Missouri Congressman Roy Blunt explains why he voted against the stimulus bill:
"Just seven percent of the trillion dollars in this legislation is slated for immediate use and the rest funds everything from buying bureaucrats cars to refurbishing federal buildings. That's certainly not a package that will help our economy recover any time soon, but it is a package that our children and grandchildren will be repaying for generations to come."
The Democrats' plan will cost every American over $2,700, Blunt says in a release.
"The size of the package passed by the House today is staggering compared to past stimulus plans," Blunt says. "When President Franklin Roosevelt was facing 25 percent unemployment during the Great Depression, his entire 'New Deal' proposal would cost just half of the current trillion dollar package after being adjusted for inflation."
Blunt Votes Against Democrats' Debt Plan
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
'Put Pennsylvania taxpayers first'
While Gov. Ed Rendell is packing for a trip to Florida to watch the Super Bowl, Republican House members held a press conference Tuesday to discuss ways to deal with the state's growing fiscal crisis.The goal of Republican lawmakers is to "combat the state's projected $2.3 billion budget deficit while protecting taxpayers against new or increased state taxes, new state spending or additional state debt," according to a written statement released after the Capitol Rotunda event.
Rep. Samuel E. Rohrer (R-Berks), a longtime critic of Rendell's spending policies, did not attend the press conference, but issued a statement saying he supports the measures and vows to work with fiscally conservative allies "to return financial discipline to the state budget."
From Rohrer:
"After six years of the governor's tax, borrow and spend initiatives, Pennsylvania faces a monumental budget deficit and a lagging economy. It's time to take the state checkbook and credit card out of the governor's hand. He has proven that, without a doubt, he cannot spend money better than the taxpayers of Pennsylvania."Topping the list of initiatives supported by Rohrer and other fiscally conservative House Republicans is repeal of Rendell's increase in the state Personal Income Tax (PIT).
When Rendell took office in January 2003, the state PIT was 2.8 percent. Later that year, he signed into law a bill that raised the state PIT to 3.07 percent.
"At a time when our economy is struggling, it is more important than ever to allow Pennsylvanians to keep more of what they earn," Rohrer said. "It's hard for families to pay their rent or mortgage, grocery bills, utility bills and other expenses when state government continues to take more and more out of their paychecks."
Other initiatives supported by Rohrer and his fiscally conservative allies would:
* Call for the enactment of a state budget that includes no new taxes, no new spending and no additional borrowing."We have outlined a plan that would put Pennsylvania taxpayers first," Rohrer said. "In a little more than a week, when the governor delivers his budget address, Pennsylvanians should ask themselves: Who is the governor putting first? Is he doing what's right for taxpayers, or is he looking out for the special interest crowd in Harrisburg and the people who make a living by feeding at the public trough?"
* Empower voters by allowing them to approve or reject local tax increases through a ballot referendum.
* Institute state spending limits to control government’s spending appetite.
* Repeal the law that calls for new tolls to be implemented across Interstate 80.
* Reduce welfare spending by 10 percent and use the money to pay for much-needed road and bridge improvement projects across the Commonwealth.
* Eliminate all state discretionary funding or "Walking Around Money (WAMS)."
* Enact a series of business tax reductions.
IRS is hiring in PA
With the unemployment rate climbing, the Internal Revenue Service has hundreds of job openings, including some in Pennsylvania.
From an IRS announcement released today:
From an IRS announcement released today:
IRS is Recruiting Hundreds of Revenue Officers
PHILADELPHIA - the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is seeking qualified Revenue Officer candidates for positions in the following IRS Office locations in Pennsylvania:
· Altoona
· Bethlehem
· Harrisburg
· Jenkintown
· Lancaster
· Philadelphia
· Scranton
Applicants must apply by February 20th; See www.usajobs.opm.gov for more information on how to apply.
Interested applicants must be a United States citizen and have a bachelor's degree (with superior academic achievement – 3.0 or higher overall or 3.5 or higher in major) or equivalent work experience or a combination of education and related work experience.
