Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Give PA voters a say on school taxes
Why are school property taxes so high in Pennsylvania?
Nathan Benefield of The Commonwealth Foundation has a theory:
Read the full column at the link below:
Give voters a say on school taxes - pottsmerc.com
Nathan Benefield of The Commonwealth Foundation has a theory:
Every state in the nation limits the ability of school boards to raise property taxes. Eleven states don't give school boards taxing authority; 36 states require voter referendum on school budgets, property tax increases or all bond issues; and three states without referenda place a cap on school taxes. Pennsylvania counts among those with a referendum requirement — but our law is a toothless tiger that has become "referendum in name only."The ideal solution would be the elimination of school property taxes in Pennsylvania. Short of that, the voters should get the final say on taxes.
Read the full column at the link below:
Give voters a say on school taxes - pottsmerc.com
Sunday, June 26, 2011
'Cars 2' revs up weekend box office
Critics be damned.Despite terrible reviews for its latest offering, Disney Pixas showed it can still set box-office records.
"Cars 2" dominated the weekend at U.S. movie theaters with an estimate haul of $68 million.
The question is whether the film has legs (or wheels) with word-of-mouth expected to be mediocre.
Here's Brandon Gray's analysis from BoxOfficeMojo.com
Pixar's reliability was on display again with the roll-out of Cars 2. The manufacturer's latest model generated its 12th No. 1 opening in a row with an estimated $68 million over the weekend. Moviegoers were also hot for Bad Teacher as well, but Green Lantern flamed out.
Riding on approximately 7,700 screens at 4,115 locations, Cars 2 delivered the fourth highest-grossing June opening weekend ever and the fifth highest-grossing opening weekend yet for a Pixar movie, behind Toy Story 3's $110.3 million, The Incredibles' $70.5 million, Finding Nemo's $70.3 million and Up's $68.1 million. The talking car sequel out-grossed the first Cars' $60.1 million opening weekend from June 2006, but trailed it in terms of estimated attendance. Cars 2's weekend was towards the back of the Pixar attendance pack, ahead of only A Bug's Life, Ratatouille and Toy Story.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Columnist finds a conservative in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Daily News columnist Stu Bykofsky does a half-decent job of profiling conservative blogger Aaron Proctor, whose Philly Decline blog focuses on the one-party rule (Democrats, of course) that has destroyed one of America's great cities.
Check out the article at the newspaper's website.
And check out Proctor's blog at Philly Decline.
Check out the article at the newspaper's website.
And check out Proctor's blog at Philly Decline.
Take that, Al Gore
Best comment from today's Sound Off column in The Mercury:
We are fortunate to have lived through a 30-year spell of unusually agreeable weather and now they get hysterical over every weather event. Like our ancient ancestors we superstitiously believe that our behavior is responsible for bad weather. If you think we are a bunch of weak-minded fools, you are correct.
CBO: Obama stimulus almost doubled U.S. debt
What do you get when you double the U.S. debt but fail to create the jobs you promised? One-term in office.
From The Washington Examiner:
From The Washington Examiner:
A new report from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) finds that President Obama's economic stimulus program helped nearly double U.S. debt.Read the full story here.
The 2011 Long-Term Budget Outlook, released Wednesday morning, reports that the "the combination of automatic budgetary responses" and Obama's stimulus "had a profound impact on the federal budget." According to CBO projections, before Obama's stimulus became law, federal debt equaled 36 percent of GDP and was projected to decline slightly over the next few years. Instead, thanks in large part to the stimulus, debt reached 62 percent of GDP by 2010.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Poll: Americans Believe Reporters Push Liberal Agenda
For all those reporters out there pretending they're not putting a liberal spin in their coverage, the American public is on to you.
From Rasmussen Reports:
From Rasmussen Reports:
Voters still think most reporters are politically biased and tend to view them as more liberal than they are.46% Say Average Reporter Is More Liberal Than They Are
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 67% of Likely U.S. Voters believe that most reporters, when covering a politician campaign, try to help the candidate they want to win. Only 21% think most reporters put the emphasis instead on trying to offer unbiased coverage. Twelve percent (12%) are not sure.
A plurality (46%) of voters continues to feel that the average reporter is more liberal than they are. Eighteen percent (18%) say the average reporter is more conservative than they are, while 22% think their views are about the same. Fourteen percent (14%) are undecided.
PA Congressional Dems Support Illegal War Against Libya
Liberal hypocrisy at its finest. Some of the very same Congressional Democrats who criticized President Bush now turn a blind eye to Barack Obama's illegal war in Libya.
From The Associated Press:
House Roll Call: on use of force in Libya
WASHINGTON — The 295-123 roll call Friday by which the House rejected a resolution authorizing the limited use of force in support of the NATO mission in Libya. A "yes" vote is a vote to pass the resolution.
Voting yes were 115 Democrats and 8 Republicans.
Voting no were 70 Democrats and 225 Republicans.
From The Associated Press:
House Roll Call: on use of force in Libya
WASHINGTON — The 295-123 roll call Friday by which the House rejected a resolution authorizing the limited use of force in support of the NATO mission in Libya. A "yes" vote is a vote to pass the resolution.
Voting yes were 115 Democrats and 8 Republicans.
Voting no were 70 Democrats and 225 Republicans.
PENNSYLVANIA
Democrats — Altmire, Y; Brady, Y; Critz, Y; Doyle, Y; Fattah, Y; Holden, Y; Schwartz, Y.
