Rep.-elect David Maloney turns down pay raise
Republican David M. Maloney won't take office until January, but he's already paying dividends for constituents in the 130th State House District.
Maloney announced Tuesday he will not accept the automatic 1.7% cost-of-living adjustment increase that members of the Pennsylvania Legislature gave themselves.
The automatic COLA raise was enacted in 1995 and gives a yearly pay raise for state legislators, members of the executive branch, including the governor, state judges and other state officials. (Gov.-elect Tom Corbett has also announced he will not accept the raise.)
Maloney issued the following statement: "Taking the increase is simply not the right thing to do. I have met so many people in our district this year who are truly struggling to pay bills, taxes and keep their homes. With Pennsylvania's high unemployment at nearly 10% and many of those out of work will be seeing the end of their unemployment benefits soon and as the Social Security Administration said there will be no increase again for our seniors, this is not the time for a COLA increase."
Maloney said he will return the COLA to the taxpayers of Pennsylvania.
"It is the people's money. We also have a nearly $5 billion dollar hole in our budget coming next year so every belt needs tightening. The State Legislature needs to lead by example."
Maloney, a reform candidate who unseated Democratic incumbent Rep. David Kessler, represents the 130th district, which includes Boyertown, Birdsboro, Fleetwood and Earl, Douglass (Berks), Ruscombmanor, Amity, Rockland, Pike, Oley, Union and Colebrookdale townships and parts of Exeter Township.
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Rep. Toepel District Office Moving to Red Hill
State Rep. Marcy Toepel, R-147th Dist., will move her district office from Schwenksville to Red Hill, effective Dec. 1.
The address of the new district office is 80 Gravel Pike, Unit A, Red Hill, PA 18076.
Toepel's district office phone and fax numbers will also change. The new phone number will be 215-679-3082. The new fax number will be 215-679-3156.
Office hours for the new district office will remain the same, opening Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays 9 a.m to 4:30 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Toepel's current district office located in Schwenksville is closed as of Nov. 30.
Toepel, who won a special election in May to fill the remainder of former state Rep. Bob Mensch's seat, won a full two-year term to the state House in November.
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Rep.-elect David Maloney to relocate district offices
Here's one way to save taxpayers a few bucks: Do-it-yourself.
Newly-elected state Rep. David Maloney, a contractor by profession, will pitch in to re-do his two district offices in an effort to save his constituents some money.
In addition to relocating his two offices in the 130th House District, Maloney will pick up a hammer and nails and help with the interior refurbishing of the facilities.
Maloney, a Republican, ousted two-term Democratic incumbent David Kessler to represent the Eastern Berks County seat in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
From a press release issued by Maloney:
State Rep.-elect David Maloney says he will offer constituent services for residents of the 130th House District at two new offices.
The southern part of the district will be serviced at a new office at 515 Old Swede Road (Rt. 662) Douglassville in the Old Swede Office Complex.
"This office will allow easier access to the residents of Amity, Douglassville, Birdsboro, Exeter and Union townships," Maloney said.
The Boyertown office will move from South Warwick Street to 46 E. Philadelphia Ave., next to the landmark Bause's Drug store.
"Rent and utilities for the two new locations will be less expensive than what was offered to us to stay at the old locations," Maloney said. "Neither of the old offices were wheelchair accessible. Now both offices will be."
Maloney, who has a background in construction, said he will help re-fit the Boyertown office space himself to save taxpayers some money.
Move-in dates for the Douglassville office will be Dec. 6 but phone and computer lines may not be in place by then.
"The Boyertown office phone number will remain the same as before, 610-369-3010 and we will do our best to retrieve messages and return calls until we are fully functioning at 46 E. Philadelphia Ave. We hope to have our Boyertown re-fit done by the end of December for sure. We will have a new phone number for Douglassville and new email addresses. Our offices will also have a new 130th District website that we will make public as soon a possible," Maloney explained.
Maloney does not take office until Jan. 4 when he takes his oath in a ceremony at the Capitol in Harrisburg.
Open House dates for both offices will be announced when they are both fully operational.
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State Rep.-elect David Maloney announces new district office locations
State Rep.-elect Maloney announces new district office locations - pottsmerc.com
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Editorial: Just say no to automatic hike in pay for state officials
If your Pennsylvania legislator does not turn down the automatic pay raise coming their way on Dec. 1, you should vote them out of office next time around.
