Worker Advocate: Solis backs forced unionization

Worker Advocate: Solis Nomination Slap in the Face to America's Independent Minded Workers

Obama Labor Secretary pick is pro-amnesty for illegals

As we can afford to lose more American jobs, Barack Obama has picked a Congresswoman who has supported amnesty for illegal aliens as his choice for Secretary of Labor.

Statement by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) on the Selection of Hilda Solis for Secretary of Labor

Liberal media shields corrupt Democrats

Time magazine ran a 5,000-word story last week about Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, but failed to mention anywhere in the story that Blagojevich was a Democrat. Sloppy journalism or liberal bias? Depends on how much Kool-Aid you're drinking, I guess.

Media critic Brent Brozell says there's a definite pattern in the way the mainstream media covers political scandals depending on whether a Democrat or Republican is involved.

Writing at Townhall.com, Brozell offers the standard operating procedure for the media:

First, as with other Democratic scandals (Spitzer, Jefferson, McGreevey, etc.), anchors and editors again purposely dropped the "D" out of the equation, laboring not to tell viewers or readers that the offenders were Democrats. In a Republican scandal, the offending politician is usually described as a Republican in the very first sentence, and deservedly so. In a Democrat scandal, the party identification of the perpetrator can arrive in paragraph eight. Or not at all.

Then, reporters declared that a Blagojevich resignation or impeachment could arrive any day, and suggested the story could soon be finished. (When Republicans are in the crosshairs, reporters announce "this story isn't going away any time soon.") Reporters insisted the Blagojevich story might end soon with the governor's removal, even before Team Obama fully explained its contacts with the governor's office on the Senate-seat matter. They wanted Blagojevich removed from the Democratic elite before he infected the party's anti-corruption claims like an Ebola virus.

Third, they labored mightily to separate Team Obama from the Blagojevich camp. Take CBS, and reporter Chip Reid, who cited local CBS reporter Mike Flannery as an expert, and never mind if local bloggers call him "Chicago's version of Chris Matthews." Flannery insisted one could only call Obama and Blagojevich the "most distant allies," and Reid insisted Flannery told him "Obama has often gone out of his way to avoid any close association with the ethically challenged governor. But that's not stopping the Republican National Committee from trying to tie the two men together." Reid read a line from RNC chairman Mike Duncan, then insisted, "Despite the occasional photo together, though, linking them could be a tough sell."

Read the full column, "What Democrat Scandal?" at Townhall.com

'America's most unsung conservative hero'

Praise continues to pour in for Paul M. Weyrich, a founding father of the modern conservatism movement. Wyrich died today at age 66.

Richard Viguerie on Paul Weyrich: America's Most Unsung Conservative Hero

Republican National Committee Chairman Robert M. "Mike" Duncan released this statement about Weyrich today:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Paul Weyrich, whose life work was instrumental in the development of conservative thought. As the first president of the Heritage Foundation and respected leader of other conservative organizations and coalitions, Paul's service to America has embodied and further advanced the Republican Party's core values of limited government, lower taxes, and individual responsibility. We are saddened by the passing of Paul Weyrich, but we know that his contributions will continue to resonate for generations."

Also check out Lowman Henry's posting about Weyrich at Lincoln Blog.

Praise for President Bush

I enjoyed reading this Letter to the Editor in The Intelligencer of Doylestown from a Bucks County resident who gives George W. Bush credit for keeping America safe from terrorist attacks for more than seven years.

Larry Hannon Jr. is also waiting for Bush critics to say a big "thanks" to the president for lowering gas prices since the far left blamed Bush for rising oil prices six months ago.

A salute to President Bush

To the Editor:

For several weeks now I've been patiently waiting, and now my curiosity has driven me to ask. This is for all of those people who somehow, somewhere got the idea that the president of the United States actually has direct control over the price of gasoline. They blamed President Bush as prices soared. Now that a gallon costs $1.70, where did they go? Their absence seems odd, and if there were any truth to their twisted way of thinking, a "thank you" would be in order.

I suppose it's only fashionable to blame President Bush for everything. No thank you is allowed. Terrorists flew planes into the Twin Towers in 2001, a hurricane hit Louisiana in 2005 and the economy blew up this year thanks to the ticking time bomb left by the Clinton administration. The current Democrats in Congress sure did a great job of keeping the fuse lit, too. President Bush is not a terrorist, he is not a natural weather event and he is the man who tried to change certain flawed Clinton policies to no avail. But, somehow, we must be able to blame him for all this.

Personally, I give my sincere thanks to President Bush. I thank him for bending over backward to ensure our safety as a nation even when it wasn't popular. I thank him for trying to fix our economy as the Democrats in Congress shoved it over the edge. I thank him for being a family man with faith in God and setting a good example for all Americans. This is something we certainly lacked in the past.

After Sept. 11, 2001, people complained that the government should have done something to prevent the attacks. Then, when we invaded Iraq before we were attacked, people asked why. Neither reactive nor proactive was acceptable in their eyes. Well, proactive was the right move.

This letter has nothing to do with whom I voted for in 2008. With some education, that choice was easy. Instead, this letter is a salute to the 43rd president of the greatest country in the world, George W. Bush.

Larry Hannon Jr.
Warminster Township

Feeling sorry for OPEC?

You almost feel sorry for the members of OPEC what with demand for oil sinking faster than the approval ratings for Congress.

The emphasis in on "almost."

I hope OPEC enjoyed its summer run of skyrocketing oil prices. Pretty soon, its members can drink the oil they stockpile while demand continues to drop.

OPEC Attempts Shock Therapy for Declining Demand: Abraham Energy Report

Newspaper: Legislative surplus stands out

While nearly every corner of Pennsylvania is hurting during the current economic decline, the pain has not reached the Pennsylvania Legislature, concludes The Mercury in an editorial published in today's edition.

The Legislature not only spent $316 million on itself last year, but it has managed to siphon off more than $200 million in taxpayer dollars in private legislative accounts.

Those numbers are sobering considering that Pennsylvania has spent $658 million more than it took in as of Nov. 30. The projected budget deficit is between $1.6 billion to $2 billion by next spring.