Republicans — Barletta, N; Dent, Y; Fitzpatrick, N; Gerlach, N; Kelly, N; Marino, N; Meehan, N; Murphy, N; Pitts, N; Platts, N; Shuster, N; Thompson, N.
Gov. Corbett Signs Two Bills
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett signed two bills today.
House Bill 442 prohibits private transfer fees for real estate transactions in the state.
Senate Bill 274 allows the Pennsylvania Game Commission to establish regulations fostering youth hunting and allows exemptions for some youth hunting activities.
Governor Corbett Signs Two Bills
House Bill 442 prohibits private transfer fees for real estate transactions in the state.
Senate Bill 274 allows the Pennsylvania Game Commission to establish regulations fostering youth hunting and allows exemptions for some youth hunting activities.
Governor Corbett Signs Two Bills
Obama in Pittsburgh: One Year Later
The Republican Party of Pennsylvania released a web video today called "One Year Later" regarding President Obama's visit to Pittsburgh.
PA GOP Chairman Rob Gleason issued the following statement:
"Nearly one year ago, President Obama spoke at Carnegie Mellon University to defend his administration's poor handling of the economy. We took to the streets and found that with high unemployment and gas at nearly $4 a gallon, Pittsburgh residents don't believe that the economy has gone in right direction since President Obama took office. It's becoming clearer every day: President Obama can't keep his job if millions of Americans continue to lose theirs," Chairman Rob Gleason said.According to a poll conducted in June of 2011 by Pennsylvania-based Susquehanna Polling and Research, 48% of Pennsylvania voters disapprove of the job that President Obama is doing versus only 41% who approve. 50% believe that it's time to give a new person a chance, versus only 44% who say that Obama should be reelected.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Tom Quigley vs. Bernard Hopkins
It's crunch time in Harrisburg as the Pennsylvania Legislature works to meet the June 30 deadline for completing the 2010-11 budget, but there's always down time in the Legislature as the rank-and-file members wait for direction from the leadership.
During a break, State Rep. Tom Quigley, R-146th Dist., mugs for the camera with Light Heavyweight World Champion Bernard Hopkins, who was visiting the state Capitol this week.
Hopkins, a Philadelphia native, was honored by the House and Senate for his boxing achievements and community activities. The 46-year-old boxing legend recently won the WBC Light Heavyweight World Championship, becoming the oldest fighter in boxing history to win a world title.
CBO Releases Daunting Long-Term Outlook: Obama Will Bankrupt U.S.
The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has reached a verdict on Obamanomics. If we continue down the path Obama has set, we will end up like Greece, bankrupt, with rioting in the streets when the money runs out to pay the people who believe the government exists to take care of them.
NationalJournal.com - CBO Releases Daunting Long-Term Outlook
NationalJournal.com - CBO Releases Daunting Long-Term Outlook
Columnist: Obama's foolish legal approach to Libya
Liberal columnist Ruth Marcus of The Washington Post calls out Obama on his illegal war in Libya.
Obama's foolish legal approach to Libya - pottsmerc.com
Obama's foolish legal approach to Libya - pottsmerc.com
Taxes: Study - $1,400 Tax Hike Needed to Fund U.S. Pensions
How would you like to pay an additional $1,400 a year in taxes so public sector employees can enjoy lifetime pensions?
Taxes: Study-$1400 Tax Hike Needed to Fund US Pensions - CNBC
Taxes: Study-$1400 Tax Hike Needed to Fund US Pensions - CNBC
Julia Hearthway confirmed as PA Labor Secretary
Pottstown attorney Julia K. Hearthway has been confirmed by the state Senate as Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
See earlier story about Hearthway's nomination in The Mercury.
Governor Corbett Announces Senate Confirmations
See earlier story about Hearthway's nomination in The Mercury.
Governor Corbett Announces Senate Confirmations
Sen. Toomey's Judiciary Committee Testimony
Sen. Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) introduced three nominees for the federal bench in Pennsylvania today at their Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing. Sen. Toomey was joined by Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) in welcoming Robert D. Mariani, nominee for U.S. district judge for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, and Cathy Bissoon and Mark R. Hornack, nominees for U.S. district judges for the Western District of Pennsylvania.
Under Obama, U.S. Casualty Rate in Afghanistan Increased 5-Fold
The state-run Obama media remains silent.
Under Obama, U.S. Casualty Rate in Afghanistan Increased 5-Fold | CNSnews.com
Under Obama, U.S. Casualty Rate in Afghanistan Increased 5-Fold | CNSnews.com
Obama's Big Lie
Barack Obama claims he created 2.1 million jobs since taking office. Economists say the U.S. has lost more than 2 million private sector since Obama took office, according to Investor's Business Daily, one of the nation's leading business publications. Would Obama lie?
Investor's Business Daily: Fudging The Jobs Data - Investors.com
Investor's Business Daily: Fudging The Jobs Data - Investors.com
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
The Picture Darkens For Economy, Obama, Democrats
The Congressional Budget Office Long-Term Budget Outlook offers alarming projections for the nation's future under Barack Obamaa, according to Investor's Business Daily.
From a new IBD editorial:
From a new IBD editorial:
For some Democrats, it's become an article of faith that our budget crisis isn't serious enough to require major entitlement reforms. A new report from Congress' nonpartisan budget think-tank shatters that delusion.Editorial: The Picture Darkens - Investors.com
Quote of the Day
Why do I think of Barack Obama when I read this quote?