Just say no to automatic hike in pay for state officials (11/29/10)
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America's Standard (Before Obamacare Ruins It)
Health Care: Those who wish to nationalize medicine point to America's low position in world health rankings. But when a rich Saudi who could go anywhere for treatment chose, where did he go? America, of course.
When King Abdullah flew out of Saudi Arabia Monday to be treated after a blood clot had complicated a slipped disc, he didn't choose France, Italy, Britain, Canada, Morocco, Oman or Cyprus, all nations that stand higher than the U.S. in the World Health Organization's ranking of health care systems.
Neither did he stay in Saudi Arabia, travel to relatively nearby Malta or Greece. He avoided Andorra, Spain, Monaco and the United Arab Emirates, again, all judged by WHO to have better health care than the U.S.
So why is Barack Obama trying to dismantle the best health-care system in the world? Read the full editorial at the link below:
America's Standard - Investors.com
Bill O'Reilly: The Borrowed Buck Stops Here
From Bill O'Reilly's latest column:
"It is one thing for a loopy newspaper columnist to demand socialist reform. It is quite another if a sitting president buys into it."
Read the full story at the link below:
Bill O'Reilly: Bill's Column - The Borrowed Buck Stops Here
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Guest Column: Giving Thanks In America
Giving Thanks in America
By Congressman Joe Pitts
While we typically associate the Pilgrims in Massachusetts with the first American Thanksgiving, the first recorded day set aside for thanks was decreed in the Virginia colony in 1619. The settlers recognized the day their ship landed in the new world as an annual day of thanksgiving to God for a safe journey.
Two years later the settlers at Plymouth Colony would commemorate their first Thanksgiving. Our nation's early history is filled with religious and civil observances of thanks — from annual recognitions of a good harvest to General Washington's declaration following the battle of Saratoga.
Our nation has always had so much to be grateful for. We have been blessed with a rich and beautiful country, with a government directed by the American people, and with courageous individuals who stand up and protect our liberty.
When the early English settlers first came to America, they hoped to find rich deposits of gold and silver to rival Spanish colonies. The original colonies were not rich with jewels and precious metals, but they were abundant in farmland, fish and game. These rich lands have made our nation the breadbasket to the world.
Later, our nation was able to take full advantage of the Industrial Revolution because of plentiful energy resources: coal, oil and natural gas. At the same time we appreciate the natural beauty of our forests, mountains, and wetlands. Today, we must concentrate on responsibly developing resources to protect the natural gifts given our nation.
Especially in an election year, we must give thanks for a constitutional government that is directed by the American people. It's easy to forget that fair and free elections are actually the exception and not the rule. In Burma, the ruling military junta recently held a sham election where it disqualified the political party of the Nobel Peace Prize winner, Aung San Suu Kyi.
Our recent election saw a number of incumbents defeated. Right now, these Members are moving out of their offices on Capitol Hill. Every single one of them is peacefully transitioning to their political opponent. Come January, Speaker Nancy Pelosi will hand the Speaker's gavel over to Republican Leader John Boehner. Just a few years ago, it was Boehner who was handing it to Pelosi.
We should be grateful that our country settles differences at the ballot box. For all the harsh words spoken before elections, we share a common recognition that power should not be achieved or maintained through violence. Sadly, this does not hold true in many nations.
Because there are enemies of freedom who seek to settle arguments with violence and terrorism, we need brave young men and women to take up arms in defense. We are grateful for our service members and veterans, especially those who are serving far away this Thanksgiving.
The recent Medal of Honor ceremony reminded us all about the sacrifices being made in Afghanistan right now. Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta was honored for the incredible bravery he showed when his squad came under attack from the Taliban.
Giunta acted quickly to help two wounded teammates and then ran into enemy fire to rescue another wounded colleague who was being dragged away by two insurgents. At the White House ceremony awarding him the decoration, Giunta accepted the award with the utmost humility, recognizing the efforts of his squadmates and the families of those who didn't survive the battle.
Because of brave military personnel working around the globe, we are able to enjoy liberty and prosperity. We must be thankful for those willing to put their life on the line to defend our nation.
God has granted us many good gifts here in the United States: a bountiful and beautiful country, a democratic and peaceful government, and individuals serving to protect our nation. It is only proper that we express our gratitude as we gather with family members over the holiday.
U.S. Rep. Joe Pitts is a Republican who represents Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District, which includes portions of Berks, Chester and Lancaster counties.