From The Mercury's editorial:

How can state lawmakers possibly justify keeping that much money in the bank when services are being cut across the board, when the city of Philadelphia is closing libraries and swimming pools used by children, and when places like Pottstown are forced to make decisions on cutting economic development and fire protection?

Pennsylvania stands out in its inefficiency and wasteful spending within state government. Nearly all other states return their legislative surpluses to the general fund at year's end. That's in any year.

In a year like this when spending is being slashed in municipal, county, and state-funded services, there is no excuse for the Legislature sitting on a surplus.

No excuse except the one we hear too often — because that's the way things are done here.

Read the full editorial at the newspaper's Web site.

The day the Montco GOP died

It's Dec. 18, 2008, exactly one year to the day that the Republican Party in Montgomery County died, betrayed by one of its own.

From Republican Montgomery County Commissioner Bruce L. Castor Jr.:

The day, hence forever known as "Betrayal Day" is upon us. It was on this date one year ago that Jim Matthews and Joe Hoeffel held a joint press conference announcing their alliance to subvert the will of the voters.

Bill Shaw has more on the day of infamy at his blog, WRITEMARSH!

Obama Economic Policy Snubs Small Business

Obama Economic Policy Snubs Small Business

FRC Praises Issuance of Conscience Protections

FRC Praises Issuance of Conscience Protections

'Talking Politics' on WPAZ 1370 AM

"Talking Politics with Tony Phyrillas & Mike Pincus" returns to WPAZ 1370 AM Thursday from 5-6 p.m.

You can join the conversation by calling the station at 610-326-4000.

If you can't pick up the radio signal, the one-hour program is simulcast at www.1370wpaz.com and www.pottsmerc.com

Never a good sign

New government statistics on violent crime

Violent Crime Rate in 2007 at About the Same Level in 2005

Senate Dems get committee chairmanships

When you have only 20 members in your caucus and there are 21 standing committees, every Democrat in the Pennsylvania Senate gets to be a committee chairperson.

Democrats will continue to be the minority party in the Pennsylvania Senate for the next two years, but they're trying to make the best of it.

Being named minority chairman of a Senate committee isn't that big a deal, but it does come with some perks (including a higher salary) and some prestige.

State Senate Democratic Leader Robert J. Mellow today announced his picks to serve as Democratic chairs for Senate committees for the 2009-10 legislative session.

Sen. Raphael J. Musto has to double as chairman of two committees and Mellow himself has to take a committee chairmanship just to have enough bodies to fill the chairs. That's what happens when you're the perpetual minority party and you keep losing ground with each election.

Mellow made the following appointments:

Aging & Youth – LeAnna M. Washington (D-Phila./Montgomery)

Agriculture & Rural Affairs – Michael A. O'Pake (D-Berks)

Appropriations – Jay Costa (D-Allegheny)

Banking & Insurance – Michael J. Stack III (D-Phila.)

Communications & Technology – John Wozniak (D-Cambria/Centre/Clearfield/Clinton/Somerset)

Community, Economic and Recreational Development – Wayne D. Fontana (D-Allegheny)

Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure – Lisa M. Boscola (D-Lehigh/Monroe/Northampton)

Education – Andrew E. Dinniman (D-Chester/Montgomery)

Environmental Resources & Energy - Raphael J. Musto (D-Carbon/Luzerne/Monroe)

Finance – Jim Ferlo (D-Allegheny/Armstrong/Westmoreland)

Game & Fisheries – Richard A. Kasunic (D-Fayette/Somerset)

Judiciary – Daylin Leach (D-Delaware/ Montgomery)

Labor & Industry – Christine M. Tartaglione (D-Phila.)

Law & Justice – Sean Logan (D-Allegheny/Westmoreland)

Local Government – Raphael J. Musto (D-Carbon/Luzerne/Monroe)

Public Health & Welfare – Vincent J. Hughes (D-Montgomery/Phila.)

Rules & Executive Nominations – Robert J. Mellow (D-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Monroe)

State Government - Anthony H. Williams (D-Phila./Delaware)

Transportation – J. Barry Stout (D-Allegheny/Beaver/Greene/Washington/Westmoreland)

Urban Affairs & Housing – Shirley M. Kitchen (D-Phila.)

Veterans' Affairs & Emergency Preparedness – Larry Farnese (D-Phila.)

'Citizen Legislators, Not Career Politicians'

I came across an interesting Web site that champions an issue I've been pushing for years -- term limits for elected officials.

U.S. Term Limits was founded in 1992 and has been working to enact term limit legislation at all government levels.

U.S. Term Limits "has seen term limits placed on 17 state legislatures, eight of the 10 largest cities in America adopted term limits for their city councils, and politicians continually failing at extending, or removing, their term limits," according to the Web site.

The group admits it is fighting an uphill battle:

American politicians, special interests and lobbyists continue to combat term limits, as they know term limits force out career politicians who are more concerned with their own gain than the interests of the American people.

USTL stands up against this practice. We are the voice of the American citizen. We want a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, not a tyrannical ruling class who care more about deals to benefit themselves, than their constituents.

Remember, every town councilman wants to be a congressman; every congressman wants to be a senator; and every Senator wants to be president.

To support the effort to enact term limits, visit the group's Web site at http://www.termlimits.org/

Columnist: Bail out the newspapers

Gil Spencer, the very entertaining columnist for The Delaware County Daily & Sunday Times in Primos, imagines the kind of treatment newspapers would get if they showed up in Washington, D.C., asking for a government bailout.

Here's a portion of his column, which is a preview of an exchange Spencer imagines having with Sen. Ted Kennedy:

Sen. Kennedy: Of course. Billion! Why should the American people lend your industry $25 billion?

Spencerblog: Because it will be good for the economy?

Sen. Kennedy: We’re asking the questions here.

Spencerblog: Because it will be good for the economy!

Sen. Kennedy: Good answer. And how will it be good for the economy, Mr. Spencerborg?

Spencerblog: It will keep thousands of newspaper men and women employed so they can buy stuff and not have to go on the dole. Also, newspapers help the public know what’s going on.

Sen. Kennedy: Like by bringing up painful things that happened almost 40 years ago?

Spencerblog: I’m sorry? I’m not sure ...

