THE HUDDLER RETURNS

After this last judicial election cycle,Tom Corbett playing his regular games, and the fact that Pitt is playing the HUDDLER's favorite college football team here in the Burgh this weekend the HUDDLER is taking some well deserved time off !!

CONGRESSMAN ALTMIRE FAILS US....

2009-11-08T19:44:00.004-05:00

What is Congressman Altmire's excuse for not supporting healthcare reform now?

BIG PAY DAYS & RICH A$$HOLES

2009-10-26T17:55:00.013-04:00

An editorial from the Trib Review sparked an influx of emails into the HUDDLER's in box.

Apparently the HUDDLER should have joined the stage crew in high school and moved to New York City to pursue the dream of a 500K per year UNION JOB!

This isn't the first time the issue has come up. Back in 2000 the NY DAILY NEWS did an article. And now just recently Bloomberg News did an article. Apparently there are a few jobs that make this kind of money.

First, it is important to note that the "Executive Director" of Carnegie Hall makes almost a million buck per year. (high 900s, unknown if this includes benefits or straight cash).

The positions noted in this article are all "department directors'. These positions are managers, who are covered under the bargaining agreement. (Much like every firefighter other than the chief is covered under the Pittsburgh Fire contract.)These are not grunts. These guys are in charge of overseeing major productions, millions of dollars of equipment, and hudreds of employees, along with budgetary and managerial type duties.

Next these guys are working 80 plus hours per week. The same crew does the afternoon practice, and then the same show that night. In some cases there are two and three performances per day. This makes for LONG days. Often these crews work the entire run of the show, which means they may work 10 days or more without a day off, at 20 hours per day.

Granted. No one can work 24/7. Are there down periods? Rest periods? Is there a place to take a nap? The HUDDLER is certain of this. But as the saying goes, the show must go on !

The other interesting part of this is that this is not only limited to Carnegie Hall, apparently there are other venues with similar wages, and costs. This is apparently the industry norm.

Out on the west coast, the LA TIMES reports that dollar for dollar and hour per hour the stage hands out west make even more per hour. However they apparently are working less hours than their union brothers in NYC.

Now this doesn't mean that any of these guys or gals (haha a little stage humor) are taking home 500K in cash. According to the Business Insider a major portion (25 percent) is deferred compensaton and taxable benefits.

For those of you out there in the Burgh that know how to read and write, (the huddler does not claim to know how to do either effectively) here is the TAX RETURN of the Carnegie Music Hall.

The cost of living in NYC is insane. Try living close enough to commute and raise a family, while putting in 80 hours per week. These workers are UNION. They clearly have a strong contract. A contract with benefits such as meal allowances, double time, and triple time for Holidays and performing skilled electrical, and carpentry skills.

Don't judge a stage hand until you walk a mile in a stage hands work boots ...

The Trib Review loves to take any opportunity to kick workers around, OR bad mouth unions. Mr. Scaiffe's reputation as a right wing zealot who was fortunate enough to be born into wealth that was made off the blood, sweat, tears, and lives of immigrant workers preceeds him. The HUDDLER is looking to adopt a finch or two, only so that he can line the bird cage with this rag of a periodical.

Don't judge a spoiled rich kid until you have a billion dollars in the bank and don't care about any living creature other than yourself. The HUDDLER laughs out loud seeing how this article was a direct attack on workers, mean while the guys making this money are all "BOSSES" who benefit from the union. Much like the many non-union workers who enjoy the many benefits that were the fruits of organized labor and now enjoyed by all. Some say that workers have too much, that Americans are fat and lazy. Mean while Americans come up short when compared to our European counterparts. Many Americans have no paid time off, and lack quality affordable healthcare, or pension system. If we want to be competitive on a global scale, we need a level playing field with other nations. Another example of why we need healthcare reform with a public option!

RED SCARE 2009 - MELTS IN YOUR MOUTH NOT IN YOUR HANDS !!

2009-10-21T17:15:00.008-04:00

Believe it or not, red chocolate candies are a threat to the security of the United States of America. More specifically it is reported that candidate Judge Jack Panella eats "RED M&M" candies! Therefore according to his opponents, it has been decided by his opponent, that Judge Panella is un-American, a natzi, and possibly the devil re-incarnated.

It is great to see the Joan Orie-Melvin's campaign out there running a good honest race? Apparently the Republican National Party is paying for and running material alleging Judge Panella's connection to communism?

The HUDDLER would expect this out of a City of Pittsburgh Council race, but NOT a PA Supreme Court race!!!!

LIBRARY OFFICIALS SNUB THE BURGH

2009-10-20T15:35:00.003-04:00

From the POST GAZETTE - The officials from the Carnegie Library are not coming to a community meeting planned for this saturday.

The HUDDLER has one message regarding this: The Mayor and City Council should withhold all funding until an audit is completed and community meetings are held to discuss the closings!!

EMERGENCY CALLS TO CONGRESS !!

2009-10-20T14:12:00.003-04:00

Healthcare Reform is at a critical state. Please call our elected officials and tell them it's time for healthcare reform with a public option !! Especially Congressman Jason Altmire (d) who is riding the fence. Congressman Altmire needs to cut his ties with UPMC and do the right thing for America.

from the HUDDLER's in basket:
It's time to deliver on health care.After months of debating, the entire House and Senate are set to consider the final plans for health reform. It's time for them to deliver on real reform that:
Gives us the choice of a public health insurance option
Makes health insurance truly affordable for everyone
No more excuses. No more delays. America wants real reform and 4 out of the 5 committees in Congress have bills that give America what we need.Call your Members of Congress now and tell them it's time to deliver on health care. Click here to call.

EMAIL DARYL METCALFE AND TELL HIM TO RESPECT VETERANS!!

2009-10-19T18:17:00.004-04:00

FROM OUR FRIENDS AT KEYSTONE PROGRESS:

Representative Daryl Metcalfe is at it again. This time he has called Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans "Traitors" and "Benedict Arnolds" for disagreeing with him on energy policy.Take action here: http://www.keystoneprogress.org/page/speakout/pametvet Here's the story. A group of veterans are traveling across the country on a 21-state bus tour to talk to citizens and local community leaders about the dangers of climate change and its threat to national security. The tour will make stops in Pennsylvania on October 20th through the 22nd (see below for the PA schedule).The tour is sponsored by Operation Free, a coalition of veterans and national security groups working together to raise public awareness about national security threats posed by climate change and the importance of building a clean energy economy that is not tied to fossil fuels. Operation Free and its members support a clean energy plan that cuts carbon pollution, develops clean energy incentives, and puts America in control of its energy future.The vets in Operation Free invited local elected officials to join them at each of their stops. When Rep. Metcalfe got his invitation this is what he wrote back:"Subject: Re: Veterans for American Power Bus Tour coming to your stateAs a veteran,I believe that any veteran lending their name, to promote the leftist propaganda of global warming and climate change, in an effort to control more of the wealth created in our economy, through cap and tax type policies, all in the name of national security, is a traitor to the oath he or she took defend the Constitution of our great nation!Remember Benedict Arnold before giving credibility to a veteran who uses their service as a means to promote a leftist agenda.Drill Baby Drill!!!For Liberty,Daryl MetcalfeState RepresentativeVeteran U.S. Army"I happen to agree with the vets that a clean energy plan is in the best interest of our national security. But whether you agree or not, to call someone a "traitor" for disagreeing with you is beyond outrageous. It is against everything this nation stands for.Join people from all over Pennsylvania in demanding that Rep. Metcalfe apologize for his insult to our veterans, the Constitution and every American. Click here to fax Metcalfe now: http://www.keystoneprogress.org/page/speakout/pametvet It will only take a minute if you use the letter we've drafted, or you can write your own comments to Metcalfe.