Examples of related work experience include:
¨ Reviewing individual/business financial condition, ability to pay debt
¨ Evaluating assets, equity and credit
¨ Collecting delinquent payments
¨ Establishing or operating a small business and/or administering a budget
¨ Counseling individuals on tax filing and paying obligations
¨ Dealing with various legal instruments (i.e.: leases, wills, deeds and trusts)
Revenue officers are trained in both tax law and collection techniques necessary for the collection of delinquent taxes and delinquent tax returns. Duties include conducting research, interviews, investigations and analysis of financial information for assigned cases, often at the taxpayer’s home or business. Revenue officers counsel taxpayers on their tax obligations and determine how they can best resolve their delinquencies, while also ensuring that their rights are protected.
Starting salary varies by geographic area based on costs of living adjustments and range between $38,177 - $44,976.
Individuals interested in a challenging career with excellent benefits, training and strong growth potential are encouraged to apply. Get the details at http://www.jobs.irs.gov/home.html. Application information is available at www.usajobs.opm.gov
Palin looks to 2012
Sarah Palin is here to stay.Much to the chagrin of the elite media that despises a strong female leader who espouses traditional America values, Gov. Palin has launched her own Political Action Committee.
The move could be a prelude to a presidential run in 2012 and it can also help the Alaska governor raise money for other conservative candidates.
Sarah Palin's Official PAC is dedicated to "to building America's future, supporting fresh ideas and candidates who share our vision for reform and innovation," according to the Web site.
More on the committee's mission:
SarahPAC believes America's best days are ahead. Our country, founded on conservative principles and the fight for freedom, must confront the challenges of the 21st century with integrity, innovation, and determination.Visitors can sign up for e-mail alerts, donate to the PAC or learn more about Palin.
SarahPAC believes energy independence is a cornerstone of the economic security and progress that every American family wants and deserves.
SarahPAC believes the Republican Party is at the threshold of an historic renaissance that will build a better future for all. Health care, education, and reform of government are among our key goals.
The Web site is http://www.sarahpac.com/
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
'Another mismanaged state government perk'
State workers and officials are driving around in 16,637 vehicles at a cost to the taxpayers of $73 million to buy, maintain, fuel and insure them.
A report by the Pennsylvania Auditor General questioning the state's management of its vehicle fleet has prompted calls by The Mercury for more accountability.
From an editorial in today's edition:
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
A report by the Pennsylvania Auditor General questioning the state's management of its vehicle fleet has prompted calls by The Mercury for more accountability.
From an editorial in today's edition:
This latest report offers an example of the damage that Harrisburg's culture of unmanaged spending on state government has wrought on the state coffers.Read the full editorial at the newspaper's Web site.
Wagner and state Attorney General Tom Corbett have been spearheading efforts to clean up the corruption and waste in Harrisburg, but there is still a long way to go.
Now is the time for the Legislature to begin reforming itself first and foremost and initiate a movement of trickle-down honesty, efficiency and watchful spending.
Imagine what the Commonwealth could become if an example of modest sacrifice and accountability came from the state Capitol.
Getting a firm grip on managing the state's fleet of vehicles is a good place to start.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Rep. Tim Hennessey issues statement on Coatesville fires
The following statement was released today by state Rep. Tim Hennessey, a Republican who represents the 26th State House District in Chester County. Hennessey's district includes Coatesville, which has been the scene of 30 arson incidents in the past year. The most recent fire consumed 15 homes late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.From Hennessey:
"I understand the combination of fear and anger that many people in our community are feeling. This string of intentionally set fires is robbing our families of the sense of security they demand and deserve. As community leaders and law enforcement personnel work together with local residents to catch the perpetrators, I ask everyone to remember that we are all on the same side in this battle against fear and injustice.
"I am personally committed to providing whatever assistance I can as a state lawmaker to our local leaders and law enforcement personnel. I am equally committed to working with the victims of these terrible incidents to acquire whatever assistance may be available through state programs and services.
"I ask local residents to join me in doing our own part to help combat this community-wide problem. Keep an eye out for suspicious behavior and alert local law enforcement officials by calling 610-636-0514 or the Citizens Crime Commission at 215-546-TIPS (215-546-8477) to report any information that may be helpful to their ongoing investigation.
"We are blessed to have brave local firefighters, who have repeatedly put their own safety on the line to battle these fires. I pray for their safety in doing their important work, and ask our community to follow their brave example of working together to combat a common enemy."
Conservative bloggers dominate 'Influence' rankings
Maybe it's a reaction to the far-left turn the country has taken, but it appears more blog readers are turning to conservative bloggers (at least in Pennsylvania) for information.