"We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive."
— C.S. Lewis
"We all want progress, but if you're on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road; in that case, the man who turns back soonest is the most progressive."
— C.S. Lewis
Contractor couple accused of stealing $96K from Berks homeowners
A husband-and-wife contractor team has been charged by Berks County authorities with defrauding homeowners of more than $96,000.
Contractor couple accused of stealing $96K from Berks homeowners - pottsmerc.com
Contractor couple accused of stealing $96K from Berks homeowners - pottsmerc.com
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Quigley Bill Gets Tough on Retail Theft
The Pennsylvania House Judiciary Committee today unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Rep. Tom Quigley (R-Montgomery) that would grade repeat violations of retail theft with greater severity for individuals who have completed an Accelerated Rehabilitation Program (ARD).The Republican lawmaker said the legislation was prompted by repeated arrests for retail theft at the Philadelphia Premium Outlets in Limerick, which is part of Quigley's 146th Legislative District.
"The ARD program is valuable for individuals who made a one-time mistake, but completion of the program should still be considered as a first offense if an offender shows repeated contempt for the law," Quigley said in a press release. "Retail theft is not a victimless crime. Businesses lose billions of dollars annually to retail theft, and it’s the paying customers who absorb those costs."
Quigley said his legislation is in reaction to the case of Commonwealth v. Graeff, in which the Pennsylvania Superior Court ruled that because the definition of second offense in the retail theft statute did not include participation in ARD, a subsequent offense must be considered another first offense.
House Bill 1603 would correct this multiple first offense loophole, allowing prosecutors to charge defendants who participated in ARD but continue to break Pennsylvania’s retail theft law with a second-degree misdemeanor, Quigley said.
Quigley noted that this is consistent with how Pennsylvania treats DUI offenses, where second and subsequent offenses recognize completion of ARD as a first offense.
Limerick Township Police Chief William J. Albany supports Quigley's bill.
"This is an important bill that closes a loophole in the law which allows second-time retail theft offenders to receive a more lenient sentence reserved for first-time offenders," Albany said. "I would like to thank Rep. Quigley for the expeditious manner in which he addressed this issue after it was brought to his attention by Limerick Township police detectives."
The bill now goes before the full House for debate and consideration, according to Quigley.
Red Skelton's Pledge of Allegiance
A dedication to the NBC staffer who decided to edit the words "under God, indivisible" out of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Your daily dose of liberal media bias
Why are American taxpayers funding left-wing propaganda on NPR?
NPR Host Laughably Claims That 'Taliban Has Never Been an Enemy of the United States' | NewsBusters.org
NPR Host Laughably Claims That 'Taliban Has Never Been an Enemy of the United States' | NewsBusters.org
Dems Should Have Read It Before They Passed It
Taxpayers can save $450 billion if Obamacare is repealed today.
So can we make it official now and say repeal of Obamacare saves money? | David Freddoso | Beltway Confidential | Washington Examiner
So can we make it official now and say repeal of Obamacare saves money? | David Freddoso | Beltway Confidential | Washington Examiner
The Dick Morris Poll: Gov. Rick Perry Weak in GOP Field
Considering he's not even an announced candidate, Texas Gov. Rick Perry scored higher than Tim Pawlenty, Rick Santorum and Jon Huntsman in this poll.
The Dick Morris Poll: Perry Weak in GOP Field
The Dick Morris Poll: Perry Weak in GOP Field
Groundwater monitoring program introduced by Montgomery County
The Montgomery County Health Department has unveiled a new groundwater monitoring program that officials say "will be instrumental in assessing water quantity trends locally, thereby allowing for county issuance of preliminary drought status instead of waiting for official state declarations."
From a Health Department press release:
From a Health Department press release:
In the past, several county-wide drought emergencies emphasized the impact water quantity has on the health and welfare of county residents. Therefore, the Division of Water Quality Management (WQM) worked in collaboration with the United States Geological Service (USGS) to plan, develop and implement a groundwater monitoring program throughout the county.
Data collection for the program began in 2005 and includes a network of nineteen (19) wells located on both public and private properties. The selected wells currently are not in use or impacted by large groundwater withdrawals and are monitored by WQM staff monthly.
The results collected from wells participating at least five years in the program are currently available for review on the MCHD website at http://health.montcopa.org in the Programs section.
The results will assist WQM staff in developing localized drought status levels such as Watch, Warning and Emergency during times of extended low precipitation and will allow them to offer recommendations for residents to reduce non-essential water use.
For questions regarding the program, please contact Kyle Schmeck at 610-278-5117 X6725.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Extreme Makeover: Tony Phyrillas Edition
No, you haven't stumbled onto some strange alternate universe. This is still my blog. I got tired of the last template and decided to go for a new look. What do you think? I stuck with my first template for years, then switched to the one with the blue background last year. But I got tired of that one. So here's my new one, which also pays tribute to my love of books. I love being around books. I love libraries and my study at home is surrounded by books.
It's Official: Hope and Change Fail
The people who overwhelming supported Barack Obama's presidency are the ones overwhelmingly suffering from Barack Obama's presidency. Check out this post at Bluegrass Pundit:
Hope and Change Fail: Unemployment Rate Among Blacks At Depression-Era Levels…
Hope and Change Fail: Unemployment Rate Among Blacks At Depression-Era Levels…
Never Bet Against The House
Pennsylvania casinos are raking in the dough. Too bad Pennsylvania taxpayers are not getting much benefit under former Gov. Ed Rendell's gambling schemes.
