Delaware County

"I cannot afford to retire in 2009 after 30 years of teaching in the public school system because my pension will not be sufficient to cover my house payment which includes my property taxes. The property taxes are greater than my principal, interest and homeowners insurance. I am 57 with health issues which require me to work until my SS kicks in which is at least 5 years away. I could work close to home and part time, but I can't afford to with not only the property taxes but all of the other problems with the economy. I can't afford to do simple home improvements like new sliders because the old ones are deteriorating. I will never own this home even when the mortgage is paid. I am only the grounds keeper for the state of Pennsylvania. I am not even a paid employee; I am a volunteer grounds keeper. If I for any good reason cannot pay my property taxes the state will fire me and take away my home. I am really considering selling when the economy improves and find a nice rental property and let someone else volunteer to work and pay to work to the state."
- Donna Alford, York County

"I have lived in York County for about a year and a half, prior to this, I lived in Montgomery County MD. This system of school districts is ridiculous to say the least. There should be only one school district per county with THE COUNTY controlling the schools like MD. There should be one school board made up on 7 or 9 members answerable to the COUNTY. This would allow one health plan for all school employees and there should be no right to strike. This fractured system of school districts results in higher taxes. My house in Montgomery County was assessed at $399,000 and my tax last year was a little over $4100.00 before the reductions that brought it down to $2900.00. This was THE TOTAL tax I had to pay. Here in York County, my house is assessed at $379,000 and the SCHOOL TAX alone was close to $6000.00. What is wrong with this picture?"
- Ben Mangus, Hanover, York County

"My husband & I are on Social Security now, & though we have some savings, it won't be long before we have to use it for the ever growing taxes that are due in Spring & Fall. The PA school tax is especially burdensome as you well know. We had hoped for a resolution to this long before now by the abolishment of that tax. If our savings are used up with those taxes, what will we use when an emergency comes along?? With the ever rising prices of gas & oil & food, the money we have to work with is getting less & less. We urge you to please put into law the END of the huge Property tax before ours & the savings of countless others is gone, homes lost, & hope erased. We have worked hard all our lives to maintain & keep our home, & now the resources we thought we had are like water sadly slipping through our hands."
- Richard & Joan Hornberger, Elverson, Chester County

"The past two years I have had to rely on my married daughter to help me pay my Octorara School Taxes, Chester County. My taxes went up $500 two years ago and $480 last year and they anticipate going up again this year. My school taxes are now $3200 and Borough/County taxes equal almost $900. (my home is a small rancher built in 1972) In order for me to stop depending on my children to help me pay, as my retirement and social security is only $1300/month, I am contemplating getting a reverse mortgage in order to stay in my home. My deceased husband and I worked hard for 20+ years to pay this house off and only when he passed away and the insurance paid it off, was it free and clear. Now I have to re-mortgage it to pay my taxes????? Please....something must be done to help the Pennsylvania taxpayer.
- Carol Moyer, Chester County

Suicide Prevention Group Delivers Much-Needed Message to Pennsylvania's Elderly

Suicide Prevention Group Delivers Much-Needed Message to Pennsylvania's Elderly

Record Number of Pennsylvanians Filed State Income Taxes Electronically

Record Number of Pennsylvanians Filed State Income Taxes Electronically

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Democrats try again to abandon U.S. troops

Blunt: Democrats Refuse to Get Serious About Funding Our Troops in the Field; Republicans Say Enough is Enough

Obama on foreign policy: Another Jimmy Carter?

RNC: Obama v. Advisor

Democrats trying to pull another fast one

Senate Uses Iraq War Spending Bill to Advance Illegal Alien Amnesty and Cheap Labor for Employers, Charges FAIR

Tony Phyrillas on 'Journalists Roundtable' tonight

Tony Phyrillas is one of the panelists on this week's edition of "Journalists Roundtable" on the Pennsylvania Cable Network.

In addition to Phyrillas, city editor and political columnist for The Mercury in Pottstown, Pa., the other panelists are Chris Potter of the Pittsburgh City Paper and Dennis Roddy of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

The one-hour program hosted by Bill Bova is shown Thursdays at 8 p.m. on cable systems throughout Pennsylvania. The program will repeat Sunday, May 18, at 5 p.m. and again at 11 p.m.

Consult your cable guide for the Pennsylvania Cable Network channel on your area.

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Pro-Abortion group backs Obama

You know you're out of touch on the abortion issue when Nat Hentoff, one of the most far left columnist in the U.S., labels you an extremist. That's what Hentoff called Obama's stance on abortion.

So it's no surprise that one of the militant abortion-on-demand groups in the country would endorse Obama for president. He's their kind of man.

NARAL'S CHOICE: Is Anyone Surprised About Out-of-the-Mainstream NARAL's Choice of Barack Obama for President?

