The Democratic-controlled Congress is packing for its five-week vacation having done nothing to lower gas prices or develop a comprehensive energy policy.
Republicans Committed to Helping American Families by Lowering Gas Prices
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Good stuff at PA blogs
Some excellent posts at Pennsylvania-based blogs over the last couple of days.
Talk about adding insult to injury. If it wasn't bad enough that the Democratic House Caucus handed out $1.8 million in illegal bonuses to state workers doing political work on your dime, we now learn that taxpayers will get stuck with at least $2 million in legal fees to help the Democrats get themselves out of trouble.
Read "Legal fees double taxpayers' cost in bonus scandal" at POWERBLOG! and "Legal fees double taxpayers' cost in bonus scandal" at POLICY BLOG.
The original story is on the Tribune-Review's Web site.
Some other good stuff at Pennsylvania-based blogs that are worth reading:
"Pelosi competing with Obama for Messiah job" at NEPALibWatch
"Warped Congressional Liberal Priorities" at Gunservatively!
"Pork in Pennsylvania Budget" at PennPatriot Blog
"Obamanomics Is a Recipe for Recession" at POWERBLOG!
"Why a McCain/Ridge ticket makes sense" at TONY PHYRILLAS
"Barack's Ten Commandments" at Page 13 News
Lowman Henry talks about corruption in Congress at Lincoln Blog
Talk about adding insult to injury. If it wasn't bad enough that the Democratic House Caucus handed out $1.8 million in illegal bonuses to state workers doing political work on your dime, we now learn that taxpayers will get stuck with at least $2 million in legal fees to help the Democrats get themselves out of trouble.
Read "Legal fees double taxpayers' cost in bonus scandal" at POWERBLOG! and "Legal fees double taxpayers' cost in bonus scandal" at POLICY BLOG.
The original story is on the Tribune-Review's Web site.
Some other good stuff at Pennsylvania-based blogs that are worth reading:
"Pelosi competing with Obama for Messiah job" at NEPALibWatch
"Warped Congressional Liberal Priorities" at Gunservatively!
"Pork in Pennsylvania Budget" at PennPatriot Blog
"Obamanomics Is a Recipe for Recession" at POWERBLOG!
"Why a McCain/Ridge ticket makes sense" at TONY PHYRILLAS
"Barack's Ten Commandments" at Page 13 News
Lowman Henry talks about corruption in Congress at Lincoln Blog
Monday, July 28, 2008
Conservatives dominate PA 'influence ranking'
Conservative blogs hold 9 of the Top 20 spots (including 6 of the Top 10) on the weekly "Influence Rankings" published by BlogNetNews.com
If you eliminate media-related blogs from the list, conservative bloggers have the majority of blogs in the Top 20.
TONY PHYRILLAS is back at the No. 1 spot, which the blog has held for 6 of the last 7 weeks. The biggest jump on the rankings is by Gunservatively!, which entered the Top 20 at No. 3.
Here's this week's Top 10, with conservative blogs highlighted. To view the entire list, go to BlogNetNews.com
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 TONY PHYRILLAS 2
2 PolitickerPA 8
3 gunservatively! -
4 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 1
5 Pawatercooler.com 15
6 Suburban Guerrilla 4
7 THE CENTRIST 6
8 GrassrootsPA 3
9 POLICY BLOG 5
10 Capitol Ideas 10
If you eliminate media-related blogs from the list, conservative bloggers have the majority of blogs in the Top 20.
TONY PHYRILLAS is back at the No. 1 spot, which the blog has held for 6 of the last 7 weeks. The biggest jump on the rankings is by Gunservatively!, which entered the Top 20 at No. 3.
Here's this week's Top 10, with conservative blogs highlighted. To view the entire list, go to BlogNetNews.com
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 TONY PHYRILLAS 2
2 PolitickerPA 8
3 gunservatively! -
4 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 1
5 Pawatercooler.com 15
6 Suburban Guerrilla 4
7 THE CENTRIST 6
8 GrassrootsPA 3
9 POLICY BLOG 5
10 Capitol Ideas 10
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Columnist: Rendell Shell Game
Mary Young of the Reading Eagle has been reading over Gov. Rendell's 2008-09 General Fund Budget and has come to the conclusion that state spending is a shell game."I think this year's budget is an increase of about $1 billion, or 3.7 percent, over last year," Young writes. "I can't be sure because my budget book from last year didn't come with an interpreter."
Young later concludes that the state budget is a moving target. In other words, nobody is really sure how much the state spends each year.
"Whether you look at it as a $1 billion increase or $3 billion in new spending, there has to be a whole lot of shuffling going on to cover it, especially now that legislators have said they won't support Rendell's plan to lease the turnpike," Young writes.
One of the ways Rendell gets away with spending more than what the Legislature approved is by utilizing a system where Rendell forces counties to spend money with the promise of state reimbursement down the road.
Read her full column, "It's big! It's dense! It's a shell game!" at the newspaper's Web site.
Ethanol Should Be Fully Integrated in International Trade, According to Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association
The United States could boost ethanol use tremendously if Congress lifted tariffs against Brazilian sugar-based ethanol exports, but the Democrats are blocking the move.
Once again, the motto of the Democratic Party is, "Do As I Say, Not As I Do."
Ethanol Should Be Fully Integrated in International Trade, According to Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association
Once again, the motto of the Democratic Party is, "Do As I Say, Not As I Do."
Ethanol Should Be Fully Integrated in International Trade, According to Brazilian Sugarcane Industry Association
Friday, July 25, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
School property tax elimination: What else needs to happen?