Total Table Games Revenue Exceeds $50 Million for Third Consecutive Month
Total Table Games Revenue Exceeds $50 Million for Third Consecutive Month
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Misery Index Under Obama Worst In Nearly 30 Years
How's this for change? Living in Barack Obama's America is a miserable experience for most Americans. Economic conditions under Obama are the worst in 28 years, according to economists. So much for Obama's promise of hope.
How Miserable? Index Says the Worst in 28 Years - CNBC
How Miserable? Index Says the Worst in 28 Years - CNBC
Weekly GOP Address: Obama Failure Is Complete
While Barack Obama continues to push his failed job-killing agenda, Congressional Republicans are baking pro-jobs, pro-growth policies.
Weiner's Pension, Benefits Could Top $1 Million
He may be a Weiner, but he's set for life thanks to the generous pensions and perks members of Congress give themselves.
Weiner's Pension, Benefits Could Top $1 Million : Roll Call News
Weiner's Pension, Benefits Could Top $1 Million : Roll Call News
Friday, June 17, 2011
Columnist: Higher taxes coming if Obama gets his way
Be prepared to pay higher taxes if Barack Obama wins a second term, says John A. Sparks, dean of the Calderwood School of Arts & Letters at Grove City College, Grove City, Pa.
Higher taxes coming if Obama gets his way - pottsmerc.com
Higher taxes coming if Obama gets his way - pottsmerc.com
Berks County Patriots focus on property tax relief
Berks County is home to one of the most active Tea Party groups in the country.
Berks Patriots focus on progressives, property taxes
Berks Patriots focus on progressives, property taxes
AARP Backtracks on Social Security
What good is AARP if it won't fight to make sure Social Security is available to all its members. The group has been making deals with the Obama administration that are not in the best interests of its members.
AARP Has Not Changed Its Position on Social Security
AARP Has Not Changed Its Position on Social Security
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Herbert Hoover Obama
Walter Russell Mead, writing at The American Interest, says Barack Obama reminds him a lot of Herbert Hoover. You know, the guy who spent four years pretending the economy wasn't as bad as it was ... and that led to The Great Depression.From Mead's column:
The Great Recession is not as crushing as the Great Depression, but President Obama's problems in the face of economic turmoil are beginning to look Hooveresque. The stimulus program on which he hung his hat may, as its friends argue, have prevented an even worse economic debacle. Clearly, however, the $800 billion plus stimulus failed to jump-start an economic recovery. Many of the administration's pet stimulus programs have joined Jerry Ford's "Whip Inflation Now" buttons on the junkpile of history: green jobs, cash for clunkers, debt relief for homeowners, and now, by the President's own admission, 'shovel-ready' infrastructure projects.Read his very insightful analysis of the failure of Obamanomics here.
Like Hoover, President Obama now finds himself (at least temporarily) without the ability to shape national economic policy. His opponents in Congress will block the kind of second stimulus his instincts and allies propose, and the Fed is not at this point particularly impressed by the White House’s recovery plan and is acting on its own. Like Hoover, President Obama faces the possibility of a devastating second downturn due to economic problems in Europe — and like President Hoover, President Obama can't do much to prevent it. Like Hoover, President Obama is harried by a domestic populist revolt against his leadership and the policies he supports and like Hoover, President Obama's once unassailable popularity is being slowly ground down by economic bad news.
Columnist: Rick Perry's Moment Has Arrived
Columnist Matt Mackowiak says Rick Perry is what America needs as the antidote for Barack Obama.
Rick Perry's Moment - Matt Mackowiak - National Review Online
Rick Perry's Moment - Matt Mackowiak - National Review Online
Pottstown School Board member 'loses it' at public meeting
Check out the video attached to the story below to see an example of how elected officials should not behave in public. (The school board member in question lost her bid for re-election in the May 17 primary election.)
Arts, music back in Pottstown school budget (VIDEO) - pottsmerc.com
Arts, music back in Pottstown school budget (VIDEO) - pottsmerc.com
Pennsylvania Unemployment Drops to 7.4%
Pennsylvania added 44,300 jobs in May, helping bring the state's jobless rate to 7.4%, down from 7.5% in April.
Pennsylvania's Employment Situation: May 2011
Pennsylvania's Employment Situation: May 2011
White House Defends Government Appointments of Big Obama Donors
Hope and change? Sounds like business as usual as the corrupt Obama Regime continues to reward campaign donors with cushy government jobs.
NationalJournal.com - Carney Defends Government Appointments of Big Obama Donors
NationalJournal.com - Carney Defends Government Appointments of Big Obama Donors
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Newspaper: Obama Is Beatable, And He Knows It
Don't believe the liberal media hype that the 2012 election is already won by Barack Obama. He is the weakest president seeking a second term since Jimmy Carter ... and we all remember how well that turned out for the Democrats.
Beatable, And He Knows It - Investors.com
Beatable, And He Knows It - Investors.com
Pottsville has Yuengling, but Pottstown has Sly Fox Brewery
Pottsville, Pa., is famous for the Yuengling Brewery, but Pottstown, Pa., may soon be known for the Sly Fox Brewery.