You can read more about Obama's long history of supporting the abortion industry at the Republican National Committee Web site.

Pension hike would negate property tax relief, group says

STOP PRIMARY RESIDENCE PROTECTION PLAN or STOP, a citizens group working to eliminate all property taxes in Pennsylvania, opposes a proposal to increase pensions for retired state workers and legislators.

The group believes a pension increase would wipe out any potential savings from the elimination or reduction in property taxes, according to founder Bob Logue.

From a release issued by STOP:
The Pennsylvania House leadership is proposing increases in state employee pensions including retired legislators, teachers and other state workers. The issue of this letter is not whether the pension increases are merited, but instead where the money will come from to pay for the increases.

At least as far as the teachers and other school retirees are concerned, the increases will come from the school districts that employed them. As our school districts are required to replenish the pension fund to pay the proposed higher pensions, increases in property taxes — the major source of funding for school districts — will likely be forthcoming for homeowners and other property owners.

Any savings realized by property owners from the slot parlors could easily be wiped away by millage increases to help fund these pension increases. This is the perfect example of why I have repeatedly stated property tax reductions are only temporary, and are not true property tax reform.

When you see a few hundred dollars in property tax reductions on your school tax bill this year, enjoy it, but don't get used to it…because those reductions will not last. Reassessments that may soon be ordered by the PA Supreme Court as they rule on the constitutionality of the base year assessment system most counties use; or millage increases by your local school board to offset pension increases or other budgetary increases, will soon wipe away your property tax reductions.

The only real property tax reform is abolishment of all property taxes — school, county and municipal on primary residences. Replacement sales and income taxes and the economic boom such a plan would unleash will strengthen the economies of our counties, school districts and municipalities. Then homeowners would truly own their homes for the first time ever.

Contact your PA State Senator and encourage her or him to push for passage of HB 1947 (which passed the House 197-0) or SB 717. Both pieces of legislation are currently in the Senate Finance Committee. Both would amend the PA constitution to permit abolishment of all property taxes on primary residences. It is important the Senate act on either of these bills this year.

Howard Dean picks his 50 favorite state bloggers

More than 400 applications were received from bloggers across the United States for credential to the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver. The DNC announced winners from each of the 50 states today.

DNC Chairman Governor Dean Announces Blogs Selected for 2008 Democratic National Convention 'State Blogger Corps'

Swim at your own risk

The Rendell Administration has eliminated lifeguards at 15 state parks this summer as a cost-savings measure. The move is expected to save the state $800,000.

How much do you think the state will end up paying if somebody drowns at one of the beaches in the 15 state parks?

PA Auditor General Jack Wagner Urges DCNR to Restore Lifeguard Protection at All State Park Beaches

Beginning of the end for Clinton campaign?

A joint fundraising agreement between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama? It sounds like part of a deal to allow Clinton to bow out of the 2008 presidential race.

DNC: Dean Announces Joint Fundraising Agreement with Clinton and Obama Campaigns

Obama's Power Shifting

Republican National Committee: Obama's Power Shifting

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

PA Participants Urged to Register for Upcoming Water Infrastructure Meetings

PA Participants Urged to Register for Upcoming Water Infrastructure Meetings

PA DCED Unveils Community Revitalization Desktop Guide

PA DCED Unveils Community Revitalization Desktop Guide

Evangelicals Commend McCain Speech on Climate Change

Evangelicals Commend McCain Speech on Climate Change

Catch Tony Phyrillas on PCN this week

Tony Phyrillas will be a panelist on the "Journalists Roundtable" program on the Pennsylvania Cable Network on Thursday, May 15.

The one-hour program hosted by Bill Bova is shown Thursdays at 8 p.m. on cable systems throughout Pennsylvania. The program will repeat Sunday, May 18, at 5 p.m. and again at 11 p.m.

PCN is shown on Comcast Channel 98 in Berks County, Service Electric Cable Channel 23 in Berks/Lehigh counties and Comcast Channel 78 in the Pottstown area.

Consult your cable guide for the Pennsylvania Cable Network channel on your area.

Obama's questionable endorsements

It's bad enough that Jimmy Carter, John F. Kerry, Michael Moore and Hanoi Jane Fonda have endorsed Sen. Barack Obama for president. Now we have the leader of the terrorist group Hammas rooting for Obama to win the White House.

Interviewer of Hamas-Obama Endorsement Speaks Out

THE CENTRIST moves up in influence

THE CENTRIST has moved up four spots on this week's Influence Rankings at www.blognetnew.com, jumping from No. 20 last week to No. 16 this week.