By State Rep. Sam Rohrer
When I began the fight for school property tax elimination, school taxes were a crushing burden on homeowners. Property taxes were the single biggest cost imposed on many of Pennsylvania's residents. Today, not only has the property tax burden continued to mount, we have seen an increase in many of the costs of day-to-day living. Now we must factor into our budgets increased gas prices; increased milk, bread, and egg prices; and increased energy prices. These items only add to an increasingly heavy load.
What else needs to happen before the governor and the Legislature take notice of the plight of millions of Pennsylvanians and do something to alleviate it? Gov. Rendell's Act 1, touted as a significant reprieve, has dismally fallen short of its promises.
The gambling money has barely covered the increase of property taxes from this past year, and in many places failed to meet even the projected 10 percent promise.
Chuck Ardo, Gov. Rendell's spokesperson, responded to our June "Save Our Homes" rally by saying that because of gaming revenues, "It's unlikely that seniors across the Commonwealth are bearing an undue burden." My response is, "Unlikely? You’ve got to be kidding." The hundreds of letters, e-mails, and phone calls, as well as the recent front-page news stories about seniors losing their homes, seriously belie Mr. Ardo's statement.
With a governor that chooses not to understand this pressing problem, what else needs to happen before we take action?
What else needs to happen before we face the financial hardship that is causing citizens to lose their homes-homes that these good people have lived in for 30, 40, even 50 years? Giving housing subsidies just raises different taxes for citizens. Gambling money has already failed to fulfill expectations. Granting more money to schools without spending reform leaves them hungry for even more. I ask again, what else needs to happen before we take action?
What else needs to happen before legislators in both the House and the Senate take decisive action on property tax elimination? "Reform" simply does not satisfy the citizens who are seeing increased millage on their tax forms but seeing no increase in their checking accounts from Act 1. Eliminating property taxes is the only real way to relieve citizens of this burden. What else needs to happen before we take action?
Unfortunately, the actions of the Legislature and the governor seem to say that more pain, more difficulty, and more foreclosures are needed before they finally respond to the gravity of this situation.
I believe that we must take proactive action. When I began this fight, it was an effort to address a known problem, and I knew that it would get worse. And instead of just talking about school, property tax reform, I posed a solution to bring about 100 percent elimination. How many fewer foreclosures would have taken place in these past five years? How many fewer sheriff sales; how much more peace of mind?
We cannot, however, dwell on what has happened before. Today, we need to resolve not to let another five years of foreclosures and sheriff sales happen as a result of inaction. The Legislature has too many people who seem only to react when a problem gets "bad enough." We, however, cannot be content to wait until that indeterminate day arrives. We must act now, and so I ask again - what else needs to happen?
Nothing else that is satisfactory can happen except action. As legislators, we are charged with protecting the rights of every citizen in Pennsylvania. We are to serve you, and make laws that are in your best interests. By ignoring this issue that reaches across the state, in rural and urban areas, the legislators and governor are failing you if they do not act.
House Bill 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act, is that answer.
House Bill 1275 would eliminate school property taxes with a constitutional amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution that would guarantee an abolition of property taxes (House Bill 2199). House Bill 1275 would then freeze and phase out property taxes in a workable, realistic, and effective manner. It would sufficiently provide alternative funds to maintain Pennsylvania's schools and education system.
If you are also not content to wait, please go to www.ptcc.us, to access the grassroots organization Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition’s (PTCC) website against property tax. The PTCC is collecting stories of homeowners, and is also hoping to begin taping live interviews. You can also download and distribute petitions in support of House Bill 1275.
Finally, to further ensure final passage of the constitutional amendment, encourage your family and friends to call their legislators in both the House and the Senate and ask them-what else needs to happen before you take action and pass House Bill 1275 and House Bill 2199?
State Rep. Sam Rohrer is a Republican who represents the 128th House District in Berks County.
When I began the fight for school property tax elimination, school taxes were a crushing burden on homeowners. Property taxes were the single biggest cost imposed on many of Pennsylvania's residents. Today, not only has the property tax burden continued to mount, we have seen an increase in many of the costs of day-to-day living. Now we must factor into our budgets increased gas prices; increased milk, bread, and egg prices; and increased energy prices. These items only add to an increasingly heavy load.
What else needs to happen before the governor and the Legislature take notice of the plight of millions of Pennsylvanians and do something to alleviate it? Gov. Rendell's Act 1, touted as a significant reprieve, has dismally fallen short of its promises.
The gambling money has barely covered the increase of property taxes from this past year, and in many places failed to meet even the projected 10 percent promise.
Chuck Ardo, Gov. Rendell's spokesperson, responded to our June "Save Our Homes" rally by saying that because of gaming revenues, "It's unlikely that seniors across the Commonwealth are bearing an undue burden." My response is, "Unlikely? You’ve got to be kidding." The hundreds of letters, e-mails, and phone calls, as well as the recent front-page news stories about seniors losing their homes, seriously belie Mr. Ardo's statement.
With a governor that chooses not to understand this pressing problem, what else needs to happen before we take action?
What else needs to happen before we face the financial hardship that is causing citizens to lose their homes-homes that these good people have lived in for 30, 40, even 50 years? Giving housing subsidies just raises different taxes for citizens. Gambling money has already failed to fulfill expectations. Granting more money to schools without spending reform leaves them hungry for even more. I ask again, what else needs to happen before we take action?
What else needs to happen before legislators in both the House and the Senate take decisive action on property tax elimination? "Reform" simply does not satisfy the citizens who are seeing increased millage on their tax forms but seeing no increase in their checking accounts from Act 1. Eliminating property taxes is the only real way to relieve citizens of this burden. What else needs to happen before we take action?
Unfortunately, the actions of the Legislature and the governor seem to say that more pain, more difficulty, and more foreclosures are needed before they finally respond to the gravity of this situation.