SAVE HEALTHCARE REFORM: Send a letter to Washington D.C.

2009-10-14T16:07:00.003-04:00

Dear HUDDLER,

Final decisions are being made right now in the House and Senate about health care reform, and today we need you, as one of our top activists, to do something a little different.

We need you to write a personal letter in your own words to your senators and representative in support of real health care reform.

Usually, we give you a draft letter that you are free to edit. But at this moment, to maximize your impact, it is imperative that senators and representatives hear from you in your words, not ours. On the action page, we have provided talking points to help you draft your unique message, but remember, your personal explanation will be most powerful and effective.

Write a personal letter in your own words to your senators and representative in Washington, and tell them now is the time to pass real health care reform.

To keep insurance companies honest and control skyrocketing health care costs, it is critical that the final bill includes a strong public health insurance option. The bill also must require employers to pay their fair share, and it shouldn’t make workers pay more for what they already have.Insurance companies and their lobbyists are working day and night to stop health care reform. Why? Because in the current system, health insurance companies win and the rest of us lose. We need your help to counter these lobbying efforts. We can’t afford to let the insurance companies win.

What are you going to do today to help pass health care reform?

Speak out today: Send a personal message to your senators and representative in support of real health care reform.

Insurance companies, drug makers and other private health industries have spent more than $126 million on lobbyists this year alone, and we can’t let them kill reform. The American people want real health care reform. It’s up to you to keep the pressure on your members of Congress to do the right thing.Together, we can ensure that everyone in America has access to quality, affordable health care.

In solidarity,
Marc LaitinAFL-CIO Online Mobilization Coordinator

P.S. Health care is at the top of the agenda in Congress. We need you to make your voice heard right now. Contact your members of Congress today.

KNOCK... KNOCK..

2009-10-13T18:26:00.001-04:00

Like a bad knock knock joke, alot of campgains start and win with a knock at the door. The HUDDLER keeps odd hours, and rarely gets a knock at the front door. (the huddler has a special huddler only entrance similar to the "bat cave" only with a lot less space)

So during the election cycles the HUDDLER patiently waits near the front door, much like Charlie Brown waiting by the mailbox for a Valentine from the little red haired girl. The HUDDLER is waiting for a candidate or even someone so excited with a candidate that they will canvass to approach the HUDDLER for his vote. Now the HUDDLER is a SUPER democrat. In Pittsburgh that is like a cougaran when it comes to voters. However for some reason rarely does someone knock on the door or even leave behind one of those cute little door cards? The HUDDLER has a few steps.. but it is not like they have to climb Mt Everest to reach the door.

The HUDDLER started on this rant today while reading about Kevin Acklin and his quest for the office of Mayor. Apparently Kevin has lost 30 pounds, and three pairs of shoes due to all of the door knocking he has done. Why hasn't Mr. Acklin knocked on the HUDDLER's door? The HUDDLER has lots of questions - for example how does he intend on hiring 200 more cops, save the pension system, not lay anyone off, and still not increase taxes ???

The HUDDLER read Mr. Acklin's plan via his website but to the HUDDLERS amusement there was no spreadsheet outlining these campaign promises.

In the mean time the HUDDLER will be waiting by the door, hoping for a potential candidate that will support working families, and if they don't show up, the HUDDLER would settle for his or her designee. On the other hand, the HUDDLER had a great chat with a Working America canvasser last fall, and even had a couple beers with the guy. Until then the HUDDLER will be using all of that junk mail from candidates as kindling this winter.

VOTE JUDGE JACK PANELLA - PENNSYLVANIA SUPREME COURT

2009-10-06T12:33:00.003-04:00

October 1st has come and gone. Another boring off year election cycle. Although next year's primary for governor seems to be front and center?

The HUDDLER would like to bring candidate Jack Panella for the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to the burgosphere. Judge Panella is an excellent judicial candidate.

Rather than copy and paste Judge Panella's resume over from his website. Here is the LINK. BE SURE TO GET YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY to vote for JUDGE JACK PANELLA FOR THE PA SUPERME COURT !!

DOK'S CAMPAIGN FINANCES - Don't leave the burg without your American Express

2009-09-30T14:00:00.003-04:00

As Bram reported in earlier comments, it sounds like YES DOK was at the luxurious Bedford Springs Resort during the G20 Summit. The question now is how did DOK pay for it?

Bram reported that DOK used American Express award points. The HUDDLER is asking where did these points come from? If they came from an american express card outside of the campaign, these points and or the services purchased with them are campaign contributions and should be reported.

The HUDDLER finds it difficult to believe that the "campaign" has been out there swiping the AMEX cards since announcing with such volume to constitute AMEX points that will pay for 350$ a night lodging at a swanky resort?

American Express has a program that let's one donate AMEX points to thier favorite charity. The HUDDLER has used it in the past. Perhaps those donut points neeed to go to charity instead of spa services for Pittsburgh's favorite little rich kid?

The HUDDLER will be waiting to check out DOK's finance reports to see exactly what the campaign has been up to? The real question is do they need volunteers? Because the HUDDLER could use a trip to Bedford Springs!

Whats up with that DOK ?

2009-09-28T23:41:00.011-04:00

It appears Harris for Pittsburgh is trying to do some damage control? This video was pulled off you tube last night. Not sure how long it will be around? Here is the resort's website ....

Allegations of Franco "DOK" Harris being at a 350$ a night resort during the G20 Summit... The HUDDLER hopes that this isn't true. Life styles of the "Rich and Famous" with Franco "DOK" Harris ?? If bloggers only had expense accounts we could do some hardcore investigative work on these allegations !

HOMECOMING 2009

2009-09-28T23:38:00.002-04:00

Starring:

Chief Executive Dan Onorato as Dean Vernon Wormer

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl as Douglas Niedermeyer

G20 - DUMB STUPID CITZEN ISSUE

2009-09-25T11:36:00.003-04:00

Like most of the City of Pittsburgh, the HUDDLER debated to either skip town, or ride out the G20 summit in an undisclosed bunker. But that isn’t how the HUDDLER rolls.

The HUDDLER went to the clean energy jobs concert-rally Wednesday night. Very light turn out. This was the first time the HUDDLER realized that the city would become an occupied police state during the summit. Not sure if this is a good thing or bad thing. We could list the pros and cons but won’t.

Thursday – The HUDDLER unlike most of the city went to work. Duty calls. Relatively quiet. First reaction is that the City of Pittsburgh Police (including all those from other agencies who were deputized) did a hell of a job along with the other public safety departments in showing restraint and enforcing the law.

The HUDDLER witnessed the stand off down in the strip between protesters and police, and the cops did a great job. There is no doubt that they saved property damage, not to mention protected a key logistical center a few blocks away. If rolling a dumpster down the hill at police is peaceful, the HUDDLER is afraid of what thier definition of violence is.

The HUDDLER wanted to puke after coming home and watching the footage from outside Ritter’s Diner and the students in Oakland. Some of the HUDDLER's favorite stupid citizen video includes the idiot outside Ritter’s that grabbed a cop from behind, and the 110 pound chick who threw her bike at the cops up in Oakland.

The HUDDLER is appalled at the damage, and was dismayed at some of the targets. Hey if they were only busting out windows of some of the larger chains we might forgive them. But busting out the window of the Irish Design Center and other small businesses? (more stupid citizens)

The HUDDLER hopes that someone has footage of these attacks, and the actors are quickly apprehended and held accountable. Some out there have been quick to blame the cops for provoking students? The HUDDLER wonders what the hell they are thinking?