Sen. Kennedy: Let me see if I can refresh your memory ... (reading) “The Kennedy family has a long history, but it mostly involves helping themselves to power, sex, and money and not caring who gets hurt in the bargain as long as it’s not them.” Ring any bells?

Spencerblog: Oh, that. Yes, well. I do recall, I’m not sure I ...

Sen. Kennedy: In what way was this helping the public’s right to know?

Spencerblog: As I recall senator, that was written in response to a comment ... Of course, I’d like to apolo ...

Sen. Kennedy: Yes, it WAS written in response to a comment. This one: “The Kennedy family has a long history of public service and helping the poor, the disenfranchised, the minorities and the advancement of civil rights. These are important American values and Caroline Kennedy would vote for them as a senator.” Something in there you don’t agree with?

Read the full column, "Spencerblog is fighting for newspapers," at the newspaper's Web site.

'Dems embrace dynasty politics'

"Americans always say they don't like royalty and hereditary connections. On the other hand, they really like families like the Kennedys."

That statement by N.Y. state Rep. Peter King, a Republican would is considering a run for one of New York's U.S. Senate seats, sums up the disturbing trend of a handful of families holding political power in the United States.

While we have the Bush family on the Republican side, it's mostly a Democratic trend, with Clintons and Kennedys leading the way.

Politico, the online political Web site, examines what some find as a disturbing trend toward an aristocracy handing political power to offspring and relatives.

Hell, even Jesse Jackson managed to get his son elected to Congress.

From the article by Charles Mahtesian:

All told, it's entirely possible that the Senate will be comprised of nearly a dozen congressional offspring by the end of Obama's first term as president.

"It's a very interesting American phenomenon, even though there is a line in the Constitution that says no title of nobility may be granted by the United States," says Stephen Hess, a senior fellow emeritus at the Brookings Institution and the author of "America's Political Dynasties." "Given where we started, it's interesting that this has developed."

Almost everyone agrees that the high cost of elections is making the world's most exclusive club seem even more exclusive. According to some estimates, the cost of winning Clinton's New York Senate seat in the special election in 2010 and the general election in 2012 will be in the neighborhood of $70 million.

"There are three issues behind this trend," said Bob Edgar, the president of Common Cause and a former Pennsylvania congressman. "Money is issue number one, money is issue number two and money is issue number three."

"It's an enormously expensive process to run for the United States Senate," added Edgar, who ran unsuccessfully for the Senate in 1986. "And once someone runs for a Senate seat, there is a sense of ownership."

Read "Nepotism Nation: Dems embrace dynasty politics" at the Politico Web site.

The Bush Haters will never get it

Congress Gives Itself $4,700 Pay Raise in 2009

While 9 out of 10 Americans disapprove of the job Congress is doing, that won't stop members of Congress from collecting another pay raise starting Jan. 1.

Congress automatically gets a pay raise every year unless its members vote to reject it. That hasn't happened yet.

As of Jan. 1, the starting salary of a member of Congress reaches $174,000, which is higher than 94 percent of American households.

Members of Congress Due to Award Themselves $4,700 Raise in 2009

How To Stop Junk Mail

Lose 41 Pounds in 5 Minutes - Stop Your Junk Mail With 41pounds.org!

Columnist: Legislators should take a pay cut

For the past two Sundays, Eric Heyl, a columnist for The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, has been urging readers of the newspaper to clip a coupon at the end of his column and send it off to Harrisburg.

Heyl wants members of the Pennsylvania Legislature, among the highest paid in the nation, to take a 5 percent pay cut in light of the state's massive budget deficit, which is projected at $1.6 billion to $2 billion. (Nearly every member of the Legislature voted in favor of Gov. Ed Rendell's $28.3 billion budget despite warnings that it would bleed red ink before the fiscal year is out.)

While some lawmakers have volunteered to give back the 2.8 percent cost-of-living pay rise that kicked in Dec. 1, Heyl said they need to go further and take a salary cut.

The coupon reads as follows:

YES! I want more than political posturing from my elected state officials.

Quit patting yourselves on the back for not accepting your COLA and show people you're really willing to sacrifice. Take a 5 percent pay cut like your brethren lawmakers in Florida.

Then roll up your sleeves, get to work, and save the people you work for -- that would include me -- some real money.

Do I have your pledge that you will start by cutting some of the $300 million budgeted this year just to operate the state House and Senate?

I expect a response at your earliest convenience.

Heyl got the idea for the pay cut request after a reader informed him that Florida state legislators volunteered to reduce their salaries.

Florida legislators earn about $31,000 annually, Heyl writes. The base salary for Pennsylvania lawmakers is $78,315 if they accept the COLA, $76,313 if they decline it, Heyl says.Read Hey's initial column, "Send this coupon to your legislator," here.

Read Heyl's follow-up column, "Not too late to send this coupon to legislators," here.

Wagner calls for end of bonuses in state government

Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner must be running for something again.

Recently re-elected to another four-year term as Auditor General, Wagner must have his sights set on running for governor or U.S. Senator in 2010 because he puts out more press releases than even the current governor.

Today, Wagner is appalled at the $854,000 in bonuses paid out by the agency that handles the retirement funds for Pennsylvania's teachers. The system showed $1.8 billion in investment losses so far this year, but is still handing out bonus money.

Pennsylvania Auditor General Jack Wagner, Troubled at PSERS' Bonuses, Renews Call for Elimination of Bonuses in State Government

What's so special about the Kennedys?

Do we have a democracy or a monarchy in this country?

What's so special about the Kennedys? Why do they feel entitled to another Senate seat?

Conservative icon Richard Viguerie makes the case against the appointment of Caroline Kennedy to the soon-to-be vacant U.S. Senate seat held by Hillary Clinton.

Despite all the problems facing this country, "the political establishment is putting forth, as a U.S. Senator from New York, a person whose qualification is her last name," Viguerie said.

Viguerie, chairman of ConservativeHQ.com, said there are more qualified candidates to pick from.

"How about a successful business person, or someone else who has shown the ability to run a large, complex organization and bring projects in on time and under budget?" Viguerie asks. "How about someone who has challenged the political orthodoxy on important issues, and won? How about someone who has some significant qualifications for the job, other than being born into the right family?"