Eleven of the Top 20 Most Influential Political Blogs at www.blognetnews.com are conservative. And when you eliminate media-based blogs, there's only six hard-core lefties on this week's list.
* TONY PHYRILLAS (1)
* Pawatercooler.com (2)
* GrassrootsPA (3)
* Suburban Guerrilla (4)
* THE CENTRIST (5)
* Lehigh Valley Ramblings (5)
* Philebrity (7)
* Comments From Left Field (8)
* Pennsylvania Ave. (9)
* Capitol Ideas (10)
* Gunservatively! (10)
* Save The GOP (10)
* POLICY BLOG (13)
* Lehigh Valley Somebody (14)
* page13news (15)
* Capitol Punmanship (16)
* The Pennsylvania Progressive (17)
* The Bitter American (18)
* Philadelphia Will Do (19)
* Pro-Life PA by Sue Cirba (20)
Eleven of the Top 20 Most Influential Political Blogs at www.blognetnews.com are conservative. And when you eliminate media-based blogs, there's only six hard-core lefties on this week's list.
* TONY PHYRILLAS (1)
* Pawatercooler.com (2)
* GrassrootsPA (3)
* Suburban Guerrilla (4)
* THE CENTRIST (5)
* Lehigh Valley Ramblings (5)
* Philebrity (7)
* Comments From Left Field (8)
* Pennsylvania Ave. (9)
* Capitol Ideas (10)
* Gunservatively! (10)
* Save The GOP (10)
* POLICY BLOG (13)
* Lehigh Valley Somebody (14)
* page13news (15)
* Capitol Punmanship (16)
* The Pennsylvania Progressive (17)
* The Bitter American (18)
* Philadelphia Will Do (19)
* Pro-Life PA by Sue Cirba (20)
Property tax reform top priority for PA counties
The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, which represents all 67 counties in the Keystone State, has released its legislative priorities for 2009.As in previous years, topping the list of nine priorities is property tax reform.
The association, which bills itself as the voice of county government, says its legislative priorities cover a wide variety of issues, but carry a common theme: "Our communities' needs are many, and cutting funding for critical services at the state level does not automatically result in cost savings."
"Failure to adequately fund mandates, and thus passing responsibility to local taxpayers, shifts the tax burden but does not reduce it," says Jim Kennedy, a Butler County commissioner and president of the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania.
Property tax reform, which has eluded state lawmakers for more than 30 years, remains the No. 1 priority of county officials, Kennedy says.
"Counties continue to advocate options that will allow county elected officials to select fairer revenue sources, more compatible with local economic conditions, in return for a reduction in property taxes," Kennedy said. "As in previous years, our top priority is tax fairness. We will continue to call on the General Assembly to authorize optional local tax bases such as the sales tax or the personal income tax in return for a dollar-for-dollar reduction in property taxes. But tax fairness also includes measures that affect the tax base and how services are funded, and this is why we are advocating to restore the ability to assess oil and gas interests."
Here's the list of priorities released by the county officials:
1) Tax Fairness
2) Commonwealth Budget Issues
3) Court Administration/District Attorney Funding
4) Clean And Green
5) 911 Services
6) County Recycling Fee Authorization
7) Dedicated And Adequate Funding For Mass Transit, Local Roads And Bridges
8) Marcellus Shale
9) Mentally Ill Inmates/Specialty Courts
You can download an eight-page report with more details on each issue at the Association's Web site, http://www.pacounties.org/
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Pittsburgh Sees Economic Boost for Super Bowl Weekend
Imagine the impact on the state's economy if the Eagles hadn't chocked against the Cardinals.
Pittsburgh Sees Economic Boost for Super Bowl Weekend
Pittsburgh Sees Economic Boost for Super Bowl Weekend
Newspaper: Rendell is 'despicable'
You know I'm going to enjoy any editorial that begins with the words: 'The swaggering arrogance of Gov. Ed Rendell' ... and The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review doesn't disappoint with a commentary on Rendell's sweetheart deal for ousted state Rep. Dan Surra.
Surra, a longtime Rendell ally, was tossed out by the voters in Elk and Clearfield counties in November, but wasn't out of work for long. He entered the Politician Protection Program. Despite a hiring freeze imposed by Gov. Rendell himself, the gov found a job for Surra, who is now helping promote tourism at an annual salary of $95,000.