Clearly the bad apples are giving the good citizens who are out to peacfully protest thier cause of choice a bad name. Most of those participating are law abiding God fearing good people. It's a shame that the nation will watch the same video footage and think Pittsburgh.

The HUDDLER will say a Rosary today for all of the protesters and police, for a peaceful protest today. But someone will probably ruin it, the HUDDLER figures that there is probably a better chance of the world's leaders solving the world's financial problems than some idiot not breaking out another window before the end of the summit.

G20 ARRIVES: MARCH FOR JOBS

2009-09-20T00:57:00.002-04:00

The G20 Summit has unofficially begun with the arrival of protesters, foreign diplomats, and national guard troops. The first organized march will take place today, Sunday at the Monumental Baptist Church where it will proceed to Freedom Corner.

The focus will be jobs. Quality jobs. The kind with access to quality, affordable health care, and the opportunity to retire some day. Jobs that allow us the opportunity to live the American dream, with dignity and respect the same way our grandparents did. Not a free ride, an opportunity to earn our way in this great land of ours.

The HUDDLER will be attending this MARCH FOR JOBS. A quote from "Caddyshack" is always worth a chuckle... "the world needs ditch diggers to". This is true, however that ditch digger should be able to live and provide for themselves and their family, without working two and three jobs to get by.

We now live and work in a global economy. In America we have laws to protect children, workers, and the environment. We have minimum wage laws. Anti discrimination laws. In other parts of the world there are no such things. We need a level playing field to compete in this global economy.

The United States is one of the only major economic powers where the cost of health care is bankrupting families and businesses. We need to control the cost of health care and make it affordabl. Especially to our manufacturers and small businesses. If a business can not afford health care premiums they drop the coverage.

Who pays for that? Taxpayers? Workers? What happens? Jobs are moved overseas because they can do it cheaper. Why? They are not paying health care premiums that rise between 12 and 18 percent per year.

The HUDDLER will be Marching for Jobs tomorrow;
as we begin this week the HUDDLER will be saying a special rosary for everyone involved.
The police, fire, ems, 911, military and public employees that will be protecting our lives and property, the protesters, may their voices be heard, and may they voice their message without violence, hate, or damage to property. And last but not least to the leaders of the world who will attend this summit. May they make wise decisions that will support working families all over the world.

And please remember our troops that are serving overseas, and here at home. We thank them for placing themselves in harms way so that we have our freedoms.

Esquire Magazine: The feel good issue?

2009-09-17T09:18:00.004-04:00

The latest issue of Esquire coming to news stands is supposed to be a "feel good issue". Well the HUDDLER almost puked when reading the Tribune Review: that Governor Ed Rendell has been named to Esquire's list of 'World's 75 Best People list' ??? WTF ???

GAG !!!!!!

The two tests were:

1. Who would you like most to have a drink with?

2. Would you trust this person with your puppy?

Does Esquire do any fact checking?

The HUDDLER would give up Jameson Irish Whiskey and commit several felonies before ever trusting fast Eddy with the four legged version of the HUDDLER.

The HUDDLER wonders how many state workers would trust our good Governor with their puppy?

This is like the Pope giving former President George W. Bush a humanitarian award !!

PITTSBURGH WELCOMES THE AFC-CIO

2009-09-14T11:03:00.004-04:00

The HUDDLER is pleased to welcome the brothers and sisters of the American Labor movement to Pittsburgh for the National AFL-CIO convention. Considering the fact that Pittsburgh is the birthplace of the AFL-CIO, it is an honor to have them back...

The HUDDLER will be attending all week, and hopefully will be able to make a few posts. In the mean time check out the official web page, and watch the convention live via streaming video..

http://www.aflcio.org/aboutus/thisistheaflcio/convention/2009/

WE REMEMBER - SEPTEMBER 11th 2001

2009-09-11T08:17:00.005-04:00

IN HONOR OF THE AMERICANS WHO LOST THEIR LIVES, AND THE FIRST RESPONSDERS WHO MADE THE ULTIMATE SACRAFICE.

ALASKAN WOMAN SPOTTED NUDE SCREAMING ..."THE DEATH PANELS ARE COMING?"

2009-09-09T13:56:00.007-04:00

It was uncomfirmed that former Vice President candidate Sarah Palin was spotted nude riding a dog sled and screaming that the death panels are coming!

The former Governor of Alask who resigned while under scrutiny for use of state funds for personal legal expenses still thinks there are death panels tied to healthcare reform.

The HUDDLER highly doubts the former Governor wannabe talk show host has read the legislation, can someone (hellooo Fox News?) please give this woman something to do? The HUDDLER prefers the Fox News option, because the HUDDLER doesn't watch Fox News.

If former Governor Palin wants to kill these death panels, the HUDDLER suggests that she take up hunting insurance company executives in her spare time.

HAPPY LABOR DAY from the HUDDLER

2009-09-05T15:31:00.010-04:00

Like many Americans the HUDDLER is kicking back today, and enjoying the last official weekend of summer. Where has summer gone? It was a wet one here in western Pennsylvania. Hopefully we enjoy an extended indian summer. This weekend has special meaning for the HUDDLER and a lot of trade unionists across the country. Labor day was first celebrated within the United States in 1882. (Canada had been celebrating Labour Day prior to this since the early 1870’s) The labor movement like everything else has revolved over the years. The union of today is not that same union that our father, grandfathers, and great grandfathers knew. At one time the “union” was the center of many workers lives both in the workplace, and at home. At one time most workers lived in close proximity to their places of work. Often in company owned housing. In addition it was not uncommon for entire families, and extended families to be employed in the same trade, by the same employer.Therefore when workers organized unions, they were traditionally smaller groups, and many were centered on a single employer. If a group of workers were tired of being abused by the boss, it was not difficult for workers to form a union, IF they could get avoid the hired thugs, avoid being fired for being a union “sympathizer”, many workers were also immediately evicted from their company owned homes for trying to form a union, and thousands of men and women made the ultimate sacrifice when they were killed trying to form a union. For these and many other reasons, a lot of unions were semi-secret organizations in the early years. The immigrants who came to America escaped some of the worst persecution, and working conditions prior to coming to the new country. Although, many decided to form unions because they saw America becoming a lot like the way things were back home.Fast forward a hundred or so years ahead, and witness the accomplishments and benefits of organized labor which include; the fundamental right to form a union, child labor laws, a five day/forty hours work week, paid sick time, holidays, vacation, bereavement, workers compensation, disability insurance, OSHA safety standards, health care, and the list goes on.

Still today in our great country workers fight to maintain the basic principles of organized labor, every eighteen minutes a worker is terminated for trying to form a union. At the same time, on average 395 workers witness the termination of the worker who was fired. Organized labor has been fighting for the Employee Free Choice Act. READ THE REASON WE NEED THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT. The HUDDLER urges all of us to call Arlen Specter at the LINK provided and remind him that we need this important legislation passed so that Americans continue to have the right to organize in the workplace.

Also remind Senator Specter that America need REAL HEALTH REFORM NOW!!! Americans can not afford the increased premiums. Health care providers must change the way they do business and offer their services, so that every American has access to quality, affordable health care, regardless of who their employer is, preexisting conditions, and the many other reasons insurers providers reject people for coverage on a daily basis. * The HUDDLER does not believe that any person should get a free ride. We all have to contribute towards our health care costs. However, no one should be denied coverage or treatment simply because they do not have the means to pay. With that being said, our government should not circumvent the Hyde act and use federal tax dollars or any tax dollars to facilitate abortions. Some view this subject as being a fundamental right of a woman to choose what she wants to do with her body. The HUDDLER believes that life is created at the moment of conception, and that the unborn child should have the same rights as the rest of us, including the right to life.