Sly Fox Brewery coming to Pottstown - pottsmerc.com
Sly Fox Brewery coming to Pottstown - pottsmerc.com
Columnist: The Sleaziness of Politico's Kenneth Vogel
Mark R. Levin calls out partisan hack Kenneth Vogel of Politico.com
The Sleaziness of Politico's Kenneth Vogel - HUMAN EVENTS
The Sleaziness of Politico's Kenneth Vogel - HUMAN EVENTS
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Obama: You Always Hurt The Ones You Love
How's this for karma?Chad Stafko, writing at American Thinker, says Obama's policies have hurt the people who helped get him elected: African-Americans, College/Young Professionals and Low Income Families.
Will they support Obama in 2012 even though a vote for Obama is a vote against their own economic interests?
Stafko writes:
Barack Obama benefited from strong support among a number of demographic groups during his 2008 presidential campaign. In an economic sense, after two-and-a-half years of his presidency, those same groups which showed him the greatest support have suffered disproportionately more than others in the United States. Three Groups: African-Americans, College/Young Professionals, and Low Income Families. All have seen disproportionately more economic challenges than the general population during Obama's term in office. If the economy is their top issue, then they cannot support the man who has made their lives worse since he took office.Read the full article at the link below:
Articles: How's That Hope and Change Working Out for Obama Supporters?
Poll: PA Voters Support Natural Gas Drilling By 2-1 Margin
Check out the latest Quinnipiac University Poll results on a variety of Pennsylvania issues here.
Lots of empty seats at Obama fundraiser
Not a good sign for The Chosen One. His base is bailing out on him. And the state-run media continues to cover up for his failed presidency.
Lots of empty seats at Obama Miami fundraiser
Lots of empty seats at Obama Miami fundraiser
Lockheed Martin to Cut 1,200 Positions
The Obama Recession Continues.
Most of the job cuts will come in Pennsylvania, California and Colorado.
Lockheed Martin Space Systems to Eliminate Approximately 1,200 Positions
Most of the job cuts will come in Pennsylvania, California and Colorado.
Lockheed Martin Space Systems to Eliminate Approximately 1,200 Positions
1.9 Million Fewer Americans Have Jobs Today Than When Obama Signed Stimulus
What did we get for the $1 trillion Obama/Pelosi/Reid spent? Higher unemployment.
1.9 Million Fewer Americans Have Jobs Today Than When Obama Signed Stimulus | CNSnews.com
1.9 Million Fewer Americans Have Jobs Today Than When Obama Signed Stimulus | CNSnews.com
Long May She Wave
Today is Flag Day. On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the Stars and Stripes as the national flag.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Rep. Joe Pitts: Obama policies cost U.S. jobs
Pennsylvania Congressman Joe Pitts says Obama's anti-business policies are preventing U.S. firms from hiring.From a recent op-ed:
Anyone who has owned or managed a business knows how many questions need to be answered before creating a new job. Do you really need another person, or can present employees become more productive? Will there be qualified applicants? How much time will it take to sort through all the resumes? Can the business afford to hire right now?Read the full column at the link below:
Before looking to hire new employees, a business owner has to be confident that the search will be worth the time and effort. The more uncertainties in the process, the more risky it will be to hire.
Unfortunately, now is a very risky time to hire. The May jobs report showed a net gain of only 54,000 jobs. Because of more Americans starting to look for a job, unemployment climbed to 9.1 percent.
Most recessions since the Great Depression have been followed by a rapid period of job growth. This time though we haven't seen that type of recovery. Last year's "Recovery Summer" never materialized, and this summer isn't shaping up to be much better.
Government stimulus has failed to hold down unemployment or create the conditions for a recovery. In fact, the increase in government debt contributes to economic uncertainty. Accounting for interest, the stimulus bill cost the government more than $1 trillion. Almost every dime of that money has been spent, but unemployment has barely budged.
Obama policies cost U.S. jobs - pottsmerc.com
Columnist: Obama borrowing $58,000 per second
George F. Will: A government borrowing $58,000 a second cannot afford Obama's policy of Stimulus Forever, and there is this problem with TAA at any level: It is unjust to treat some workers as more entitled than others to protection from the vicissitudes of economic dynamism.
Appease and entitle - pottsmerc.com
Appease and entitle - pottsmerc.com
Obama Laughs About Miserable Job Numbers
There's nothing funny about 20 million Americans being out-of-work, including the 3 million who lost their jobs since Barack Obama took office.
Follow the link below to watch a video of President Obama cracking a joke about the nation's unemployed.
Obama Laughs About Miserable Job Numbers - HUMAN EVENTS
Follow the link below to watch a video of President Obama cracking a joke about the nation's unemployed.
Obama Laughs About Miserable Job Numbers - HUMAN EVENTS
Obama says it will 'take years' for the economy to recover
Barack Obama would like you to re-elect him in 2012 so he continue the job he's been doing so far: Digging us into a deeper hole.
Obama says it will 'take years' for the economy to recover fully - The Oval: Tracking the Obama presidency
Obama says it will 'take years' for the economy to recover fully - The Oval: Tracking the Obama presidency
Editorial: Proposals would outlaw teacher strikes in Pa.
Pennsylvania is No. 1 in teacher strikes even though Keystone State teachers are among the highest paid in the nation. Are unions abusing their power? Republican lawmakers want Pennsylvania to join the other 37 states that have outlawed teacher strikes.
