Allyson Schwartz's April 13 appearance on Washington Journal

Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal on April 13, to discuss the federal budget. Schwartz serves on the House Budget Committee. The host asked some questions but also took calls and texts from viewers. Her appearance was nearly an hour long, and, at the time of this writing, is still available if readers would like to listen for themselves.

These are my rough notes from watching the program via the Internet. It is not intended as a full or complete transcript. I apologize in advance for any errors or misconceptions.

Member of House Budget Committee

Q: Paul Ryan budget

AS: Paul Ryan did present Republican budget, went through 12 hour debate, one point was accepted, consider defense cuts part of budget. We think Bush era tax cuts should expire for wealthiest in 2 years. He proposed dramatic changes for Medicare, etc. The proposal put out there by Republicans. We also have to look at entire budget not just non-defense. We really need to help seniors. Innovate. Ryan budget is Republican budget. They voted for it. We can’t balance budget on backs of seniors.

Q: WSJ editorial on increasing deficits. “Ryan budget starts to repair damage.” Explosion of spending under Obama.

AS: They aren’t mentioning extraordinary downturn in economy. More unemployment. Came out of Bush years. Didn’t just happen. Inherited terrible terrible recession. It was a one-time action. Stimulus did add to deficit. We had to stop recession from becoming a depression. It did retain jobs, kept situation from being much much worse. Last few months gaining jobs every month. A number of these actions worked. Stopped depression. Retained jobs. Last 6-8 months gaining jobs, growth in gdp. Starting to see some economic growth.

Q: Mitch McConnell says in recent past Dems ignoring deficit. Now spending reductions. Debate turned from how much to grow govt to how to reduce it.

AS: We have said all along that we have to look at spending cuts but not a narrow part of the budget but across the budget. Also look at how much it costs to give tax breaks for corporations and certain individuals. We’ve always been concerned about deficits. Health law saves money over time. We really do want to work together but not willing to cut obligations to seniors or to the future. There are some investments we need to make, such as education.

Q: Medicare. Questions from NYT. Will program continue to say how much doctors paid, etc. Will Medicare still increase spending or subsidize coverage for older Americans

AS: Ryan plan will end Medicare as we know it, no more guaranteed benefits. Instead under GOP plan future seniors will get a limited voucher to buy coverage in private marketplace. Knowing the voucher will not grow in the future to meet rising health care costs. We need to bring down rising health care costs for all Americans. Throwing individual seniors into private market place. Right now private marketplace doesn’t want to cover sick children, let alone sick elderly.

Q: Where will compromise be?

AS: If I could predict that it would be quite something. But there has to be compromise. GOP says will not consider any kind of additional taxes from 1 or 2% wealthiest. Would rather protect richest than protect seniors or support things like Head Start. We have already said that we are very open to spending cuts. Already voted for $50B in spending cuts. We’ve been spending more than we’re taking in for years. Saw huge rise in deficit in Bush years. Tax cuts cost money. We should get better results for money. Insist on better job for money we are spending in health care. There are smart ways of reducing costs under health care. Should spend well and on our top priorities.

Q: D budget under Chris Van Hollen

AS: Everything on the table. Meet our obligations.

Caller: Agree with AS. My problem is new GOP that came in, go hand in hand with old Democrats. Where are the new ideas at?

AS: Not sure I agree that new GOP hand in hand with old Dems. Some of the new GOP in DC not interested in compromise or finding common ground.

Caller: Whose idea was it to drop costs of food and energy from cost of living calculations. Two years of no raise in Social Security. Which administration is responsible.

AS: Not sure of the specifics. Seniors did not receive cost of living increase because of cost of consumer products and inflation. Not this year or year before. Some discussion whether there needs to be a change in the calculation in cost of living. Calculations does not include cable or cell phone.

Q: Social Security. Fewer people supporting the retired. Support increase in retirement age?

AS: We do need to look at social security going forward. We did anticipate it and put some extra money away. We do have a number of years to work this out. To do that we need to have everything on the table.

Q: cap? 108K?

AS: yes, is that cap appropriate? Should it be raised so wealth pay more into social security

Caller: Social Security and Medicare. Raise the tariffs a little bit. Why not allow healthy people to buy into Medicare? Will bring rates down. Can’t just tell people to die!

AS: I do think we need to look at raising cap. Look at both revenue and expense side. There are so many American seniors living on Social Security, average amount is $14K a year. Encourage all Americans to save a little bit early on, let compounding interest accumulate. Take advantage of 401Ks, etc. With health care law. If all Americans buy health insurance it will help us in the long run. We did not choose to open up Medicare. People said they don’t want more govt. So we said all should buy in marketplace with kind of rules on what should be included and covered. Competition will help bring down costs. GOP want to repeal those consumer protections in the health care law.

Q: Hard to save

AS: Over time we’ve seen real wage degradation. We want to see more money over time so people can save more. Some taxes go to Medicare and Social Security, food safety, and clean air.

Q: Paul Ryan says we need tax reform not tax hikes.

AS: We do need tax reform. We can reduce tax rate if we get rid of specific tax reductions (breaks). What Paul Ryan is saying is that he wants to protect tax breaks for multimillionaires. We want to protect those who earn less than $250K.

Q: Do you tweet?

AS: I don’t. My staff said I should. I was sitting next to another rep on Amtrak who tweeted that he was sitting next to me.

Caller: A couple of comments and then a question. She and husband run a small business. For the last year and half, sales declining. Customers not expanding or buying only doing what they can to get by. Because of ObamaCare. It has everybody in the business community so scared that they are frozen in time.

AS: I don’t know what kind of product she’s producing but we are deeply concerned about struggling businesses and consumer confidence. We are really hoping you can do better in the future. What we’re beginning to see is growth in GDP. We try to be very supportive of small business. Get a tax credit for new hires, etc. One of the reasons we have the health care law is the high cost of health care for business. Under health care law can get tax credits for health care. One of the reasons we did this is increase in premiums is unsustainable. Only way to reduce is to participate in marketplace help negotiating with companies in exchanges. Kicks in in 2014. Have to bring down rising expenses and costs. For large and small businesses, individuals, government.

TEXT: How much would deficit go down if Bush tax cuts expire

AS: We do have to let tax cuts expire. $750B. He may have watched Daily Show. Jon Stewart had a graphic on this. We have to look at defense. Look at Pentagon. Nondefense. Bring down costs of Medicare. As we go forward, reduce spending, pay down national debt.

Caller: Back in the 90’s GOP tried to have Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security put on stock exchange. They’re wrapping themselves up in this Constitution thing. They don’t have a hoot about the elderly people, only want to help multimillionaires. Want to reduce the tax rates for the elderly. I don’t like what they’re trying to do.

AS: Thank you for your comments. You are right. They only want to protect multimillionaires. Very similar to trying to privatize. Imagine what would have happened if they had succeeded. They want to end Medicare, give voucher, premium support, partial support, any increased costs fall on seniors. If you can’t afford your health care it’s on you. I think we do need to rein in costs but this is not the way to go.

TEXT: If the argument is framed solely in cuts GOP always wins because they are willing to cut more. Obama not leading on budget.

AS: We are interested. President started out with his proposed budget they did have spending cuts. Freeze on hiring in federal govt.

Q: You know cuts have to come from entitlements and defense.

AS: It can’t just be about spending cuts. It has to be about reining in entitlement costs. Have to grow the economy. Republicans willing to take us to the brink. Huge threat to our economic security. If govt shut down 800K people out of work. Debt ceiling – willing to take it to the brink. They are willing to let govt default on international loans.

Q: debt commission. President declined to even state a point of view

AS: This is really about finding a common ground. The president did leave it to us. He said work it out. The president sent his team over to the senate to negotiate. Team met in the White House.

Caller: A few points: hypocrisy of both parties. GOP tried to make it an ideological battle. Dems tried to make it about Planned Parenthood. People using Planned Parenthood would qualify for Medicaid. Agree that everything needs to be on table. Not so much about taxing rich but cutting spending. I need to live on a budget.

AS: Of course we have to start live within budget just as families do. States have to balance their budgets. Feds need to move to balanced budget. Like families need to figure out how to make it happen. Can’t do it in a few months. Not going to all happen in a few years. GOP budget won’t get us there in a few years. Fragile economic growth right now. Have to invest in education and innovation. That really is a challenge. Everything on the table.

Text: Why do Dems always place class warfare card. Won’t help oil companies but will help windmills companies that only benefit a few.

AS: Some oil companies actually investing in alternative fuels. Don’t want to put down alternative fuels. Need to look at other alternative energy possibilities. Need to be less depending on foreign oil. Need to get some percentage of our energy from alternative fuels. Helps reduce our costs. Need to do more.

Caller: Change what goes into Medicare. Learned a lot when mother ill and passed away. Natureopathic medicine not covered. Should be. Would like to see additional vouchers for things like community gym membership, subsidize wellness move away from doctors, hospitals and medications.

AS: People need to take personal responsibility. Exercise, eat right. It’s not easy. I know that. I worked on this myself, created new incentives and emphasis on primary care. Have a primary care doctor or physicians assistant help navigate through specialists. Work out with us, reach out to us. Help people with illness like diabetic coordinate care, etc. never get to point of needing dialysis.

Q: What about president’s speech today

AS: Not sure what he will say. Think he will talk about Medicare, etc. but emphasis on primary care. Good outcomes, reduce costs better than letting people negotiate health care on their own. Cut special provisions for certain corporations. But meet our obligations.

Q: two votes tomorrow. Will you support budget agreement?

AS: Hope to but have to look at to make sure won’t hurt constituents. Won’t support Ryan budget.

Q: How is Boehner doing?

AS: We did get to agreement on continuing resolution. He’s in a tough spot. He’s got some people who are very rigid. We need to find more common ground.

Caller: Tired of hearing how awful the rich are and how we should hate the rich. Dems want to demonize rich. They are the people who are hiring us and creating jobs. Why don’t Dems see that?

AS: It’s really not the way I want to be heard. In America we have great hopes that all of us can be rich someday. We want to make sure everyone can go to college. It’s great that we have a capitalist system that lets people make a lot of money. We aren’t saying don’t make the money but are saying multimillionaires should pay a little more. Saying if we give very rich tax breaks the money will trickle down doesn’t work. If that were true we would have seen a lot of economic growth in Bush years. There are a lot of ways we can invest and grow this economy. Incentivize innovation. Long way to go.