Back to Labor day...

The HUDDLER hears from time to time why unions are bad, ineffective, and just plain old suck. Despite the power grab by some large international unions, union members have to remember that the power of unions lie within the membership. If you are a union member, and things are not going well at work? The first step if for you and your co-workers to be active in the union. If you have an active shop you have the ability to hold the elected leaders of your union accountable. The HUDDLER is surprised how many union workplaces no longer have a shop steward. Perhaps with the extra duties placed on workers, (second jobs, increased responsibilities at home, single parent families, caring for elderly relatives) workers no longer have the time to attend union meetings, and be active. The HUDDLER's first term as a shop steward was because no one else wanted to be the steward. The HUDDLER often tells ordinary citizens who do not participate in the electoral process, they do not have the right to complain. Every union member has the right to elect their leaders, including the shop steward, and other elected local union officials. If they fail to participate who's fault is it? The founding brothers, and sisters of organized labor overcame great odds, to bring fundamental changes to the work place. Today the unorganized have to stand up and fight like our ancestors. If you are unhappy with your union at work? Stand up for change!!

The one thing we all need remember is that unions benefit each of us, including those who do not have a union. The wages and benefits we all receive are due to union members standing up and fighting for what is right. On this Labor day the HUDDLER urges each of us, union or non, and our elected officials, to remember the words of Mother Jones and "pray for the dead and fight like hell for the living".

The HUDDLER wishes everyone a happy Labor day, and will be saying a special Rosary for all workers whether union or non-union, and especially for all of those who are unemployed, may they find work and be paid a livable wage, with quality affordable health care.

Dok can not prescribe 311 for your ills

2009-09-02T06:21:00.007-04:00

If you have a problem the "DOK" says not to call 311. Or at least in the HUDDLER's opinion this is what his 311 bashing message via YOU TUBE implies.

The HUDDLER can only say that 311 like America has been very very good to the HUDDLER. The HUDDLER has called 311 at least a dozen times.

Although the HUDDLER doesn't keep a diary like Matt H, the Huddler can say that each and every complaint ever made to 311 by the HUDDLER has been resolved to the HUDDLER's satisfaction.

Although perhaps it is because the HUDDLER has some idea of what to expect from 311. 311 is not the cure all. Some things are just beyond the scope of 311. (for example; if you drink too much Jamison and you can not remember where you left your car at ? 311 probably can not help you) Also, 311 can not prescribe your crazy neighbor prozac or any other mind altering narcotics. So residents should not expect miracles from 311. There are only so many resources available.

The You Tube video is labeled "Brookline" but the HUDDLER expects this interview to be taken some where in Sheraden due to the Post Office, and Foodland references?

Does the "DOK" know where the hell he is ? Maybe he should click his heels and say there is no place like the "EAST END"?

In these troubling times of stagnant revenues, global economic recessions, state budget crisis, record unemployment, home foreclosures, need we go on? How can "DOK" expect to expand city services such as 311, and the services they dispatch ?

Patrick Dowd, had one response to this.... "By cutting the fat out of the budget" Patrick Dowd never could identify that "FAT". That never happened. Which leads the HUDDLER to ask... Did Dowd just say forget about it? Or did he finally realize there is very little fat in the budget?

It is easy to say cut costs, become more efficient, downsize operations, and other easy one liner talking points. But when it comes to knowing and understanding City government, you have to know what the hell you are talking about. The HUDDLER really questions if DOK has a clue? How would the DOK fix this ladies 311 issues? The DOK also got on the HUDDLER's bad side when he invoked the name of our dearly departed Mayor O'Connor. (THE HUDDLER MISSES YOU BOB !!) While the HUDDLER doubts Mayor O'Connor would never say publicly anything negative about the son of a former Pittsburgh Steeler great, the HUDDLER doubts that O'Connor would have many nice things to say about DOK's run for Mayor.

The HUDDLER has never been Mayor Luke's white knight, however the 311 system is effective for what its primary purpose is, a one stop shop for reporting potholes, abandoned cars, burnt out street lights, and blighted properties.

But at the end of the day, property owners still have rights, state law mandates what an abandoned car is, there are only so many public works employees, and 311 operators, so when you get a busy signal? You have to try and try again. But on the bright side it is still alot easier than calling Dell computer and trying to get a customer service rep who lives and works in India to understand how to spell Monongahela.

For now the HUDDLER is not going to recommend that burgher's follow the DOK's orders, if you have a problem in your neighborhood the HUDDLER says to take a six pack of Iron City Pounders, sleep on it and if it still bothers you in the morning ? CALL 311.

As we pass the two year anniversary of Mayor O'Connors passing, the HUDDLER will be saying a special Rosary for the former Mayor O'Connor who we remember so fondly. The HUDDLER still recalls the look on the Mayor's body guard's face when the HUDDLER gave Mayor O'Connor a jovial shot to the kidney joking him about losing too much weight from his afternoon walks....

THANK YOU BOB, for the years of service, and all of the wonderful memories...

CITY CONTRACTORS TARGETED FOR UNION ACTIVITY

2009-08-31T05:16:00.007-04:00

The HUDDLER has a bad case of insomnia and was reading the news, and finally made it to the Pittsburgh City Paper.

Apparently the guards at the city-county building are trying to organize a union. Why would they want to do that ?

How is this for starters, you are responsible for guarding and protecting the central artery of City government, have more than 8 years experience and are making a whole $8.30 an hour?

This is NOT the free job market. This is modern day slavery. The City of Pittsburgh should be ashamed of itself.

Financial crisis or not, no one can afford to live on these wages. And surprise surprise, there are no health benefits to go along with this job!

Well AM GARD has won the distinctive title of being a BAD BOSS. The two guards apparently had a target on their back after talking to union organizers, and were terminated for what seems to be legal union activities, protected under federal law. The same federal laws that were watered down to the point that they are no longer effective by the Bush administration.

The two security officers are two more examples of why workers need the Employee Free Choice Act, and HEALTHCARE REFORM!

The HUDDLER hopes that the City of Pittsburgh holds AM GARD accountable for their violation of federal labor laws. The HUDDLER hopes that some flunky of Dan and Luke reads this posting this morning and takes some ACTION!!!

Remembering Senator "Teddy" Kennedy may he rest in peace

2009-08-26T08:46:00.005-04:00

Like all of America, the HUDDLER is mourning the death of Senator Edward Kennedy. The HUDDLER had the pleasure to meet the Senator on more than one occasion. Such a simple man, an old style politician, dedicated to public service who up until his death never forgot the reason he served the people. GOD BLESS YOU MY FRIEND.

Pittsburgh Catholic on Healthcare Reform

2009-08-24T11:47:00.004-04:00

The Pittsburgh Catholic had two very interesting articles this week. Both surrounding the issue of healthcare reform.

ARITCLES:

Bishop Zubik

Susan Rauscher, President of Catholic Charities, Pittsburgh

Mayor Luke approves protest permits

2009-08-21T17:08:00.007-04:00

Mayor Luke has approved the permits requested by protest groups. According to anonymous sources who were reached at the Pittsburgh Steelers training camp, the Mayor has found a secret weapon to deal with the protesters.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Mayor has arranged for an unidentified fourth grader from South Park Colorado to deal with any protester who violates the new PVC laws. In other news the Port Authority may seek the same fourth grader to complete the unfinished trolley tunnel between downtown and the North Shore.