Proposals would outlaw teacher strikes in Pa. - pottsmerc.com
Proposals would outlaw teacher strikes in Pa. - pottsmerc.com
Newspaper: Democrats' Tax-And-Spend Insanity
From Investor's Business Daily:
You have to wonder who's advising Democrats these days. With the economy stuck in a two-year, Obama-dug rut, their only new economic growth idea is to raise taxes and hike federal spending.Democrats' Tax-And-Spend Insanity - Investors.com
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Newspaper: Photo ID cards should not prevent anybody from voting
One of the most liberal newspapers in Pennsylvania has endorsed common-sense legislation to require a photo ID before you can enter the voting booth. The bill was introduced by Republicans in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
The Democratic Party and liberal activist groups oppose any law to require voter ID because it would help curb voter fraud, something the Dems rely on to win elections.
From the editorial in the Reading Eagle:
Editorial: Photo ID cards should not prevent anybody from voting (6/12/11)
The Democratic Party and liberal activist groups oppose any law to require voter ID because it would help curb voter fraud, something the Dems rely on to win elections.
From the editorial in the Reading Eagle:
A House bill would require voters to show identification before casting their ballots. Most people already have a driver's license, and showing it would not be a hardship.Read the full editorial at the link below:
Editorial: Photo ID cards should not prevent anybody from voting (6/12/11)
Columnist Obama's appease and entitle strategy is killing jobs
George F. Will does a nice job of summing up the failed Obama administration so far:
Appease and entitle - pottsmerc.com
President Obama is sacrificing economic growth and job creation in order to placate organized labor. And as the crisis of the welfare state deepens, he is trying to enlarge the entitlement system and exacerbate the entitlement mentality.Read the full column at the link below:
A government borrowing $58,000 a second cannot afford Obama's policy of Stimulus Forever, and there is this problem with TAA at any level: It is unjust to treat some workers as more entitled than others to protection from the vicissitudes of economic dynamism.
Appease and entitle - pottsmerc.com
Rep. Jim Gerlach: Fix Medicare now before it's too late
Medicare is expected to run out of money in 9 years, but Democrats continue to play political games intead of sitting down with Republicans to fix the program.
Congressman Jim Gerlach recaps how Republicans plan to save Medicare in this op-ed.
Fix Medicare now to avoid breakdown - pottsmerc.com
Congressman Jim Gerlach recaps how Republicans plan to save Medicare in this op-ed.
Fix Medicare now to avoid breakdown - pottsmerc.com
Quote of the Day
"A faith is a necessity to a man. Woe to him who believes in nothing."
— Victor Hugo
— Victor Hugo
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Newspaper: End strikes by Pennsylvania teachers
Pennsylvania is No. 1 in the nation in teacher strikes. Republican state lawmakers have introduced a bill to outlaw strikes, just as 37 other states have already done.
The Scranton Times-Tribune is the latest newspaper to support the legislation.
Editorial: End strikes by teachers, level field Bills propose incentives to achieve contracts - Opinion - The Times-Tribune
Also check out Stop Teacher Strikes in Pennsylvania for more information.
The Scranton Times-Tribune is the latest newspaper to support the legislation.
Editorial: End strikes by teachers, level field Bills propose incentives to achieve contracts - Opinion - The Times-Tribune
Also check out Stop Teacher Strikes in Pennsylvania for more information.
Obama Scores Low Marks on Economy, Deficit
From the latest Gallup Poll: 60% of Americans disapprove of Barack Obama's handling of the economy, while 63% disapprove of Obama's handling of the federal budget deficit.
Obama Approval Up on International Issues, Not on Economy
Obama Approval Up on International Issues, Not on Economy
Napolitano: Concentrating Terrorists Screening Efforts on Muslim Men Under 35 is Wrong
With idiots like Janet Napolitano in the government, terrorists still have a chance to do harm to U.S. interests.
Area lawmakers oppose Route 422 tolling
Five Republican members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives whose districts border Route 422 say they will oppose any efforts to turn the highway into a toll road between Pottstown and King of Prussia.
The lawmakers said the tolling plan introduced by Democrat Joe Hoeffel will do little to ease traffic congestion on Route 422 but will force more traffic onto local roads.
Area lawmakers oppose Route 422 tolling (video) - pottsmerc.com
The lawmakers said the tolling plan introduced by Democrat Joe Hoeffel will do little to ease traffic congestion on Route 422 but will force more traffic onto local roads.
Area lawmakers oppose Route 422 tolling (video) - pottsmerc.com
Columnist: Democrats Stealing the Election of 2012
If you can't win an election fair-and-square, just steal it.
The Obama Justice Department bolsters an organized effort to register illegals, felons and the dead as Democratic voters, says columnist Roger Hedgecock.
Stealing the Election of 2012 - HUMAN EVENTS
The Obama Justice Department bolsters an organized effort to register illegals, felons and the dead as Democratic voters, says columnist Roger Hedgecock.
Stealing the Election of 2012 - HUMAN EVENTS
Thursday, June 09, 2011
SE PA Lawmakers Reject Route 422 Tolls
Five state representatives from legislative districts along Route 422 in Montgomery, Chester and Berks counties held a press conference Thursday afternoon along the busy highway to announce their opposition to a proposal to toll the four-lane highway. The lawmakers said the tolls would force traffic onto local roads and there is no guarantee that passenger rail service would ever be built to ease congestion on Route 422. The Republican lawmakers expressing opposition to the plan being pushed by Montgomery County Commissioner Joe Hoeffel and the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, include Reps. Tom Quigley, Mike Vereb, Warren Kampf, Marcy Toepel and David Maloney.