From the Tribune-Review editorial:
Surra, a longtime Rendell ally, was tossed out by the voters in Elk and Clearfield counties in November, but wasn't out of work for long. He entered the Politician Protection Program. Despite a hiring freeze imposed by Gov. Rendell himself, the gov found a job for Surra, who is now helping promote tourism at an annual salary of $95,000.
From the Tribune-Review editorial:
Fast Eddie said his hiring freeze didn't apply to him since he granted himself exceptions. He also told reporters to "get off your butts" and go up to a state woodlands area to ask the people there about Mr. Surra.Read the full editorial at the newspaper's Web site.
Such imperiousness as Pennsylvania faces a $2.3 billion budget deficit, layoffs of state workers and possible tax increases is despicable.
Surra had been the House Democratic Caucus administrator. And as Rep. Mike Turzai, R-Bradford Woods, reminds, Surra voted for the 2005 legislative pay-jacking, to increase taxes and for Rendell's bloated budgets.
Monday, January 26, 2009
PA DEP Lifts Drought Watch in 29 Counties
The affected counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Tioga, Venango, Warren, Washington, and Westmoreland counties.
PA DEP Lifts Drought Watch in 29 Counties
PA DEP Lifts Drought Watch in 29 Counties
PA offers tax credit for volunteer emergency workers
By Sen. John C. Rafferty Jr.Under the Volunteer Retention and Recruitment Tax Credit -- Act 66 of 2008 -- volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance workers may receive a tax credit for active service.
The provision, which was included in the 2008-09 state budget, provides a $100 credit against state personal income tax liabilities for volunteer fire and emergency medical service workers for the 2008 tax year.
As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I voted to move this measure to the full Senate which then passed it. More than 90 percent of municipalities in Pennsylvania rely on volunteer firefighters and first responders and it is hoped that this will help with recruitment and retention of our important emergency first responders.
A comprehensive report prepared by a bi-partisan group of legislatures, local government officials and emergency response representatives listed the top priorities and what legislative action needed to be taken.
With so many fire companies losing members, the number one priority was retention and recruitment strategies. In the last 25 years, the number of volunteer firefighters has dropped by more than half, from more than 150,000 to less than 70,000 today. We need to do something to keep them.
It is vital that Pennsylvania play a larger role in maintaining the viability of volunteer emergency service organizations. According to a Pennsylvania Fire and Emergency Services study, the value of services provided by our volunteer first responders is estimated at $6 billion. Without these dedicated volunteers, the cost to the Pennsylvania taxpayers for firefighters' salaries and benefits would be staggering. The cost of funding a tax credit for first responders is nowhere near that figure.
Pennsylvania's volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance personnel may qualify based on activities performed between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2008. Applicants must be designated as "active volunteers" based on a point system prepared by the State Fire Commissioner and EMS Director.
Volunteers must earn a minimum of 50 points during the calendar year to be eligible for the tax credit. Points are accumulated based on response rates, attendance at training courses and meetings, sleep-in and standby times and holding elected and appointed positions, as well as for lifetime memberships and certifications, military leave and related administrative and support activities.
SB 1314 originally called for $100 tax credit in 2009, increasing each year by $100 until it reached $500 a year; it would be retained each year thereafter. But before the final budget was passed, it became a one-year tax credit, moved up to the current tax year and put into the tax reform code.
This is an important first step, but must once again be addressed in the legislature this session. In fact, work already is underway to re-introduce a fire tax credit package to include tuition credits at state-owned universities and community colleges and for employers of first responders.
These first responders are the backbone of the community and deserve something for their hard work and service.
The money situation trimmed this to a one-year tax credit this year. But even this was extremely important since it marked the first time there has ever been a tax credit for first responders.
This was precedent-setting and the Senate felt it vital to get the tax credit on the books, even if only for one year, and then with it in place, come back this session and get a permanent package in place.
Eligible volunteers must file a PA-40 Schedule OC-V form along with their 2008 State Personal Income Tax Return to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. The Department of Revenue posted the OC-V tax form on their Web site (www.revenue.state.pa.us) along with the other 2008 tax documents. The form can also be obtained by calling the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue at 1-800-363-2050.
