The voting blocks that overwhelming went for Obama in 2008 - the young, women and blacks - are the ones suffering the most from Obama's failed policies. Will they make the same mistake in 2012?
Infographic: Young Hit Hard by the Obama Economy | Republican Study Committee (RSC)
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Newspaper: Pa. rainy-day fund has run its course
Why is the Pennsylvania Legislature sitting on $184 million in unspent surplus from last year's budget when there are so many pressing needs not being funded by the state?
It's not their money.
Pa. rainy-day fund has run its course
It's not their money.
Pa. rainy-day fund has run its course
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Friday, April 27, 2012
Stephen Colbert Makes Fun of Handicapped Conservative Columnist
Charles Krauthammer is one of the most widely-read syndicated columnists in the United States. He is also one of the most educated political observers on the scene. Mr. Krauthammer suffered a severe spinal cord in 1972, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.
Noel Sheppard of NewsBusters.org on Stephen Colbert making fun of Charles Krauthammer's appearance:
Stephen Colbert Calls Charles Krauthammer 'Count Chocula' | NewsBusters.org
Noel Sheppard of NewsBusters.org on Stephen Colbert making fun of Charles Krauthammer's appearance:
Can you imagine a liberal comedian demeaning the appearance of a physically handicapped, Pulitzer Prize-winning, liberal syndicated columnist?Real classy, Colbert.
Stephen Colbert Calls Charles Krauthammer 'Count Chocula' | NewsBusters.org
Lowman S. Henry: Voters to PA GOP bosses: Stuff your endorsements
By Lowman S. Henry
Guest Columnist
Tuesday's primary election highlighted two serious structural deficiencies in Pennsylvania's electoral process. Once again the "Keystone State" was anything but in the presidential nominating process. And, clearly the day of the party endorsement — especially a nod forced from the top down — has passed.
For several weeks it appeared as if the Pennsylvania and New York primaries would be pivotal contests in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. But several weeks ago when former Pennsylvania U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum suspended his campaign, our state’s primary was rendered virtually meaningless. Sure, delegates had to be elected to the national convention, but the nomination had been decided.
Every four years there is talk about moving Pennsylvania’s primary to an earlier date, perhaps to so-called "Super Tuesday" in early March, but nothing ever comes of the idea. So, as in presidential contests past, small states like Iowa and New Hampshire, and even other industrial states like Michigan and Ohio got to impact the choice of the nominee while we here in Penn’s Woods watched from the sidelines.
Four years ago, state Democrats did get a big say in the Barack Obama/Hillary Clinton race, but that brief spurt of relevance was an exception to the rule. This year, lacking the glitz of a presidential contest, voter turnout was abysmal. So many down ballot races — for Congress and for seats in the state Legislature — were decided by in some cases less than a quarter of the registered electorate.
Despite tepid participation in the primary election, voters did manage to deliver a message or two. The race with the most political ramifications was the five-way contest for the Republican nomination to take on incumbent U.S. Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr. That race turned into a virtual referendum on the once-vaunted Republican Party endorsement process. That process was shredded by voters as they relegated the endorsed candidate, Steve Welch, to third place.
The Welch defeat marks the first loss of a Republican Party endorsed statewide candidate in a non-judicial race in over three decades. Part of the reason for voter rejection of the party pick was the heavy-handed manner in which the Welch endorsement was forced on Republican State Committee members by Gov. Tom Corbett and party leaders. The fact is Welch would never have been endorsed without that support, and his candidacy never did develop any real grassroots appeal.
Party apologists will contend that the personal financial wealth the winning candidate, former Tea party activist Tom Smith, brought to the race was a deciding factor. But, Welch is wealthy himself and put over a million dollars of his own money behind his candidacy. And, former state Rep. Sam Rohrer finished second having spent few dollars, but earning a wave of grassroots support. Welch failed to dominate with either money or manpower — two advantages normally associated with the party endorsement.
This year’s GOP endorsement debacle has politically wounded an incumbent governor and called into question the effectiveness of the party apparatus in a vital presidential election year. The Republican State Committee should re-evaluate the future of party endorsements. The process this year both divided and weakened the party, calling into question its utility going forward.
Part of the reason for this is that the endorsement process has degenerated from truly democratic selection into a tool by which party and elected leaders exert their control over who gets nominated. The GOP has already split into “establishment” and grassroots conservative camps with the latter gaining influence with each passing election cycle. Forced endorsements only inflame the grassroots further aggravating that divide.
None of this is good for the party, and neither will it yield good government. This year’s presidential election is shaping up as one of the most important in generations as voters decide whether to continue down the soft socialistic path of the Obama Administration, or return America to its historic traditions of individual liberty.
That battle will ultimately unite all factions within the GOP. But going forward, the Pennsylvania Republican Party must ditch the endorsement process and restore individual liberties within the walls of its own house.