Columnist: Living in Reading a pricey choice
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Tom Caltagirone and Dante Santoni, the last two Democratic state House members left in Berks County, do not appear to have a problem with taking a pay raise while their constituents suffer.
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Pay raise for PA politicians kicks in Dec. 1
Christmas comes early for members of the Pennsylvania Legislature, already among the highest paid "public servants" in the United States.
An annual automatic cost-of-living increase kicks in Dec. 1 for state lawmakers, judges and other elected officials.
Pennsylvania's legislators, judges and top state officials are about to get automatic pay raises of 1.7 percent. Newly elected and returning legislators will get their raises starting Dec. 1, officials said Monday.
The annual salaries for rank-and-file legislators will increase from $78,315 to $79,623. Salaries for legislative floor leaders will rise from $113,468 to $115,364.
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Six Movies I Never Want To See Again
By Tony Phyrillas
I will sit though just about anything, but if you're thinking of renting on of these films, take my word for it and pick something else.
Robin Hood (2010) - How could Ridley Scott and Russell Crowe, who gave us "Gladiator" in 2000 sink to this level in just 10 years? The absolute worst re-telling of the Robin Hood legend since Mel Brooks' "Robin Hood: Men In Tights." Crowe looks bored throughout this insufferably long and dark movie. He has no chemistry with Cate Blanchett as Maid Marian and there are so many bad actors with bad accents impersonating French and British noblemen that you have no idea who anybody is or how they fit into the plot. Paging Kevin Costner.
Date Night - Steve Carell and Tina Fey are best enjoyed in small doses on TV screens. Neither can carry a film, especially this cliche-filled remake of "The Out-of-Towners" about a suburban couple getting into misadventures in New York City. There's a scene where Carell and Fey attempt to entertain a mobster in a strip club that is so painful to watch, you have to cover your eyes. The only mildly-amusing part of this 1 hour, 28-minute snooze-fest is a cameo by Mark Wahlberg. Go out on a real date instead of wasting time with this awful movie.
Hot Tub Time Machine - It's as dumb as the title, but not in a good way. I did not laugh once during this 1 hour, 40 minute disaster of a movie that is so desperate for laughs it keeps bringing in Chevy Chase, who hasn't made anyone laugh in 20 years. Nothing works in this "Back To The Future" for slobs rip-off. And what is John Cusak doing in this movie? He should fire his agent.
Repo Men - An interesting premise that falls apart quickly in this disappointing sci-fi/action film starring Jude Law and Forest Whitaker as futuristic "repo men" who take back internal organs from people who can no longer afford to keep up with their payments for life-saving medical treatments. This might be a sneak-peek at ObamaCare, but I'd rather watch Nancy Pelosi reading the 2,000-page bill than sit through this clunker again.
Harry Brown - I wonder which studio executives green-lighted this project: Let's remake "Death Wish" with an geriatric British cast headed by 77-year-old Michael Caine playing the part of Charles Bronson. That's "Harry Brown" in a nutshell. You worry throughout the movie that one of the cast members will break a hip. In one scene, Caine collapses on the sidewalk with shortness of breath as he chases after a young punk. I kid you not. This might play well in a retirement home, but it will put everyone else to sleep.
Valentine's Day - An all-star cast (Julia Roberts, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Patrick Dempsey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, Ashton Kutcher, Queen Latifah) phoning in their performances in a movie that will swear you off romance for good. Nothing funny, nothing romantic, nothing you haven't seen before. Just a stale box of assorted chocolates.
For more movie-related news and reviews, check out my latest blog, Film Fanatic
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Sound advice from Nathan Benefield to the Berks County Patriots: "In the November 2nd election we sent a message. That's only the beginning. We need to be vigilant and make sure Governor-elect (Tom) Corbett keeps the promises he made in the campaign."
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Newspaper: Fire Eric Holder
The acquittal of a Gitmo detainee of the murder of 224 people shows the stupidity of civilian trials for those at war with us and the blind incompetence of an administration that believes in them.
Attorney General Eric Holder should be fired. Failing that, he should have the decency to submit his resignation, which should be promptly accepted. He is the architect of a policy that treats mass murder like a bank robbery and gives perpetrators the functional equivalent of a slap on the wrist.