Q: Rich invest their money in China and don’t create jobs in the US

Caller: I admire the rich and thank them for the jobs they gave me. Has chronic disease. Get $821 / month gets food stamps. Sorry to take money from the rich. Try to live within means.

AS: This story has a lot to do with health care. She could have had access treatment and continue working.

Caller: Church only takes 10%, govt wants 25%

AS: We could lower overall rates if close some tax breaks. That is a reasonable thing to do as long as we close tax breaks.

Again, if you want to listen to the conversation yourself, the link is: http://c-span.org/Events/Washington-Journal-for-Wednesday-April-13/10737420875-4/

Prez O's Open Investment Policy

from yesterday's inbox:

Statement by the President on United States Commitment to Open Investment Policy



The United States reaffirms our open investment policy, a commitment to treat all investors in a fair and equitable manner under the law, and I encourage all countries to pursue such a policy. My Administration is committed to ensuring that the United States continues to be the most attractive place for businesses to locate, invest, grow, and create jobs. We encourage and support business investment from sources both at home and abroad.

Investments by foreign-domiciled companies and investors create well-paid jobs, contribute to economic growth, boost productivity, and support American communities. The United States consistently receives more foreign direct investment than any other country in the world. By voting with their balance sheets, businesses from abroad have clearly stated that the United States is one of the best places in the world to invest. This is because we have a strong and open economy, the world’s most productive workforce, a unique culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable colleges and universities, and a business environment marked by transparency, protection of intellectual property, and the rule of law.

Inbound investment has long been an important component of our overall economy. Today, United States subsidiaries of foreign-domiciled companies employ more than 5 million Americans and provide above-average compensation. These companies invest in innovation here in the United States, spending over $40 billion each year on research and development. And in many cases the goods and services produced here are sold around the world, contributing to the National Export Initiative goal of doubling exports.

In a global economy, the United States faces increasing competition for the jobs and industries of the future. Taking steps to ensure that we remain the destination of choice for investors around the world will help us win that competition and bring prosperity to our people. Consistent with our national security and while ensuring a level playing field for American investors, we will do just that.

New Tobacco Warning Labels

The FDA is issuing new tobacco warning labels. You can get a sneak peak on their website: http://www.fda.gov/TobaccoProducts/default.htm Keep in mind that while cigarettes are taxed in Pennsylvania, chewing tobacco and cigars are not. It makes no sense, but there you go.

Upcoming World Class Greater Philadelphia Roundtables

The World Class Greater Philadelphia project is hosting four upcoming rountables and would like your input on how the region should plan its future. All roundtables are scheduled from 8 to 10 a.m.

Roundtable: Widener University - Lathem Hall

June 23, 2011 8:00AM – 10:00AM
Potter St. and E 13th St. Google Maps


Roundtable: PECO Headquarters

June 30, 2011 8:00AM – 10:00AM
2301 Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19103 Google Maps


Roundtable: Temple University - Alter Hall

July 7, 2011 8:00AM – 10:00AM
1801 Liacouras Walk Google Maps



Roundtable: United Way

July 19, 2011 8:00AM – 10:00AM
1709 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Google Maps


Register on their website: www.worldclassgreaterphila.org

Montco Commissioners Fundraising

The Montgomery County commissioners race is starting to heat up. Margaret Gibbons has written two very illuminating articles for PhillyBurbs on the campaigns' fundraising efforts.

"Commissioner campaign coffers filling up," (5/11/2011) focuses on the Republican side of the ticket, in particular Lower Merion Township Commissioner Jenny Brown, who has received $80,000 from charter school advocate Vahan Gureghian.

"Democratic pair financially outpace GOP duo," (6/20/2011) focuses on the Democratic side. In the most recent one month reporting period Josh Shapiro and Leslie Richards brought in over $130,000, primarily from new contributions and not transfers from campaign funds from previous elections.

The Inky's Jeremy Roebuck noted in "Montco Republican donors have opened their pockets - to Democrats," (5/31/2011) that in a previous reporting period 12% of Shapiro / Richards donations came from "high profile Republican sources."

Montco doesn't seem to post campaign finance reports so we are dependent on our reporter friends for information. I encourage voters to read up on who is funding the campaigns and to follow the story through the election season.

Teachers? No. Incumbents? Yes!

Among the many factoids tossed around in the current education wars is the satisfactory evaluation rates of teachers. Pennsylvania Education Secretary Ronald Tomalis is quoted in "Virtually all of Pennsylvania principals rated satisfactory, but state education secretary says that doesn't square with student test scores," by Jan Murphy 6/08/2011 Patriot News, as saying:

“It is very difficult for me to rationalize how our state can have virtually 100 percent of educators evaluated as satisfactory when, based on the statewide assessment, one-in-four students are scoring below proficient in reading, and one-in-three are scoring below proficient in math," Tomalis said.

For contrast, let's take a look at the evaluation rates of another occupational group: incumbent elected officials:

In 2010, congressional and senate incumbents nationwide were re-elected 98% of the time (95% if you count those who faced a primary). See "Anti-Anti-Incumbency
The 2010 election meme that refuses to die," by Christopher Beam, Slate, Aug. 4, 2010

In 1994, the Pennsylvania State House and Senate had respective incumbent re-election rates of 98% and 95% (National Conference of State Legislatures, 1996)

"A Certain Uncertainty," (June 21, 2005 by Dr. G. Terry Madonna and Dr. Michael Young found that:

Nationally House congressional incumbent reelection rates have exceeded 95-percent for almost two decades. In recent election cycles, fewer than ten percent of House seats (about 30 of 435 seats) are considered "competitive." In Pennsylvania, state legislative incumbents have been reelected even more consistently, presently averaging 98-percent.

If one follows Mr. Tomalis's logic, 98% incumbency re-election rates would be justified if students (would that be us voters?) were doing well, or if the legislators were doing a great job. Do you think you are doing well or that your elected officials are doing great job? Do all but 2% of our elected officials really deserve to keep their jobs?

If teachers are threatened with job loss because of the performance of their students, shouldn't elected officials lose their jobs if their constituents have high unemployment rates or poor environmental conditions?

One so seldom hears those in government talking about their own job security rates. But teachers these days are fair game.

Former PoliticsPA Reporter Does Presidential Press Pool

Sam Youngman, who was PoliticsPA's first named reporter years ago, now works for The Hill, a Washington-based publication. He was the print press pool reporter for the "golf summit" with President Obama and Speaker of the House John Boehner this past weekend. You can read some of his notes at the New York Times, Politico, or The Hill itself.

Abington's Coalition for Equality Kick-Off

This past Saturday the Coalition for Equality in Abington, Montco held it's kick-off event. The Abington Patch has video. This was to show support for a non-discrimination clause which the township board of supervisors have voted down. I'm told about 75 over 100 people attended.

A Report from Wizard World's Comic Con

I’m not the only person in my household who enjoys science fiction so a couple of us went off Saturday to the Wizard World Comic Con at the convention center in Philadelphia. The first decision was whether to buy the tickets in advance online ($25) or at the door ($35). The online purchase had an additional charge of nearly $5 which halved the price advantage. Plus a mobile phone number was required and I wasn’t willing to hand over that information. While buying tickets at the door usually slows things down, it proved to be fortuitous in this case.

The line to get in snaked around the convention center entrance at 13th and Arch. When we got there the line was one and a half blocks long. It moved at a good pace though. Some enterprising company had people handing out free bags of pita chips and hummus. Some water would have been great but none was to be found. A young man was sitting on the sidewalk holding a sign that said “Homeless. Hungry. Travelling.” I offered him the pita chips and hummus but I guess he wasn’t that hungry since he turned them down.

When we finally got into the building there was another line snaking towards the registration booths. A conference staffer asked if anyone still needed to buy tickets. When I said I did we were shifted to a different line, with one person ahead of us. The people who had bought tickets in advance had to continue moving through the longer line.

Once in we headed for the exhibits and sale booths. Most of the events I had noted in the program were reserved for those who paid an additional fee. We were not willing to part with more money. There were also gaming rooms (Yo-Gi-Oh not gambling). The exhibit hall was enough to keep our interest. There were t-shirt vendors, comic book sales, artwork, autographed photos, action figures – you name it, you could probably buy it. The few items on our particular shopping list, though, were not in evidence.

As always at this sort of thing the people watching is the most interesting activity. A number of people came in costume and were willing to strike a pose or be photographed. They seemed to cluster by character or plotline, whether by intention or chance. So you could find Poison Ivy and Cat Woman standing together with the Joker not far behind. Darth Vader was flanked by a couple of storm troopers. There was a special area set up for light saber duels. If you were willing to part with the money you could be photographed in the Mystery Machine or the Batmobile. There was not a single a pointed ear (Vulcan or Elf) in the entire room, but I’m short so maybe a few went by that I couldn’t see.
Among the celebrities spotted: Adam West and Burt Ward (Batman and Robin), Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), Margot Kidder (Lois Lane), Pam Grier (Jackie Brown), Lou Ferrigno (The Hulk), and Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian).

Later in the evening a costume contest and zombie beach party were scheduled to be held. We left late in the afternoon, before those festivities got started. Even so, it was a fun way to pass a few hours. City officials and the tourist bureau should check with Wizard World to get a gate count – there were a lot of people there. These kinds of niche events, well attended by the well-behaved should be encouraged. Just a note – someone could have made a nice profit selling water bottles along the line to get it. Those intrigued should watch for announcements of next year’s event; it will be held June 1-3, 2012. In between, you might want to check out Philcon 2011, sponsored by the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society, November 18-20 at the Crowne Plaza in Cherry Hill. Author Cory Doctorow is the featured speaker and Boris Vallejo and Julie Bell are the artist guests of honor. Details at www.philcon.org.

A few charitable notes:

Philadelphia Ghostbusters are available for appearances and often attend charity events.