Lowman S. Henry is chairman and CEO of the Lincoln Institute of Public Opinion Research in Harrisburg and host of the weekly Lincoln Radio Journal. His e-mail address is lhenry@lincolninstitute.org
Guest Columnist
Tuesday's primary election highlighted two serious structural deficiencies in Pennsylvania's electoral process. Once again the "Keystone State" was anything but in the presidential nominating process. And, clearly the day of the party endorsement — especially a nod forced from the top down — has passed.
For several weeks it appeared as if the Pennsylvania and New York primaries would be pivotal contests in the race for the Republican presidential nomination. But several weeks ago when former Pennsylvania U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum suspended his campaign, our state’s primary was rendered virtually meaningless. Sure, delegates had to be elected to the national convention, but the nomination had been decided.
Every four years there is talk about moving Pennsylvania’s primary to an earlier date, perhaps to so-called "Super Tuesday" in early March, but nothing ever comes of the idea. So, as in presidential contests past, small states like Iowa and New Hampshire, and even other industrial states like Michigan and Ohio got to impact the choice of the nominee while we here in Penn’s Woods watched from the sidelines.
Four years ago, state Democrats did get a big say in the Barack Obama/Hillary Clinton race, but that brief spurt of relevance was an exception to the rule. This year, lacking the glitz of a presidential contest, voter turnout was abysmal. So many down ballot races — for Congress and for seats in the state Legislature — were decided by in some cases less than a quarter of the registered electorate.
Despite tepid participation in the primary election, voters did manage to deliver a message or two. The race with the most political ramifications was the five-way contest for the Republican nomination to take on incumbent U.S. Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr. That race turned into a virtual referendum on the once-vaunted Republican Party endorsement process. That process was shredded by voters as they relegated the endorsed candidate, Steve Welch, to third place.
The Welch defeat marks the first loss of a Republican Party endorsed statewide candidate in a non-judicial race in over three decades. Part of the reason for voter rejection of the party pick was the heavy-handed manner in which the Welch endorsement was forced on Republican State Committee members by Gov. Tom Corbett and party leaders. The fact is Welch would never have been endorsed without that support, and his candidacy never did develop any real grassroots appeal.
Party apologists will contend that the personal financial wealth the winning candidate, former Tea party activist Tom Smith, brought to the race was a deciding factor. But, Welch is wealthy himself and put over a million dollars of his own money behind his candidacy. And, former state Rep. Sam Rohrer finished second having spent few dollars, but earning a wave of grassroots support. Welch failed to dominate with either money or manpower — two advantages normally associated with the party endorsement.
This year’s GOP endorsement debacle has politically wounded an incumbent governor and called into question the effectiveness of the party apparatus in a vital presidential election year. The Republican State Committee should re-evaluate the future of party endorsements. The process this year both divided and weakened the party, calling into question its utility going forward.
Part of the reason for this is that the endorsement process has degenerated from truly democratic selection into a tool by which party and elected leaders exert their control over who gets nominated. The GOP has already split into “establishment” and grassroots conservative camps with the latter gaining influence with each passing election cycle. Forced endorsements only inflame the grassroots further aggravating that divide.
None of this is good for the party, and neither will it yield good government. This year’s presidential election is shaping up as one of the most important in generations as voters decide whether to continue down the soft socialistic path of the Obama Administration, or return America to its historic traditions of individual liberty.
That battle will ultimately unite all factions within the GOP. But going forward, the Pennsylvania Republican Party must ditch the endorsement process and restore individual liberties within the walls of its own house.
Lowman S. Henry is chairman and CEO of the Lincoln Institute of Public Opinion Research in Harrisburg and host of the weekly Lincoln Radio Journal. His e-mail address is lhenry@lincolninstitute.org
Why I stopped reading Rolling Stone magazine
I stopped reading Rolling Stone magazine when it began devoting more space to left-wing propaganda than it did to music. Latest issue is a perfect example. Why would I pay for an Obama re-election ad masquerading as a news article?
Newspaper: Philly Democratic Party bosses urge voters to defy voter ID law
From the editorial page of The Pottstown Mercury:
THORNS to some Philadelphia Democratic Party committee members who urged voters to refuse to show identification to poll workers as part of Tuesday’s test run for the new voter ID law in Pennsylvania. The law has its drawbacks, particularly for older voters and the low-income, but that doesn’t justify those who are part of the political process encouraging voters to disobey it. Philadelphia already has a reputation for voting irregularities. We would hope those who work within the electoral system would also work to make it better and never discourage voters from legally participating.
Taxpayers Stuck With Billions In TARP Losses
Judicial Watch: While the Obama Administration laughably claims that its disastrous bank bailout has turned a profit, a federal investigation reveals this week that hundreds of small financial institutions can’t afford to repay the government loans and its costing U.S. taxpayers tens of billions of dollars.
Taxpayers Stuck With Billions In TARP Losses | Judicial Watch
Taxpayers Stuck With Billions In TARP Losses | Judicial Watch
Thursday, April 26, 2012
A Romney-Petraeus ticket?
How about retired Gen. David Petraeus for vice president? He certainly would give the ticket foreign policy balance.
Paul Miller, writing at Foreign Policy magazine, makes a strong case for adding Petraeus to the ticket.