Read the full comments by Viguerie at the link below:

Richard Viguerie: In Dangerous Times, New York Needs a Real U.S. Senator

Taking the 'paper' out of 'newspaper'

Not a good sign for the newspaper industry.

The American Society of Newspaper Editors, founded in 1922, wants to change its name by dropping "paper" from "Newspaper."

The group says it's a reflection of the times and would encourage membership from online-only news Web sites.

ASNE Proposes Taking 'Paper' Out of Name, Other Significant Changes to Bylaws

Capitol South - Hot Air Edition

$100,000 statue scrapped for $952 by thieves

You have to shake your head at the monumental stupidity and/or greed of some people.

A brass statue stolen from a religious shrine in Berks County was chopped up by the thieves, who sold the pieces as scrap metal for $952.

The estimated value of the statue is $100,000.

The statue originally stood in the Hall of Justice in Sao Paulo Brazil, and was cast in the 1930s, according to the Padre Pio center's Web site, http://padrepio.org

Read more about this travesty in The Pottstown Mercury.

Global warming hoax continues

The Associated Press is the latest news organization to buy into the global warming propaganda.

From an editorial in Investor's Business Daily that questions why the AP is ignoring the facts to push the Al Gore-inspired hysteria about climate change:

The temperature at Denver International Airport dropped to 18 below zero on Sunday, breaking the previous record of 14 below set in 1901. White Sulphur Springs, Mont., reported 29 below to the National Weather Service, breaking the record of 17 below set in 1922. Meanwhile, ice storms ravage the Northeast and the upper Midwest.

This is not a local phenomenon. Hong Kong had the second-longest cold spell since 1885. Cold in northern Vietnam destroyed 40% of the rice crop and killed 33,000 head of livestock. The British Parliament debated climate change as London experienced the first October snow since 1934.

Presumably this has all been reported by the Associated Press. But according to a weekend AP report, this is all an illusion and "2008 is on a pace to be a slightly cooler year in a steadily rising temperature trend line." Rather than being "evidence of some kind of cooling trend, it actually illustrates how fast the world is warming." Oh.

The report, which includes no comments from any skeptic, says global warming "is a ticking time-bomb that President-elect Obama can't avoid." It warns "warming is accelerating. Time is running out, and Obama knows it." Especially if he relies on AP wire reports.

Problem is, nature didn't get the memo. Geophysicist David Deming found that for the first time since the 18th century, in the days before SUVs, Alaskan glaciers grew this year instead of retreating. Fairbanks had its fourth coldest October in 104 years of records.

U.S. Geological Survey glaciologist Bruce Molnia reported: "On the Juneau Icefield, there was still 20 feet of new snow on the surface of the Taku Glacier in late July." It was the worst summer he'd seen in two decades.

Read the full editorial at the newspaper's Web site.

Report Shows Lawsuit Abuse Still Widespread

Report Shows Lawsuit Abuse Still Widespread

National Parent Organization Applauds Selection of Arne Duncan as U.S. Education Secretary

National Parent Organization Applauds Selection of Arne Duncan as U.S. Education Secretary

Naughty or nice?

Recession-Induced Child Poverty to Cost U.S. $1.7 Trillion in Economic Loss

Recession-Induced Child Poverty to Cost U.S. $1.7 Trillion in Economic Loss

Stay married, go to church for the kids' sake

New Survey Shows Children Have Fewer Problems When They Live in Intact Married Families That Worship Weekly

What's Latin for ripping off taxpayers?

On top of their very generous $76,000-a-year salary and their gold-plated benefits package, members of the Pennsylvania Legislature are entitled to $158 every time they show up for work in Harrisburg.

The $158 per-diem payment is supposed to cover food and other expenses of traveling to their jobs. You know, just like your boss treats you to lunch every day or just pays you a bonus for showing up.

Brad Bumstead examines the per-diem scam as part of the overall Bonusgate corruption investigation in his latest column for The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

From his column:

Since I've been covering the Capitol -- starting in 1983 -- lawmakers of both parties have been ripping off taxpayers by claiming the full per diem while also charging the state for pricey dinners. Sometimes, the caucus or chief clerk's office would provide dinner at the Capitol while legislators were in session.

The Maverick Steak House was the favorite watering hole for years until it burned down. Vissagio's, an Italian eatery, was also a regular spot. Tavern on the Hill has been a more recent favorite. There's no doubt whatsoever that many collected per diems while also charging the state for fancy dinners.

It's double-dipping.

Sometimes, leaders would put the arm on a lobbyist and take a half-dozen members along for a free meal, all the while collecting the full per diem.

Read the full column at the newspaper's Web site.

He put the rat in Democrat

The Auto Bailout, a Retiree Tax Break, and the Blagojevich-Obama Connection

WashingtonWatch.com Update: The Auto Bailout, a Retiree Tax Break, and the Blagojevich-Obama Connection

Remarks by President Bush to the Troops

Remarks by President Bush to the Troops

A helping hand from you Uncle Eddie

Governor Rendell Announces Three New Steps to Help Pennsylvanians in Need

It's official: Obama wins Pennsylvania

Sorry Hillary Clinton fans. Barack Obama wins Pennsylvania's 21 delegates.

56th Pennsylvania Electoral College Selects Obama for President

When people stop looking at car crashes

Media Coverage of Car Crashes May be a Health Hazard, Studies in NSC's Journal of Safety Research Conclude

'SNL' segment makes fun of blind people

Making fun of Republicans in general and Sarah Palin in particular is one thing. But making fun of the governor of New York, who is legally blind, is a low blow even for a lame show like "Saturday Nigh Live."

National Federation of the Blind Comments on Saturday Night Live Segment

A Tooned In Christmas Greeting

Alan MacBain is a talented cartoonist from the Collegeville, Pa., area who has won several awards for political cartoons published in The Mercury.

Every December, he comes up with an original Christmas story that he illustrates and sents out as his greeting card.

If you were one of the lucky people on Alan's mailing list, you know what I'm talking about. This year, everyone gets a treat. Alan has placed his latest work, "In Spite of Myself: A Christmas greeting," online.

Check it out at The Mercury's Web site.

11 examples of 'change' you can believe in

This Letter to the Editor originally published in The Pottstown Mercury comes from a Berks County resident. He lists 11 changes he'd like to see in the way our government is run. I agree with all 11. Review the letter yourself and decide if these are the kind of changes we all can agree on.