If you have a closet or garage full of old comics (in good condition) that you can’t bear to toss out but don’t really want to keep, here’s a thought. Superheroes for Hospice started in 2009. The group accepted donated comic books, gives the donor a tax receipt, and sells them with the proceeds going to the Saint Barnabas Health Care System. They have two comic shows scheduled, July 16 in West Orange, NJ and Sept 17 at the Monmouth Mall in Eatontown, NJ. They are also looking for volunteers to help sort and arrange the donated comics. Comic book creators are encouraged to attend the shows to sign books or sketches. Sounds like a worthwhile project.

The 2011 Philadelphia Japan Arts Matsuri will be held July 7-9 at the Prince Music Theater with proceeds going to the Japan Disaster Relief Fund.

Allyson Schwartz in Daily News

Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz got a nice write-up in the Daily News today. Read "'Rising star' Allyson Schwartz led crusade against Weiner," by Catherine Lucey.

A few excerpts:

"There's no question she's viewed as a rising star in the Democratic caucus," said political analyst Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia. "You can tell that by the appointments she's gotten in the caucus and the [Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee].

and

"She's very hardworking; no one will outwork her," said G. Terry Madonna, a political-science professor at Franklin & Marshall College. "She's tenacious about the issues she cares about."

SEPTA Bus Schedule Changes

from the inbox:

SEPTA is implementing service enhancements on several bus routes when summer schedules go into effect on Sunday, June 19, 2011.

One of the most significant changes will occur in the Manayunk and Roxborough areas on Routes 35 and 61. SEPTA is replacing older 30-foot buses that operate in this area with newer, more efficient 40-foot buses. The 40-foot buses cannot operate on some of the smaller streets in the area known as the Manayunk-Roxborough Loop. As a result, SEPTA is making some adjustments to the routes in these neighborhoods.

Route 35
• Northbound service will be extended to the Ivy Ridge Shopping Center at Ridge Avenue and Domino Lane, along Umbria Street and Domino Lane.
• Southbound service will be extended to the Wissahickon Transportation Center via Main Street.
• Service along Cresson, Fountain and Silverwood Streets will be discontinued. Customers who utilized stops in these areas can board Route 35 buses at Leverington Avenue, Main Street and Ridge Avenue.

Route 61
• Service on Umbria Street, Domino Lane, and Ridge Avenue to Ridge and Summit Avenues will be discontinued.
• Service between Domino Lane and Summit Loop will now be served by Routes 9 and 62.
• Service along Umbria Street and Domino Lane will be provided by Route 35.

Service will also be enhanced on several routes with the start of the summer schedules. For example, there will be adjustments on the Route 52 in Parkside to provide customers better access to the Park West Town Center Shopping Plaza.

For more schedule information, visit SEPTA’s Website, www.septa.org

SEPTA Food Drive Extended

from the inbox:

SEPTA passengers have more time to help fight hunger in the Delaware Valley -- The Authority's third annual "Stop Hunger at Your Station" food drive to benefit Philabundance has been extended through Friday, June 24, 2011.

Donations of canned and boxed goods are being collected in marked barrels at more than 50 designated stations throughout the transit system.

In 2010, SEPTA’s passengers and employees contributed the equivalent of 19.6 tons of food, doubling the 2009 donations. To meet the Authority’s goal of 20 tons of food for 2011, the community can help by contributing the following items:

* Canned or shelf stabilized tuna
* Canned pasta
* Canned beef ravioli
* Creamy peanut butter (plastic containers only, please)
* Jelly (plastic containers only, please)

The public can also make a donation to Philabundance online to help feed neighbors in need. Any monetary contribution will count toward the total collected through the SEPTA 2011 campaign.

For more information about the food drive, visit www.septa.org. For more information about Philabundance, visit www.philabundance.org.

Obama to Carnegie Mellon Next Friday

Noted in Press Secretary Jay Carney's comments at a press conference today:

“On Friday, the President will travel to Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to highlight the importance of manufacturing to the United States economy, as well as key steps that government, industry, and universities will take together to create new industries and new jobs. The President will discuss the need to focus on cross-cutting technologies that will enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. manufacturing and speed ideas from the drawing board to the manufacturing floor.”

The Ten Million Dollar Man

In the Inky's Business section today, from Joseph DiStefano's PhillyDeals column, "Candidate Santorum quits hospital chain," (6/16).

In the article DiStefano points out that Santorum stepped down from the Universal Health Services board of directors. Over a third of the money that Universal brings in is from Medicare and Medicaid (government money, from taxpayers). The company paid Santorum $168,000 to attend board and committee meetings. He was part of the committee that decided to pay the CEO, Alan B. Miller, a compensation package totalling $10 Million.

Two things pop into my head when I read things like this. The first is that I've been on the board or held elective office in a number of organizations. None paid me. Second, what the heck does this guy do that's worth $10M? It's astounding. For that kind of money you could pay the salaries of around 200 Pennsylvania teachers for a year.

If that's the standard salary for health care system CEO's I wonder how much the country could save if these guys halved their salary. Getting by on $5M would, of course, be a hardship, but if a good-sized chunk of their money is coming from taxpayers shouldn't they be part of this "shared sacrifice" we all hear so much about? If teachers and other public workers are paying more for their health insurance and seeing pension and base salaries cut, why shouldn't this guy's compensation package be cut?

Maddening

President's Wireless Initiative

from the inbox:

FACT SHEET: 21st-Century Communications for our First Responders

Click HERE to read the full report announced today by Vice President Biden on how The President’s Wireless Innovation and Infrastructure Initiative can facilitate the transition to a next generation, interoperable system.

The limitations of current public safety communications systems became tragically apparent on 9/11 and in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.[1] In those critical moments, law enforcement, firefighters, and other public safety officers could not talk to each other, putting the lives and mission of our first responders at risk. Almost ten years after 9/11, our system of public safety communications remains outdated, both from a performance and cost-effectiveness standpoint. Traditional public safety devices and networks trail well behind those provided by modern commercial cellular operators. Consequently, public safety is unable to take advantage of the sorts of innovative applications that many teenagers now take for granted.

With the ongoing rollout of the latest line of commercial wireless standards, there is an opportunity to develop and deploy a nationwide and interoperable wireless broadband network for our first responders. With such a network in place, public safety will be able to welcome commercial developers of smartphones, tablets, and apps to connect to and compete within a unified public safety market. And once developed appropriately, first responders will both be able to benefit from advanced wireless broadband technologies and, eventually, replace their high-cost, legacy communications infrastructure and devices.

To facilitate the development and deployment of a nationwide high speed wireless network for public safety, the President’s Wireless Innovation and Infrastructure Initiative will enable public safety agencies to transition away from the traditional, fragmented world of public safety communications to a next generation system. This initiative will provide first responders with a network that offers far greater levels of interoperability and effectiveness than they possess today, ultimately saving billions of dollars by enabling public safety to benefit from the competition and innovation that major commercial enterprises already enjoy.

Benefits of a Nationwide Wireless Network For Public Safety Communications

· A fully interoperable nationwide network: The nationwide network for public safety would provide interoperability for all first responders, preventing tragic failures of communication and coordination, reducing risks for first responders and the public.

· Saving resources through a coordinated system for public safety communications: Today’s communication systems are not only outdated compared with more modern networks and devices, but they are split across thousands of Federal, State, and local jurisdictions that each pay maintenance and upkeep. The Department of Homeland Security alone spends around $1 billion on public safety communications and interoperability. A nationwide network will align today’s fragmented system, saving money while bringing capabilities into the 21st Century.

· Unlocking the potential of commercial devices and infrastructure for public safety : Traditional public safety systems cost up to 10 times more than the same commercial device. A nationwide network will allow commercial developers of smartphones, tablets, and mobile networks and apps to connect a broad, unified market for public safety communications. According to the Congressional Research Service, participation by commercial carriers could drive down the cost of public safety radios from $4,000-$6,000 per unit, the price today, to $500 (or the cost of a smart phone). A 2010 FCC analysis found that leveraging available commercial systems could save considerably on capital expenditures compared with the existing, fragmented public safety communications infrastructure.

· Providing better performance and cost effectiveness through innovation: Participation in a broader market, based on open standards, will also allow public safety to pick and choose the best technology from many more competing firms. This will spur competition and innovation to produce applications that improve safety and situational awareness, identification, and emergency health care.

· Enhancing the public safety mission: Developing and deploying a hardened, reliable public safety broadband network will put new and important tools in the hands of first responders. For example, first responders could use smartphones or other mobile devices to capture license plate information, quickly verify fingerprints and identity, link to multiple existing databases instantly, or transmit video and data from the scenes of accidents or emergencies.

Background On The President’s Wireless Initiative

The President’s Wireless Initiative pays for itself and would reduce the deficit by enabling more efficient use of wireless spectrum and freeing up spectrum for auction to the highest bidder. In total, this effort would drive investment and innovation and generate $28 billion in auction revenue. After using some of the proceeds from spectrum auctions to reduce the deficit, the Initiative proposes four areas of investment to spur innovation in next generation wireless technologies for public safety:

1. An investment in a nationwide wireless network for public safety communications based on 4G technology.

2. Rollout of 4G services to at least 98% of the population.

3. Reallocate the D Block – a key band of spectrum in the 700 megahertz range – to public safety.

4. Creation of a Wireless Innovation Fund that, among other things, would support $500 million in research to meet the communications requirements of public safety.

Huff Po on School Librarians

For a number of years I took advantage of a flexible work schedule to volunteer in my children's elementary school library for one hour a week. I staffed the circulation desk for the first hour of the school day, as the paid staff person didn't come in until the second hour. The extra set of hands was useful and other parents covered that hour most other days of the week. I got to know a lot of the kids at the school and they got to know me. One time I walked into a kids-based event and one of the kids started shouting gleefully "The librarian is here! The librarian is here!" I explained that I was not actually a school librarian, only a parent volunteer, but this did not seem to dampen the child's enthusiasm. Apparently an out of school siting of a parent who sat at the desk and checked books out for an hour a week was almost as good as running into a teacher in the wild.

Volunteering in the school library was a great experience. I got to know the kids and the teachers, got volumes of face time and parent points, and most important, I got to see what happened in the school library. I had not been in an elementary school library since I was a student and seeing it through adult eyes was illuminating. The librarians do more than read stories to little kids, although they do that. They also talked with older grades about locating information, doing research, learning to use computers, and learning how to avoid plagiarism. The PTA paid for authors to come in and give presentations. In the weeks leading up to the author visits the librarians would talk about aspects of that author's work, the genre, related works, the author's background, and so on.