The deadline is April 15, but with limited funding, qualified first responders should apply as soon as possible.
My deepest gratitude to all our first responders. Thank you.
State Sen. John C. Rafferty Jr. is a Republican who represents the 44th Senate District in Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties.
Democrats try to undo legislative reforms
Emboldened by their five-seat majority in the state House of Representatives, Democratic Party leaders are moving quickly to undo many of the legislative reforms enacted in Harrisburg over the past two years.DemocracyRisingPA, the reform watchdog group, has issued an "urgent alert" warning that "when the House resumes session on Tuesday, the Democratic majority will propose new rules that will turn back the clock to the bad old days of the Pay Raise of 2005, the slots gambling law and other stealth lawmaking. A summary - not an actual draft - began circulating in the Capitol at the end of last week, but it is not available to the public on the House web site. Members of the 2007 Speaker's Commission on Legislative Reform received a briefing on the changes last Wednesday, according to House sources."
Citizens and media who want to know how their representatives plan to vote and why will have to act fast, DemocracyRisingPA says. "Although the current temporary House rules don't expire until February 6, Democratic leaders plan to rush the new rules to a vote on Tuesday. If House Democrats have their way, it may be the last time citizens are able to ask such questions about any important legislation before it's too late," DemocracyRisingPA says on its Web site.
From the DemocracyRisingPA post:
The Bottom LineRead more and learn how you can fight the effort to turn back the reform movement at the DemocracyRisingPA Web site.
The Democrats' proposals will make it much harder for citizens to know what their government is doing in time to express their opinion either for or against proposed laws. They would repeal reforms adopted with great fanfare just two years ago through the Speaker's Commission on Legislative Reform. Among dozens of proposals, House Democrats propose to:
* Render meaningless the rule requiring the House to stop session at 11:00 p.m. unless three-fourths of the members vote to continue.
* Repeal the rule allowing citizens and their representatives at least 24 hours to see amendments before voting on them, at least 24 hours to consider bills after their last amendment, and at least 24 hours before a vote on a report by a conference committee. Conference committee reports, such as every budget and the Pay Raise of 2005, are often the most complicated, controversial and important laws proposed in any session. As in the past, the proposal would allow action after as little as six hours.
* Repeal the rule prohibiting the Rules Committee from amending bills after they have been considered by another committee.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Rendell is sounding like a Republican
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I have this image in my head of Gov. Ed Rendell, dressed in leather bondage gear and carrying a whip, preparing to go medieval on Pennsylvania taxpayers. I may need professional counseling to get over this.Rendell proclaimed Thursday at a news conference "there will be universal pain" because the state is facing a $2.3 billion budget deficit.
This is the same governor who last July was getting high-fives from legislators after they agreed on a $28.3 billion spending plan for the 2008-09 fiscal year.
Despite warnings from a handful of Republican lawmakers and the state's leading think tanks that the budget would soon drown in red ink, Rendell and the Legislature stuck their heads in the sand ... and then went on vacation.
Estimates the current budget will likely end up $2.3 billion in the red are amazing considering that just one week ago, Rendell said the deficit would likely top off at $1.9 billion. And that projection came a few weeks after Rendell said the deficit would max out at $1.6 billion. This guy needs to get a better calculator.
Rendell's plan for digging out of the massive hole he put us in is to ask the Legislature to give back most of the $200 million slush fund it siphoned from the state treasury in recent years, laying off state workers and waiting for Barack Obama to bail the state out with a few billion dollars he has laying around.
But this would stop the bleeding only for the 2008-09 fiscal year, which ends June 30. The 2009-10 budget would start off with that very same $2.3 billion deficit that has to be made up with deeper spending cuts or raising taxes.
This is the culmination of Rendell's failed fiscal policies over the past six years. He has increased state spending by nearly $8 billion, borrowed billions more and has nothing to show for all that spending except a fiscal crisis not seen in this state in decades.
"There will be some layoffs and there will be universal pain," Rendell said at the news conference. "I don't want to hear whining. I think everyone has to tighten the belts."
Tough talk from a tax-and-spend liberal who squandered $8 billion since taking office in 2003. Imagine if Ed Spendell had returned that money to Pennsylvania taxpayers and businesses instead of handing most of it out to political cronies.