I believe that we must take proactive action. When I began this fight, it was an effort to address a known problem, and I knew that it would get worse. And instead of just talking about school, property tax reform, I posed a solution to bring about 100 percent elimination. How many fewer foreclosures would have taken place in these past five years? How many fewer sheriff sales; how much more peace of mind?
We cannot, however, dwell on what has happened before. Today, we need to resolve not to let another five years of foreclosures and sheriff sales happen as a result of inaction. The Legislature has too many people who seem only to react when a problem gets "bad enough." We, however, cannot be content to wait until that indeterminate day arrives. We must act now, and so I ask again - what else needs to happen?
Nothing else that is satisfactory can happen except action. As legislators, we are charged with protecting the rights of every citizen in Pennsylvania. We are to serve you, and make laws that are in your best interests. By ignoring this issue that reaches across the state, in rural and urban areas, the legislators and governor are failing you if they do not act.
House Bill 1275, the School Property Tax Elimination Act, is that answer.
House Bill 1275 would eliminate school property taxes with a constitutional amendment to the Pennsylvania Constitution that would guarantee an abolition of property taxes (House Bill 2199). House Bill 1275 would then freeze and phase out property taxes in a workable, realistic, and effective manner. It would sufficiently provide alternative funds to maintain Pennsylvania's schools and education system.
If you are also not content to wait, please go to www.ptcc.us, to access the grassroots organization Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition’s (PTCC) website against property tax. The PTCC is collecting stories of homeowners, and is also hoping to begin taping live interviews. You can also download and distribute petitions in support of House Bill 1275.
Finally, to further ensure final passage of the constitutional amendment, encourage your family and friends to call their legislators in both the House and the Senate and ask them-what else needs to happen before you take action and pass House Bill 1275 and House Bill 2199?
State Rep. Sam Rohrer is a Republican who represents the 128th House District in Berks County.
Actuaries to Issue Statement on Social Security
I'm going to go out on a limb and predict it's not going to be good news. Thanks to 40 years of raids on the Social Security Trust Fund by the Democrats who controlled Congress, Social Security is teetering on bankruptcy.
Actuaries to Issue Statement on Social Security
Actuaries to Issue Statement on Social Security
Talking Politics with Tony Phyrillas & Mike Pincus
The future of Pottstown schools will be one of the topics of discussion on "Talking Politics with Tony Phyrillas and Mike Pincus" at 5 p.m. Thursday on WPAZ 1370 AM
Pottstown School Board member Nat White will be a guest on the program to discuss the district's future facilities needs.
The one-hour program is hosted by Tony Phyrillas, city editor and political columnist for The Mercury, and Mike Pincus, a political strategist based in West Chester.
Call with comments or questions during the live broadcast at 610-326-4000.
You can also listen to the program online by going to www.1370WPAZ.com and clicking on the "live audio" button at the top of the page or you can listen to it at The Mercury Web site at www.pottsmerc.com
Pottstown School Board member Nat White will be a guest on the program to discuss the district's future facilities needs.
The one-hour program is hosted by Tony Phyrillas, city editor and political columnist for The Mercury, and Mike Pincus, a political strategist based in West Chester.
Call with comments or questions during the live broadcast at 610-326-4000.
You can also listen to the program online by going to www.1370WPAZ.com and clicking on the "live audio" button at the top of the page or you can listen to it at The Mercury Web site at www.pottsmerc.com
RNC: Obama's Jerusalem Divide
World Statesman Barack Obama Continues Contradictory Statements On Jerusalem
RNC: Obama's Jerusalem Divide
RNC: Obama's Jerusalem Divide
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Good stuff around the PA blogosphere
The Clarke Report says Rep. Tim Holden and his Democratic Party cronies are working on a plan to raise the national gas tax ... as if gas wasn't high enough at $4 a gallon. There's also a good post about how openly The New York Times is rooting for Barack Obama.
GUNSERVATIVELY! has a link to a Michelle Malkin column about the Murtha race in western Pennsylvania, where challenger William Russell is going after the Democratic Party's King of Pork. There's also a hysterical illustration of Barack Obama in a tank.
Penn Patriot's Blog says Tom Ridge is still in the running for McCain's VP slot.
NEPALibWatch takes a jab at liberals who have no idea what's going on in Iraq. Are you listening Barack Obama?
TONY PHYRILLAS exposes liberal media bias and wonders why Barack Obama painted over the American flag on his airplane and replaced it with the Obama logo.
POLICY BLOG examines how the left and right differ on reform measures in Pennsylvania.
GUNSERVATIVELY! has a link to a Michelle Malkin column about the Murtha race in western Pennsylvania, where challenger William Russell is going after the Democratic Party's King of Pork. There's also a hysterical illustration of Barack Obama in a tank.
Penn Patriot's Blog says Tom Ridge is still in the running for McCain's VP slot.
NEPALibWatch takes a jab at liberals who have no idea what's going on in Iraq. Are you listening Barack Obama?
TONY PHYRILLAS exposes liberal media bias and wonders why Barack Obama painted over the American flag on his airplane and replaced it with the Obama logo.
POLICY BLOG examines how the left and right differ on reform measures in Pennsylvania.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
RNC - Obama: Wrong On Israel
From his statements so far about the future of Jerusalem and his coddling of Arab dictators, it's clear that Sen. Barack Obama is no friend of Israel.
RNC - Obama: Wrong On Israel
RNC - Obama: Wrong On Israel
PACleanSweep Call to Action
Pick Up the Phone for a Convention!
Now that PACleanSweep's recommended language to enable a constitutional convention has been introduced in both the Senate and House, it's time to get on the phone and start pressuring members of the two State Government Committees to move this bill along.