The librarians knew their collection well and could make individual recommendations to the students. I was fascinated to see what the kids were reading and to hear why the librarians thought those books were popular. Non-fiction is surprisingly popular, especially among boys. I was also surprised at the depth of the librarians' knowledge of the students, what they were like, who their friends were, and who their teachers were currently and in the past. Watching the librarians in action really opened my eyes to all they do.

School libraries and librarians play a major role in the educational process and are frequent targets in times of tight budgets. The Huffington Post recently published an article called "Communities behind librarians facing layoffs," by Gabrielle Canon 6/13. It's worth a read.

New Kane Video

Kathleen Granahan Kane,one of the Democratic candidates for Attorney General, has released an introductory biographical video.

National Day of Action in Philadelphia on Saturday

The president's re-election campaign is holding its first national day of action this Saturday, June 18th. Philadelphia is one of the participating cities. For details on where to meet like minded people, check out the blog entry at barackobama.com.

Prez O Letter to Congress on Libya

from the inbox:

TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT TO THE SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AND THE PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE SENATE

June 15, 2011

Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:)

I am providing this supplemental consolidated report, prepared by my Administration and consistent with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148), as part of my efforts to keep the Congress informed about deployments of U.S. Armed Forces equipped for combat.

MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST AL-QA'IDA, THE TALIBAN, AND ASSOCIATED FORCES AND IN SUPPORT OF RELATED U.S. COUNTERTERRORISM OBJECTIVES

Since October 7, 2001, the United States has conducted combat operations in Afghanistan against al-Qa'ida terrorists and their Taliban supporters. In support of these and other overseas operations, the United States has deployed combat-equipped forces to a number of locations in the U.S. Central, Pacific, European, Southern, and Africa Command areas of operation. Previously such operations and deployments have been reported, consistent with Public Law 107-40 and the War Powers Resolution, and operations and deployments remain ongoing. These operations, which the United States has carried out with the assistance of numerous international partners, have been successful in seriously degrading al-Qa'ida's capabilities and brought an end to the Taliban's leadership of Afghanistan.

United States Armed Forces are also actively pursuing and engaging remaining al-Qa'ida and Taliban fighters in Afghanistan. The total number of U.S. forces in Afghanistan is approximately 99,000, of which more than 83,000 are assigned to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan. The U.N. Security Council most recently reaffirmed its authorization of ISAF for a 12-month period from October 13, 2010, in U.N. Security Council Resolution 1943 (October 13, 2010). The mission of ISAF, under NATO command and in partnership with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, is to conduct population-centric counterinsurgency operations, enable expanded and effective capabilities of the Afghan National Security Forces, support improved governance and development in order to protect the Afghan people, and promote sustainable security. Including the United States, 48 partner nations, including all 28 NATO Allies, contribute troops to ISAF. These combat operations are gradually pushing insurgents to the edges of secured population areas in a number of important regions, largely resulting from the increase in U.S. forces over the past 2 years. United States and other coalition forces will continue to execute the strategy of clear-hold-build, and transition, until full responsibility for security rests with the Afghan National Security Forces.

The United States continues to detain approximately 1,000 al-Qa'ida, Taliban, and associated force fighters who are believed to pose a continuing threat to the United States and its interests.

The combat-equipped forces, deployed since January 2002 to Naval Base, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, continue to conduct secure detention operations for the approximately 170 detainees at Guantanamo Bay under Public Law 107-40 and consistent with principles of the law of war.

In furtherance of U.S. efforts against members of al-Qa'ida, the Taliban, and associated forces, the United States continues to work with partners around the globe, with a particular focus on the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. In this context, the United States has deployed U.S. combat-equipped forces to assist in enhancing the counterterrorism capabilities of our friends and allies, including special operations and other forces for sensitive operations in various locations around the world. The United States is committed to thwarting the efforts of al-Qa'ida and its associated forces to carry out future acts of international terrorism, and we have continued to work with our counterterrorism partners to disrupt and degrade the capabilities of al-Qa'ida and its associated forces. As necessary, in response to the terrorist threat, I will direct additional measures against al-Qa'ida, the Taliban, and associated forces to protect U.S. citizens and interests. It is not possible to know at this time the precise scope or the duration of the deployments of U.S. Armed Forces necessary to counter this terrorist threat to the United States. A classified annex to this report provides further information.

MILITARY OPERATIONS IN IRAQ

Since the expiration of the authorization and mandate for the Multinational Force in Iraq in U.N. Security Council Resolution 1790 on December 31, 2008, U.S. forces have continued operations to support Iraq in its efforts to maintain security and stability in Iraq, pursuant to the bilateral Agreement Between the United States of America and the Republic of Iraq on the Withdrawal of United States Forces from Iraq and the Organization of Their Activities during Their Temporary Presence in Iraq (Security Agreement), which entered into force on January 1, 2009. These contributions have included, but have not been limited to, assisting in building the capability of the Iraqi security forces, supporting the development of Iraq's political institutions, enhancing the capacity of the ministries of Defense and Interior, providing critical humanitarian and reconstruction assistance to the Iraqis, and supporting the U.S. diplomatic mission. The United States continues its responsible drawdown, in accordance with commitments in the Security Agreement, to withdraw U.S. forces from Iraq by December 31, 2011. The number of U.S. forces in Iraq at this time is approximately 45,000.


MILITARY OPERATIONS IN LIBYA

As I reported on March 21, and at my direction, consistent with a request from the Arab League, and as authorized by the United Nations Security Council under the provisions of U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1970 and 1973, U.S. military forces commenced operations on March 19, 2011, to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe and address the threat posed to international peace and security by the crisis in Libya and to protect the people of Libya from the Qadhafi regime. The initial phase of U.S. military involvement in Libya was conducted under the command of the U.S. Africa Command. By April 4, however, the United States had transferred responsibility for the military operations in Libya to NATO and the U.S. involvement has assumed a supporting role in the coalition's efforts. Since April 4, U.S. participation has consisted of: (1) non-kinetic support to the NATO-led operation, including intelligence, logistical support, and search and rescue assistance; (2) aircraft that have assisted in the suppression and destruction of air defenses in support of the no-fly zone; and (3) since April 23, precision strikes by unmanned aerial vehicles against a limited set of clearly defined targets in support of the NATO-led coalition's efforts. Although we are no longer in the lead, U.S. support for the NATO-based coalition remains crucial to assuring the success of international efforts to protect civilians and civilian populated areas from the actions of the Qadhafi regime, and to address the threat to international peace and security posed by the crisis in Libya. With the exception of operations to rescue the crew of a U.S. aircraft on March 21, 2011, the United States has deployed no ground forces to Libya.

MILITARY OPERATIONS IN EGYPT

On January 31, a security force of approximately 40 U.S. military personnel from the U.S. Central Command deployed to Cairo. Although this security force was equipped for combat, this movement was undertaken solely for the purpose of protecting American citizens and property. A security force remains deployed to the U.S. Embassy in Cairo and will remain through July 4, or until the security situation becomes such that it is no longer needed, if earlier. This security force is separate from, and in addition to, the approximately 693 military personnel that constitute the U.S. contingent of the Multinational Force & Observers present in Egypt since 1981.

MARITIME INTERCEPTION OPERATIONS

As noted in previous reports, the United States continues to conduct maritime interception operations on the high seas in the areas of responsibility of each of the geographic combatant commands. These maritime operations are aimed at stopping the movement, arming, and financing of certain international terrorist groups. A classified annex to this report provides further information.

U.S./NATO OPERATIONS IN KOSOVO

The U.N. Security Council authorized Member States to establish a NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) in Resolution 1244 on June 10, 1999. The original mission of KFOR was to monitor, verify, and, when necessary, enforce compliance with the Military Technical Agreement between NATO and the then Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (now Serbia), while maintaining a safe and secure environment. Today, KFOR deters renewed hostilities and, with local authorities and international institutions, contributes to the maintenance of a safe and secure environment.

Currently, 22 NATO Allies contribute to KFOR. Eight non-NATO countries also participate. The United States contribution to KFOR is approximately 800 U.S. military personnel out of the total strength of approximately 6,000 personnel. The principal military task of KFOR forces is to help maintain a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement.

I have directed the participation of U.S. Armed Forces in all of these operations pursuant to my constitutional and statutory authority as Commander in Chief (including the authority to carry out Public Law 107-40 and other statutes) and as Chief Executive, as well as my statutory and constitutional authority, to conduct the foreign relations of the United States. Officials of my Administration and I communicate regularly with the leadership and other Members of Congress with regard to these deployments, and we will continue to do so.

Sincerely,

BARACK OBAMA

Jimmie Moore for Congress

Judge Jimmie Moore, who retired from the Philadelphia Municipal Court, is running for Congress. PoliticsPA has done some research and found that while Moore is currently in the 1st congressional district, it is possible that redistricting will shift him into another district; regardless, the site reports, Moore intends to run, no matter the district.

Randy LoBasso at the PhillyNow blog has additional details.

Moore has served on the board of three charter schools, the Philadelphia Dance Company, and is currently on the board of the Sustainable Business Network, in addition to a number of other organizations.

One bit of unsolicited advice for the campaign -- it's an easily misspelled name, buy up some of the similar URLs. I was going from memory and it took me a few tries to get it right.

Planned Parenthood Statement on SB732

from the inbox:

Earlier today, in what is part of a recent onslaught of legislative attacks on women’s health, the Pennsylvania Senate voted to further restrict abortion. Senate Bill 732 passed with dangerous language that requires free-standing abortion providers that perform abortions after 9-weeks gestation to be regulated as Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (ASF) under Pennsylvania law. The bill now moves to the House for consideration.

“Abortion is already a highly-regulated procedure in Pennsylvania,” said Dayle Steinberg, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeastern Pennsylvania. “The health and safety of women in Pennsylvania now lies in the hands of the Pennsylvania House and Governor as this bill continues on.”