Key PA Senator: Route 422 Tolls 'Premature'
The man who will have a lot to say about whether Route 422 in Southeastern Pennsylvania ever becomes a toll road says any talk of tolling the highway is "premature."Sen. John Rafferty Jr. (R-Montgomery), chairman of the powerful State Senate Transportation Committee, released the following statement Thursday regarding recent news accounts that Route 422 was being considered as a future toll road:
"There is no legislation pending in either the House or the Senate calling for the tolling of any specific roadways in Pennsylvania. And any thoughts or considerations of implementing tolling on any specific roads in the state to generate transportation funding are wholly premature. As chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, I have no plans to move anything adding tolling to Route 422 or any state roadway. In fact, we are currently in a holding pattern until the Governor's Transportation Funding Advisory Committee (TFAC) makes it recommendations later this summer. Even after that report is delivered, the Committee's recommendations are just suggested courses of action, not proposals that would necessarily become law."Rafferty's 44th State Senate District includes many of the communities along the Route 422 corridor in Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties and it's unlikely any plan to toll Route 422 will gain traction without his support.
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Columnist: Obama Stimulus and Bailouts Failed
Iain Murray, writing at HumanEvents.org:
Let's Face the Truth: The Stimulus and Bailouts Failed - HUMAN EVENTS
The only thing the stimulus program actually stimulated was government. By my calculations, about one in four Americans in the labor force now works for federal, state or local government, either directly or as a contractor or grantee.Read the full column at the link below:
The President has paid lip service to the idea that the economy is too tightly constricted by red tape. Yet his agency heads have only come up with a handful of ways to ease the regulatory burden. Regulation is stopping America's economy from starting again. It is a first-order problem and should be treated as such. Anyone who won’t admit that should be out of a job.
Let's Face the Truth: The Stimulus and Bailouts Failed - HUMAN EVENTS
Lawmakers to respond to Route 422 tolling proposal
Four Southeastern Pennsylvania state legislators will hold a press conference Thursday to discuss the proposed tolling of Route 422.The feasibility study by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission supports a plan to toll the roadway between Pottstown and King of Prussia despite widespread opposition from area residents and lawmakers.
Four members of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from Montgomery and Chester counties will weigh in on the report's findings during a 2 p.m. press conference at the 422 Business Center in Oaks.
Participating in the event are Reps. Warren Kampf (R-Chester/Montgomery), Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery), Tom Quigley (R-Montgomery) and Mike Vereb (R-Montgomery).
All four have expressed reservations in the past about tolling Route 422.
For more about the tolling plan, check out this recent article in The Mercury.
Newspaper: Pennsylvania voters should have a say in tax hikes beyond inflation
Republicans in the Pennsylvania Legislature are pushing a bill that would make it tougher for local school boards to raise property taxes every year. The education establishment and their Democratic allies in the Legislature oppose the bill.
From an editorial in The Reading Eagle:
Voters should have a say in tax hikes beyond inflation (6/6/11)
From an editorial in The Reading Eagle:
The Issue: Legislation would eliminate exceptions that allow school boards to avoid referendums on tax increases. Our Opinion: The bill should pass and force tighter fiscal controls.Read the full editorial at the link below:
Voters should have a say in tax hikes beyond inflation (6/6/11)
Tuesday, June 07, 2011
Columnist: The U.S. Economy's Bad News Deluge
The many who promised to turn the economy around has failed miserably. And there's no end in sight to the bad economic news as Barack Obama refuses to admit he's been wrong every step of the way.
Gary Rivlin: The U.S. Economy's Bad News Deluge
Gary Rivlin: The U.S. Economy's Bad News Deluge
Experts back Sarah Palin’s historical account of Paul Revere
Score one for Sarah Palin. Historians back her account of Paul Revere's ride despute ridicule from the Mainstream Media, which got it wrong ... again.
Experts back Sarah Palin’s historical account
Experts back Sarah Palin’s historical account
Monday, June 06, 2011
The Democratic Double Standard
So Democratic U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner was caught his pants down. He was lying all along. What's the response from his fellow Democrats? Circle the wagons and shield Weiner.
If this was a Republican, he would have already resigned to spare his party further embarrassment. But he's a member of the Democratic Party, where pathological liars are embraced.
Weiner admits sending Twitter pic but says he won't leave office - TheHill.com
If this was a Republican, he would have already resigned to spare his party further embarrassment. But he's a member of the Democratic Party, where pathological liars are embraced.
Weiner admits sending Twitter pic but says he won't leave office - TheHill.com
Study: Nearly 1 in 5 American Drivers Unfit for the Road
The 2011 GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test results finds that nearly 1 in 5 drivers on the road today cannot meet the basic requirements to get a driver's license. That means nearly 37 million American drivers – roughly 18 percent – would not pass the written drivers test if taken today, according to the study.
Based on the drivers I have to deal with on the road, those numbers are too low.
Read more about the study at the link below:
GMAC Insurance Study: Nearly 1 in 5 American Drivers Unfit for the Road
Based on the drivers I have to deal with on the road, those numbers are too low.