Read the full editorial at the link below:
Fire Eric Holder - Investors.com
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Democratic state lawmaker busted on marijuana charge
On the same day most Pennsylvania newspapers ran a story from The Associated Press that revealed that 19 members of the state Legislature had criminal records, a Democratic state representative was busted for allegedly smoking marijuana at a tailgate gathering at a Pittsburgh Steelers game.
From the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:
State Rep. Paul Costa faces a court hearing on a citation accusing him of smoking marijuana during a tailgate party outside a Pittsburgh Steelers game, his lawyer said Tuesday.
Undercover Pittsburgh police Officer Alex Lee Myers was patrolling the parking lots outside the Oct. 3 game at Heinz Field, which the Steelers lost to the Baltimore Ravens, and said he saw Costa, 51, a Democrat from Wilkins, sharing a joint with another man.
"He adamantly denies that he smoked any marijuana," said Costa's attorney, Phil DiLucente. "No narcotics of any kind were found on him. In fact, he detests marijuana."
Rep. Costa has represented the 34th House District since 1999. He ran unopposed for re-election to a new term on Nov. 2.
Krauthammer to headline Pennsylvania Leadership Conference
The 2011 PA Leadership Conference, featuring the largest gathering of conservatives in Pennsylvania, has lined up one of the sharpest conservative thinkers in the world for this year's event.
Charles Krauthammer, Pulitzer Prize winning columnist and a Fox News commentator, will be the dinner speaker at the 2011 Pennsylvania Leadership Conference to be held April 8-9 at the Radisson Penn Harris Convention Center in Camp Hill, Pa.
From a press release announcing Krauthammer's appearance:
"We are excited to have Dr. Krauthammer as the next in a long series of influential conservative speakers to address the annual Pennsylvania Leadership Conference," said Lowman Henry, President of the Pennsylvania Leadership Council which organizes the event. "In an era when many commentators offer only shop worn analysis, Dr. Krauthammer stands out as a thoughtful voice of reason who injects logic and perspective into the public debate."
The Pennsylvania Leadership Conference is the premiere annual gathering of public policy conservatives from through the commonwealth and beyond. The conference features well known national speakers, and a who's who of state-level government and policy leaders offering commentary and panel presentations.
Dr. Krauthammer was named by the Financial Times as the most influential commentator in America. Since 1985 he has written a syndicated column for the Washington Post, winning the Pulitzer Prize for distinguished commentary in 1987. His column now appears in more than 250 newspapers worldwide.
A contributing editor to the Weekly Standard and to the New Republic, Dr. Krauthammer is a Fox News contributor appearing nightly on Fox's evening news program Special Report with Bret Baier. He is also a weekly panelist on Inside Washington.
Complete information and registration for the 2011 Pennsylvania Leadership Conference can be found at the conference's newly redesigned website, www.paleadershipconference.org
Newspaper: Time for PA to make teacher strikes illegal
Pennsylvania continues to lead the nation in teacher strikes. Thirty-seven other states have banned teacher strikes. It's time for Pennsylvania to do the same.
Time for state to make teacher strikes illegal - pottsmerc.com
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Special AP report: 19 lawmakers in Pa. have arrest records
Drug offenses, gun charges, theft and drunken driving turned up in the backgrounds of some state lawmakers when the entire Pennsylvania General Assembly was checked against public records, news accounts and other sources, according to reporter Mark Scolforo.
Special AP report: 19 lawmakers in Pa. have arrest records - pottsmerc.com
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Pa. workplace fatalities down in 2009
At last, we can thank Barack Obama and Ed Rendell for something.
According to the Philadelphia Business Journal, Pennsylvania had 166 workplace fatalities in 2009, down from 241 in 2008.
I'm guessing the reason workplace fatalities in Pennsylvania were down last year is the fact that hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians lost their jobs and had no workplace to go to thanks to the failed policies of Ed Rendell and Barack Obama.
Read more: Pa. workplace fatalities down in 2009 at the Philadelphia Business Journal website.
Union pension bailout bill awaits Rendell signature
The Pennsylvania House overwhelmingly passed a flawed pension "reform" bill Monday that does little to reform the golden pension plans enjoyed by government workers and teachers and will end up costing Pennsylvania taxpayers billions of dollars.
A number of Republicans joined the lame duck Democrats in pushing the bill through.
The Commonwealth Foundation, an independent, non-profit public policy research and educational institute based in Harrisburg, offers some insight into HB 2497:
HARRISBURG, PA — The Commonwealth Foundation expressed disappointment with today's passage of House Bill 2497, which defers significant pension costs on to future generations while failing to adequately reform the state's largest defined benefit pension systems.