Currently in Pennsylvania, abortion providers must comply with a comprehensive list of laws and regulations that are enforced by the Department of Health. Existing regulations include Ambulatory Gynecological Surgery in Hospitals and Clinics, the Abortion Control Act, the MCARE Act, Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Yet supporters of the legislation falsely claim more regulation is needed. Steinberg countered, “Restricting facilities that are currently operating safely in Pennsylvania to the point where they will be forced to shut down only jeopardizes patient safety.”

“Enacting these types of laws will only cause a public health crisis in Pennsylvania,” Steinberg said. “It could cause the cost of a procedure to rise drastically or force safe providers to close their doors, leaving women to risk their lives by seeking care from disreputable, unlawful providers.”

Update on Non-Discrimination Ordinance in Montco Town

One story I've been following across communities in the region is the passage of non-discrimination bills. The only community I've found so far in the geographic area I cover that voted down such an ordinance is Abington in Montgomery County. I've been sent an update on the situation:

* the township board of commissioners voted to support a non-discrimination bill on the state level (see "Abington commissioners vote to support state anti-discrimination legislation," by Luke Harold, Montgomery Media 6/13)

* a Coalition for Equality in the township has put together an impressive (and growing) list of local partners (businesses, churches, and clergy) as well as support from state and national organizations.

Ed Rendell, Josh Shapiro, and Dogs

Philadelphia Magazine has an interesting article on how Ed Rendell spends his time these days. Read "Ed Rendell and His Bitches," by Tom McGrath. Note this passage:

After watching Ed in a couple quick political meetings with Senator Bob Casey and State Representative Josh Shapiro, I went next door and sat down with Kirstin­ Snow.

Shapiro is running for Montgomery County Commissioner these days.

Pennypack Watershed Plan

Fellow watershed lovers -- here's your chance to chime in on the final report of the Pennypack Watershed Act 167 Stormwater Management Plan. The meeting will be held Tuesday, June 14th, at 7 p.m. at the Upper Moreland Township Building. The plan is available at www.temple.edu/ambler/csc/index.html

Who's Packing Your Parachute? No One

Still catching up on news after a trip away.

In the June 4th Wall Street Journal there is an alarming piece by Michael M. Phillips, "What color is my parachute? Invisible." Phillips points out that military cargo planes often carry parachutes for the crew members, but none are available for passengers. The plane Phillips describes has 50 passengers. No parachutes for them. Were that not enough to catch your attention, check out the last paragraph:

More passengers could be left floating soon. Officials at Air Mobility Command are considering removing all but a couple of parachutes from each plane—just enough for the loadmasters. The packs weigh about 75 pounds apiece, and officials figure that, over time, the move will allow the Air Force to save a lot of money on fuel.

We as a country would rather extend tax cuts for the very wealthy, allow multinational corporations to pay no taxes, bail out large banks, have lower tax rates for certain types of financial gains, give away grazing rights on public land, than provide military aircraft crew with parachutes. Because we're trying to save fuel costs.

There is something inherently wrong here.

Future Histories of Greater Philadelphia

Monday, June 13th you can attend:

a reprise of the landmark presentation of 2026: Future Histories of Greater Philadelphia. With the help of a selection of our region's premier strategic thinkers and performance artists, we will embark on a provocative examination of our region's potential futures, as described in the recent 2026: Future Histories report. The product of months of intensive collaboration with regional stakeholders, 2026: Future Histories presents stories describing four very different, but very possible, futures for Greater Philadelphia. These stories, which explore how national and global forces could influence our future, place a spotlight on the Philadelphia area's challenges and opportunities and enable business, civic, labor, and government leaders to identify what is most likely to drive our success as a region.

In this time of transformative change, our ability to thrive as a region will depend on how well we come together to identify and act upon shared, strategic goals. On June 13, join the growing group of leaders committed to making our region a world class place to live, work, and play through World Class Greater Philadelphia.

When
Monday, June 13, 2011
5:30 - 8:00 PM (reception begins at 5:30 PM, program begins at 6 PM)

Where
WHYY Hamilton Media Commons
Independence Mall West, 150 N. Sixth Street
Philadelphia, PA

Patrick Murphy on Hardball

Patrick Murphy and Jim Matthews on Hardball with Chris Matthews
June 8

These are rough notes from watching the video online. It is not intended as a full transcript and I apologize in advance for any errors or misconceptions. The video and an official transcript are available online for readers to review themselves.

video of Matthews and Murphy, video of the Nutters
official transcript

Education Nation in Philadelphia, Independence Hall

Patrick Murphy, former 8th district congressman and Democratic candidate for Pennsylvania Attorney General, and Jim Matthews, Republican commissioner of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

Economy especially a problem in the industrial belt

Q: Weiner scandal

PM: I think he has to leave. He lied. My heart goes out tohis wife and family. He should exit gracefully.

JM: He’s an adversary for me personally. He was cutting and acerbic. [blogger's note: Jim Mathews also said something positive about Weiner but I didn't catch it.]

Q: Obama’s fate depends on economics of this state and others. He’s trying to idenfity with tranining and industry and jobs.

PM: I think he’d be the first to tell you he’s doing all he can. I think the economic is going to be hurtuful to both parties. He’s doing his best.

JM: What he does need. He’s going after the middle class, talking about preserving and moving into the middle class. Need to have companies tell colleges what they need. Get rid fo curriculum that don’t work.

PM: It’s about winning the jobs of the future not the jobs of the past. Public / private partnership. He liestend to hear what we need to get kids involved and employed.

JM: Great part about speech was focus on occupation credentials. It’s a local responsibility.

PM: I know pres was at Bucks Co a few weeks ago, talking about Green Jobs Academy.

CM: Thanks PM for work on DADT.

Obama Announces for Skills for American's Future

from yesterday's inbox:

Today at Northern Virginia Community College, President Obama will announce a major expansion of Skills for America’s Future, an industry led initiative to dramatically improve industry partnerships with community colleges and build a nation-wide network to maximize workforce development strategies, job training programs, and job placements.

“Last year, we launched Skills for America’s Future to bring together companies and community colleges around a simple idea: making it easier for workers to gain new skills will make America more competitive in the global economy. Today, we are announcing a number of partnerships that will help us make this a reality, by opening doors to new jobs for workers, and helping employers find the trained people they need to compete against companies around the world,” said President Barack Obama.

As one of the key partners of Skills for America’s Future, an initiative of the Aspen Institute that was launched by the Administration last year, The Manufacturing Institute, the affiliated non-profit of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), will announce an effort to help provide 500,000 community college students with industry-recognized credentials that will help them get secure jobs in the manufacturing sector. Several other partners of Skills for America’s Future and The Manufacturing Institute will also help enhance these efforts through their own initiatives to bolster our nation’s manufacturing workforce.

This builds on the Administration strong leadership on manufacturing. The manufacturing sector has led the economic recovery over the past two years, with over 230,000 jobs added since the beginning of 2010.

A New Credentialing System that Works - A Vibrant Manufacturing Workforce

While the manufacturing sector has faced real challenges in recent years, it continues to be the lifeblood of the American economy. The manufacturing sector currently employs over 11 million Americans, and by itself it would be one of the 10th largest economies in the world. Manufacturing is also critical for our continued innovation; manufacturing companies account for two-thirds of private sector research and development and roughly 90% of all registered patents. Most importantly, manufacturing has long provided good-paying jobs for millions of families and serves as the anchor employer in communities across America.

For that reason, our ability to win the future will depend in large part on our ability to train the most productive manufacturing workers in the world. This effort is especially important at a time when 2.7 million manufacturing employees are 55 years of age or older and likely to leave the labor force in the next 10 years.

One of the challenges in today’s manufacturing sector is the lack of a standardized credentialing system that manufacturing firms recognize as useful preparation for their unfilled jobs. As a result, students often spend time and money on training that can have little value to potential employers while employers have difficulty identifying which credentials are of value and should influence hiring and promotions.

The Manufacturing Skills Certification System, developed with manufacturing firms at the table, will give students the opportunity to earn manufacturing credentials that will travel across state lines, be valued by a range of employers and improve earning power. In designing this program, the Manufacturing Institute has partnered with leading manufacturing firms, the Gates Foundation, and the Lumina Foundation, and key players in education and training including ACT, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the American Welding Society, the National Institute of Metalworking Skills, and the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council. This will allow students and workers to access this manufacturing credentials and pathways in community colleges in 30 states as a for-credit program of study.

Key Partnerships -- An All-Hands-on Deck Effort by Government, Business, Philanthropy and Others

As part of today’s initiatives, the Administration will announce new key business leaders leading the President's call to action by joining Skills for America's Future board, including Greg Brown, chairman and CEO, Motorola Solutions; Bill Green, chairman, Accenture; Penny Pritzker, chairman and CEO, Pritzker Realty Group (Chair); Brad Keywell, co-founder and director, Groupon, Inc.; Nick Pinchuck, CEO of Snap-on; David Zazlav, CEO of Discovery Communications; Ellen Alberding, president, The Joyce Foundation; and Walter Bumphus, president and CEO, American Association of Community Colleges. Learn more about Skills for America’s future at www.skillsforamericasfuture.org.

The President and Skills for America’s Future will also announce a number of public-private partnerships that leverage the core competencies of the technology sector, media companies, and federal agencies to enhance these efforts through their own initiatives to bolster the nation’s manufacturing workforce.

“Boots on the Ground” Help for Manufacturers to Implement Credentials: Through the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), the Federal government will collaborate with The Manufacturing Institute in a program to promote a curriculum based on NAM’s advanced manufacturing skills certification system in community colleges in 30 states. The 60 centers of the national MEP system will serve as the “boots on the ground” with local manufacturers to educate them about the value the NAM-endorsed skills certification system to their business so that they utilize the skills certification system in their recruitment and hiring efforts. In addition, the MEP will provide input to The Manufacturing Institute about aggregate skill needs of manufacturers by industry and geography so that certification systems can remain dynamic and evolving.

Building These Credentials into High School Pathways: Given that many students begin to seek manufacturing training before college, Air Products, a global manufacturer serving customers in industrial, energy, technology and healthcare markets worldwide, is partnering with SkillsUSA to build partnerships in 3,500 member high schools and more than 200 colleges to adopt these credentials in their schools.