Petraeus has nearly universal name recognition and is one of the most well-respected figures in the country. A year ago only 11 percent of Americans had an unfavorable opinion of him, according to Gallup, half that of Christie. And as a non-partisan figure he has not been tarnished by the partisanship and mud-slinging of recent years. Additionally, Petraeus would bring foreign policy expertise to the ticket, balancing Romney's focus on economic issues. If Obama really intends to claim that his foreign policy accomplishments should earn voters' respect, there is no one in the country with more credibility than Petraeus to take Obama's argument apart.Vice President David Petraeus? | Shadow Government
Newspaper: Democrats Have Nothing to Offer But Fear Itself
A historic record of failure over the past three years is not much to run on, so Obama turns to fear tactics to fool gullible voters.
From Investor's Business Daily:
From Investor's Business Daily:
Asked why the Senate hasn't produced a budget in three years, the head of the Democratic Party instead stoked fear about the "Romney-Ryan budget that ends Medicare as we know it." FDR, call your office.
'The Romney/Ryan budget is painful for Americans," head Debbie Wasserman Schultz said on that same Fox News program.
Her comments are tame compared with what other Democrats have said, including President Obama, who called Rep. Paul Ryan's budget "thinly veiled social Darwinism" that would "impose a radical vision on our country" and that is "antithetical to our entire history."
So what do Democrats have to offer instead? Nothing.
Pa. Legislature holding $184M in reserve accounts
At a time when the state is running a budget deficit for the current fiscal year and Gov. Corbett has proposed cuts for his next budget, the Pennsylvania Legislature is sitting on a $185 million slush fund. It's not their money!!!
APNewsBreak: Pa. Legislature’s reserve $184M last year
APNewsBreak: Pa. Legislature’s reserve $184M last year
Rally for Property Tax Independence in Harrisburg
Monday, May 7, is a critical date for the Property Tax Independence Act. On that day prime sponsors Rep. Jim Cox and Sen. David Argall, other members of the General Assembly who support our efforts, and taxpayers from across Pennsylvania will gather in the Capitol Rotunda in Harrisburg for a rally to declare our independence from the tyranny of property taxes.
What: Capitol Rally for Property Tax Independence
When: Monday, May 7
Time: 10:00 AM
Where: The State Capitol Rotunda, Harrisburg
This event is tremendously important to our efforts. We need to demonstrate to the Governor and to the Harrisburg lawmakers, in the most passionate manner possible, that we have had enough of ineffective property tax “relief” measures and that we will only settle for the complete elimination of this onerous and unfair tax through the enactment of House Bill 1776 and Senate Bill 1400, the Property Tax Independence Act.
If you believe in and support the total elimination of the school property tax through the Property Tax Independence Act your attendance at this rally is vital!
This will be a major media event that will help to publicize far and wide the news of the Property Tax Independence Act. Masses of taxpayers will make a huge impression, so please make every effort to be present for this historic rally. Bring your friends and neighbors, arrange car pools, spread the word as widely as possible, and do all you can to show your support. A flyer promoting the rally that you can print to post or distribute is available at the link below.
Some groups in various areas of the state have arranged for bus transportation at reasonable rates. The list of bus trips and the areas they serve are available on the PTCC website at www.ptcc.us/arc042312.htm
We absolutely need you to attend! Feel free to bring signs, too, but be sure to not attach them to sticks – they’re not allowed in the Capitol.
Budget guts Pa. watchdog agencies, offices
Three state offices that are supposed to investigate, prosecute and prevent public corruption are taking huge budget cuts, said Tim Potts, founder of the advocacy group Democracy Rising.
Budget guts Pa. watchdog agencies, offices - News - Citizens Voice
Budget guts Pa. watchdog agencies, offices - News - Citizens Voice
Centrist lawmakers find themselves on losing end of 2012 races
Incumbent Democrats who opposed Obamacare were targeted by far-left special interest groups in this week's primaries. Further evidence the Democratic Party has been hijacked by liberal extremists.
Centrist lawmakers find themselves on losing end of 2012 races - TheHill.com
Centrist lawmakers find themselves on losing end of 2012 races - TheHill.com
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
U.S. Financial Comfort Falls to New Low Under Obama
New Gallup Poll finds 60% of Americans say they make enough to live comfortably, down from 65% in 2011. Another example of the decline in standard of living under Barack Obama.
U.S. Financial Comfort Falls to New LowViewing of Cyprus Documentary in Boston
A documentary about the 1974 Turkish invasion of Cyprus will be screened in Boston on May 9.
Viewing of Cyprus Documentary in Boston
Viewing of Cyprus Documentary in Boston
Sam Rohrer campaign falls short
Sam Rohrer ran a good campaign for the Republican nomination for Pennsylvania's U.S. Senate seat but when your opponent has $5 million to spend and the party bosses back another candidate with questionable GOP credentials, it's hard to win.
Rohrer campaign falls short
Rohrer campaign falls short
NAA: Newspaper Site Traffic Up 4.4% In First Quarter of 2012
About 113 million adults visited newspaper sites during the first quarter of 2012, according to Newspaper Association of America.