Imagine if Rendell hadn't screwed up the awarding of casino licenses that could have brought significantly more revenue into state coffers. Instead of offering the state's slot parlor licenses to the highest bidder, Rendell's gaming commission awarded the contracts at a fixed price to casino operators, shortchanging the state by hundreds of millions of dollars.
Imagine if Rendell hadn't awarded more than $1 billion in no-bid contracts to lobbyists and politically-connected firms. Just imagine if the Legislature had the backbone to stand up to Rendell's out-of-control spending.
Rendell is sounding like a Republican these days. He actually used the term "zero-growth budget" when asked about the 2009-10 budget. Conservative Republicans have been pushing for "zero-growth" budgets for years, but Rendell and House Democrats have ignored their pleas.
When asked about cutting state programs, many of which he created, Rendell said: "Some of them deserve to be eliminated and probably should be eliminated forever."
Who is this man and what have they done with the real Ed Rendell?
Rendell ruled out an increase in the state income tax, unless the Legislature wants to raise taxes. Yeah, right. All 203 members of the House face the voters every two years. Half the Senate is up for re-election in 2010.
How many incumbents will stick their political necks out and vote to raise taxes? Rendell has two years left in his term and has said he will not run for political office again.
"The Legislature could pass one, but I am not going to submit a budget on Feb. 4 that has a broad-based tax increase in it," Rendell said.
I never thought I'd live to see the day Rendell would say he won't try to raise taxes.
As for getting the Legislature to hand over its $200 million slush fund, good luck with that. Don't forget the Legislature has also set aside $750 million in a rainy day fund. Lawmakers are more likely to tap into the rainy day fund than give up money they control.
Harrisburg insiders defend the leadership accounts as a hedge against tough times when the governor might squeeze lawmakers to get what he wants. Welcome to those tough times.
A spokesman for House Minority Leader Sam Smith, R-Jefferson, told The Associated Press that the Legislature needs to keep a four-to-six-month reserve to maintain its independence. "Beyond that, we are willing to turn over, to turn back" the unspent funds, spokesman Steve Miskin said.
Rendell might twist enough arms to get the Legislature to hand over some of the money but don't bet on lawmakers giving the entire $200 million back, especially with the state Senate solidly in Republican hands for the next two years.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Columnist: Lessons from Reagan
Washington Times columnist Diana West is troubled by President Obama's demand for $850 billion in new federal spending to get the U.S. economy moving again.
There's no evidence that massive government spending will boost the economy, West argues. And have we forgotten already how the $750 billion "bailout" Congress approved last fall has failed miserably?
From her latest column:
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
There's no evidence that massive government spending will boost the economy, West argues. And have we forgotten already how the $750 billion "bailout" Congress approved last fall has failed miserably?
From her latest column:
I found myself wondering how Ronald Reagan, entering office in 1981 with high inflation (12 percent) and unemployment (7.5 percent) higher than today (7.2 percent), and a contracting GDP approached hard times. In what turned out to be his first inaugural address, he, too, used the word "crisis" to describe "the economic ills" Americans were suffering. Noting that these ills were a long time coming and wouldn't go away "in days, weeks or months," he said: "But they will go away. They will go away because we, as Americans, have the capacity now, as we have had in the past, to do whatever needs to be done to preserve this last and greatest bastion of freedom."Read the full column at The Pottstown Mercury Web site.
"In this present crisis," he continued, "government is not the solution to our problem."
There's a twist. In this present crisis, according to the Obama administration and its stimulus-package trillions, government isn't just the solution, it's our only hope.
That's change for you.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Dems ruin it for 'classical liberals'
John Stossel, the co-host of ABC's "20/20" and a newspaper columnist, considers himself a "classical liberal."
Unfortunately, far-left Democrats have usurped the liberal political philosophy and mangled into something unrecognizable to "classical liberals" like Stossel.
"Liberals don't want you to have the choice of owning a handgun, a big car or keeping your own money so you can use it as you see fit," Stossel writes. "Liberals want to restrict our choices."
Things are going to get a lot worse now that the far left controls both the White House and Congress.
Stossel writes:
Read the full column, "Choice from the liberal side of life," here.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Unfortunately, far-left Democrats have usurped the liberal political philosophy and mangled into something unrecognizable to "classical liberals" like Stossel.