Real changes Americans want to see in their government

So, you want change? The political message this year has been all about "change." Here are a few changes that I believe all Americans want:

1) Limit the Congress from serving more than two terms. That is all that presidents are allowed. This would eliminate the "old-boy network" that is now established.

2) Stop Congress from voting for their own raises. Can you do that?

3) Stop paying these "lawmakers" their full salary after serving only one term. The working American people are lucky to get 20 percent of their salary at retirement after working somewhere for 35 years, but these "lawmakers" get 100 percent of their salary for the rest of their lives.

4) Make every government worker, including Congress, pay into the Social Security system. Congress has their own "security" plan which the average American is not privileged to. If they had to spend some of their own money, they might be really interested in making Social Security and Medicare solvent.

5) Stop handing out aid to illegal aliens. If they did, then Medicaid and the food stamp program would have enough money to really take care of our aged and poor.

6) Stop allowing babies born to illegal aliens in these United States to automatically become U.S. citizens entitled to all citizens benefits.

7) Stop bailing out mortgage companies and banks that gave out loans to people who they knew could not afford to pay (subprime & ARMs). These financial institutions then sold them to Wall Street to bundle and resell to other investors and now they are asking the working American to pay for it out of his/her labor.

8) Regulate and curtail the credit card industry to cease excessive usury to place their customers in deeper debt. This will be the next 'bubble' to burst.

9) Stop all unnecessary spending to other nations until our country is secure and our infrastructure, needy, and elderly are taken care of. After all, these elderly people are the ones who sacrificed through many wars to insure that our freedoms would allow suggestions, such as these, to appear in any publication without reprimand.

10) Disconnect all lobbyists from having any influence in the matters of our government.

11) Restrict the IRS from confiscating the American workers' personal income by taxing that income and using it to pay for bad decisions made by private corporations.

"I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle." — Winston Churchill

"A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the support of Paul." — George Bernard Shaw

"In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of citizens to give to the other." — Voltaire

"The only difference between the IRS and a taxidermist is that the taxidermist leaves the skin —Mark Twain

JERRY CROWLEY
Boyertown

State Capitol Roundup for December 12

Here's this week's State Capitol Roundup courtesy of Rep. Bob Mensch (R-147):

Mid-Year Budget Briefing Highlights Fiscal Concerns

With state revenues currently $658 million below estimates, the Commonwealth's budget shortfall for the year is now projected to be about $1.6 billion. While the Rendell administration pins its hopes on a $450 million federal bailout, House Republicans are calling for cuts to under-performing programs and a responsible budget for the upcoming year that does not increase state spending. When pressed on the issue by House Republican Leader Sam Smith, even Gov. Ed. Rendell acknowledged that the budget for the next fiscal year must be, at maximum, a zero growth budget. Republican House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Mario J. Civera Jr. (R-Upper Darby) and other House Republicans see the budget crisis as an opportunity to pare down the budget to core funding needs and re-evaluate programs that are not working. The House Republican Caucus has led the charge in this respect, reducing its own appropriation by more than $7 million in each of the last three budgets.

$75 Million Tax Credit to Hollywood Producers Under Fire

Noting the state's dismal fiscal situation and ongoing economic challenges throughout the nation, Rep. Ron Marsico (R-Dauphin) is calling upon the governor to re-evaluate the Film Tax Credit, which, at $75 million, is the largest tax credit appropriation in the 2007-08 budget. According to a report prepared by the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), the state has awarded nearly $75 million in tax credits for the current fiscal year and has only generated $18 million in return. Marsico has introduced bills to repeal the Film Tax Credit in the past, and has promised to re-introduce legislation when the House reconvenes in January.

Deadline for Changes to Medicare Coverage Nears; Counseling Services Available

Medicare beneficiaries are running out of time to make changes to Medicare coverage for 2009 as the Dec. 31 deadline approaches. For individuals who have questions about making changes to their coverage, the APPRISE Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program might be helpful. APPRISE is a free service provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging and is designed to provide Medicare beneficiaries with free and impartial information and assistance with Medicare benefits, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medigap policies, Medicare prescription benefits, long-term care insurance and programs that can save individuals money on their health care expenses. APPRISE can also help individuals with various paperwork, such as filing a claim or appealing an existing claim. For more information, individuals can visit RepMensch.com or call APPRISE, toll free, at 800-783-7067.

Guest column: Trouble with a Capital 'D'

By Tony Perkins
Family Research Council

It's been two years since Speaker Nancy Pelosi's (D-Calif.) pronouncement that Democrats would make this "the most honest, ethical, and open Congress in history."

So far, she and her colleagues have yet to make good on that promise, and there is absolutely no indication that liberals will lead a revival of integrity anytime soon. Corruption has spun its web in America's highest halls of power, entangling both parties and bringing unprecedented disgrace to the nation's elect.

The parade of allegations has wound its way through the offices of Rep. William Jefferson (D-La.), Rep. John Murtha (D-Penn.), and, more recently, Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), who received a $40,000 campaign contribution from Fannie Mae during an alleged relationship with one of its executives.

This week, the attention turned to Rep. Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.) for potentially inventing tax loopholes for wealthy oil companies.

The Democrats' trouble is even trickling down to eye-popping state scandals.

Following former Gov. Eliot Spitzer (N.Y.) down the path to public humiliation is current Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D), the object of outrage after allegations that he tried to "sell" Sen. Barack Obama's vacant senate seat.

Although Obama's transition leader John Podesta insisted weeks ago that Obama was launching a new "Transparency Policy" for his administration, we have yet to see evidence of it.

While investigators say Obama hasn't been implicated in the criminal probe, the next President has been surprisingly mum on questions about Blagojevich and their relationship.

As Americans cast a weary eye toward their leaders, Obama's party owes the American people the candor they promised-if, for no other reason, than to make good on his guarantee of "change."

If Democrats seek to expand government, perhaps they should first earn our trust with the authority they have. With more power comes more corruption. Considering the latest public betrayals, the argument for limited government has never been stronger.

For more about Family Research Council, visit the group's Web site, http://www.frc.org/

Survey: PA among most corrupt states

USA Today reviewed Department of Justice statistics and came up with a ranking of the most corrupt states based on the number of public corruption convictions the federal government has won from 1998 through 2007.