NAA: Newspaper Site Traffic Up 4.4% In Q1
NAA: Newspaper Site Traffic Up 4.4% In Q1
Planned Parenthood intimidation campaign backfires
A $100,000 campaign by Planned Parentood to defeat a Republican candidate in a special election for an open legislative seat in Pennsylvania did not work. The Republican won the election on Tuesday.
Republican Mackenzie beats Slattery in 134th House Dist. special election
Republican Mackenzie beats Slattery in 134th House Dist. special election
Pa. Republicans Welcome Longtime Democrat Tom Smith Under Big Tent
It's official. A 30-year Democrat by the name of Tom Smith will be the Republican candidate to challenge incumbent Democratic U.S. Senator Bob Casey Jr.
Smith, who billed himself as a "conservative," defeated the Republican Party-endorsed Steve Welch, who finished third in a five-man race.
Party leaders were quick to embrace Smith under the Republican big tent.
U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statement supporting Smith:
"I'd like to congratulate Tom Smith on a hard-fought victory and endorse his candidacy. Tom is a self-made man from humble origins who understand the value of hard work. His understanding of job creation and his vast private sector experience is exactly what our government needs right now. I look forward to supporting his candidacy in the coming months."
Republican Party of Pennsylvania Chairman Rob Gleason issued the following statement:
"I congratulate U.S. Senate candidate Tom Smith, Attorney General candidate David Freed, Auditor General candidate John Maher, and State Treasurer candidate Diana Irey Vaughan for their victories tonight and we are excited to help elect them in November."
"We have an incredible Republican grassroots network in Pennsylvania and I am excited to unite and focus on delivering big wins for our entire Republican team. We look forward to supporting Mitt Romney and all of our Republican candidates as we keep Pennsylvania red in November."
No word on Gov. Tom Corbett's reaction to Welch's embarrassing defeat.
Corbett, according to sources, insisted the party back Welch over better-known candidates like former state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who finished second in Tuesday's voting.
The Welch debacle is the latest political kiss of death involving Gov. Corbett, who has a habit of backing losing candidates.
Smith, who billed himself as a "conservative," defeated the Republican Party-endorsed Steve Welch, who finished third in a five-man race.
Party leaders were quick to embrace Smith under the Republican big tent.
U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) released the following statement supporting Smith:
"I'd like to congratulate Tom Smith on a hard-fought victory and endorse his candidacy. Tom is a self-made man from humble origins who understand the value of hard work. His understanding of job creation and his vast private sector experience is exactly what our government needs right now. I look forward to supporting his candidacy in the coming months."
Republican Party of Pennsylvania Chairman Rob Gleason issued the following statement:
"I congratulate U.S. Senate candidate Tom Smith, Attorney General candidate David Freed, Auditor General candidate John Maher, and State Treasurer candidate Diana Irey Vaughan for their victories tonight and we are excited to help elect them in November."
"We have an incredible Republican grassroots network in Pennsylvania and I am excited to unite and focus on delivering big wins for our entire Republican team. We look forward to supporting Mitt Romney and all of our Republican candidates as we keep Pennsylvania red in November."
No word on Gov. Tom Corbett's reaction to Welch's embarrassing defeat.
Corbett, according to sources, insisted the party back Welch over better-known candidates like former state Rep. Sam Rohrer, who finished second in Tuesday's voting.
The Welch debacle is the latest political kiss of death involving Gov. Corbett, who has a habit of backing losing candidates.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Romney wins New York, sweeps 5 states
Mitt Romney has won the New York GOP primary. That gives him a sweep of all five Republican primaries held today.
Romney wins Pennsylvania
Mitt Romney has been declared the winner of the Pennsylvania
Republican primary. He's won four of the five states where Republicans
voted today. New York polls closed at 9 p.m. Will Romney sweep?
Romney wins Delaware primary
The Associated Press reports Mitt Romney has won the Delaware Republican primary. Romney is 3-for-3 so far tonight. Pennsylvania and New York results still not out. Romney expected to speak at 9 p.m.
Romney wins Conn., R.I. primaries
The Associated Press has declared Mitt Romney the winner in the Connecticut and Rhode Island Republican primaries. Results from three more states - Pennsylvania, Delaware, New York, still to come.
Youth Prefer Jobs to 'Hope and Change'
From Commentary magazine: : The president is having a hard time rounding up the support of young people to generate enthusiasm and votes for his reelection campaign, no doubt because this time around, he’s forced to run on his record, verses vague promises of "hope" and "change."
Youth Prefer Jobs to Hope and Change
Youth Prefer Jobs to Hope and Change
Obama wants to tax your 401(k)
Obama and Congressional Democrats have a plan to tax your 401(k). In a socialist society, nothing belongs to you. It belongs to the state.
Investor's Business Daily hammers the Washington political class for its latest duplicity: More than 30 years ago, lawmakers made a deal with Americans: Set up a retirement nest egg and we'll let you fill it with tax-free money. A financially troubled Washington now plans to break its word.