Bloggers beware: Pitt Girl sacked for blogging !!!

2009-08-20T18:42:00.003-04:00

Bloggers beware, apparently one's employer can just sack you for conduct that occurs off-duty?
The HUDDLER was saddened to hear that Pitt Girl was terminated from her employment today. The HUDDLER has often wondered how the boss would feel about the HUDDLER's extra curricular activities?

Do we have any rights? The HUDDLER is going to do some research on this one... The fact that Pitt Girl probably doesn't have a contract means she is an at will employee. Not the best place to be in these situations.

NOW the burghosphere knows why we need HEALTHCARE REFORM !!! To protect discplaced workers and their families !!!!

The HUDDLER hopes that Pitt Girl makes it thru the nightmare of applying for unemployment and the whole scary idea of looking for a new job !!!
Maybe Mayor Lukey needs a press secretary ?

JAWS IV: City of Pittsburgh PENSION

2009-08-19T16:54:00.004-04:00

The Tribune Review quoted Jim Ferlo as saying the Pittsburgh Pension system would not be immune from being taken over by Harrisburg. The HUDDLER is on the fence regarding this issue?

Good or bad? But can it get any worse? The HUDDLER knows that sooner or later the fund is going bankrupt and won't be able to pay pensioners their benefits.

What is the answer? Sooner or later the taxpayers will have to pay out the bucks to support the promises made by elected officials from decades ago... The HUDDLER wonders what former Mayor Murphy has to say on this issue ?

just when you thought the right wing was out of lies?

2009-08-11T22:39:00.003-04:00

"On the road again...
"Tellin' lies, we're on the road again...
"Goin' from town to town so health reform don't pass.
"So tell O--ba--ma he can kiss our ass!"

CLICK THE LINK - THE HUDDLER COULD NOT HAVE TOLD THIS STORY BETTER !!!

Welcome to the neighborhood

2009-08-10T22:43:00.004-04:00

Apparently the "RIVERS CASINO" really rolled out the red carpet to City of Pittsburgh citizens, neighbors and visitors...

UNLESS you were riding a bike... The CASINO seems to have taken the river walk area by force? So much for all of those promises by the CASINO to be good neighbors?

Who owns the former railroad right occupied by this trail? Did someone sell the rights of the trail to the CASINO ?

As long as those tourists are walking or driving and depositing paychecks, pension, welfare, and social security checks - they appear to be welcome.

The former JERK OF COURTS - George Matta appears useless in his role of Community Relations Manger, as this first "speed bump" derailed bike riders on the opening day of the CASINO.

Read the article in the Post Gazette !!!!!!!!!

The HUDDLER is glad that old "HUFFY" has two flats, and even more glad the new CASINO didn't move in next door to the HUDDLER !!!!

EARLY ADDITION: CASINO starring Dan Onorato as "Robert Deniro" ?

2009-08-08T09:10:00.011-04:00

The HUDDLER went out to the new casino this week for charity. Organizers could not have picked four better charities, the Pittsburgh food bank, Urban league, Allegheny General Hospital, and the World War II veterans memorial. All worth while organizations.

So the HUDDLER pulled out some of that first Holy Communion money stashed in the mason jars, buried in the back yard, and decided to check out the action on the "NORTH SHORE".

First impressions, driving across the West End Bridge? What an UGLY building from the outside. It is BIG & BORING. Kind of reminds one of a really fancy warehouse with a beautiful atrium type thing in the middle. Who designed those huge "CASINO" signs? How about some curvy, colorful design? The lettering and color are almost identical to the "GATE" signs over at Heinz Field?

The HUDDLER went fashionably late, and still hit gridlock traffic, despite having several of Pittsburgh's finest working the traffic lights. (the HUDDLER wonders - actually HOPES that the Casino is picking up the tab for their services).

The HUDDLER was surprised to see that among the new construction - across the street from the front door, was a brand new surface parking lot? Operated by Kail parking. Doesn't this property have more value than parking? But at ten bucks a slot - this is a no brainer - better to pave it now, make cold hard untraceable CASH (the better to put in brown bags for elected officials) and wait for the bids to come in to develop the property right? Then the HUDDLER remembered that the same thing was going on with a little parcel between Heinz Field and PNC Park for almost a decade now ?

Once the HUDDLER was guided into the new parking garage it was relatively easy to find a free parking spot. (although if it was a Steelers game day, this would have cost the HUDDLER $50). The elevators were plentiful and fast, the HUDDLER was impressed with the sopranos, godfather, casino style music that was playing, with a pre-game pep rally beat to it, the HUDDLER expected to have to run thru a paper CASINO banner held by a couple of beautiful young attendants, just to get in the place. But no such luck. There were plenty of guest service attendants to check identification (you have to be 21 to be admitted), they also passed out neck lanyards with the Rivers Casino logo on it, (once again why couldn't they use that design on those ugly signs?)

The line for the players card was too long, so the HUDDLER decided to go without one for now, and will probably only get one to avoid paying for parking. The HUDDLER just isn't a big gambler, despite the fact Kenny Rogers "GAMBLER" is on the HUDDLER's MP3 player.

So the HUDDLER walked for a while, sometimes in circles, just checking out the place, the INSIDE is BEAUTIFUL. A much higher quality than the competitor's place down in Washington County. The HUDDLER was there once, and was not impressed. The place was busy but NOT PACKED. There were several bars, the HUDDLER was not real impressed, the bars being open less than 24 hours already had "clicks" forming. The Brooks Brother suit crowd had laid stakes over at a bar located in the glass atrium area with spectacular views of the river, and those sexy empty barges under the West End bridge. There were alot of them, along with tug boats (a reminder of how pour the economy is right now).

The Ohio river is very wide at this particular location. The HUDDLER hopes there are never any down on their luck gamblers who bet other patrons that they can swim the width of the river, trying to earn an extra 100 bucks to try and make some of their losings back. Because that river is WIDE! The HUDDLER brings this up, because the HUDDLER once witnessed a near drowning down at the former Board Walk one night, due to a similar bet. But then the HUDDLER also witnessed a guy jump from the 16th street bridge for a $100 bet as well.

Well after picking a bar to belly up to, it took a good twenty minutes to flag down a bartender and order a Jamie on the rocks, 9 dollars plus tip, not a bad pour but definitely not a high roller or neighborhood bar pour! The HUDDLER was expecting more, but hey it was a charity benefit right ?

Finally after rubbing elbows, and talking to some friendly faces, old friends, and new friends, the HUDDLER finally pulled out that first Holy Communion money and slid a twenty in one of the thousands of machines that colorfully populate the casino floor. The HUDDLER is NOT disclosing which machine or what type, because after a few minutes of getting acquainted the machine decided to give the HUDDLER a few hundred dollars !!

The HUDDLER doesn't really even know how to play these machines, and normally depends on a friend to explain minimum bets, bonus lines, and how to win? But after a small investment, the HUDDLER won big. The HUDDLER didn't need that friend to say take your money and run! The HUDDLER took a picture of the voucher as a souvenir and quickly found a machine to exchange said voucher for a few crisp hundred dollar bills.

With the HUDDLER's new found wealth, that Holy Communion money was placed safely inside the HUDDLER's secret hiding spot in the wallet. And with that it was back to the bar for an attempt to bribe that bartender for better service, a better pour, and hopefully a few free drinks down the road. Despite the HUDDLER's attempts, the service was still slow, and no free booze. But the HUDDLER did have fun, the crowds were pleasant, everyone was dressed in their Sunday best, and was loving life. It was Pittsburgh's version of the "Hamptons".