Providing New Online Tools for Workers to Earn and Utilize these Credentials: Students and employees in the manufacturing field will not only have a new, more meaningful certification program to take advantage of, but a new career website called Pipeline that will provide job seekers with real-time data on job openings and information on additional education needed. This effort will be headed up by Futures Inc. in partnership with the Manufacturing Institute in 17 partner states with plans to expand nationwide.

A Career Awareness Campaign to Learn about Such Credentials: Students and employees in the manufacturing field will also be able to access critical resources for obtaining marketable job skills and expertise through “Discover Your Skills,” a Discovery Communications initiative designed to raise awareness of career opportunities including PSAs, on-air talent, their media properties and Discovery Education. With collaborators including The Manufacturing Institute, National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and Skills for America’s Future, Discovery viewers will have a pathway to a world of resources to help educate and advance entry into the workforce.

More Opportunities for At-Risk Youth To Seek these Careers and Credentials: At-risk young people will be provided additional assistance through Jobs for America’s Graduates’ new commitment to a five-year goal of helping 30,000 high-risk youth obtain professional credentials in high demand occupations including Advanced Manufacturing. Archer Daniels Midland Company, a leading global agribusiness with operations in 36 states and a JAG board member, will serve as JAG’s National Business Partner.

Creating our Next Generation Engineering Workforce: In addition, over 5,000 young people will be able to benefit from a mentorship program and scholarships being expanded by The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), the SME Education Foundation and the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering and the National Academy Foundation.

Building on Progress

These commitments build on important steps already taken by this Administration.

Investing over $2 billion to help community colleges train students and workers: Under the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, over $2 billion in competitive funds have been made available to eligible institutions of higher education, such as community colleges, over the next four years. The initiative, housed at the Department of Labor (DOL) and implemented in close cooperation with the Department of Education, will focus on the capacity of community colleges to develop, upgrade, and offer programs that result in skills, degrees, and industry recognized credentials that are relevant to high-skill industries such as manufacturing. These competitive grants will have a focus on programs that have strong employer partners and that meet industry needs, including allowing consortiums that can focus across an entire region, state, industry or a cluster of related industries. This program will complement President Obama’s broader commitment for higher education, which nearly doubled funding for Pell grants and tripled the largest college tax credit, now known as the American Opportunity Tax Credit.

Leadership by the Department of Labor on industry-recognized credentials: The Department of Labor has released an updated advanced manufacturing competency model. Working with industry partners such as The Manufacturing Institute, the National Council for Advanced Manufacturing and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, this employer validated model outlines the skills necessary to pursue a successful career in the manufacturing industry. DOL is also promoting the importance of credential attainment with the adoption of a high priority performance goal to increase credential attainment by 10 percent among customers of the public workforce system by June 2012.

Leadership by Health and Human Services (HHS) to Expand its Health IT Training Program with Community Colleges Nationwide. To address a skilled worker shortage within the health IT industry of 50,000 workers, and create thousands of new health care jobs, the HHS Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT (ONC) launched the Community College Consortia (CCC). This consortium of 82 member colleges has created new Health IT academic programs that can be completed in six months or less. As of May 2011, a total of 2,434 total students have successfully completed the program to take on new jobs or to upgrade skills within existing jobs. Going forward, ONC will increase the capacity of these training programs, starting in September 2012 the CCC will graduate at least 10,500 students annually.

Obama Remarks At A Skills For America's Future Manufacturing

from the inbox:

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you so much. Everybody please have a seat. Thank you.

Thank you so much, everybody. It is great to be back at NOVA. I come here often enough that I think I should be getting some credits. (Laughter.) Plus I’ve got an in with Dr. Biden, and her husband owes me big time, so. (Laughter.)

It is wonderful to see everybody here. We’ve got some special guests. Our outstanding Labor Secretary Hilda Solis is here. Where’s Hilda? (Applause.) Congressman Jim Moran is here, putting on his jacket. (Applause.) The mayor of Alexandria, Bill Euille, is here. (Applause.) The president of Northern Virginia Community College, Dr. Robert Templin, is here. (Applause.)

I just had a chance to see the labs where students are training for jobs working on advanced vehicles, led by a teacher who’s here, Ernie Packer, who spent almost three decades at Ford Motor Company. Where’s Ernie? Did we get him back here? There he is. (Applause.)

That’s why my sleeves are rolled up. I was getting under the hood. (Laughter.) Do you guys want me to work on your car? Don’t do it. (Laughter.)

But I was so impressed not only with the skills that the young people were learning but also with the enthusiasm and excitement of what they see as a potential future. All across America, there are students like the ones that I’ve met here at NOVA, folks who are gaining skills, they’re learning a trade, they’re working hard and putting in the hours to move up the profession that they’ve chosen or to take a chance on a new line of work. Among the students I was meeting here, we saw some looked like 18-, 19-year-olds, but we also saw a couple of folks who were mid-career or even had retired and now were looking to go back to work.

So these are men and women like David Korelitz. David started at a car dealership as a apprentice. And he’ll tell you, he was at the low end of the totem pole. Then he entered GM -- the GM automotive program here at NOVA; started picking up new skills; led to better and more challenging work. He began to prove himself as a technician. And after he graduated he kept moving up. So now, David is hoping to work hard enough to earn a management position at the dealership where he was an apprentice just a few years ago.

And I want to quote David, because I think it captures what happens here at a place like NOVA. David said whatever he ends up doing, the automotive training program here was “the spark [he] needed to get [his] career started.” The spark he needed to get his career started.

Lighting a spark. That’s what community colleges can do. That’s what learning a new skill or training in a new field can do. And that’s the reason that I’m here today. We’ve got to light more sparks all across America, and that’s going to make a difference in the futures of individuals who are looking for a better life, but it’s also going to make a difference in America’s future. So I’ve set a goal that by the end of this decade, we are going to once again lead the world in producing college graduates. To achieve that, we’re making college more affordable and we’re investing in community colleges.

But the goal isn’t just making sure that somebody has got a certificate or a diploma. The goal is to make sure your degree helps you to get a promotion or a raise or a job. And that’s especially important right now. Obviously we’re slowly recovering from a very painful recession. But there are too many people out there who are still out of work -- without a job that allows them to save a little money or to create the life they want for their families. That’s unacceptable to me. It’s unacceptable to all of you.

So we’ve got to do everything we can, everything in our power, to strengthen and rebuild the middle class. We’ve got to be able to test new ideas, pull people together, and throw everything we’ve got at this challenge. So we’re going to have to have all hands on deck.

And that’s why, last year, we brought together major companies and community colleges to launch a new campaign, led by business leaders from across the country, called Skills for America. And the idea was simple. If we could match up schools and businesses, we could create pipelines right from the classroom to the office or the factory floor. This would help workers find better jobs, and it would help companies find the highly educated and highly trained people that they need in order to prosper and to remain competitive.

So today, we’re announcing several new commitments by the private sector, colleges, and the National Association of Manufacturers, to help make these partnerships a reality. Through these efforts, we’re going to make it possible for 500,000 community college students -- half a million community college students -- to get industry-accepted credentials for manufacturing jobs that companies across America are looking to fill. Because the irony is even though a lot of folks are looking for work, there are a lot of companies that are actually also looking for skilled workers. There’s a mismatch that we can close. And this partnership is a great way to do it.

So if you’re a company looking to hire, you’ll know exactly what kind of training went into a specific degree. If you’re considering attending a community college, you’ll be able to know that the diploma you earn will be valuable when you hit the job market. And a lot of that’s already happening here at NOVA. If you participate in the GM program here, like David did, you can count on being prepared to work on GM cars.

We’re also taking some additional steps today: a new resource on the Internet so workers can sign on and see what jobs their skill sets allow them to access all across America. It’s interesting, I was talking to Ernie, and he was saying how a lot of the young people who go through this program, they think initially that they can only get a job at a dealership. And then they realize that there are a whole range of possibilities out there. You might end up working for a company maintaining its fleet. You might end up working for NTSA, making sure that automobile safety is practiced all across the country.

So part of what this website will do is give people a better idea of the scope of opportunities available for the skill sets that they’re gaining.

A new push to make it easier for high school students to get a head start on their degrees at 3,500 participating schools -- because part of our task is making sure that young people even in high school see a relevance between what they’re learning and a potential career.

New mentoring programs and scholarships for folks who are thinking about careers in engineering -- something that’s going to be vital to our manufacturing success. And more business leaders, companies, colleges, and organizations are joining this campaign all the time.

What all these steps boil down to is this: Right now, there are people across America with talents just waiting to be tapped, sparks waiting to be lit. Our job is to light them. And there’s no time to lose when we’ve got folks looking for work, when we’ve got companies that need to stay competitive in this 21st-century economy, and when we know that we’ve got to rebuild a middle class, and a lot of that is going to have to do with how well we do in manufacturing and how well we do in those jobs that are related to making products here in the United States of America.

The fact is, we understand what it takes to build a stronger economy. We know it’s going to require investing in research and technology that will lead to new ideas and new industries. We know it means building the infrastructure, the roads and bridges, and manufacturing the new products here in the United States of America that create good jobs. Above all, it requires training and educating our citizens to out-compete workers from other countries.

That’s why today’s announcement is so important. And that’s why I also want to see Congress -- so, Jim, get working on this -- (laughter) -- pass the Workforce Investment Act, to build on this progress -- (applause) -- to build on this progress with new and innovative approaches to training -- and to really figure out what works. We’ve got a lot of programs out there. If a program does not work in training people for the jobs of the future and getting them a job, we should eliminate that program. If a program is working, we should put more money into that program. So we’ve got to be ruthless in evaluating what works and what doesn’t in order for folks to actually obtain a job and industry to get the workers they need. That’s how we’re going to help more Americans climb into the middle class and stay there. That’s how we’re going to make our overall economy stronger and more competitive.

Let me just make this point. If we don’t decide to do this -- it’s possible that we could choose not to do the things that I just talked about. We could choose not to make investments in clean energy or let tuition prices rise and force more Americans to give up on the American Dream. We could choose to walk away from our community college system. We could say to ourselves, you know what, given foreign competition and low wages overseas, manufacturing is out the door and there’s not much we can do about it. We could decide, in solving our fiscal problems, that we can’t afford to make any of these investments, and those of us who’ve done very well don’t have to pay any more taxes in order to fund these investments.