Below, you'll find a phone list of all the members of these committees, the leadership of both chambers and the Governor. Without input from citizens, these people will not act. The most effective citizen input is via live phone calls.
It is highly recommended that you call ALL elected officials listed in bold, because in their committee or leadership roles they are acting on behalf of all Pennsylvanians. If your own Senator or Representative is a member of the committee, place a call to them as well.
When you call these folks, simply urge them to support SB1290 (for Senators) or HB2714 (for Representatives) and ask what they will do to move it along, get it out of committee and on the floor for a vote. Be courteous!
Then call again in a week or so to follow up on what they've done. Keep calling until we get some results!
Each legislator's Harrisburg office number is listed first and the subsequent phone numbers will put you in touch with their district offices.
In the Senate (SB1290)
Senate State Government Committee
Sen. Jeffrey E. Piccola, Chair (co-sponsor)
(717) 787-6801
(717) 896- 7714
Sen. Mike Folmer, Vice Chair (prime sponsor)
(717) 787-5708
(717) 274-7705
(610) 693-3200
(717) 361-8623
Sen. Anthony H. Williams, Minority Chair
(717) 787-5970
(215) 492-2980
Sen. Michael W. Brubaker
(717) 787-4420
(717) 627-0036
Sen. Jake Corman
(717) 787-1377
(814) 355- 0477
Sen. Wayne D. Fontana
(717) 787-5300
(412) 344-2551
Sen. Vincent J. Hughes
(717) 787-7112
(215) 471-0490
Sen. Charles T. McIlhinney, Jr.
(717) 787- 7305
(215) 489-5000
Sen. Terry L. Punt
(717) 787-4651
(717) 264- 6100
Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione
(717) 787-1141
(215) 533-0440
Senate Leadership
Sen. Joseph B. Scarnati, III, Senate Pro Tempore
(717) 787-7084
(814) 726- 7201
Sen. Dominic Pileggi, Senate Majority (Republican) Leader
(717) 787-4712
(610) 565-9100
Sen. Robert J. Mellow, Senate Minority (Democrat) Leader
(717) 787-6481
(570) 489-0336
Click here to track SB1290
In the House (HB2714)
House State Government Committee
Rep. Babette Josephs, Majority Chairman
(717) 787-8529
(215) 893-1515
Rep. Thomas W. Blackwell, Majority Vice Chairman
(717) 783-1491
(215) 748- 7808
(215) 978-2595
Rep. Jaret Gibbons, Majority Secretary
(717) 705- 2060
(724) 752-1133
(724) 794-1215
(724) 773-7499
Rep. Matthew E. Baker, Minority Chairman
(717) 772-5371
(717) 772-5371
Rep. Carl W. Mantz, Minority Secretary
(717) 787- 3017
(610) 366-2330
Rep. Kerry A. Benninghoff
(717) 783-1918
(814) 355-1300
Rep. Mike Carroll
(717) 787-3589
(610) 681- 2940
(570) 655-4883
Rep. Paul I. Clymer
(717) 783-3154
(215) 257-0279
Rep. Tom C. Creighton
(717) 772-5290
(717) 336-2199
(717) 664-4979
Rep. Mark B. Cohen
(717) 787-4117
(215) 924-0895
Rep. Lawrence H. Curry
(717) 783-1079
(215) 572-5210
Rep. Florindo J. Fabrizio
(717) 787-4358
(814) 455-6319
Rep. Robert Freeman
(717) 783-3815
(610) 253-5543
Rep. Mauree Gingrich
(717) 783-1815
(717) 270-1905
Rep. Glen R. Grell
(717) 783-2063
(717) 795- 6091
Rep. William C. Kortz, II (co-sponsor)
(717) 787-8175
(412) 466-1940
(412) 886- 2870
Rep. Deberah Kula
(717) 772-1858
(724) 547-4057
(724) 626-2761
Rep. Jim Marshall
(717) 260-6432
(724) 847- 1352
Rep. Fred McIlhattan
(717) 772-9908
(814) 226-9000
Rep. Michael H. O'Brien
(717) 783-8098
(215) 503-3245
Rep. Frank Louis Oliver
(717) 787-3480
(215) 684-3738
Rep. Cherelle L. Parker
(717) 783-2178
(215) 242-7300
Rep. Thomas J. Quigley
(717) 772-9963
(610) 326-9563
Rep. Sean M. Ramaley
(717) 787-4444
(724) 266-7774
(412) 761-1701
Rep. Kathy L. Rapp
(717) 787-1367
(814) 723-5203
Rep. Mike Vereb
(717) 705-7164
(610) 409- 2615
Rep. Greg Vitali
(717) 787-7647
(610) 789- 3900
Rep. Katharine M. Watson
(717) 787-5452
(215) 674-0500
Rep. Rosita C. Youngblood
(717) 787-7727
(215) 849-6426
House Leadership
Rep. Dennis M. O'Brien, Speaker of the House
(717) 787-5689
(215) 632- 5150
Rep. H. William DeWeese, House Majority (Democrat) Leader
(717) 783-3797
(724) 627-8683
Rep. Samuel H. Smith, House Minority (Republican) Leader
(717) 787-3845
(814) 938-4225
Click here to track HB2714
Call the Governor, too!
Edward Rendell, Governor
(717) 787-2500
Now that PACleanSweep's recommended language to enable a constitutional convention has been introduced in both the Senate and House, it's time to get on the phone and start pressuring members of the two State Government Committees to move this bill along.
Below, you'll find a phone list of all the members of these committees, the leadership of both chambers and the Governor. Without input from citizens, these people will not act. The most effective citizen input is via live phone calls.
It is highly recommended that you call ALL elected officials listed in bold, because in their committee or leadership roles they are acting on behalf of all Pennsylvanians. If your own Senator or Representative is a member of the committee, place a call to them as well.