Read more about the study at the link below:
GMAC Insurance Study: Nearly 1 in 5 American Drivers Unfit for the Road
Democratic strategist James Carville frets about 'humanitarian crisis' under Obama
Democratic strategist James Carville says Obama's mishandling of the economy has created a 'humanitarian crisis' for the nation's growing unemployed. How's that for a ringing endorsement for 2012?
Carville: Obama faces 'very rough' election without job growth - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room
Carville: Obama faces 'very rough' election without job growth - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room
Weinergate: Another Democrat Caught Lying. What Else Is New?
Where are the calls from top Democrats for Rep. Weinger's resignation? The man is a pathological liar. He doesn't belong in Congress. But you can say that about half the Democratic members of Congress, too.
Weinergate: New Photos of Anthony Weiner Leaked
Weinergate: New Photos of Anthony Weiner Leaked
Sunday, June 05, 2011
Report: Pa. schools hold $3B in reserve funds
Why are Pennsylvania school districts holding on to $3 billiion at the same time most districts are raising property taxes to make up for cuts in state funding?
Pa. schools hold more than $3B in reserve funds - pottsmerc.com
Pa. schools hold more than $3B in reserve funds - pottsmerc.com
Newspaper: U.S. Jobs Hole Just Got Deeper
Barack Obama's failed economic policies continue to kill U.S. jobs, according to one of the nation's leading business publications.
From Investor's Business Daily:
U.S. Jobs Hole Just Got Deeper - Investors.com
From Investor's Business Daily:
Two years into a "recovery," the unemployment rate leaps to 9.1% and just 54,000 new jobs are created. Is this just "bumps on the road to recovery," as the White House insists, or something more dangerous?Read the full editorial at the link below:
U.S. Jobs Hole Just Got Deeper - Investors.com
Tony Phyrillas on Pennsylvania Cable Network this weekend
This week's edition of "Journalists Roundtable," the popular political commentary program on the Pennsylvania Cable Network, is coming to you from the offices of The Mercury in Pottstown.The one-hour program airs Thursdays at 8 p.m. and again on Sundays at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., as well as Mondays at 10 a.m.
The show is hosted by Bill Bova. This week's guests are Tony Phyrillas, City Editor/Political Columnist for The Mercury; and John Aberle of WCHE 1520 AM in West Chester.
PCN is shown on Comcast Channel 98 in Berks County, Service Electric Cable Channel 23 in Berks/Lehigh counties and Comcast Channel 186 in the Pottstown area.
Consult your cable guide for the Pennsylvania Cable Network channel in your area or check www.pcntv.com
Do Politics Drive Hollywood's Slow Response to Heartland Disasters?
Did I miss the Hollywood telethon to help the people of the Midwest recover from the tornadoes and the flooding?
Do Politics Drive Hollywood's Slow Response to Heartland Disasters?
Do Politics Drive Hollywood's Slow Response to Heartland Disasters?
Saturday, June 04, 2011
Columnist: Obama Owns The Recession Now
Larry Kudlow on Obama's uncanny ability to kill jobs.
Kudlow's Money Politics - National Review Online
Kudlow's Money Politics - National Review Online
Charles Krauthammer: Obama's Debt-Ceiling Scare
Charles Krauthammer explains what's really behind Barack Obama's "sky-is-falling" demand to raise the national debt limit: "Obama would like a $2 trillion debt-limit hike to get him past Election Day 2012."
Read the full column at the link below:
Our Salutary Debt-Ceiling Scare - HUMAN EVENTS
Read the full column at the link below:
Our Salutary Debt-Ceiling Scare - HUMAN EVENTS
Friday, June 03, 2011
Private-Sector Wages Sink to Great Depression Level
Are you better off today than you were when Barack Obama took office? Not if you work in the private sector.
10-Year Real Wage Growth Worse Than During Depression - Investors.com
10-Year Real Wage Growth Worse Than During Depression - Investors.com
Bipartisan Congress rebuffs Obama on Libya mission
More than 90 Democrats joined Republicans in calling out Barack Obama on his illegal war in Libya.
From The Washington Times:
From The Washington Times:
Crossing party lines to deliver a stunning rebuke to the commander in chief, the vast majority of the House voted Friday for resolutions telling President Obama he has broken the constitutional chain of authority by committing U.S. troops to the international military mission in Libya.Bipartisan Congress rebuffs Obama on Libya mission - Washington Times
Yearbook controversy: George W. Bush on list of 'worst people' of all time
This gives you an idea of the far-left loons who are teaching our kids today.
Yearbook causes controversy after it names George W. Bush in list of 'worst people' of all time
Yearbook causes controversy after it names George W. Bush in list of 'worst people' of all time
U.S. Unemployment Climbs to 9.1%
The U.S. Department of Labor released the May jobs report Friday showing unemployment climbing to 9.1 percent. So much for the stimulus. So much for the bailouts. So much for deficit spending. So much for the socialist policies.
The Obama Recession continues into its third year.
Pennsylvania Congressman Rep. Joe Pitts issued the following statement:
"Millions of Americans are looking for jobs, but are finding few new opportunities. Today's jobs report is more evidence that the economic policies of this administration have failed. Trillions of dollars in government spending had an insignificant effect on employment and nearly doubled the national debt in less than three years.
Last November, the American people called for a new direction. House Republicans have energetically proposed solutions to empower job creators: reducing energy prices, cutting government red tape and reforming a burdensome tax code. We need the Senate and the President to work together with us on these jobs bills. Getting Americans working again has to be Washington's first priority."
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