"We attempted to bring fiscal sanity to the pension discussion, but the reality was that self-interested unions were successful in drowning out the voice of the taxpayers," said Matthew J. Brouillette, president and CEO of the Commonwealth Foundation. "Despite arguments to the contrary, this bill didn't 'save' the taxpayers any money. Taxes will still be going up with this 'reform' next year — $646M more just to pay for PSERS and SERS — and every year thereafter. But it did prevent moving new employees into a Defined Contribution plan — a major victory for labor unions like PSEA, AFSCME and SEIU."
"Yet we remain hopeful that a new administration and new legislature will begin the process of fully reforming Harrisburg to protect the taxpayers in the future," said Brouillette. "Many lawmakers voted for HB 2497 as the 'first step' to pension reform. We look forward to working with lawmakers who understand this cannot be the final action, and with new leaders who understand the need for real pension reform and controlled spending."
The only silver lining on this cloudy day is the fact that the Legislature can revisit the pension fiasco in 2011 when both chambers will be controlled by Republicans and Gov.-elect Tom Corbett will take office.
The Commonwealth Foundation has posted a complete roll call of how the House voted here.
Vote NO on HB 2497
The Commonwealth Foundation offers 13 reasons why the Pennsylvania House should reject HB 2497, aka the teachers union pension bailout bill.
Read the article at the Foundation's website and contact your state House member to urge a NO vote on HB 2497.
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Criminal background checks of legislators raise many questions
How much do you know about the person you elected to the Legislature? Nineteen members of the Pennsylvania Legislature have criminal records, according to a recent investigation by The Associated Press.
Criminal background checks of legislators raise many questions - pottsmerc.com
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Newspaper: 6,600 state workers owe PA back taxes
No wonder Pennsylvania is broke. It's own state workers don't pay taxes.
The Harrisburg Patriot-News reported earlier this week that more than 6,600 state workers - essentially 1 in every 11 state employee - owes the back taxes.
Why did it take Pennsylvania this long to go after the 6,600 state workers who owe money?
This is the kind of stuff that went on right under Ed Rendell's nose for 8 years.
Let's hope Gov.-elect Tom Corbett will put a stop to the fleecing of taxpayers.
Read the full story at the Harrisburg Patriot-News website.
PA lawmakers who broke the law
The Associated Press has put together an investigative story exposing some of the legal troubles that Pennsylvania lawmakers have gotten themselves into over the years.
A total of 19 current members of the Legislature have arrest records, according to The Associated Press.
The story, written by By Mark Scolforo, will be published starting Sunday in most Pennsylvania newspapers:
Here's a preview the wire service sent to its member newspapers:
HARRISBURG — Drug offenses, gun charges, theft and drunken driving turned up in the backgrounds of some state lawmakers when the entire Pennsylvania General Assembly was checked against public records, news accounts and other sources. At least five lawmakers were found to have convictions of criminal offenses and six others with convictions in cases that were later expunged or stricken. Another five who turned up in the AP investigation with records of arrests or citations either won acquittals or their cases were dropped.
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Local Tea Party toasts election results
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Investigation: 19 PA lawmakers have arrest records
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New leadership team for PA House unveiled
Here are your leaders in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives come January, when Republicans will hold a 112-91 majority, the largest in more than a decade.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE: Rep. Sam Smith (66th District, Jefferson County). Smith has served as leader since 2003. In 2000, Smith was elected whip until April 2003, when he was elected majority leader after the death of Speaker Matthew J. Ryan. Smith was first elected to the House in 1986, succeeding his father, former Rep. Eugene "Snuffy" Smith.
MAJORITY LEADER: Rep. Mike Turzai (28th District, Allegheny County). Turzai was first elected to the House in 2001. He previously served as whip during the 2009-2010 legislative session. In 2006, he was elected Republican Policy Committee chairman.
MAJORITY WHIP: Rep. Stan Saylor (94th District, York County). Saylor was first elected to the House in 1992. In the 2009-2010 session, Saylor served as the Republican Policy Committee chairman.
APPROPRIATIONS CHAIRMAN: Rep. William Adolph (165th District, Delaware County). Adolph was first elected to the House in 1988. Today, he was elected to his first full term as Republican chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. Last year, he was elected to the position to replace former Rep. Mario Civera, who resigned.