When you call these folks, simply urge them to support SB1290 (for Senators) or HB2714 (for Representatives) and ask what they will do to move it along, get it out of committee and on the floor for a vote. Be courteous!
Then call again in a week or so to follow up on what they've done. Keep calling until we get some results!
Each legislator's Harrisburg office number is listed first and the subsequent phone numbers will put you in touch with their district offices.
In the Senate (SB1290)
Senate State Government Committee
Sen. Jeffrey E. Piccola, Chair (co-sponsor)
(717) 787-6801
(717) 896- 7714
Sen. Mike Folmer, Vice Chair (prime sponsor)
(717) 787-5708
(717) 274-7705
(610) 693-3200
(717) 361-8623
Sen. Anthony H. Williams, Minority Chair
(717) 787-5970
(215) 492-2980
Sen. Michael W. Brubaker
(717) 787-4420
(717) 627-0036
Sen. Jake Corman
(717) 787-1377
(814) 355- 0477
Sen. Wayne D. Fontana
(717) 787-5300
(412) 344-2551
Sen. Vincent J. Hughes
(717) 787-7112
(215) 471-0490
Sen. Charles T. McIlhinney, Jr.
(717) 787- 7305
(215) 489-5000
Sen. Terry L. Punt
(717) 787-4651
(717) 264- 6100
Sen. Christine M. Tartaglione
(717) 787-1141
(215) 533-0440
Senate Leadership
Sen. Joseph B. Scarnati, III, Senate Pro Tempore
(717) 787-7084
(814) 726- 7201
Sen. Dominic Pileggi, Senate Majority (Republican) Leader
(717) 787-4712
(610) 565-9100
Sen. Robert J. Mellow, Senate Minority (Democrat) Leader
(717) 787-6481
(570) 489-0336
Click here to track SB1290
In the House (HB2714)
House State Government Committee
Rep. Babette Josephs, Majority Chairman
(717) 787-8529
(215) 893-1515
Rep. Thomas W. Blackwell, Majority Vice Chairman
(717) 783-1491
(215) 748- 7808
(215) 978-2595
Rep. Jaret Gibbons, Majority Secretary
(717) 705- 2060
(724) 752-1133
(724) 794-1215
(724) 773-7499
Rep. Matthew E. Baker, Minority Chairman
(717) 772-5371
(717) 772-5371
Rep. Carl W. Mantz, Minority Secretary
(717) 787- 3017
(610) 366-2330
Rep. Kerry A. Benninghoff
(717) 783-1918
(814) 355-1300
Rep. Mike Carroll
(717) 787-3589
(610) 681- 2940
(570) 655-4883
Rep. Paul I. Clymer
(717) 783-3154
(215) 257-0279
Rep. Tom C. Creighton
(717) 772-5290
(717) 336-2199
(717) 664-4979
Rep. Mark B. Cohen
(717) 787-4117
(215) 924-0895
Rep. Lawrence H. Curry
(717) 783-1079
(215) 572-5210
Rep. Florindo J. Fabrizio
(717) 787-4358
(814) 455-6319
Rep. Robert Freeman
(717) 783-3815
(610) 253-5543
Rep. Mauree Gingrich
(717) 783-1815
(717) 270-1905
Rep. Glen R. Grell
(717) 783-2063
(717) 795- 6091
Rep. William C. Kortz, II (co-sponsor)
(717) 787-8175
(412) 466-1940
(412) 886- 2870
Rep. Deberah Kula
(717) 772-1858
(724) 547-4057
(724) 626-2761
Rep. Jim Marshall
(717) 260-6432
(724) 847- 1352
Rep. Fred McIlhattan
(717) 772-9908
(814) 226-9000
Rep. Michael H. O'Brien
(717) 783-8098
(215) 503-3245
Rep. Frank Louis Oliver
(717) 787-3480
(215) 684-3738
Rep. Cherelle L. Parker
(717) 783-2178
(215) 242-7300
Rep. Thomas J. Quigley
(717) 772-9963
(610) 326-9563
Rep. Sean M. Ramaley
(717) 787-4444
(724) 266-7774
(412) 761-1701
Rep. Kathy L. Rapp
(717) 787-1367
(814) 723-5203
Rep. Mike Vereb
(717) 705-7164
(610) 409- 2615
Rep. Greg Vitali
(717) 787-7647
(610) 789- 3900
Rep. Katharine M. Watson
(717) 787-5452
(215) 674-0500
Rep. Rosita C. Youngblood
(717) 787-7727
(215) 849-6426
House Leadership
Rep. Dennis M. O'Brien, Speaker of the House
(717) 787-5689
(215) 632- 5150
Rep. H. William DeWeese, House Majority (Democrat) Leader
(717) 783-3797
(724) 627-8683
Rep. Samuel H. Smith, House Minority (Republican) Leader
(717) 787-3845
(814) 938-4225
Click here to track HB2714
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Edward Rendell, Governor
(717) 787-2500
Monday, July 21, 2008
15,000 visitors
The site meter at THE CENTRIST has recorded 15,000 unique visitors. THE CENTRIST has also moved up to No. 6 on the BlogNetNews.com "influence" rankings, its highest position ever.
Here are this week's TOP 10 (with conservative sites highlighted):
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 13
2 TONY PHYRILLAS 1
3 GrassrootsPA 7
4 Suburban Guerrilla 2
5 POLICY BLOG 4
6 THE CENTRIST 9
7 Philebrity 3
8 PolitickerPA 15
9 PowerBlog! 10
10 Capitol Ideas 16
(P.S. -- The streak is over for TONY PHYRILLAS. After five consecutive weeks at No. 1, the blog drops to No. 2.)