But I want to make clear, that’s not our history. That’s not who we are. I don’t accept that future for the United States of America. I see a United States where this nation is able to out-compete every country on Earth, where we continue to be the world’s engine for innovation and discovery. I see a future where we train workers who make things here in the United States, and continue a important and honorable tradition of folks working with their hands, creating value, not just shuffling paper. That’s part of what has built the American Dream.

And if anybody doubts that future is possible, they should come to this school and talk to the young people who are getting trained and the folks who are doing the training. They ought to go to Detroit where auto companies are coming back and hiring again, after a lot of people declared that entire industry dead and buried. They ought to travel all across the country like I do and meet men and women who are starting businesses, testing new ideas, bringing new products to market, and helping this country come back stronger than before.

We are in a tough fight. We’ve been in a tough fight over the last two and a half years to get past a crippling recession, but also to deal with the problems that happened before this recession -- the fact that manufacturing had weakened, the middle class was treading water. I don’t think the answer is for us to turn back. I think the answer is to stand up for what this country is capable of achieving, and to place our bets on entrepreneurs and workers and to get behind some of the great work that’s being done here at NOVA and in schools all across the country.

That’s how we’re going to win this fight. That’s how we’re going to win the future.

For all of those who are participating, including National Association of Manufacturers and the companies who have already begun to participate in this process, thank you. These young people are excited. They’re ready to get trained. They’re ready to go to work. America is ready to win the future.

Thank you very much everybody. God bless you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Kane to Announce for AG

Kathleen Granahan Kane plans to announce her candidacy for Pennsylvania Attorney General on Thursday, June 9th in Scranton. From her campaign bio:

Born and raised in Scranton PA, Kathleen’s working class upbringing contributes heavily to her work ethic. A graduate of the Scranton public schools, Kathleen worked her way through The University of Scranton and Temple University School of Law in Philadelphia. Her legal career began with civil litigation with the firm of Post & Schell, P.C. in Philadelphia, but inspired by the call of public service she returned home to accept a position as an Assistant District Attorney in the Lackawanna County District Attorneys Office.

Kathryn Boockvar Wins Recount

Kathryn Boockvar is now officially the Democratic candidate for the Commonwealth Court. {For further information on Boockvar, read notes from her interview on PCN.) She sent out this statement, announcing the results of the primary election recount:

Dear Friends,

I know it's late afternoon, but I wanted to share this amazing news as quickly as I could.... today, the PA Department of State confirmed that I am indeed the Democratic nominee for Judge of the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Court!

To say I am proud and thankful is an immense understatement. I feel truly privileged to be able to have this opportunity, and I could not have done it without the help of all of you and so many others.

I must give thanks first and foremost to my husband Jordan and 12 year old daughter Colette, without whose flexibility, understanding, encouragement, excitement, and love, none of this would be possible.

Also to my mother Ginger, who gave and still gives me a love of language and quest for lifelong learning. To my father Bill, whom I miss every day, but who, with my mother, gave me the aspiration to shoot for the stars, and for justice, so long as you make sure to lay the groundwork and do the preparation to achieve those goals.

And to my parents-in-law, for all the extra time they are spending with their granddaughter, and to my brothers and cousins and so many other friends and family and colleagues, new and old, who have been above and beyond an incredible network of support.

And, finally, to my campaign staff, who worked incredibly hard to help me earn this victory. Thank you all.

Many people have asked if I am going to rest, but the answer is, primarily, no. This is too important. I'll be campaigning full throttle through the summer and into November, because as we've seen from the primary, every vote truly makes a difference.

I've already started laying the groundwork for victory in November, and am looking forward to continuing my travels across the Commonwealth to ensure that Pennsylvanians understand how the Commonwealth Court's decisions affect countless aspects of our daily lives - from our rights as workers to the safety of our drinking water to our voting rights.

There is much work to do, and I apologize in advance for all the support I will ask of you again in the coming 5 months! Together, we can win in November.

These words are insufficient, but thanks again. Onward to Victory!

Schwartz Says Weiner Should Resign

Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz (D-13) is among the first and highest ranking Democrats to suggest Congressman Anthony Weiner resign. The Inky has details ("Allyson Schwartz asks Weiner to resign," by Thomas Fitzgerald).

PA Senate Votes to Limit Women's Health Options in Private Insurance

The Pennsylvania State Senate voted 37-12 to prevent private insurance policies available through the exchanges that will be set up under the federal health care law from covering abortion. Senate Bill 3 does allow exceptions for rape, incest and life of the mother, and does allow for coverage for miscarriage and complications resulting from miscarriage or abortion.

Marc Levy of the Associated Press, in "Pa. Senate OKs bill to limit abortion coverage," published in the Times Leader today, wrote, in part:

The federal law requires states to set up the exchanges to provide a marketplace where small businesses and individuals can buy coverage. The bill doesn't stop someone from buying supplemental abortion coverage outside the exchange, although the bill's opponents say such policies don't exist and are unlikely to be offered by insurance companies.

I'm unaware of any other medical procedures being legally and purposefully excluded from private health insurance policies.

Recent Cap Ideas Posts

Capitol Ideas is always a good blog but has had some great posts lately. Be sure to read:

Senate advances texting ban for drivers (6/07)

Corbett: State Police Ordered New SUVs (6/06)

State House Poised To Act On Voter I.D. Bill (6/06)

Monday Morning Coffee: Shared Sacrifice, Anyone? (6/06)

Wasserman Schultz Book Forthcoming

Those who enjoy political books might want to set aside some time next spring. Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz is working on a book about children and education, due out Spring 2012, according to her literary agent, Joelle Delbourgo.

New Regional Rail Schedules

from the inbox:

SEPTA’s new Regional Rail schedules go into effect on Sunday, June 12. New schedules are available now at locations system-wide and online at www.septa.org.

Midday weekday service on the Manayunk/Norristown Line will be reduced between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. due to SEPTA maintenance work to replace catenary wire originally installed in 1933 between Allegheny and Ivy Ridge Stations. Phase one of the project is expected to last approximately four months. For complete details on the Manayunk/Norristown changes, visit www.septa.org/alert/nor.html.

Weekday departure times from Trenton on the Trenton Line have been adjusted between two-to-four minutes as a result of the completion of Amtrak concrete tie replacement work. Train #758 will depart Trenton three minutes earlier and provide local service. On the Media/Elwyn Line, weekday train #3224 will depart Elwyn Station at 7:17 a.m. Weekday train #2359 will depart Temple University Station at 4:22 p.m.

Paoli/Thorndale weekday train #9571 will depart Temple University Station six minutes earlier at 5:50 p.m.

Passengers can visit www.septa.org/schedules/upcoming.html to view changes to their train lines and download new schedules.

State Rep Scott Perry: Shoot if You Don't Like the Goverment

Last November I wrote about the Castle Doctrine and how passage of that law was likely to affect me. The Castle Doctrine removes the responsibility to retreat from an attacker and makes it legal to shoot someone if the shooter has a legal right to be where he or she is and the person shot does not.

The gist of my post was that community volunteers and people active in children's organizations spend a considerable amount of time dropping things off and picking things up -- order forms, release forms, snack for the next day's meeting, and assorted other material. Those with day jobs often can't do this until after working hours. In the fall and winter this running around is frequently done after dark.

I am in this category and going to the homes of people I don't know to leave something or pick something up is a common activity. If the Castle Doctrine passes I am far more likely to be shot by a neighbor who only sees a shadowy figure snooping around, or by someone whose house I have gone to by mistake. This could put a chill on community involvement.

An article in last week's Morning Call ("Will new self-defense laws increase safety?," by John Manganaro, 5/30) points out another problem with the bill, or at least with the intention of the bill's sponsor, Rep. Scott Perry (R-York):

"This bill is meant to tip the scales of justice back in favor of the law-abiding citizen, where currently it leans slightly in favor of the criminal element, and that seems un-American to me," Perry said during a recent interview.

He was unable to cite any specific reports or studies to back up that opinion, but he went on to say that reducing crime isn't the sole purpose of his legislation.

"It's sad that we have to advocate for what is God-given and constitutionally given," Perry said. "We must be able not only to hunt but to protect ourselves from an overbearing government that does not do the will of the people. We would like to see crime diminish, and anything that empowers people to defend themselves is going to do that."

Generally an "overbearing government" is one the person speaking doesn't agree with. For instance, most women might have a different view of "overbearing government" than many men do. The thing is, we already have ways of expressing our view of government. More than one, in fact. The most important being the electoral ballot. If the majority of the people who go out to vote elect officials that follow their campaign promises, those officials are doing the will of the people. If those officials don't follow through on their promises, people can vote them out next time. Weapons are far more likely to be used to put into power a government that is not going to do the will of the people.

The author of the Castle Doctrine's statement that the impetus for the bill is not solely crime but encouraging those with guns to shoot anyone in government that they think is overbearing.

CeaseFirePA has responded with a statement that says, in part,

Just a few months ago in Tucson, Arizona, Jared Loughner announced on YouTube, “you don’t have to accept the federalist laws” – prior to shooting Congresswomen Gabrielle Giffords, Judge John Roll and 17 other people in a grocery store parking lot. In 2009, Richard Poplawski murdered three Pittsburgh Police officers responding to a domestic abuse 911 call. Earlier, Poplawski had explained to a friend “if anyone tried to take his firearms, he was gonna’ stand by what his forefathers told him to do.”

In 2010, when HB 40 was first considered by the Legislature, and vetoed by then-Governor Ed Rendell, the Pennsylvania District Attorneys’ Association weighed in against the bill. While they have taken a neutral position this year, the Association’s Executive Director Rich Long explained to the Morning Call, "We felt all along that the current laws in Pennsylvania adequately provide for self-defense for law-abiding citizens…We've always seen this kind of move as a solution in search of a problem. We haven't seen law-abiding citizens exercising legitimate self-defense and then being prosecuted for doing so."

The Castle Doctrine makes me very nervous and if it passes I will decline to coordinate some of the school fundraisers that I have in the passed and will be less likely to volunteer for activities that have me going to people's houses unless I know them well.