The Huddler by this time was getting a little hungry and decided to try and find dinner, the lines were jammed for "Andrew's" and the HUDDLER isn't a big fan of buffets, so there will not be a dining review. The Casino did have trays of appetizers floating around, it was like a trip to the Market Place at Giant Eagle, plenty of free food, one could eat dinner and dessert if one didn't mind eating in small bites. For those designated drivers, the Casino offers a complimentary beverage station stocked full of soft drinks and hot beverages. Perfect for sneaking in a small flask and mixing your own adult beverages as well ?

So with ones appetite and thirst taken care of, a pocket full of winnings, what more could ANYONE want? It didn't take too long for a nice young lady to sit down next to the HUDDLER, make small talk, and after about 5 minutes, the HUDDLER realized that the nice young lady was a member of the world's oldest profession. The HUDDLER was shocked, that the HUDDLER was prospected out by this young lady as a customer? LOL.

The HUDDLER tried to double those winnings, and wasn't very successful. All in all the HUDDLER left a winner. Traffic getting out was easy and painless. (although if this was a game day, parking would have cost $50 as the HUDDLER didn't gamble $80.) The HUDDLER stopped off at a local watering hole, to reflect on the evening, and meet some friends.

While sitting at the bar, singing an Irish tune, and seeing far less regular faces at the bar, the HUDDLER quickly realized that the new casino would be hurting alot of hospitality businesses, whether they be the local bar, eat n park, or chain restaurant. During these tough times, one only has so much First Holy Communion money to go around. Alot of folks will not be as lucky as the HUDDLER, and will be losing money they do not have to lose. The HUDDLER envisions many a domestic where one half of the relationship blows a pay check at the casino without the other halves approval.

Anytime there is gambling involved there are winners and there are losers, Pittsburgh will soon find out, who the winners are and who the losers are?

The HUDDLER knows that the casino has hundreds of millions of dollars on the line, and at the end of the day, the "house" always wins. The HUDDLER will say a special rosary for the City of Pittsburgh, that we as a community have not sold out our community to the "house"? Now more than ever, the HUDDLER sees why we need a community benefits agreement, to develop the area on the "NORTHSIDE" to produce jobs that pay a living wage, so that every other month or so, one can go down to the "NORTH SHORE" and try their luck at the casino?
________________________________________

** The HUDDLER is hoping for a more colorful post on one of the burghospheres more satirical blogs starring Chief Executive Danny Onorato, former Jerk of Courts George Matta (now a Casino executive), and other local "celebreties" as cast members of Pittsburgh's own production of "CASINO" the movie. For some reason the Huddler feels that casting Dan Onorato as Robert DeNiro is a mortal sin.**

Onorato only $11,850 away from 5 Million dollars in his war chest for governor...

2009-08-03T21:45:00.009-04:00

The HUDDLER almost puked dinner all over the livingroom when the following email came from the "Onorato Campaign".

How much money did fast Eddy spend in the last governor's race ?

How many votes are needed to win the governors race?

The HUDDLER is interested in finding out how many contributions Onorato has received from individual contributors less than 100$ and are from contributors that are not commitee people, vendors, elected officials, or PACS ?

How do Joe & Suzy taxpayer feel about Chief Executive Onorato? Has Onorato produced results here at home? Is Onorato governor material ?

Where does one file a contribution report when one is not currently "an announced" candidate for office?

**********************************************************

Dear Friend,
You may not know it yet, but in 2010, the nation’s eyes will be on Pennsylvania. After eight years of honorable service, Gov. Ed Rendell is term-limited and cannot seek reelection – making Pennsylvania the second largest state in the nation with an “open” race for Governor. And we all know what that means. The national Republicans, desperate to regain their footing, will send in all the special interest money and divisive rhetoric they think it will take to win. But in reality, as a Pennsylvanian, the power is in your hands. And together, we must elect a Democrat to move our Commonwealth forward. We cannot afford to move backwards.   That's why I'm asking you to make a contribution of $100, $50, $25 or whatever you can afford, today. With your help, we'll raise the $11,850 I need to get to  $5 million cash-on-hand. Although I have not yet officially announced my candidacy for Governor, I am moving closer every day. That’s because when I talk to Pennsylvania families from every region of the Commonwealth, I hear the same thing: folks want a Governor with new ideas to create new jobs and to clean-up Harrisburg.   As Allegheny County Executive, and before that as County Controller, that’s what I’ve been all about – reforming government, investing in innovation and creating the 21st Century jobs we need to be competitive in the new economy. By refusing to settle for the status quo, we have accomplished a lot:
Thousands of jobs in new technologies, health care, higher education, advanced manufacturing, finance, and new energy solutions. Billions of dollars in next-generation economic development.
Bold new policies to make us greener and more energy efficient. New opportunities for women and minority-owned businesses.
And major government reform initiatives that changed the status quo and saved the taxpayers millions.
In Allegheny County, we’re taking bold steps to weather the tide of this national recession. Our unemployment rate is far below the state and national average and President Obama recently selected Pittsburgh to host this fall’s G-20 economic summit to showcase the region’s economic transformation. We need more new, bold ideas in Harrisburg – and most of all, a new way of doing business. That's why I need your support today. Just $100, $50 or $25 at this early stage makes a big difference.If you’re not familiar with my background, I don’t come from political royalty. I grew up in a blue collar neighborhood, worked my way through Penn State and earned my law degree from the University of Pittsburgh. I got into politics the hard way – by taking on the establishment and defeating it. That’s how I won a seat on the Pittsburgh City Council and how I defeated an incumbent Republican to become the Executive of Pennsylvania’s second largest county.  Pennsylvania families face serious challenges. If we elect the same old Harrisburg crowd, nothing will change. We must shake up the old system with new voices from outside Harrisburg. In 2010, you will have a tremendous amount of power to influence the direction of Pennsylvania. But in order for us to be competitive next year, we must build and organize this year. That’s why I’m counting on your support today.   Please consider making a contribution to my campaign today, and continue to visit www.voteonorato.com.Sincerely, Dan OnoratoAllegheny County Executive

HEALTHCARE REFORM - TAKE THE POLL

2009-07-22T11:05:00.002-04:00

Our Nation is currently debating serious healthcare reform measures. There are alot of views on this issue.

The Huddler just wondered how everyone out in the burghosphere feels on this hot or not so hot topic?

Leave your thoughts....

Onorato: DUCK-DUCK-GOOSE

2009-07-16T08:54:00.008-04:00

The HUDDLER recently received an email from Chief Executive Dan Onorato's "CAMPAIGN" for governor.

For better or worse only in America can one hold elected office, and campaign on the taxpayers time and dime for higher office.

Bram over at the COMET was recalling Danny boys execution of some GEESE in North Park. The HUDDLER finds our Chief Executive at times comical, and likens his politics to an adult version of the childhood game... "DUCK DUCK GOOSE"....

Onorato has continuously ducked the important issues, property taxes, public services, and has also ducked the working people of Allegheny County.

And according to Bram the GEESE too.

Well as the HUDDLER's mummy once said, "if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it is probably a duck".

Onorato needs to re-brand his style of politics if he wants to move on to Harrisburg, he needs to break ranks with Rendell and come up with fresh ideas to fix our state budget. Slashing services, laying off workers, and leaving existing workers with double and tripple the work, with more and more Pennsylvanians turning to the government for help during these hard times, simply will not work for another four years.

The HUDDLER hopes that Onorato sees this and realizes this before campaigning across Pennsylvania while things here at home are a mess, spending his time, energy, and taxpayer dollars to do so.