"Liberals don't want you to have the choice of owning a handgun, a big car or keeping your own money so you can use it as you see fit," Stossel writes. "Liberals want to restrict our choices."
Things are going to get a lot worse now that the far left controls both the White House and Congress.
Stossel writes:
Liberal senators like Dick Durbin, John Kerry and Charles Schumer want speech limited further by the "fairness doctrine." Fairness here means depriving people of the choice of all-conservative radio.Stossel's definition of a classical liberal: "I believe people should have the freedom to do anything that is peaceful. That's truly liberal. I want the word back."
And what's more liberal than voluntary exchange between consenting adults? Free trade lets everyone in the world find the best buys, no matter where they are. It gives us more things for less money. Even Paul Krugman supports free trade. But liberals don't want to allow buyers and sellers to make their own choices. Liberals want trade curtailed.
Read the full column, "Choice from the liberal side of life," here.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Democratic school board member cited for assaulting Republican board member
A Democratic member of the Reading School Board allegedly assaulted a Republican school board member after the pair got into a heated discussion at a meeting.
School Board member Pierre V. Cooper was cited Friday by police for allegedly scuffling with board member Keith R. Stamm during an argument over a proposal to replace the high school principal, according to the Reading Eagle.
Stamm is one of only two Republicans on the nine-member school board.
The newspaper failed to mention Cooper was a Democrat. Do you think the newspaper would have mentioned it if a Republican assaulted a Democrat? I guess in the Age of Obama and under one-party rule in the United States, Democrats can do what they want without consequences.
Stamm was treated for injuries at a nearby hospital. He told the newspaper that he is exploring whether Cooper can be removed from the board. Stamm said he also wants Cooper to compensate him for missing work and for hospital and ambulance bills, according to the newspaper.
Read the full story at the newspaper's Web site.
For another perspective, check out the Berks Conservative blog.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
School Board member Pierre V. Cooper was cited Friday by police for allegedly scuffling with board member Keith R. Stamm during an argument over a proposal to replace the high school principal, according to the Reading Eagle.
Stamm is one of only two Republicans on the nine-member school board.
The newspaper failed to mention Cooper was a Democrat. Do you think the newspaper would have mentioned it if a Republican assaulted a Democrat? I guess in the Age of Obama and under one-party rule in the United States, Democrats can do what they want without consequences.
Stamm was treated for injuries at a nearby hospital. He told the newspaper that he is exploring whether Cooper can be removed from the board. Stamm said he also wants Cooper to compensate him for missing work and for hospital and ambulance bills, according to the newspaper.
Read the full story at the newspaper's Web site.
For another perspective, check out the Berks Conservative blog.
Originally posted at TONY PHYRILLAS
State Capitol Roundup
Here's this week's State Capitol Roundup courtesy of Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147):
Task Force to Hold Hearings on Performance-Based Budgeting, Tax Reform
Upon news by the Rendell administration Thursday that the state deficit could reach as much as $2.3 billion by the end of the fiscal year in June, the House Republican Policy Committee's Budget and Economic Policy Task Force, of which Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147th) is an appointed member, will hold two hearings next week, with the discussion Wednesday on performance-based budgeting, a strategy used to prioritize funding for proven programs with solid results. Thursday's hearing will focus on the governor's 2004 Business Tax Reform Commission's recommendations. The commission developed ways to make business taxes fairer, simpler and more competitive with other states in order to attract business and industry and create family-sustaining jobs in Pennsylvania. During this year's budget process, House Republicans are committed to finding ways to reduce the deficit while keeping taxes at current levels for Pennsylvania's working families. For more information on the hearings, visit PAHouseGOP.com
Blues Call Off Merger of Health Insurance Giants
Reacting to a report that the Pennsylvania insurance commissioner would deny a plan by Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross - two of the state's largest health insurance providers - to merge, the Blues companies Wednesday called off their plans and withdrew their application to consolidate. The merger has been the focus of public hearings by the House and Senate insurance committees. Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147th) will continue his position on the House Insurance Committee throughout the 2009-2010 Session. Since the proposal was announced in 2007, House Republicans raised numerous concerns that the merger of the two giants would reduce competition in a market where health insurance premiums are continually increasing. If the merger had been approved by the state, the combined entity would have been the state's largest health insurance company. House Republicans are continuing their commitment this session to developing ways to make health care more accessible and affordable through marketplace competition.