CAUCUS CHAIRMAN: Rep. Sandra Major (111th District, Susquehanna, Wayne and Wyoming Counties). Major was first elected to the House in 1994. She was re-elected to her third term as Caucus Chairman.
POLICY COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN: Rep. Dave Reed (62nd District, Indiana County). Reed was first elected to the House in 2002. He is currently chairman of the House Republican Campaign Committee.
CAUCUS ADMINISTRATOR: Rep. Dick Stevenson (8th District, Mercer and Butler Counties). Stevenson was first elected to the House in 2000. This is his first election to House leadership.
CAUCUS SECRETARY: Rep. Mike Vereb (150th District, Montgomery County). Vereb was first elected in 2006. This will be his first term as Secretary.
A couple of quick thoughts: Only one woman on the leadership team? It's 2010 and women make up more than half the population of Pennsylvania. Republicans need to do a better job of getting women elected to the Legislature and giving them real clout. On the other hand, House Democrats have done no better, with just one female on their leadership team over the past two years. Rep. Turzai is a solid conservative and one of the smartest people in the Legislature. He should help usher in a new era of fiscal responsibility in state government. Rep. Mike Vereb, in just four years in Harrisburg, is making one of the quickest leaps to a leadership post in House history. He's a stand-up guy and will give Montgomery County a bigger say in the Legislature.
Read the full release from Rep. Smith's office at the link below:
Rep. Sam Smith - Republican Leader of Pennsylvania House of Representatives - New PA House Republican Majority Chooses 2011-2012 Leadership Team
Rep. Smith Comments on Republican Majority in Upcoming Legislative Session
Local News Station Uncovers Proof Terrorists Crossed Mexican Border
Britain gets stark warning over Cyprus bases
Pat Buchanan: The Murderers of Christianity
The Murderers of Christianity - HUMAN EVENTS
Elk Hunters Harvest 41 Elk in 2010
Department of Health Encourages Pennsylvanians to Get Vaccinated for Flu
Governor Rendell Announces Appointments
Gary Sinise: Help build memorial for disabled veterans
Liberals Openly Call For 'Violence' and 'Revolution' On MSNBC
Constitution group to celebrate 5th Anniversary
The Constitutional Organization Of Liberty (COOL), a conservative, non-partisan political action committee, will be celebrating its Fifth Anniversary on Saturday, November 13, 2010.
Mark Thomas, Chairman for COOL, said that the group was looking forward to commemorating five years of constitutional education in Pennsylvania.
"It is really kind of amazing to think that just a few years ago, a small group of local conservatives organized themselves to begin educating people about the Constitution, and now they have become a statewide resource for constitutionalists," Thomas said. "Our objective and primary focus is, and always has been, educating the people of Pennsylvania about the principles our country was founded on, and we are fulfilling that mission."
State Sen. Mike Folmer, one of the original organizers of COOL and a current board member, said he was excited about having an event to commemorate COOL's anniversary.
"So much has happened over the last few years, it's almost hard to imagine that all of this begun just five years ago," Folmer said. "Between the expanded courses we offer and the broadening range of locations where classes are conducted, it really is quite impressive all that COOL has accomplished."
Folmer noted that while the initial focus of COOL was Lebanon County and south central Pennsylvania, the group has made course presentations as far away as Bradford and Pittsburgh, and one of the group's instructors was nominated for an annual award presented by the Bill of Rights Bicentennial Committee.
In addition, COOL was a Patriot Sponsor of the 2010 Pennsylvania Leadership Conference in Harrisburg and a sponsor of the 2010 LIVEFREE PA event in Palmyra.
The 5th Anniversary banquet will be held at the Lantern Lodge in Myerstown, and with comments to be made by Folmer, Thomas and Lowman Henry of the Pennsylvania Leadership Conference.
Gary Sinise: Help Build the National Memorial For Permanently Disabled Veterans
The Death Panel
The meteoric rise of the tea party -- and the limits of its power
The Mainstream Media still doesn't get the Tea Party Movement. Some candidates backed by the Tea Party lost, just as some Republicans and many Democrats lost. You can't win every race. But the Tea Party has ushered dozens of conservatives into office and helped defeat RINOs in primary races. It had a much bigger impact on national politics than the far left will admit.
Newspaper: Discouraged workers hit a record 1.2M
Another grim look inside Obama's America courtesy of USA Today:
Discouraged workers hit a record 1.2 million. Discouraged workers are those who want a job but aren't counted in the labor force because they've stopped looking for work.