Read more at Investor's Business Daily.
Investor's Business Daily hammers the Washington political class for its latest duplicity: More than 30 years ago, lawmakers made a deal with Americans: Set up a retirement nest egg and we'll let you fill it with tax-free money. A financially troubled Washington now plans to break its word.
Read more at Investor's Business Daily.
Suppose they gave an election and nobody came?
Voter turnout in my Pennsylvania precinct was the lowest in 20 years. You could hear the crickets chirping. I was the only voter in the building at 1 p.m. and there was nobody behind me when I left the precinct. And it took a whopping 5 extra seconds to show a valid photo ID for those Democrats concerned about delays under the state's new law.
Monday, April 23, 2012
Obama Does It Again
It appears Obama has inadvertently solved the illegal immigration problem by making the U.S. economy so bad ... by killing off so many U.S. jobs that even illegals don't want to come here.
More Mexicans returning home, fewer immigrating to U.S. – USATODAY.com
More Mexicans returning home, fewer immigrating to U.S. – USATODAY.com
Group trying to change direction of Chester County GOP
Conservatives in Chester County are trying to win a bigger say in party politics in Pennsylvania's most Republican county.
Group trying to change direction of Chester County GOP
Group trying to change direction of Chester County GOP
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Want higher gas prices? Re-elect Obama
When President Obama was inaugurated on January 20, 2009, the national average for a gallon of gas was $1.84. Do you need another reason not to re-elect Obama?
RIP: Chuck Colson dies at age 80
He became infamous during the Watergate mess but eventually turned his life around when he found God. RIP Chuck Colson.
Chuck Colson dies at age 80
Chuck Colson dies at age 80
Friday, April 20, 2012
Report: Women lag in life-expectancy gains
I'm surprised Obama hasn't blamed this trend on the Republican Party yet.After all, Republicans have declared a "war on women," according to the Anointed One.
Women lag in life-expectancy gains – USATODAY.com
Women lag in life-expectancy gains – USATODAY.com
Disney studio boss quits after 'John Carter' loss
Poor Rich Ross. Just because you green-light a movie that ends up losing $200 million is no reason to lose your job, is it?
Disney studio boss quits after 'John Carter' loss – USATODAY.com
Disney studio boss quits after 'John Carter' loss – USATODAY.com
Conservative Joseph Corrigan challenges Rep. Duane Milne
A conservative businessman wants to unseat incumbent Republican state Rep. Duane Milne in Chester County's 167th District. The primary is Tuesday, April 24.
East Whiteland business owner seeks to unseat Milne
East Whiteland business owner seeks to unseat Milne
Opinion: Fund public schools with sales tax
An excellent letter to the editor from a Berks County resident on the logic of eliminating property taxes to fund Pennsylvania schools:
"Replacing all existing taxes with a single income tax levied on people for each level of government and the sales tax to fund schools would reduce the cost of tax collection, increase the efficiency, enable entrepreneurs to create jobs and reduce the price of everything."
Fund public schools with sales tax (4/19/12)
"Replacing all existing taxes with a single income tax levied on people for each level of government and the sales tax to fund schools would reduce the cost of tax collection, increase the efficiency, enable entrepreneurs to create jobs and reduce the price of everything."
Fund public schools with sales tax (4/19/12)
Obama Caught Lying About Buffett Rule
Turns out Obama is fibbing when he keeps saying "majority of millionaires" want to pay more in taxes, according to The Washington Post's Fact Check column.
Check out: The Fact Checker: Does a majority of millionaires really support the Buffett Rule?
Check out: The Fact Checker: Does a majority of millionaires really support the Buffett Rule?
Columnist: We can’t hide from Obama’s NSA
Columnist Nat Hentoff on Obama's latest violation of the Constitution and the corrupt liberal media's silence: How many Americans know that as of September 2013, all of us engaged in any form of communication will be subject -- with the approval of President Barack Obama and the silence of Congress -- to continuous tracking and databasing by the National Security Agency?
We can’t hide from Obama’s NSA
We can’t hide from Obama’s NSA
When did voters stop caring?
From The Mercury:
THORNS to the complacency of voters and would-be candidates as next Tuesday’s primary election approaches. In contrast to 2005-2006 when voter anger with the Pennsylvania Legislature pay raise spawned a class of primary election challengers, this year’s primary features virtually no contests in this region and few throughout the state. The lack of challenges isn’t because the Legislature has become more effective or because there are no more shenanigans in Harrisburg. Pennsylvania still has the most costly and among the most corrupt government bodies in the nation. When did voters stop caring?Roses and thorns: House rehab, voter apathy, cleanups
Tony Phyrillas to speak Friday at Montgomery County Community College
Tony Phyrillas, The Mercury's award-winning political columnist and blogger, will be the featured speaker at the Seventh Annual Healthy Lifestyles Expo Friday, April 20, at Montgomery County Community College, 101 College Drive, in Pottstown.Phyrillas, pictured here with state Rep. Tom Quigley, R-Montgomery, will be taking part in a Q-and-A session from 11 a.m.-11.:45 a.m., followed immediately by a free lunch. (Get there early for a seat; last year, 570 lunches were served.)