Legislative Plan to Invite Citizens to Invest in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania citizens wishing to invest in Pennsylvania would be able to do so under legislation being sponsored by Rep. Scott Petri (R-Bucks). Under the proposal, residents would be able to purchase "Energy Independence Bonds" for energy infrastructure improvements that will provide cleaner, less expensive electricity, and Keystone Infrastructure Improvement Bonds (KIIB) to address needed improvements to the state's roads, highways, bridges, dams, and water and sewer systems. The bonds, which would be sold in $100 increments and carry a guaranteed rate of return, would provide citizens an opportunity to invest in Pennsylvania, create jobs and improve the state's infrastructure. The investment plan would be similar to the U.S. Savings Bond program.
Task Force to Hold Hearings on Performance-Based Budgeting, Tax Reform
Upon news by the Rendell administration Thursday that the state deficit could reach as much as $2.3 billion by the end of the fiscal year in June, the House Republican Policy Committee's Budget and Economic Policy Task Force, of which Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147th) is an appointed member, will hold two hearings next week, with the discussion Wednesday on performance-based budgeting, a strategy used to prioritize funding for proven programs with solid results. Thursday's hearing will focus on the governor's 2004 Business Tax Reform Commission's recommendations. The commission developed ways to make business taxes fairer, simpler and more competitive with other states in order to attract business and industry and create family-sustaining jobs in Pennsylvania. During this year's budget process, House Republicans are committed to finding ways to reduce the deficit while keeping taxes at current levels for Pennsylvania's working families. For more information on the hearings, visit PAHouseGOP.com
Blues Call Off Merger of Health Insurance Giants
Reacting to a report that the Pennsylvania insurance commissioner would deny a plan by Highmark Inc. and Independence Blue Cross - two of the state's largest health insurance providers - to merge, the Blues companies Wednesday called off their plans and withdrew their application to consolidate. The merger has been the focus of public hearings by the House and Senate insurance committees. Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147th) will continue his position on the House Insurance Committee throughout the 2009-2010 Session. Since the proposal was announced in 2007, House Republicans raised numerous concerns that the merger of the two giants would reduce competition in a market where health insurance premiums are continually increasing. If the merger had been approved by the state, the combined entity would have been the state's largest health insurance company. House Republicans are continuing their commitment this session to developing ways to make health care more accessible and affordable through marketplace competition.
Legislative Plan to Invite Citizens to Invest in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania citizens wishing to invest in Pennsylvania would be able to do so under legislation being sponsored by Rep. Scott Petri (R-Bucks). Under the proposal, residents would be able to purchase "Energy Independence Bonds" for energy infrastructure improvements that will provide cleaner, less expensive electricity, and Keystone Infrastructure Improvement Bonds (KIIB) to address needed improvements to the state's roads, highways, bridges, dams, and water and sewer systems. The bonds, which would be sold in $100 increments and carry a guaranteed rate of return, would provide citizens an opportunity to invest in Pennsylvania, create jobs and improve the state's infrastructure. The investment plan would be similar to the U.S. Savings Bond program.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Media ignores pro-life march again
Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council has a good point about the mainstream media ignoring pro-life events, such as the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C., where 200,000 Americans protested abortion-on-demand.
From Perkins:
From Perkins:
The media considers a dozen war protesters newsworthy, but why not 200,000 pro-life witnesses? As those of you who have visited Washington, D.C. on January 22 know, the tradition of the press ignoring America's biggest pro-life event is almost as old as the March itself. Over the years, the scant coverage hasn't deterred us. Instead, we have banded together to find new ways around it. One of the most popular vehicles has been the rise of the conservative blog.For more on the March for Life, check out this story in the Washington Times.
Today, FRC hosted a power-packed line-up of the who's who in the online pro-life community, many of whom are changing the face of the abortion debate over the heads of the "mainstream" media. Along with a standing-room-only crowd, the fourth annual Blogs for Life conference attracted some key Hill leaders, including speakers Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kans.) and Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wa). It was also the subject of a feature article in today's Washington Times.
Speaking of making a difference, a core group of Republican members marked the anniversary of Roe v. Wade by making pro-life speeches in the House chamber last night. We applaud them for remaining faithful to their convictions and representing the majority of Americans who believe that our inalienable rights include the right to life.
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