Here's the Top 20 rankings of "Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs"

Rank Blog Prev
1 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 2
2 Pawatercooler.com 3
3 POLICY BLOG 15
4 TONY PHYRILLAS 1
5 Suburban Guerrilla 5
6 Comments From Left Field 6
7 GrassrootsPA 4
8 Philebrity 7
9 The Lehigh Valley Political Blog 8
10 PowerBlog! 18
11 molovinsky on allentown 10
12 Keystone Politics -
13 Pennsyltucky Politics 16
14 PSoTD 8
14 AJ's Web Blog -
16 THE CENTRIST 20
17 Above Average Jane -
18 Mark Rauterkus 12
19 DotPenn -
20 WRITEMARSH! -

(19 consecutive weeks in the Top 5 for TONY PHYRILLAS so far in 2008, including 7 weeks at No. 1)

Monday, May 12, 2008

Renewed effort for property tax relief

You have to give state Rep. Sam Rohrer, R-Berks, credit for persistence. He's been trying for years to get his plan to eliminate property taxes passed by the Pennsylvania House.

Rohrer told the Reading Eagle that he's going to give it another shot before the Legislature starts its annual 3-month summer vacation.

A revised version of Rohrer's School Property Tax Elimination Act will be offered in the House soon, according to the newspaper.

An earlier version of House Bill 1275, offered as an amendment to another tax relief plan, received just 47 votes in the 102-member House.

Rohrer told the newspaper he's addresses some of the objections lawmakers had about taxing professional fees and not taxing commercial properties.

Read "New round to begin in property tax fight" here.

There's also a rally planned for Harrisburg on June 2 to demand the elimination of property taxes. Find out more at the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition Web site.

And don't forget that all 102 seats in the House and 25 seats in the Senate are up for re-election on Nov. 4.

Obama's Inability to Hire Good Help Rears Its Head... Again

Republican National Committee: Obama's Inability to Hire Good Help Rears Its Head... Again

Insurance Department to Hold Statewide Meetings on Proposed Consolidation of Independence Blue Cross, Highmark

Insurance Department to Hold Statewide Meetings on Proposed Consolidation of Independence Blue Cross, Highmark

Blunt: In Case You Missed it...Pelosi's Blue Lapdogs Fail Us on FISA

Blunt: In Case You Missed it...Pelosi's Blue Lapdogs Fail Us on FISA

Friday, May 09, 2008

Celebrate International Museum Day on May 18

Pennsylvania Historical Sites Celebrate International Museum Day

Grants Available to Help PA Businesses Reduce Organic Waste Sent to Landfills

PA DEP Secretary Says Grants Available to Help Businesses Increase Use of Composted Materials, Reduce Organic Waste Sent to Landfills

12,000 visitors to THE CENTRIST

Another milestone for THE CENTRIST.

The site counter has recored 12,000 unique visitors to this site since the blog was launched in 2005.

Thanks for spending time here ... and you're always welcome back.

Ask Obama

The Republican National Committee has launched a new Web site encouraging voters to ask Barack Obama questions about the important issues facing America.

We have to get more from Obama than one-liners like "change" and "hope." It's time for American voters to take a closer look at the empty suit.

RNC Launches New Web Site & Video

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Taxpayer rally set for June 2 in Harrisburg

The Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition and its 26 taxpayer groups are planning a rally on the steps of the state Capitol in Harrisburg at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 2, to demand the elimination of property taxes.

The taxpayers' alliance supports passage of House Bill 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act.

The last time a grassroots rally was organized at the state Capitol was in 2005 when 2,000 residents demanded repeal of the pay raise. And guess what? The Legislature gave in and repealed the pay raise.

Read more about the rally and bus trips being organized by PTCC in today's edition of The Mercury.

Report: Traffic congestion wastes billions in fuel

Report Links Traffic Congestion to Wasted Fuel and Greater Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Wednesday, May 07, 2008

Shedding Light on Congressional Spending

Representative Chris Cannon (R-UT) Recognizes WashingtonWatch.com for Bringing Transparency to Congress

Pennsylvania State Police Vehicles to Display Blue Ribbons

Pennsylvania State Police Vehicles to Display Blue Ribbons

PA seeks public comment on climate change

The global warming fanatics are hard-at-work to divert Pennsylvania tax dollars to fight the phony climate change menace.

You can let the politicians know what you think about the Al Gore-inspired hysteria.

PA Report on Climate Change, DCNR Lands Available for Public Comment

Join property tax rally in Harrisburg on June 2

"The time is now to vigorously show the Harrisburg politicians how we feel about school property tax elimination," says David Baldinger, administrator of the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition.

A rally is planned for Monday, June 2, in the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg to support House Bill 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act, the legislation that is endorsed by the PTCC and the 26-member groups of the Pennsylvania Coalition of Taxpayer Associations.

Taxpayers who are fed up with rising property taxes are invited to take part in the rally from 11 a.m. to noon.