For the complete list, visit BlogNetNews.com
Here are this week's TOP 10 (with conservative sites highlighted):
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 Lehigh Valley Ramblings 13
2 TONY PHYRILLAS 1
3 GrassrootsPA 7
4 Suburban Guerrilla 2
5 POLICY BLOG 4
6 THE CENTRIST 9
7 Philebrity 3
8 PolitickerPA 15
9 PowerBlog! 10
10 Capitol Ideas 16
(P.S. -- The streak is over for TONY PHYRILLAS. After five consecutive weeks at No. 1, the blog drops to No. 2.)
For the complete list, visit BlogNetNews.com
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Good Stuff at Pennsylvania Blogs
Lowman Henry at Lincoln Blog says Al Gore should put a cork in it. Does Gore's big environmental speech this week have anything to do with the heat wave we're experience? How much hot air can one man produce?
POLICY BLOG has a couple of good posts on reforming state government, including why state Rep. Babbette Joseph (yes, that's her real name) is often confused.
TONY PHYRILLAS is also posting about reform. Check out What reformers want and a link to Tim Potts op-ed on how corrupt Pennsylvania government has become.
POWERBLOG! takes a look at the link between the NAACP and pro-abotion Planned Parenthood
SAVE THE GOP predicts Mitt Romney will be McCain's vice presidential choice.
NEPALIBWATCH has a post about Democrat John Murtha's continued attacks on U.S. troops and a funny post about global warming.
POLICY BLOG has a couple of good posts on reforming state government, including why state Rep. Babbette Joseph (yes, that's her real name) is often confused.
TONY PHYRILLAS is also posting about reform. Check out What reformers want and a link to Tim Potts op-ed on how corrupt Pennsylvania government has become.
POWERBLOG! takes a look at the link between the NAACP and pro-abotion Planned Parenthood
SAVE THE GOP predicts Mitt Romney will be McCain's vice presidential choice.
NEPALIBWATCH has a post about Democrat John Murtha's continued attacks on U.S. troops and a funny post about global warming.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Berks County to host Tax Forum
Berks County is inviting the public to attend a tax forum on Monday, July 28, from 7 to 9:15 p.m. at the Berks County Agricultural Center, Route 183, Bern Township.
The forum on local taxation and tax fairness issues is being sponsored by the Berks County Commissioners, Penn State Cooperative Extension/Berks County and County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.
Admission is free but pre-registration is preferred.
To register or for more information call 610-378-1327.
The forum on local taxation and tax fairness issues is being sponsored by the Berks County Commissioners, Penn State Cooperative Extension/Berks County and County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.
Admission is free but pre-registration is preferred.
To register or for more information call 610-378-1327.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Kerry-Snowe Bill Would Help States Reduce Energy Costs
This is a good sign.
A Republican senator, Olympia Snowe of Maine, and a Democratic senator, John Kerry of Massachusetts, have co-sponsored a bill to help Americans deal with rising energy prices.
Kerry-Snowe Introduce Bill to Help States Reduce Energy Costs for Consumers
A Republican senator, Olympia Snowe of Maine, and a Democratic senator, John Kerry of Massachusetts, have co-sponsored a bill to help Americans deal with rising energy prices.
Kerry-Snowe Introduce Bill to Help States Reduce Energy Costs for Consumers
Another potentials Obama VP with controversial past
Barack Obama is running out of potential vice presidential picks because almost every Democrat on the national stage has skeletons in their closet.
The latest is Sam Nunn.
Hillary might still be interested.
Obama Advised Against Picking Sam Nunn as Running Mate; Former Senator and General Electric Board Member Allowed GE to Do Business with Iran
The latest is Sam Nunn.
Hillary might still be interested.
Obama Advised Against Picking Sam Nunn as Running Mate; Former Senator and General Electric Board Member Allowed GE to Do Business with Iran
21 Drinking Age Law Saves Nearly 1,000 Lives Each Year
An important message from MADD about the need to keep the legal drinking age at 21.
21 Drinking Age Law Saves Nearly 1,000 Lives Each Year; Turns Another Year Older
21 Drinking Age Law Saves Nearly 1,000 Lives Each Year; Turns Another Year Older
Air Quality Action Day Forecast Thursday in All Regions
Stay indoors Thursday. If you must venture out, try not to breath.
Air Quality Action Day Forecast Thursday in All Regions
Air Quality Action Day Forecast Thursday in All Regions
Bill to Provide Relief from High Gas Prices Introduced in House
Don't get your hopes too high. Nancy Pelosi and the do-nothing Democrats don't really want to bring down the price of gas because they see inaction as a political tool to help them keep control of Congress in November.
So just shut up and keep paying $4 for gas, just like the Democrats want you to.
Bill to Provide Relief from High Gas Prices Introduced in House
So just shut up and keep paying $4 for gas, just like the Democrats want you to.
Bill to Provide Relief from High Gas Prices Introduced in House
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Phyrillas to host radio show
A weekly program offering an inside view of politics debuts Thursday at 5 p.m. on WPAZ 1370 AM in Pottstown.
Hosted by Tony Phyrillas and Mike Pincus, "Talking Politics" will feature an hour-long look at the political process and how politics impacts your daily life.
Phyrillas is an award-winning political columnist for The Mercury. Pincus is a political strategist based in West Chester.
Local, state and county issues will be discussed.
Listeners are encouraged to call 610-326-4000 with comments or questions during the live broadcast.
You can also listen to the program online by going to www.1370WPAZ.com and clicking on the "live audio" button at the top of the page.
Hosted by Tony Phyrillas and Mike Pincus, "Talking Politics" will feature an hour-long look at the political process and how politics impacts your daily life.
Phyrillas is an award-winning political columnist for The Mercury. Pincus is a political strategist based in West Chester.