Read the full story, "1.2 million people want a job but aren't looking," at the newspaper's website.
Return to Standard Time Brings Reminder to Avoid Drowsy Driving
Americans Want Congress to Stop the Medicare Physician Cut That Hurts Seniors
Senator-Elect Pat Toomey on State of the Union
PennDOT Offers License Plates for Military Personnel, Veterans
112th Congress Must Continue in 'Right Direction' for Veterans
On Veterans Day, National Coalition Releases Groundbreaking Report on 'Moral Injuries' to Veterans
Pelosi's Last Lame Duck- What Could Go Wrong?
'The Decline of American Liberalism'
An interesting book I recommend. Learn more at the link below:
The Decline of American Liberalism
Gov. Christie To GOP: "It's Put Up Or Shut Up Time"
RealClearPolitics - Video - Gov. Christie To GOP: "It's Put Up Or Shut Up Time"
Stealing elections
Hans A. von Spakovsky: E-mail shows illegal activity in Reid's campaign | Washington Examiner
3 Reasons Health Care Reform Won't Cut The Deficit By One Thin Dime.
More evidence Obamacare is a bust
The Obama administration predicted 375,000 Americans would enroll in a new program for those who could not qualify for health insurance because of pre-existing conditions. The number who enrolled so far? Just 8,000. The problem? Most people cannot afford the $400 to $600 monthly premiums the program costs. And you thought Obamacare meant free health insurance, didn't you?
Read more about the latest Obama failure at the link below:
Obama administration retools new health program
Sen.-elect Marco Rubio Delivers Weekly GOP Address
Pew: New State Leaders Will Have to Reconcile Campaign Promises, Voters' Priorities, Budget Realities
November is 'Hire A Veteran Month' at Workforce Alliance
Governor Rendell Urges House of Representatives to Return to Session
Marco Rubio - Thank You
India on 200 Million Dollars a Day by the Obamas
Newt Gingrich: Zero Out the White House Czars
Sam Adams Alliance Announces Call for Nominations for 4th Annual Sammies Awards
Do The Dems Get The Voters' Message?
Catch Tony Phyrillas on radio Saturday morning
Tony Phyrillas will be the guest on Life Unedited with John Aberle Saturday from 11 a.m.-noon on WCHE 1520 AM in West Chester.
The discussion will focus on the aftermath of the 2010 midterm elections, including the GOP gains in Congress and the Republican sweep in Pennsylvania.
You can call the station with questions or comments at 610-701-WCHE (9243)
If you can't pick up the radio station's signal, Aberle's program is simulcast live online at www.WCHE1520.com
Catch Tony Phyrillas on WCHE 1520 AM
Topics of discussion will be the results of the 2010 midterm elections and the Republican sweep in Pennsylvania.
Newspaper: GOP landslide is a repudiation of president's policies
Even the ultra-liberal editorial board at the Reading Eagle figured out what Tuesday's election results mean.
GOP landslide is a repudiation of president's policies (11/4/10)
Sarah Palin Video: Together
Bankruptcy of U.S. is 'Mathematical Certainty,' Says Former CEO of Nation's 10th Largest Bank
Bankruptcy of U.S. is 'Mathematical Certainty,' Says Former CEO of Nation's 10th Largest Bank | CNSnews.com
America Elects Education Reformers as Governors
Voters Repudiate Bailouts and Bailout Secrecy
Nine out of Ten Voters say 'Meritless' Lawsuits are a Serious Problem, Support Continued Legal Reforms
Auditor General Jack Wagner Faults Dept. of Labor and Industry for Lax Enforcement of PA One Call System
Pennsylvanians Reminded to Change Smoke Alarm, Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries During Weekend Switch to Standard Time
Voters Have Spoken -- It is Time to Control Immigration; It is Time to Provide Jobs to American Workers
Thanks For The Memories Pelosi
Video: Demplosion
Stomping Ground
Maloney unseats Kessler in PA's 130th House Dist.
Voters in the 130th House District finally figured out David Kessler was a phony reformer and showed him the door.
Maloney unseats Kessler in 130th - pottsmerc.com
'Talking Politics' with Tony Phyrillas: Tuesday's Democratic bloodbath
'Talking Politics' blogger reacts to Tuesday bloodbath - pottsmerc.com
Few Democrats survive healthcare vote - The Hill's Healthwatch
A vote in favor of Obamacare proved fatal for the political careers of many Congressional Democrats.