Pennsylvania is among the Top 12 most corrupt states, according to the newspaper.

Check out the story and see a color-coded map of the U.S. based on the number of convicted public officials at the newspaper's Web site.

Did you know Blagojevich was a Democrat?

During an appearance on The O'Reilly Factor, Bernard Goldberg, the former CBS reporter who wrote the book on liberal media bias, said only one of the three TV networks mentioned Illinois Gov. Ron Blagojevich's party affiliation on the day the indictment was announced.

The next morning, none of the three morning news shows on the networks mentioned he was a Democrat, Goldberg says.

I noted in an earlier post that left-leaning CNN and MSNBC failed to mention that Blagojevich was a Democrat.

Liberal media bias? You betcha!

At least 14 people want to be next PA governor

The hot political rumor in Pennsylvania this week has Congressman Jim Gerlach, R-6th Dist., mulling a run for governor after Ed Rendell leaves in 2010.

Gerlach is the 14th name (7 Republicans and 7 Democrats) that pundits have mentioned as possible candidates. Looking over the list, you can scratch half the names off as not serious contenders.

For the full list, check out, "Gerlach considering run for governor in 2010," in today's edition of The Pottstown Mercury.

RNC: Questions About Blagojevich Scandal Unanswered

He hasn't even been sworn into office yet, but President-Elect Barack Obama is knee-deep in the growing corruption scandal involving his political ally, Ron Blagojevich, the governor of Illinois.

How about an independent prosecutor to investigate Obama's ties to the scandal? What's Kenneth Starr doing these days?

RNC: What We Don't Know

'What the U.S. Economy Needs is an Enema!'

A Florida businessman has sent President Bush, President-Elect Obama and other politicians an open letter on how to stimulate the economy and put Americans back to work.

I don't know if I'd use the "enema" description, but his ideas are as good as anything coming out of Washington, D.C., these days.

Read the letter by Jeno Paulucci, founder of the Michelina's frozen entree company, at the link below.

Jeno F. Paulucci: What the U.S. Economy Needs Is an Enema!

205 firms owe PA $6.5M in back taxes

The state has published a new list of delinquent businesses, adding 17 new firms.

Businesses on Pennsylvania's Tax Delinquent List Now Owe $6.5 Million in State Levies

Berks extends pay freeze for elected officials

Berks County taxpayers received an early Christmas present from the county commissioners -- well, two of them, anyway.

The commissioners voted 2-1 to keep the salaries of elected row officers the same through 2014. Now we'll find out the true meaning of "public servant."

That means the county sheriff, coroner, prothonotary, treasurer, recorder of deeds, controller, register of wills and clerk of courts will have to get by on a measly $78,566 a year.

The county commissioners themselves will not see an increase above their current $90,260 salary (already among the highest in the state.) The commissioners' chairman gets paid $92,991.

From a story in the Reading Eagle:

State law requires county commissioners to set annual salaries for 11 of the county's 12 elected county officials in the year prior to a county election.

The exception is the district attorney, whose salary is set by the state.

A previous board voted two years ago to freeze salaries at 2008 levels through 2011.

The commissioners extended that freeze at their meeting Wednesday.

Voting in favor of extending the wage freeze were Republican Christian Y. Leinbach and Democrat Kevin S. Barnhardt. Both were elected to the three-member board in 2007.

The lone no vote came from Commissioners' Chairman Mark C. Scott, who wanted to include COLA increases for the county officials in 2012 and 2013.

Read the full story by reporter Mary Young at the newspaper's Web site.

Catholic Schools Contribute $19.8 Billion Annually to Nation

Catholic Schools Contribute $19.8 Billion Annually to Nation

On the wrong side of the law

One in Every 31 U.S. Adults Were in Prison or Jail or on Probation or Parole in 2007

Obama Mad-Lib

Coach facing sex assault charges posts love notes to teen victim

I'm no lawyer, but when you've already been charged with aggravated indecent assault, involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, statutory sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and corruption of a minor, you might want to avoid having contact with your alleged victim.

But 38-year-old Pottstown-area private volleyball coach accused of having sex with a teenage girl allegedly professed his love to the girl in Internet posts, defying a court order while free on bail, according to The Pottstown Mercury.

Montgomery County Assistant District Attorney James Zoll alleged the coach contacted the Norristown girl on Nov. 30 and Dec. 4 through Facebook, an online social networking site, according to reporter Carl Hessler Jr.

From Hessler's story:

"The nature of these communications suggests that this defendant is obsessed with (the girl)," Zoll alleged in court papers that seek an emergency bail revocation hearing.

"Within these communications, the defendant repeatedly states that he loves her, that the two of them were perfect together…" Zoll alleged.

Zoll said the communications violate the bail restrictions that District Court Judge John J. Durkin placed on Gordon. At the time bail was set, Durkin ordered Gordon to have "no contact whatsoever" with the girl until the case was resolved.

Read the full story at the newspaper's Web site.

Is Rendell serious about state's fiscal mess?

Matthew J. Brouillette tees off on Gov. Ed Rendell's spending priorities and questions whether the governor is taking the state's fiscal crisis seriously.

Writing in The Philadelphia Inquirer, Brouillette, who heads The Commonwealth Foundation in Harrisburg, says "Gov. Rendell has been treating people like pawns to be used for political leverage in pursuit of his agenda."

While the state is facing a $1.6 billion budget deficit, Rendell continues to fund questionable programs.

Among these is tax credits for Hollywood filmmakers, including Kevin Smith, who made the film "Zack and Miri Make A Porno" using $5 million courtesy of Pennsylvania taxpayers.

Is that the best use of state funds?

From Brouilette's column:

It's inappropriate spending that could be going to vital government functions or the paychecks of working Pennsylvanians. But the governor has deemed other "priorities" more important than families' budgets.

Although the governor argues that there are economic benefits to transferring income from one taxpayer to another, at least one of his grant programs has been an abysmal failure. According to his administration's own data, the $75 million Film Tax Credit - enacted in 2007 after lobbying by former state Rep. Mike Veon (D., Beaver), who was later indicted - has not produced any measurable economic benefit.