Local, state and county issues will be discussed.
Listeners are encouraged to call 610-326-4000 with comments or questions during the live broadcast.
You can also listen to the program online by going to www.1370WPAZ.com and clicking on the "live audio" button at the top of the page.
Monday, July 14, 2008
THE CENTRIST moves up in influence
A big jump this week (from No. 20 to No. 9) on the BlogNetNews.com political blog influence rankings for THE CENTRIST.
Here's this week's TOP 10 list with conservative blogs highlighted. Note that 7 of the 10 top-ranked blogs are conservative.
For the full Top 20 list go to www.blognetnews.com
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 TONY PHYRILLAS 1
2 Suburban Guerrilla 19
3 Philebrity 6
4 POLICY BLOG 5
5 NEPALibWatch 7
6 Pawatercooler.com 4
7 GrassrootsPA 16
8 2 Political Junkies -
9 THE CENTRIST 20
10 PowerBlog! 12
Here's this week's TOP 10 list with conservative blogs highlighted. Note that 7 of the 10 top-ranked blogs are conservative.
For the full Top 20 list go to www.blognetnews.com
Pennsylvania's Most Influential Political blogs
Rank Blog Prev
1 TONY PHYRILLAS 1
2 Suburban Guerrilla 19
3 Philebrity 6
4 POLICY BLOG 5
5 NEPALibWatch 7
6 Pawatercooler.com 4
7 GrassrootsPA 16
8 2 Political Junkies -
9 THE CENTRIST 20
10 PowerBlog! 12
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Bonusgate Roundup
The Pennsylvania blogosphere is buzzing with all things "Bonusgate" today.
Here's a roundup of postings:
PolitickerPA.com has Corbett:'Very sad day in Pennsylvania' and says, "Now the fun will begin"
Keystone Politics has "Attorney General Corbett announces charges in legislative bonus investigation" along with photos of the 12 indicted state officials.
TONY PHYRILLAS says "Bill DeWeese dodges a bullet -- for now and also has "Rendell saddened by Bonusgate indictments"
POWERBLOG! has "Bounsgate: Veon, Ramaley Charged"
GrassrootsPA, as usual, is all over the story, with several posts.
PennPatriot Blog posted early, "Charges related to the Harrisburg 'Bonusgate' scandal expected to be announced today"
Capitol Ideas had an early post and then updated it with details from Corbett's press conference.
And no surprise here. Not a single liberal blogger in Pennsylvania saw fit to mention Bonusgate today. Not a word from the far left bloggers. Could the fact that all 12 of the people indicted were Democrats or staffers who worked for Democrats have anything to do with it?
Maybe if the far left ignores it, the biggest corruption scandal in Pennsylvania in the last 30 years will just go away.
Here's a roundup of postings:
PolitickerPA.com has Corbett:'Very sad day in Pennsylvania' and says, "Now the fun will begin"
Keystone Politics has "Attorney General Corbett announces charges in legislative bonus investigation" along with photos of the 12 indicted state officials.
TONY PHYRILLAS says "Bill DeWeese dodges a bullet -- for now and also has "Rendell saddened by Bonusgate indictments"
POWERBLOG! has "Bounsgate: Veon, Ramaley Charged"
GrassrootsPA, as usual, is all over the story, with several posts.
PennPatriot Blog posted early, "Charges related to the Harrisburg 'Bonusgate' scandal expected to be announced today"
Capitol Ideas had an early post and then updated it with details from Corbett's press conference.
And no surprise here. Not a single liberal blogger in Pennsylvania saw fit to mention Bonusgate today. Not a word from the far left bloggers. Could the fact that all 12 of the people indicted were Democrats or staffers who worked for Democrats have anything to do with it?
Maybe if the far left ignores it, the biggest corruption scandal in Pennsylvania in the last 30 years will just go away.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
4 More Pennsylvania Counties to Launch Crime Victim Notification Network
Butler, Dauphin, Cabria and Luzerne counties expected to be part of the statewide system by the end of July.
The entire state should be part of the network by October, officials say.
More Pennsylvania Counties to Launch Crime Victim Notification Network
The entire state should be part of the network by October, officials say.
More Pennsylvania Counties to Launch Crime Victim Notification Network
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Phyrillas on the radio Wednesday
Tony Phyrillas will be the guest on Great Talk Radio with Nick Lawrence from 4-5 p.m. Wednesday on WPAZ 1370 AM.
Topics of discussion will include the budget shenanigans pulled by Gov. Ed Rendell and the 2008 presidential race.
Listeners can call in at 610-326-4000 with questions or comments during the live broadcast.
You can also listen to the program on your computer by logging on to http://www.1370wpaz.com/ and clicking on the “live audio” button at the top of the home page.
Topics of discussion will include the budget shenanigans pulled by Gov. Ed Rendell and the 2008 presidential race.
Listeners can call in at 610-326-4000 with questions or comments during the live broadcast.
You can also listen to the program on your computer by logging on to http://www.1370wpaz.com/ and clicking on the “live audio” button at the top of the home page.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Details slowly emerging on state budget
Gov. Ed Rendell signed the $28.2 billion general fund budget at 6 p.m. on July 4, which was almost as bad as the Legislature voting on the pay raise at 2 a.m. three years ago.
Rendell wanted to minimize coverage of the flawed budget, which some predict will leave Pennsylvania with a $1 billion budget deficit by this time next year. You know what that means? Tax hike.
A few blogs have some perspective on the budget.
Check out POLICY BLOG for Gambling in PA ... with a $28 billion budget Another good read at POLICY BLOG is Time to end earmarks and WAMs
TONY PHYRILLAS has a guest column by state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who exposes the sham known as "Rendell-a-nomics"
There's also a related piece on the state's sorry business climate at TONY PHYRILLAS, Business leaders: PA economy in the tank and an item on the sorry state of school spending in Pennsylvania, School boards have no control over teacher salaries?