The timing of this rally is designed to coincide with the budget debate that will be in progress, ensuring that all members of the General Assembly will be in Harrisburg to receive the message, Baldinger says.

While the agenda has not yet been finalized, Baldinger expects that a large number of current lawmakers and candidates will be in attendance along with community, business, school leaders and taxpayer advocates.

Following the rally, the PTCC and FreedomWorks will be issuing an "Honor Roll" listing all lawmakers, candidates and community leaders who show their support for school property tax elimination by attending the rally.

"The purpose of the rally is to do our best to send a very strong message to the legislature that we are tired of their procrastination and expect action to eliminate school property taxes NOW," Baldinger says. "This is a major event and a large turnout of supporters will help to focus media attention on this issue and increase public awareness and support."

The PTCC is looking for volunteers to spread the word about the rally, organize folks in their area and arrange transportation to Harrisburg.

"This is a one-time event that is very important, so if you're willing to help please try to find as many folks as possible to attend - use carpools, limo buses, full-sized buses, any way possible to get people to the rally" Baldinger says.

The PTCC is already busy organizing a bus trip to the Capitol for Berks County residents. The approximate cost is $20 per person.

If you're interested in joining this trip for the rally, send an e-mail by May 11 to taxrally@mail.com with your name, address and telephone number.

If enough people respond by May 11 to fill a charter bus, Baldinger says he will send interested persons a return e-mail with the details of the trip and method of payment.

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

Nation's largest food drive on May 10

Start filling up a bag of non-perishable food items and don't forget to leave it out Saturday before your letter carrier arrives.

Letter Carriers Fight Hunger on May 10

McCain pledges to 'restore' the judiciary, confront judicial activism

The next president of the United States will probably replace three of the current justices on the Supreme Court and appoint hundreds of others to the federal bench. Do you want someone like John McCain, who has pledged to end judicial activism, picking those judges or would you rather have Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton appointing judges?

Do you want a John Roberts on the court or do you want a Ruth Bader Ginsburg on the court?

The Family Research Council applauds McCain's pledge today to restore the principle that judges should not be legislators. Read more at the link below.

FRC Action Praises John McCain's Pledge to 'Restore' the Judiciary, Confront Judicial Activism

'The Recession of 2008 That Wasn't?'

There's a blogger that goes by the title sbvor who is hot on the trail of the recession hysteria being pushed by the mainstream media.

Check out his/her post, The Recession of 2008 That Wasn't? for some more about the made-up recession.

Monday, May 05, 2008

Recession or not?

Is the United States in a recession?

The mainstream media wants you to think so.

But read this post at Carpe Diem about the state of the U.S. economy.

Also check out this post at TONY PHYRILLAS about how desperate the liberal media wants the American people to believe the U.S. is in a recession so voters will elect a Democrat for president.

And for a recap of the debate, check out this post at POLICY BLOG

The bottom line. Yes, the economy is weak. But no, the U.S. is not in a recession, although a lot of liberals would like you to think it is.

PA Agriculture Secretary Says Raw Milk Sales Legal in Pennsylvania With Permit, Testing

PA Agriculture Secretary Says Raw Milk Sales Legal in Pennsylvania With Permit, Testing

Much-needed recognition for police officers

Call for Nominations: 2007-2008 Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor

Most Influential Blogs in Pennsylvania

THE CENTRIST is ranked among the Top 20 Most Influential Political Blogs in Pennsylvania by BlogNetNews.com, which bills itself as "The Blogosphere's Front Page."

Here is this week's rankings (with some of the more worthwhile blogs highlighted):

Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 TONY PHYRILLAS 4
2 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 2
3 Pawatercooler.com 1
4 GrassrootsPA 6
5 Suburban Guerrilla 3
6 Comments From Left Field 5
7 Philebrity 20
8 PSoTD 12
8 The Lehigh Valley Political Blog 10
10 molovinsky on allentown -
11 The Lu Lac Political Letter -
12 Mark Rauterkus 15
12 Booman Tribune 10
12 Northern Lehigh Valley Logic 19
15 POLICY BLOG 16
16 Pennsyltucky Politics -
17 The Carbolic Smoke Ball 17
18 West Chester Unplugged -
18 PowerBlog! 14
20 THE CENTRIST -

Saturday, May 03, 2008

Four months to pay off the government

This editorial published today in The Mercury, "Pennsylvania residents work nearly four months to pay off their tax burden," should get everyone who earns a paycheck angry.

Pennsylvania workers have to send every dollar they earn from January 1 to April 21 to various levels of government to cover their ever-growing tax burden.

Read the full editorial -- and weep -- and keep in mind that if you elect a Democrat as president or you elect Democrats to the state House or Senate, you'll be working a lot harder to pay these professional politicians.