Meanwhile, "Zack and Miri Make a Porno" - a (barely) R-rated flick replete with raunch, as the title suggests - received about $5 million in tax credits. Another filmmaker who received a subsidy admitted he would make movies in Pennsylvania without subsidies or tax credits.

Read the full column at the newspaper's Web site.

Columnist: Who's Dirty Now?

Michelle Malkin has some fun in her latest column with the "Corruptocrats," formerly known as Democrats.

The massive corruption scandal unfolding in President-Elect Barack Obama's backyard has turned the spotlight on political corruption back on the Democrats, silencing Nancy Pelosi and her promise to "drain the swamp" in Washington, D.C.

From Malkin's column:

Howard Dean and Nancy Pelosi can stop clucking now.

For the last three years, Democratic leaders cheered GOP ethics woes. Dean accused Republicans of making "their culture of corruption the norm." Pelosi touted cleanliness as a liberal virtue.

But with the eye-popping pay-for-play and bribery case against Democratic Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich topping a year of nationwide Democratic scandals, the corruption chickens are coming home to roost.

Read the full column at the Investor's Business Daily Web site.

Top Five Disaster Responses of 2008

Where would we be without the American Red Cross? Just ask the people who lived through these disasters:

1) Hurricane Dolly
2) Hurricane Gustav
3) Hurricane Ike
4) Midwest Flooding
5) Indiana Tornadoes

Red Cross Announces Top Five Disaster Responses of 2008

Libertarian Party marks 37th year

America's third largest political party turns 37 today. I've actually met three living-breathing Libertarian Party members (and I share many of their views about the role of government.)

From a press release issued by the Libertarian Party to mark the occasion:

"Since we began in 1971, we've elected hundreds of Libertarians to public office across the country," says Libertarian Party National Chairman William Redpath. "These Libertarians make a significant impact on their community, and serve as a testament to the values of the Libertarian Party. As more and more Americans look for an alternative to Republicans and Democrats, our numbers continue to grow. Until Republicans and Democrats significantly reduce the size and power of government, the Libertarian Party will be there fighting for smaller government, lower taxes and more individual freedom."

The party was founded Dec. 11, 1971 in Colorado Springs, CO as an alternative to Republicans and Democrats. The Libertarian Party seeks to restore the vision of government held by our Founding Fathers, and divest government of the powers not granted to it by the Constitution.

The platform of the Libertarian Party can be found here: http://www.lp.org/platform

A list of frequently asked questions can be found here: http://www.lp.org/faq

The Libertarian Party is America's third-largest political party, founded in 1971 as an alternative to the two main political parties. You can find more information on the Libertarian Party by visiting www.LP.org. The Libertarian Party proudly stands for smaller government, lower taxes and more freedom.

RNC Chairman: Obama 'less than forthcoming' on Blagojevich ties

RNC Chairman Responds to President-Elect Obama's Comments Regarding Governor Blagojevich

Consumer group lists top 'Corporate Scrooges'

Worst CEOs of the Dismal Year of 2008: 'Corporate Scrooges' Named by Co-Op America

Blue Lights Honor America's Law Enforcement Officers This Holiday Season

Blue Lights Honor America's Law Enforcement Officers This Holiday Season

On the radio today

State Sen. John C. Rafferty Jr., R-44th Dist., will be the guest on "Talking Politics with Tony Phyrillas & Mike Pincus" Thursday at 5 p.m. on WPAZ 1370 AM

Rafferty, who represents portions of Berks, Chester and Montgomery counties, will discuss the state's fiscal woes, the recent controversy of the Legislative pay raise and his goals for the coming legislative session.

Listeners can call the program at 610-326-4000.

The program is simulcast at www.1370wpaz.com and www.pottsmerc.com

GOP chairman: 'A lot of fight left in us'

What a difference a month makes.

Left for dead following the Obama landslide on Nov. 4, the Republican Party has rebounded with impressive wins in the Georgia U.S. Senate race and two Louisiana Congressional contests, where Democrats were favored.

Without Obama at the top of the ticket or millions in campaign cash, Democrats don't seem so invincible.

Outgoing Republican National Committee Chairman Robert M. (Mike) Duncan said the GOP can build on recent victories to revive the party's electoral fortunes.

"The Republican Party can win at every level," Duncan says in a new op-ed column.

Duncan writes:

While November was certainly a challenging time for our party, we have been reminded in December that we know how to win races. As a party – we continue to improve our mastery of the blocking and tackling of politics – and remain committed to learning and passing on what we learn to operatives and officials in the states. We will continue to harness new technologies and leverage operative strategies that allow us to refine our approach, and improve upon our efficiency and effectiveness. For all those who were counting out the Grand Old Party, keep counting because we still have a lot of fight left in us, and both Georgia and Louisiana serve as reminders of what we can accomplish when we work together and remain committed to our principles.

Read the full column at Townhall.com

Zogby Poll: Obama's Success Depends on Honesty, Integrity and Principled Leadership

Zogby Poll: Obama's Success Depends on Honesty, Integrity and Principled Leadership

How to fix our broken election system

I don't know about you, but I'm not happy with the way things went on Nov. 4.

Not just that the wrong person was elected president, but all those questions about ACORN voter registration fraud, confusing ballots, lost ballots, long lines, etc.

A conference featuring state election officials, policymakers and experts, "Voting in America," has been convened by the Pew Center on the States.

The panelists have come up with concrete suggestions to improve the way America holds elections.

Follow the link below to read more:

Leading State Officials Urge Reforms to Voting System

Recycle those old political signs

If you're like me and have a stack of old political lawn signs sitting in a corner of the basement, somebody can take them off your hands and put them to good use.

A group called Walk and Bike Berks County is collecting used lawn signs and plans to recycle them.

From a post at the group's Web site:

Do you have used yard signs and posts sitting in your garage or basement? Are they in fair to good condition? Then we would love to have them.

Donate them to WalkBikeBerks today! Call 610-779-9702 to speak to our President, Michele Barrett.

Rather than filling our landfill with used yard signs, allow us to recycle them.

We need whatever you have -- political campaigns, yard sale, real estate, or advertisements -- no matter the message or design, we can use your yard signs now. We will spray paint the signs and use them to promote our own campaigns* -- BIKE TO WORK (May) and INTERNATIONAL WALK TO SCHOOL DAY (October).