KEYSTONE POLITICS says the Rendell Budget Relies on Shaky Economic Forecasts
GRASSROOTSPA also has a recap of the last-minute budget maneuvering.
And don't miss CompetePA's assessment of the budget at Penn Patriot's Blog
Rendell wanted to minimize coverage of the flawed budget, which some predict will leave Pennsylvania with a $1 billion budget deficit by this time next year. You know what that means? Tax hike.
A few blogs have some perspective on the budget.
Check out POLICY BLOG for Gambling in PA ... with a $28 billion budget Another good read at POLICY BLOG is Time to end earmarks and WAMs
TONY PHYRILLAS has a guest column by state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who exposes the sham known as "Rendell-a-nomics"
There's also a related piece on the state's sorry business climate at TONY PHYRILLAS, Business leaders: PA economy in the tank and an item on the sorry state of school spending in Pennsylvania, School boards have no control over teacher salaries?
KEYSTONE POLITICS says the Rendell Budget Relies on Shaky Economic Forecasts
GRASSROOTSPA also has a recap of the last-minute budget maneuvering.
And don't miss CompetePA's assessment of the budget at Penn Patriot's Blog
Pennsylvania college Republicans online
The Pennsylvania Federation of College Republicans has launched its much-anticipated Web site to provide much-needed information for young people about the political process.
The address is http://www.pacollegerepublicans.com/
The address is http://www.pacollegerepublicans.com/
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Around the PA blogosphere
IS THIS LIFE? makes a list of conservative celebrity types. It's a very short list.
POLICY BLOG talks about the waste of taxpayer dollars on stadiums.
PAWATERCOOLER.COM continues the conversation on an ultra-liberal Philadelphia Inquirer columnist who hates this country almost as much as Michelle Obama does.
TONY PHYRILLAS is not surprised that Pennsylvania is facing a potential budget deficit of $1 billion. There's also some nice photos of Miss Universe contestants and a look at one of the most entertaining shows on television.
NEPALIBWATCH explains why Harry Reid must might be the dumbest man to ever serve in the U.S. Senate.
POLICY BLOG talks about the waste of taxpayer dollars on stadiums.
PAWATERCOOLER.COM continues the conversation on an ultra-liberal Philadelphia Inquirer columnist who hates this country almost as much as Michelle Obama does.
TONY PHYRILLAS is not surprised that Pennsylvania is facing a potential budget deficit of $1 billion. There's also some nice photos of Miss Universe contestants and a look at one of the most entertaining shows on television.
NEPALIBWATCH explains why Harry Reid must might be the dumbest man to ever serve in the U.S. Senate.
Arlen Specter criticized for blocking bill to protect access to doctors and improve Medicare
Old people are bashing Arlen Specter again. Don't they know he's one of them?
Pennsylvania Medical Society and AARP Criticize Senator Specter for Blocking Bill to Protect Access to Doctors and Improve Medicare
Pennsylvania Medical Society and AARP Criticize Senator Specter for Blocking Bill to Protect Access to Doctors and Improve Medicare
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Have A Safe July 4th Celebration
We know you're going to set off fireworks on July 4th. Just use some commonsense and don't blow off any of your fingers ... or set fire to the neighbors house.
For more tips on a safe holiday, check out the link below.
ATF Promotes A Safe July 4th Celebration
For more tips on a safe holiday, check out the link below.
ATF Promotes A Safe July 4th Celebration
Rendell Signs Tax Collection System Reforms Into Law
Say goodbye to your local tax collector. You still have to pay taxes, but somebody else will collect it.
Governor Rendell Signs Tax Collection System Reforms Into Law
Governor Rendell Signs Tax Collection System Reforms Into Law
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Emergency Unemployment Compensation Begins in PA
Help is on the way to the state's unemployed thanks to a deal signed by the state and federal government.
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Announces Start of Emergency Unemployment Compensation
Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Announces Start of Emergency Unemployment Compensation
Good stuff at other blogs
TAXPAYER PROTECTION says Pennsylvania will do deeper into debt under the 2008-09 budget Rendell and the Legislature agreed to on Monday.
POWERBLOG! examines the "The Fading Science of Global Warming"
NOBODY ASKED ME, BUT... says liberals are attempting to shut down conservative blogs by filing bogus complaints with Blogger.
IS THIS LIFE? comes to the same conclusion, saying anti-Obama sites are being targeted by liberals who want to annoint their man as the next president.
And speaking of sneaky liberals, TONY PHYRILLAS looks at how the "Fairness Doctrine" is nothing more than an attempt by the far left to use the government to stifle alternative viewpoints.
TONY PHYRILLAS also looks at the power Anthony Kennedy has on the divided Supreme Court.
LINCOLN BLOG says we don't know enough about the secret negotiations on the new state budget to see how much it's going to cost us.
POWERBLOG! examines the "The Fading Science of Global Warming"
NOBODY ASKED ME, BUT... says liberals are attempting to shut down conservative blogs by filing bogus complaints with Blogger.
IS THIS LIFE? comes to the same conclusion, saying anti-Obama sites are being targeted by liberals who want to annoint their man as the next president.
And speaking of sneaky liberals, TONY PHYRILLAS looks at how the "Fairness Doctrine" is nothing more than an attempt by the far left to use the government to stifle alternative viewpoints.
TONY PHYRILLAS also looks at the power Anthony Kennedy has on the divided Supreme Court.
LINCOLN BLOG says we don't know enough about the secret negotiations on the new state budget to see how much it's going to cost us.
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