The Expo, co-sponsored by Rep. Quigley, Montgomery County Community College, the TriCounty Community Network and The Mercury, runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Along with more than 80 participating vendors, other Expo highlights include free caricatures by Alan MacBain, The Mercury's award-winning editorial cartoonist; musical performances by the Pottstown Middle School Woodwinds Ensemble and Pottstown High School Show Choir; as well as five cash drawings for $100 each.
All programs, health screenings, demonstrations and entertainment are free to the public. Parking is also free.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
NRA Man of the Year: Barack Obama
From The Washington Times:
The economic impact of the firearms industry is up 66 percent since the beginning of the Great Recession, providing an unexpected shot in the arm for the economy, according to a new study.Gun industry's economic impact skyrockets during Obama years - Washington Times
The National Shooting Sports Foundation claims that the economic impact of firearm sales — a figure that includes jobs. taxes and sales — hit $31 billion in 2011, up from $19 billion in 2008.
Jobs in the firearms business jumped 30 percent from 2008 to 2011, when the industry employed 98,750.
The industry paid $2.5 billion in federal taxes in 2011, up 66 percent in three years.
RIP: Levon Helm of The Band
Levon Helm, drummer and singer for The Band, has died at age 71. He had been battling cancer since 1998.
See you Friday at Montgomery County Community College
Tony Phyrillas, The Mercury's award-winning political columnist and blogger, will be the featured speaker at the Seventh Annual Healthy Lifestyles Expo Friday, April 20, at Montgomery County Community College, 101 College Drive, in Pottstown.Phyrillas, pictured here with state Rep. Tom Quigley, R-Montgomery, will be taking part in a Q-and-A session from 11 a.m.-11.:45 a.m., followed immediately by a free lunch. (Get there early for a seat; last year, 570 lunches were served.)
The Expo, co-sponsored by Rep. Quigley, Montgomery County Community College, the TriCounty Community Network and The Mercury, runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Along with more than 80 participating vendors, other Expo highlights include free caricatures by Alan MacBain, The Mercury's award-winning editorial cartoonist; musical performances by the Pottstown Middle School Woodwinds Ensemble and Pottstown High School Show Choir; as well as five cash drawings for $100 each.
All programs, health screenings, demonstrations and entertainment are free to the public. Parking is also free.
Obama solidifies title as Food Stamp President
On average, 45 million people received SNAP benefits each month in fiscal year 2011, which represents a 70 percent increase over the roughly 26 million people (or one of every 11) who received benefits in 2007. A new report says more Americans will rely on food stamps through the year 2014.
CBO | An Overview of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
CBO | An Overview of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Suspicious
Should Pennsylvania Republican voters be concerned that the state's two leading liberal newspapers (Philadelphia Inquirer and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) have both recommended Steve Welch as the GOP nominee to challenge incumbent Democratic Sen. Bob Casey Jr.?
Both papers will endorse Casey in the fall, so are they steering voters to a weak Republican candidate?
Welch is a former Democrat has has publicly admitted to voting for Barack Obama. How can he criticize Casey's voting record (98% with Obama) ?
Both papers will endorse Casey in the fall, so are they steering voters to a weak Republican candidate?
Welch is a former Democrat has has publicly admitted to voting for Barack Obama. How can he criticize Casey's voting record (98% with Obama) ?
Abortion lobby targets GOP candidate in 134th House Dist.
Voters in Lehigh and Berks counties should be aware that the Planned Parenthood abortion-on-demand lobby is spending heavily to influence a state legislative race in an attempt to intimidate anti-abortion candidates.
Voters should be concerned that out-of-state special interests are running a propaganda campaign to prevent the Legislature from enacting tighter controls over abortions in Pennsylvania in the wake of the Philadelphia abortion clinic scandal.
Republican Ryan Mackenzie is the reform candidate for the 134th House District seat formerly held by Rep. Doug Reichley.
For more on Planned Parenthood's campaign, see Politico.com
For more information about Ryan Mackenzie, check out his campaign website, http://ryanforpa.com/
Voters should be concerned that out-of-state special interests are running a propaganda campaign to prevent the Legislature from enacting tighter controls over abortions in Pennsylvania in the wake of the Philadelphia abortion clinic scandal.
Republican Ryan Mackenzie is the reform candidate for the 134th House District seat formerly held by Rep. Doug Reichley.
For more on Planned Parenthood's campaign, see Politico.com
For more information about Ryan Mackenzie, check out his campaign website, http://ryanforpa.com/
National Debt Has Increased By $5 Trillion Under Obama
Obama is now the $5 Trillion Man - He has increased the national debt by more than $5 trillion in just three years. Can we afford a second term? How worthless will the U.S. dollar be after Obama is through with us?