SB904 Removes Local Control of Schools

SB904, the educational voucher bill winding its way through the Pennsylvania state legislature, does a number of things. You may like them you may not. But one aspect of it that really bothers me is that it would allow a local school board to convert a public school into a charter school. At least that is how I understand it and how an Inquirer article ("Proposed Pennsylvania law would give local school boards more freedom to award charters," by Dan Hardy 3/29/2011) interpreted it.

This is the wording in SB904 (p. 85 of the bill):

(2) The local board of school directors, the special board of control established under section 692 or the School Reform Commission established under section 696 which desires to convert an existing public school or a portion of an existing public school to a charter school may designate and approve the existing public school or portion of an existing public school that it seeks to convert to a charter school.

The local board of school directors, the special board of control established under section 692 or the School Reform Commission established under section 696 may accept applications by any individual or entity authorized to establish a charter school under subsection (a) to operate the converted charter school. There shall be no limit on the number of public schools in a school district that can be converted to a charter school.

The legislation was referred to the Education Committee on March 25, 2011. It was introduced by Senators PICCOLA, DINNIMAN, WILLIAMS, SCARNATI, PILEGGI, FOLMER, ALLOWAY, ERICKSON, CORMAN, D. WHITE, ROBBINS, EICHELBERGER, STACK, WAUGH, GREENLEAF AND RAFFERTY.

Even though the legislation is sitting in committee, charter school proponents and commercially owned charter schools are already approaching public schools about converting some of their schools into charter. In response to an open records request the Pottstown School Board has released a series of emails and letters regarding, among other things, the correspondence between the school board chair and Vahan Gureghian, who operates charter schools. Gureghian proposes that the school district convert all kindergarten through 5th grade schools into charter schools that his company, Charter School Management, would run, for less than it would cost the school district to run them. Budgetary concerns are the only reasons listed for the conversion. (The emails and letters are available online at the Pottstown Mercury, see p. 37 of 44.

Do you want to find out one day that your local school board has decided to outsource all of the public elementary schools in your district to a private firm? With no input from parents or teachers? I wonder how these savings would be made? Pay teachers less? Do away with libraries, librarians, school nurses, special education, art, music? What? Personally, I don't want my children taught by people who are willing to work for the lowest possible wage. The average Pennsylvania teacher with over a decade of experience earns $56K (see previous blog post for source data). The easiest way to cut educational costs is to cut wages or increase class size. To really cut costs you could offer prospective teachers $35K a year with kindergarten classes of 35, and larger classes in the higher grades. You would save a lot of money doing that. But I wouldn't want my children in that room.

And I am very opposed to the idea that a school board can convert a public school into a charter school without input from parents or teachers.

I hope this bill stays in committee and doesn't see light of day. People who are represented by the senators who sponsored the bill might want to talk with them about it.

Murphy Raises $500K

from the inbox:

Just six weeks after announcing his candidacy for Pennsylvania Attorney General, Patrick Murphy has raised $500,000 and secured major endorsements, including Philadelphia District Attorney Seth Williams.

In addition, Patrick has earned the support of Former PA DEP Secretary John Hanger and Former U.S. Senator Harris Wofford, as well as a number of state representatives, Democratic Party leaders and labor organizations, such as the United Steelworkers.

“As long as I’ve known Patrick, he has been dedicated to the safety and security of the people of Pennsylvania, whether that be as a soldier or Congressman,” said Mike Russo, Contract Coordinator and Executive Board Member of United Steelworkers Local 4889. “Working families have a friend in Patrick Murphy. As our next Attorney General he won’t be afraid to stand up to special interests that are exploiting everyday Pennsylvanians. Patrick is a true champion for the middle class.”

A former Congressman and Iraq war veteran, Patrick has been overwhelmed by the support he has received since launching his campaign on April 20.

“This type of response just goes to show that Pennsylvania is hungry for leadership in Harrisburg. Working families have had enough of government protecting corporate and special interests at their expense,” Murphy said. “As Attorney General I will stop at nothing to protect Pennsylvania families, something I have dedicated my entire life to doing. I will fight crime wherever it exists – on the street, in the corporate boardroom or in Harrisburg.”

“I’ve heard from so many great men and women throughout Pennsylvania during the past six weeks. I look forward to spending the next 18 months meeting the people who make our Commonwealth great and sharing my vision for the future of Pennsylvania,” Murphy said.




Full List of Endorsements

Elected Officials
Chaka Fattah, U.S. Rep.
Tim Holden, U.S. Rep.
Jason Altmire, U.S. Rep.
Ron Klink, Former U.S. Rep.
Kathy Dahlkemper, Former U.S. Rep.
Harris Wofford, Former U.S. Senator
Dan Onorato, Allegheny County Executive
Seth Williams, Philadelphia District Attorney
John Hanger, Former Secretary of PA Department of Environmental Protection
Daylin Leach, State Senator
Chelsa Wagner, State Rep.
Dan Frankel, State Rep.
Tony Payton, State Rep.
Josh Shapiro, State Rep.
John Galloway, State Rep.
Mike Carroll, State. Rep.
Tina Davis, State Rep.
Steve Santarsiero, State Rep.
Margo Davidson, State Rep.
Thaddeus Kirkland, State Rep.
Michael O’Brien, State Rep.
Mark McCracken, Clearfield County Commissioner
Connie Kough Pittenger, Huntingdon County Commissioner
Tom Leighton, Wilkes-Barre Mayor
J. Richard Gray, Lancaster Mayor
Rick Vilello, Mayor of Lock Haven
Brad Koplinski, Harrisburg City Council

Democratic Party Leaders
TJ Rooney, Former Chair, PA Dems
John Cordisco, Chair, Bucks County
Marcel Groen, Chair, Montgomery County
Greg Stewart, Chair, Centre County
Chris Tarsa, Chair, Lebanon County
Susan Hartman, Chair, Huntingdon County
Roger Lund, Chair, Adams County and State Committee South Central Caucus Chair
Frank Rosenhoover, Chair, Blair County and State Committee North Central Caucus Chair
Greg Specht, Acting Chair, Juniata County
Bob Kefauver, Chair, York County
Don Hilliard, Chair, Jefferson County
Rick Thomas, Chair, Union County
Jessie Bloom, Chair, Lycoming County
Larry Kriess, Chair, Butler County
Rick Daugherty, Chair, Lehigh County
Sally Lyall, Chair, Lancaster County
William O’Gurek, Jr., Chair, Carbon County
Gail McDermott, Chair, Cumberland County

Labor Leaders
United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1776
PA Conference of Teamsters
United Steelworkers
International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America
Sprinkler Fitters Local 692
Plumbers Union Local 690
Ironworkers Local 401
Boilermakers Local 13
Boilermakers Local 19
American Postal Workers Union Local 7048
Communications Workers of American Local 13000
Steamfitters Local Union 420
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 3

DePasquale on Budget

from the inbox:

State Rep. Eugene DePasquale (D-York) criticized Governor Corbett for refusing to cede a dollar from his drastic cuts to education and health care even after additional revenue has come into the state’s coffers.

Recent Treasury Department reports reveal that Pennsylvania's budget surplus has grown to $540 million dollars; if this trend continues we can conservatively project that the state will collect one billion dollars more in revenue by June of 2012 than originally anticipated.

That's one billion dollars with a "B".

“Despite this unexpected source of revenue, Governor Corbett refuses to decrease his proposed cuts to K-12 schools, colleges and universities, hospitals, and programs that help victims of domestic violence and rape,” said DePasquale.

At the same time, the Governor proposes several hundred million dollars in corporate tax breaks, refuses to consider changing laws that allow corporations to hide income from taxation by setting up shell companies in Delaware, and steadfastly refuses to support any kind of severance tax on Marcellus Shale leveled on the giant corporations who are set make billions off our natural resources.

“Corbett's determination to cut these vital services and programs while giving huge tax breaks to corporations underscores why I am considering a run for Auditor General next year,” said DePasquale. ”We need an Auditor General who not only will identify wasteful spending but who will be a strong progressive voice that will hold Corbett accountable for how he chooses to spend taxpayer dollars.”

“If he chooses to slash funding for our schools, our hospitals, or other critical services, I will use the Auditor General office to make sure Pennsylvanians know that he is putting our state's future and well-being at risk. We cannot allow our working families to continue getting soaked by corporate welfare in this economic downpour.“

SEPTA Updates

SEPTA has been busy lately, and not just on the trains and buses.

From June 6 through 20 you can help stop hunger in the greater Philadelphia area. The "Stop Hunger at Your Station" food drive will be active at 50 stations around the area. At those stations you can drop off boxed or canned goods.

This Sunday (June 5th), for the convenience of those attending the 27th Annual Philadelphia International Cycling Championship, SEPTA will run extra trains on the Norristown / Manayunk line.

SEPTA is launching three new real-time web-based apps for transit updates. More date on this is being released on June 2nd.

For more information on any of these topics see www.septa.org.

Belated Memorial Day Post

One problem I have with days being designated to honor something is that all too often that is the only day that item or group is honored. So while I've written a number of times on military personnel and military families, I didn't on Monday.

Today, though, let's take a look at a few things.

For example, in some state military spouses who move as a trailing spouse can apply for unemployment compensation. The frequent required moves the military requires can be a serious career impediment for the military spouse. According to the National Conference of State Legislators Pennsylvania is one of the states that is listed as "No eligibility or not specified in statute." You can see their comparative chart at: http://www.ncsl.org/?TabId=13331.

At the federal level, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates recently went on record as saying that perhaps we should cut military salaries. Yep, pay those folks less. He says that the military has not had a problem meeting recruitment targets so cutting pay wouldn't cause a problem. (See "Gates puts pay cuts on the table," by Terry Howell Military.com 5/26/2011).

On a more positive note, former Congressman Patrick Murphy, currently a candidate for attorney general, was on Philadelphia Fox News to talk about Memorial Day. Video available online.

If we're going to ask people to go be shot at the least we can do is pay them a reasonable wage. We also shouldn't tell military spouses that when they become single parents after their husband or wife is deployed they can't apply for unemployment to tide them over if they move to be closer to family or other support networks. I'm willing to pay higher taxes for this.

[Trivia: Gates, an Eagle Scout, was President Obama's surrogate at last summer's National Scout Jamboree and talked about the honor and sacrifice of military service.]