Richard Viguerie: Republican Party is on Probation
America's Manufacturers Call on New Congress to Dramatically Increase Jobs
After the Election: Can the New Congress Repeal Health Care Reform?
Richard Viguerie's List of Election Winners, Losers, and Irrelevants
GOP CHAIRMAN MICHAEL STEELE: THANK YOU AMERICA!
Pennsylvania turns red
So much for Pennsylvania trending blue. The Republican tide that swept across the nation Tuesday included Pennsylvania, where Republicans made significant gains.
Let's take a look at how the political landscape changed overnight in Pennsylvania: A Republican replaces Ed Rendell as governor; a Republican replaces Democrat Arlen Specter in the U.S. Senate; Republicans ousted five Congressional Democrats and held all of their current Congressional seats; Republicans control the Pennsylvania Senate by a 30-20 margin and Republicans regained control of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives with a solid majority of at least 110 seats in the 203-seat body.
A Republican will move into governor's mansion with Attorney General Tom Corbett defeating Ed Rendell-clone Dan Onorato. Republican Pat Toomey defeated liberal Joe Sestak for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Democrat Arlen Specter.
Pennsylvania voters tossed out five incumbent Democratic members of Congress from Pennsylvania, helping the GOP retake control of the House in Washington, D.C. Republicans will hold 12 of Pennsylvania's 19 Congressional seats come January.
Among Election Night highlights from Pennsylvania: Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta defeated 26-year career politician Paul Kanjorski. Republican Pat Meehan beat Democrat Bryan Lentz in the race for the Congressional seat being vacated by Sestak.
10 Years After Bush v. Gore, Recount Laws Database Released
FRC Action to Host 'After the Vote' Live Webcast Featuring Senator Jim DeMint, Rep. Steve King
AJC on 'Shameful' UNESCO Vote Designating Jewish Holy Sites as 'Palestinian'
Matthew Brouillette: PA's rising debt an albatross
Matthew Brouillette: State's rising debt an albatross - timesherald.com
Video: Gerlach for Congress
Pennsylvania's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to Open on Nov. 1
President Obama Is Playing Politics With Domestic Violence Issue, Groups Warn
Operation Black Storm
End of Liberty
Tax Analysts' Martin A. Sullivan Predicts America's 'Fiscal Collapse,' Coming in Two Stages
Bauer Says Real Foreign Influence Scandal May be at the Ballot Box
More than 8.4 Million Pennsylvanians Registered to Vote on Nov. 2
Department of State: More than 8.4 Million Pennsylvanians Registered to Vote on Nov. 2
PA DEP Makes Oil and Gas Operations More Transparent with New Online Resources
60 Days from Today: Tsunami of Tax Hikes on Horizon After Election Day
Independence Hall Tea Party endorsements
The Independence Hall Tea Party PAC, the only federally registered Tea Party PAC in the tri-state (DE, NJ, PA) area, expects to help Republicans capture Congress by supporting its endorsed candidates.
"We endorsed 13 terrific regional Congressional candidates in the primary and two additional candidates in the general election, and feel more than confident that a majority of them will win," said PAC President Don Adams. "In the primary, we won 10 out of 12 contested races. We think we'll do almost as well in the General election.
Here are the 2010 PAC endorsed candidates:
Pennsylvania: Pat Toomey, US Senate; Jim Gerlach (PA-6); Pat Meehan (PA-7); Mike Fitzpatrick (PA-8); Dee Adcock PA-13); Charlie Dent (PA-15); Joe Pitts (PA-16); and Dave Argall (PA-17)
New Jersey: Dale Glading (NJ-1); Jon Runyan (NJ-3); Anna Little (NJ-6); and Scott Sipprelle (NJ-12)
Delaware: Christine O'Donnell; US Senate; and Dale Urquhart (DE-At Large)
For more information about Independence Hall Tea Party Association, visit the group's website.
The Censorship Continues: Last Week, Juan Williams; This Week, Andrew Breitbart - Who's Next?
Gallup: Republicans Appear Poised to Win Big on Tuesday
Republicans Appear Poised to Win Big on Tuesday
Elections Have Consequences
Notorious ACORN aiding Sestak campaign | The Daily Caller
Notorious ACORN aiding Sestak campaign | The Daily Caller - Breaking News, Opinion, Research, and Entertainment
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