The $5 Trillion Man: Debt Has Increased Under Obama by $5,027,761,476,484.56 | CNSNews.com
The $5 Trillion Man: Debt Has Increased Under Obama by $5,027,761,476,484.56 | CNSNews.com
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Why nothing changes in Harrisburg
Tired of the lack of accomplishments by Pennsylvania lawmakers? Voters have themselves to blame.
If you're wondering why nothing changes in Harrisburg, here's an interesting fact reported by The Associated Press: 10 state senators and 85 state representatives face no opposition in the April 24 primary election, and the other 133 districts will in most cases be contested only in November. Just four sitting senators and 28 incumbent representatives have an opponent in the primary.
In Pa. legislative primary, good year for incumbents
If you're wondering why nothing changes in Harrisburg, here's an interesting fact reported by The Associated Press: 10 state senators and 85 state representatives face no opposition in the April 24 primary election, and the other 133 districts will in most cases be contested only in November. Just four sitting senators and 28 incumbent representatives have an opponent in the primary.
In Pa. legislative primary, good year for incumbents
IRS: 98,000 federal employees owe $1 billion in back taxes.
Hey, Obama. Instead of wasting time on that "Buffett Rule" gimmick, why not go after all the tax cheats working for you?
Sen. Brown: Bill targets tax scofflaws in Congress
Sen. Brown: Bill targets tax scofflaws in Congress
Public forum on Antietam School District budget on April 25
The Antietam School District in Berks County will hold a public forum to present the proposed 2012-13 school year budget next Wednesday evening, April 25, 2012 at 7:00 p.m. in the Mt. Penn Primary School auditorium.
All community members are welcome to attend.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Who's the rich guy? Obama, Romney duel over status
I'm curious about people who have a problem with Romney's wealth.
FDR was a very rich man yet Democrats had no problem nominating him. Same for John Kennedy and let's not forget John F. Kerry. Why the hypocrisy?
And would you rather have a president who was a success in the business world or a community organizer who has failed repeatedly?
Who's the rich guy? Obama, Romney duel over status
FDR was a very rich man yet Democrats had no problem nominating him. Same for John Kennedy and let's not forget John F. Kerry. Why the hypocrisy?
And would you rather have a president who was a success in the business world or a community organizer who has failed repeatedly?
Who's the rich guy? Obama, Romney duel over status
PA Certifies $782.5M for Statewide Property Tax Relief
That's a bit shy of the $1 billion former Gov. Ed Rendell promised.
Budget Secretary Certifies $782.5 Million for Statewide Property Tax Relief
Budget Secretary Certifies $782.5 Million for Statewide Property Tax Relief
Top Obama advisor endorses Romney for President
Obama's brain inadvertently endorses Mitt Romney for president.
Top Obama advisor endorses Romney for President - HUMAN EVENTS
Top Obama advisor endorses Romney for President - HUMAN EVENTS
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Editorial: 'Tilted' property taxes a serious issue in Pa.
Pennsylvania newspapers are getting behind House Bill 1776 to eliminate school property taxes. Make sure your state legislator supports the bill before you go to the polls on April 24.
EDITORIAL: 'Tilted' property taxes a serious issue in Pa. - delcotimes.com
EDITORIAL: 'Tilted' property taxes a serious issue in Pa. - delcotimes.com
Only voters can stop insidious spread of socialism
Columnist and author Diana West has some advice for Mitt Romney: "To date, Mitt Romney has balked at labeling President Obama or even his policies as socialist, probably calculating that the label distracts from his arguments. I implore him to reconsider lest Obama's and the Democrats' stealth socialism finish off the country once and for all."
Only voters can stop insidious spread of socialism
Only voters can stop insidious spread of socialism
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Newspaper: Voice your support for property tax reform
Pennsylvania taxpayers need to get behind House Bill 1776 if they want to see school property taxes eliminated.
Voice your support for property tax reform
Voice your support for property tax reform
Χριστός ἀνέστη! Ἀληθῶς ἀνέστη!
Χριστός ἀνέστη! Ἀληθῶς ἀνέστη!
Χριστὸς ἀνέστη ἐκ νεκρῶν,
θανάτῳ θάνατον πατήσας,
καὶ τοῖς ἐν τοῖς μνήμασι,
ζωὴν χαρισάμενος!
Christ is risen from the dead,
Trampling down death by death,
And upon those in the tombs
Bestowing life!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Titanic sermons, 100 years later
A fascinating look at the demise of the Titanic, including the boast that, "God Himself couldn’t sink this ship."
Titanic sermons, 100 years later
Titanic sermons, 100 years later
A tale of two Easters
One of the benefits of being an Orthodox Christian living in America is the ability to celebrate Easter twice. For most Christians, Easter was celebrated on April 8. But the 300 million Orthodox Christians around the world are preparing to celebrate Easter on April 15.
Easter fell on the same date for the Western (Catholic/Protestant) churches and the Eastern (Orthodox) churches in 2011, but that's a rare occasion. And aving the two dates a week apart (as we do this year) is not as confusing as some years when the two "Easter" celebrations could be four or five weeks apart.