PAYLESS PAY DAYS - STATE BUDGET SHOW DOWN

2009-07-13T12:04:00.002-04:00

Imagine if you will that your pay day comes on friday, and your boss has no money for you? And you have no idea when you will get paid again, you have bills to pay, no money, and you STILL are REQUIRED to go to work and do your job day after day.

This is what State workers are facing. Below is an email the HUDDLER was sent... Please contact your elected officials in Harrisburg and tell them to fix this mess!!

The HUDDLER thanks our friends at Keystone Progress for all of the hard work on this important issue !

We're in the worst economy in 70 years and our state legislators are now considering a bill that will take millions of dollars out of our communities and result in the elimination of more than 8,000 good local jobs in Pennsylvania!
Take action now and learn more about this nasty bill -- Senate Bill 850.
The problem is that our legislators have failed to work with the Governor to sign a state budget and now we're in a crisis.
Instead of finding real long-term solutions to our budget crises, Senate Bill 850 is a "slash and burn" short-term fix that will take millions from important public services leaving thousands of children without health insurance, forcing elderly and people with disabilities from their group homes, and short-changing services for our veterans.
Additionally, because we don't have a state budget, this week state employees who provide vital services for citizens of Pennsylvania will not get paid for their work.
Take action now to tell legislators to work with Governor Rendell to reach a budget the fully funds public services. http://www.keystoneprogress.org/page/s/pa850
What's even more outrageous is that at the same time that state employees will go with "payless paydays," legislative staff will continue to get paid as usual and State Legislators themselves will continue to get their per diem, to the tune of $1000 per week on top of their salaries!
We're in an outrageous situation, and we can place the blame directly at the feet of elected officials in Harrisburg who are too busy posturing and playing politics to find real long-term solutions to our state budget problems.
This is a troubling time, but by sticking together and working with other public employee unions and allies in our communities, we can stop this.
Take action now by clicking here: http://www.keystoneprogress.org/page/s/pa850
Forward this message to your friends and family and urge them to take action too.
Thank you for all you do to make Pennsylvania a better place for all of us!
In Solidarity,
The Keystone Progress Team
www.keystoneprogress.org
Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/keystoneprogres
Help Keystone Progress build PA's largest online progressive network:
Contribute today at: http://keystoneprogress.org/page/contribute/kspdonate

GRUDGE MATCH JOEY KING VS ACT 47

2009-07-01T12:16:00.008-04:00

The HUDDLER likes it when one utilizes his or her hands when they talk. It spices up normal, ordinary conversation. Call it theatrics?

SO- THUMBS up to the majority of City Council who passed the Act 47 recovery legislation. Our City is on the brink of financial disaster. We have billions of dollars in debt, and shrinking monies to pay the bills and reduce our debt.

THUMBS down to City Council Members, Doug Shields, Patrick Dowd, and Darlene Harris.

And a DOUBLE THUMBS DOWN to the ACT 47 RECOVERY BOARD, or as Mark R calls them the overlords, who kind of remind the HUDDLER of VOLDEMORT from the Harry Potter series, AKA Governor Rendel's henchmen. To take away bargaining rights from organized labor, with the stroke of the pen is simply not right.

While the HUDDLER supports the words of Firefighter President Joey King, when he promises to make this a legal fight, the HUDDLER questions the law on this one. What all public employees must realize is that when your municipality goes broke, the rules change. Therefore it is now more important than ever to live within our means and work to improve government, in ways that do not cut services or jobs.
If this means using less utilities, raw materials, or simply by doing more with less, to perform our duties then so be it.

All of you boys and girls already know that the HUDDLER lives for organized labor and has the highest respect for public safety employees. Let's face it - times are just tough right now.

Alot of USAIR employees once lived by the same creed as some public employees. "The employer can't live without us." This is partially true, but as soon as bankruptcy hits an entity - all bets and LABOR CONTRACTS are off. And the pillaging and plundering begins.

Before we fight for more, we must protect what we have!

As far as who will win the fight of Joey King et al verse ACT 47 the Huddler can NOT predict, however we need to remember what is at stake, and that is the long term vitality of the City of Pittsburgh.

God vs. Superbowl

2009-06-27T17:07:00.002-04:00

Often the HUDDLER has made remarks, comments, and observations regarding the Catholic Church.

The HUDDLER attended the installation of four young men into the priesthood today. St Paul's Cathedral was packed. It is the HUDDLER's habbit to take attendance at such events to see who of the who is and who is not list attend.

The HUDDLER was NOT surprised that two of Pittsburgh's more recognizable Roman Catholics were not present.

Apparently Dan Onorato and Luke Ravenstahl had better things to do today. The HUDDLER can not help but wonder why they would attend sporting events, playoffs, and world championship games on the taxpayers dime, but not a monumental religous ceremony of their faith?

Not that it matters, but the HUDDLER would much rather spend a few hours, celebrating the ordination of priests than going to the superbowl. But then I guess that is what makes the HUDDLER different than Dan Onorato or Luke Ravenstahl.

Perhaps they would have attended if the event was at Heinz field?

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

2009-06-21T20:00:00.006-04:00

The HUDDLER has what some will say are anti-labor -comments.

The whole ACT 47 smoke and mirror process is a joke. The HUDDLER was embarassed at some of the behavior of some of the labor officials representing city workers, and our elected officals.

The HUDDLER will never be a white knight of Mayor Luke. However take a look at the economy and the city's finances. What can city employees really expect? The infighting has already started... What are the most dangerous jobs? Who works the hardest? Who makes the most?

The HUDDLER thinks that all of the parties need to step back and take a look at the big picture. Some fiscal responsibility is needed here, otherwise the city will be broke, and the state will be calling the shots. (how that is different than right now? The huddler isn't sure)

The HUDDLER suggests that rather than agreeing to the normal four year agreements, that the unions and city agree to two year agreements, and take another look at finances, and the economy in two years.

The HUDDLER is anxious to see where organized labor and the mayor end up at the end of the day.... Will the mayor pull another "murphy" and pay off the unions under the disguise of an arbitrators pen? OR will the Mayor stand tall, and force council to back him up, showing some fiscal responsibility? Not to mention - equality. The recent study has shown the inequalities among city employees. Let's face it, there is only a small sliver of pie available when it comes to the city budget, and ALL CITY WORKERS should be given a nominal - equal pay increase during these tough economic times.

ONORATO BACKS BAD MANAGEMENT AND BLAMES WORKERS

2009-06-12T09:58:00.003-04:00

The HUDDLER's "BAD BOSS" of the week.... Chief Executive Dan Onorato

Chief Executive Dan Onorato has allowed management to run amuck, running a facility into the ground, and has now sacked 7 employees after the State Department of Public Welfare came in and found major deficiencies. Now Dan Onorato has threatened to close the facility, and privatize these jobs.

Post Gazette

Trib Review

RIGHT WING ON THE ATTACK

2009-06-09T12:38:00.002-04:00

The "RIGHT WING" is on the attack when it comes to the Employee Free Choice Act. Unlike working families, big business has literally hundreds of millions of dollars invested in defeating the Employee Free Choice Act. Organized labor is leading the charge for working families with groups like the AFL-CIO lobbying for this legislation.

The Tribune Review owned by Richard Mellon-Scaiffe, (a man by all accounts was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, paid for many times over on the backs of poor immigrant workers who gave their lives so that his ancestors could make a buck) had an interesting article in todays paper, that stated that workers in Pennsylvania do not support the legislation. The news article quoted a poll conducted by the Susquehana Polling and Research.

Susquehana Polling and Research is lead by James Lee. Imagine this for a second, the website for SPR tells us that Mr. Lee was the Chief Lobbyist for BIG BUSINESS. Read Mr. Lee's biography.