Thank you for your generosity.

Dear Santa

Citizen activist Bill McIntyre, a Camp Hill, Pa., resident best known for his open letters to Pennsylvania elected officials, has decided to go right to the top this time. He's writing to Santa Claus.

To: Santa Claus
North Pole
Subject: Merry Christmas!

Dear Santa Claus,

Last year I wrote you requesting three items: True government reform in Pennsylvania, an Open Records law and the repeal of Act 44 although there was much more I could have requested. I didn't want to be greedy like some in our state government. You were able to grant one request of an open records law and I want to thank you for it.

Time will tell if it was well constructed or poorly put together. It goes into effect next month. Our governor has been playing with it and I just hope he doesn't break it before we get our chance to use it.

I've watched and listened to the many boys and girls who make up our three branches of government in Pennsylvania. Some, Santa, are still very bad and they will write in an attempt to fool you. They get many gifts from the taxpayers and seldom give a gift in return. They think only of themselves.

We do have many good girls and boys who are trying to change things here in Harrisburg. The problem is they are outnumbered by the bad ones.

We can't place all the blame on the bad ones as they were sent here by the voters. I hope you have a list of the voters who returned them to office for they shouldn't get gifts either, not even coal in their stockings.

As you may be aware, the economy has not performed well this year. As usual, our governor and state legislature overreached when passing the budget in July. They had visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads. The economy rapidly turned those plums into prunes.

Many good boys and girls have been laid off and are looking for work this Christmas. It is difficult to enjoy and celebrate the season when you’re unemployed. Edward Langley, the artist once said – "What this country (state) needs are more unemployed politicians." Maybe then they would see what it is like out here in the "real world" and be satisfied with what we give to them.

Please visit the good politicians and ignore the bad ones this year. That would help balance your budget in these difficult times. It might even help with our future budgets.

Thank you for considering my request,

Bill McIntyre
Looking forward to your visit

CC: All the good and bad government officials
All the friends of responsible government

Newspaper: Eliminate patronage jobs to save money

With local, county and state governments struggling to balance their budgets, everyone is looking for ways to save a few dollars.

The Intelligencer of Doylestown has an easy way for Bucks County taxpayers to save $40,000 a year -- eliminate the two elected jury commissioners.

The same concept could be applied to all of Pennsylvania's 67 counties.

From an editorial in The Intelligencer:

For years, we've been harping on the fact that the county employs two elected jury commissioners, one Republican and one Democrat, to do virtually nothing. The cost for each of the patronage positions is over $19,600 a year in salary, plus benefits. These two positions are holdovers from the days when jury commissioners actually had to compile lists of potential jurors manually. Now, that task is done faster and more efficiently by computers.

So like the guys who once had to go out each evening and light all the gas lamps by hand, jury commissioners have been made obsolete by technology. Yet every year the county budget includes a line item for jury commissioner funding. Why?

Read the full editorial at the newspaper's Web site.

Blog Spotlight -- Without Objection

I'd like to direct your attention to a new blog I discovered this week.

Beyond Objection was launched the day Barack Obama was elected president by two young conservatives, Michael Morrison and Israel Riley, from the Philadelphia area.

Morrison and Riley say they are "fed up with the impact of liberalism on their communities" and wanted to "create a platform and venue where they could present their views and opinions for the world to see."

I've been checking out their blog daily and it's worth the visit. I suggest you bookmark Without Objection and check it frequently for a refreshing view of politics.

150,000 Visitors

My site counter has recorded 233,000 pages views and 150,000 unique visitors in the past two years. Thanks for visiting. Come back again.

Without Newspapers

Fascinating forum held at the National Press Club about the possibility of major newspapers going under.

What would your community look like without a newspaper?

Where would you get your information? From television or radio or the Internet?

Would it surprise you to know that those mediums get most of their information from newspapers?

"What would you be willing to do as citizens in order to get information with ink?" asked Roy Peter Clark of the Poynter Institute.

"Would you be able to think of news gathering not as some highly profitable venture, but as a public utility?" Clark continued. "I think that more and more power will go unchecked in communities when the watchdog is euthanized."

Who is going to uncover government corruption? That part-time blogger down the street?

Read more at the link below:

Possibility of Cities Without Newspapers Raises Questions of Where People Will Get News and What They Will Pay For

RNC Chairman calls on President-Elect Obama to disclose communication concerning Gov. Blagojevich

RNC Chairman Calls on President-Elect Obama to Disclose Communication Concerning Governor Blagojevich

Obama's ties to Gov. Blagojevich

RNC: (Democrats) Obama Induces Labor

A wake-up call for Pa. taxpayers

I like this letter originally published in The Pottstown Mercury from a Montgomery County resident who believes the recent COLA pay increase for state officials is the latest example of "public servants" fleecing taxpayers.

Wake-up call: Pennsylvania elected officials stealing us blind

When are the citizens of Pennsylvania going to wise up and realize that their elected representatives are stealing them blind? This is not a partisan problem. Both Republicans and Democrats are guilty.

Effective Dec. 1, our Harrisburg Democrat and Republican hogs started receiving a cost-of-living raise in excess of a minimum of $2,152 per person. It is granted to them yearly without question.

We are told that even though the state government is in deficit these raises must go through. They can't be stopped because it is law.

It is shameless in these times when their constituents are losing jobs and the economy is approaching bottom that these entitled swine have no qualms of filling their pockets.

How can they with all their perks and benefits look a struggling family, a single parent or senior living on Social Security, in the face? They need a wake-up call. People are living day-to-day with great uncertainty and worriment of how they are going to make it. As the hogs are gorging themselves at their holiday parties at our expense, I can hear the echoes of "Let them eat cake" abounding.

State Rep. Rep. Barbara McIlvanie Smith (D-156) is supposed to introduce a bill calling for the recall of this COLA law when the Legislature comes back in 2009.

I urge all Pennsylvania newspapers to follow the introduction of this bill and all Pennsylvania citizens to contact their elected representatives and tell them to support it.

Let us let the entitled elitists know we are not cake-eating peasants. Begin to read and vote the person not the party.

BILL MADARA
Gilbertsville