Easter is a moveable holiday on the Christian calendar. It can be celebrated as early as March or as late as May. To understand why the Western churches (primarily the Catholic Church) celebrate Easter on a different date than the Eastern churches (or Orthodox), you need to know a little history.
The Christian Church was founded on the Day of Pentecost in Jerusalem in 33 A.D. — 50 days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Orthodox branch believes it has maintained the same tradition for the past 2,000-plus years and can trace its liturgy to the original teachings and traditions of Jesus and the apostles.
For the first 1,000 years, there was one Christian Church — the one that was persecuted by the Romans until the Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and made it the state religion. As the empire grew, the center of church authority began to splinter into rival factions, one centered in Constantinople (still the home base of the Orthodox Church although the city is now called Instanbul), and the other based in Rome (eventually the Vatican City), where popes rule the Catholic Church.
The official split came in 1054 A.D. when the Patriarch of Rome (also known as the Pope of Rome) broke away from the Eastern church in what religious scholars refer to as the "Great Schism."
The major difference between the Catholic and the Orthodox Christian churches is the Catholic belief in the infallibility of the Pope.
The Eastern churches are autonomous, headed by senior bishops known as patriarchs, and do not recognize the authority of the pope. His All Holiness Bartholomew I, Archbishop of Constantinople, New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch, is the 270th successor of the 2,000 year-old Christian Church founded by St. Andrew.
Bartholomew is the "first among equals" of the Orthodox Primates, who govern their respective churches in Greece, Cyprus, Russia, Eastern Europe, Africa and the Americas.
Since the "Great Schism," the Catholic Church has splintered into various other denominations.
The Lutheran Church was founded by Martin Luther in 1522. The Anglican Church of England was founded by King Henry VIII in 1534. The Presbyterian Church was founded by John Knox of Scotland in 1580. The Congregational Church was founded by Robert Brown in Holland in 1582. The Baptist Church was founded by John Smyth in Amsterdam in 1606. The Dutch Reformed Church was founded in New York in 1628 by Michelis Jones. The Protestant Episcopal Church is an offshoot on the Church of England and was founded by Samuel Seabury in the American Colonies in the 18th Century. The Methodist Church was founded by John and Charles Wesley in England in 1774. The Unitarian Church was founded by Theophilus Lindley in London in 1774. The Mormon Church (Latter Day Saints) was founded by Joseph Smith in 1829.
The Protestant churches also splintered into various branches: Church of the Nazarene, Pentecostal Churches, Holiness Church, Assemblies of God Churches, and many Bible and Evangelical and non-denominational churches, as well as the Jehovah's Witnesses.
The Orthodox Church has changed little in 2,000 years, although it has taken on the identify and customs of the countries it serves.
In Greece and Cyprus, the Greek Orthodox Church is dominant. In Russia, it's the Russian Orthodox Church. You also have Romanian, Antiochan, Bulgarian, Carpatho-Russian, Albanian, Serbian and Ukrainian churches. All celebrate the same liturgy, but do so in different languages. In the U.S., the largest Eastern Orthodox denomination is governed by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, based in New York City.
Which brings us back to why Easter is celebrated twice. The formula for Easter is the same for both Catholic and Orthodox churches: The holiday is celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the Vernal Equinox, but the churches base the date on different calendars — Western churches use the Gregorian calendar, the standard calendar for much of the world, while Orthodox churches use the older Julian calendar.
Eastern Orthodox church leaders also believe Easter should fall after the Jewish Passover because the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ took place after he entered Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. In the Western Church, Easter often precedes Passover.
That's why Orthodox Christians will celebrate Easter this Sunday.
Friday, April 13, 2012
'Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?' - Johnny Cash
A solemn song by Johnny Cash appropriate on this Orthodox Good Friday.
Chester County declares ban on open burning
The Chester County Board of Commissioners has declared a ban on open burning for all Chester County residents and businesses, effective immediately.
From a press releases issued Friday afternoon:
From a press releases issued Friday afternoon:
The temporary 30-day ban is based on current weather conditions and forecasted conditions, as well as the recent wildfire in French Creek State Park. Gusting winds, combined with dry fields and forests have made conditions extremely unstable for open burning.
Open burning of any combustible material out-of-doors in either a burn barrel (screened or unscreened), fire ring or on the ground is banned. This includes the burning of garbage, leaves, grass, twigs, litter, paper and vegetation from land that has been cleared.The lack of green foliage in the spring, little rainfall, low humidity and sunny, windy days have increased the chances of forest and brush fires spreading. The William Penn Forestry District 17, which covers Chester County, advises on its website that conditions today are “extreme”, meaning fires start quickly, spread furiously and burn intensely.
“The Forestry District may elevate these conditions to “Red Flag Warning” over the weekend, indicating that critical fire weather conditions are either currently occurring or will shortly be occurring,” said Robert Kagel, Chester County Department of Emergency Services Deputy Director for Emergency Management.For more information on fire conditions for wildfires and open burning, go to the Pennsylvania Fire Wardens Association District 17 website, www.pffwal17.org.