The only thing that shows the lack of credibility of this "POLL" MORE than Mr. Lee's biography is the LIST OF CLIENTELE of the Susquehana Polling and Reseach group.

So as the old saying goes, BUYER BEWARE or in this case READER BEWARE of what Mr. Scaiffe and his robber baron friends are trying to sell to Pennsylvanians.

STATE TROOPER DIES IN LINE OF DUTY

2009-06-08T07:46:00.004-04:00

A senseless act of violence has resulted in another Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Officer making the ultimate sacrafice.

Please keep the officer, and his family in your prayers this week. As well as the men and women of the Pittsburgh Police Bureau who are still in the healing process of losing three of their own brothers.

JUNE 6th RALLY - STAND UP FOR WORKING FAMILIES !!

2009-06-03T11:28:00.004-04:00

SUPPORT THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT!

GREET SENATOR ARLEN SPECTER AND THE DEMOCRATIC STATE COMMITTEE.

TELL THEM THAT WORKERS NEED THE EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT NOW !!

JOIN ORGANIZED LABOR AND DEMOCRATS FROM AROUND THE STATE!

SATURDAY - JUNE 6TH - 10 AM
WESTIN CONVENTION CENTER
LIBERTY AVENUE BETWEEN 10TH AND 11TH STREETS

REPUBLICANS ARE EVIL !!!!

2009-05-27T15:03:00.002-04:00

In the HUDDLER's past life - you would never hear those words. But how can ANYONE not agree that the Republican Party leaders in Pennsylvania that are proposing to close parks and cut health insurance for children are not EVIL?

READ it for yourself... From the POST GAZETTE.

ELECT THERESA SMITH !!!!!

2009-05-19T14:50:00.005-04:00

The Huddler has laid low for the past few weeks, maybe a little more. A little travel, and some other projects have take the majority of the Huddler's leisure time.

The Huddler's love of politics has been rekindled when he waltzed into his favorite linoleum tiled hall to cast his ballot - and participate in the greatest form of government on the face of the earth!

Therefore the Huddler has taken a break from flushing the vote for some worthy candidates, in order to grab a dried out salami sandwich, and check out the blogs. No activity really there which makes the HUDDLER hope that a few of our bloggers are out there on the street putting their feet where their mouth is !!

The HUDDLER was greatly disappointed in Georgia Blotzer's attempt to pass off FAKE slate cards. I was also surprised to see the lights out and office dark at Georgia's West End Campaign Office - this morning. ( Or should we call it a front? ) It appears that Bram's negative remarks, and libelous attacks against Theresa Smith were not enough?

The Huddler did see more than one poll watcher for Ms. Blotzer who apparently was more interested in tanning than passing out information or talking to voters. Maybe it was because the Deputy Sheriffs confiscated all of the fake slate cards?

With these facts being what they are - the HUDDLER returns to the burghosphere with this; PLEASE SUPPORT THERESA SMITH FOR COUNCIL !!! CouncilwomanSmith does not have her OWN PERSONAL AGENDA. Ms. Smith brings the needs of her constituents to Grant Street!!

THE HUDDLER WISHES THE BEST OF LUCK TO THERESA SMITH !!! And shame on Ms. Blotzer.

A TRIBUTE TO OUR FALLEN HEROES

2009-04-09T01:24:00.000-04:00

Somebody killed a policeman today
And a part of America died...
A piece of our country he swore to protect
Will be buried with him at his side.
The beat that he walked was a battlefield, too,
Just as if he had gone off to war;
Though the flag of our nation won't fly at half-mast
To his name they will add a gold star.
The suspect that shot him will stand up in court
With counsel demanding his rights,
While a young widowed mother must work for her kids
And spend many long, lonely nights.
Yes, somebody killed a policeman today...
Maybe in your town or mine,
While we slept in comfort behind our locked doors
A cop put his life on the line.
Now his ghost walks the beat on a dark city street,
And he stands at each new rookie's side;
He answered the call... of himself gave his all,
And a part of America died...

IN MEMORY

2009-04-04T19:58:00.007-04:00

The Huddler felt is necessary to post the names of the fallen officers in supplement to the earlier post. The Huddler spent most of the day with those in law enforcement as well as other public safety professions.

In the words of Mayor Ravenstahl we as a community need to support our men and women in blue. Words can not describe what has occurred today. Nor can the average citizen understand the grief and mourning that these public servants and their families are experiencing. As the law enforcement community prepares to burry these brave men, please acknowledge the ultimate sacrafice that these officers have given to the community which they were sworn to serve and protect. Place a blue ribbon outside or on your car antennae to show your support, or fly the American flag. Please keep these officers, and their families in your prayers.

The Huddler would like to thank the post gazette for the picture of the officers. Click the Link to read the article.

THREE OFFICERS DIE IN LINE OF DUTY

2009-04-04T11:55:00.007-04:00

THE HUDDLER WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUT PRAYERS AND CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH POLICE OFFICERS WHO WERE KILLED AND INJURED IN THE LINE OF DUTY TODAY. TODAY WE REMEMBER THESE BRAVE OFFICERS, AND THE MEN AND WOMEN WHO RISK THEIR LIVES TO PROTECT US EACH DAY.

The HUDDLER will be saying a special Rosary for all of those who work in public safety today, And asks that everyone out in the burghosphere to do the same...

May the road rise to meet you,

may the wind be always at your back,

may the sun shine warm upon your face,

and the rain fall soft upon your fields,

and until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

Joe the mouthpiece comes to the Burgh

2009-03-31T11:44:00.007-04:00

The HUDDLER has been out working on the campaigns of multiple candidates for various offices, in recent weeks. At least the weather has been improving... The Huddler loves canvassing. More of our candidates should be doing more door knocking. The Huddler witnessed a candidate for Mayor who shall rename anonymous at this point doing some canvassing in recent weeks.
The HUDDLER was disappointed that this candidate was dropping literature on doors and just walking door to door. There was no knocking. Just dropping. There was very little interaction depsite the fact that the sun was shining and the neighborhood was full of people working outside. What a waste of time ?

Canvassing 101 or in this case remedial canvassing should be required for ALL candidates.

The HUDDLER was happy to see organized labor turn out for the "Joe the plumber" rally in Greentree. The HUDDLER was unable to attend but talked to alot of the folks that did. The Trib's account of this event and counting of the participants was less than accurate. Word on the street is that the REAL PLUMBERS outnumbered the paid audience by 4 to 1.

As we all know, "Joe" who is from Ohio and worked in some capacity as a plumber, was an outspoken critic of President Obama during the Presidential election. After his instant fame, the media looked into Joe's background. It was soon discovered that Joe was NOT a licensed plumber, didn't pay his taxes, and was kind of shady at best.

Since then, the far right has adopted Joe as their "typical" Joe. Joe has been recruited to be a mouthpiece for the pro-business group "American's for Prosperity".

A little about Joe. Joe is not a plumber. Joe has a history of not paying his taxes. Joe ignored state and local laws and practiced as an unlicensed plumber. Joe came into the media spotlight when he stood up and complained about President Obama's tax plan on small businesses that make more than 250k a year. The most recent figures showed Joe making about 40k a year.
While the HUDDLER is certain that Joe is now making in excess of 250k per year, the HUDDLER hopes that the Obama tax plan SLAMS Joe come tax time !!!

If Joe were a real plumber he would have learned a few things;

1. Never stand down stream
2. Never bite your nails
3. Payday is on Friday

Hopefully someone passes this along to Joe as it may help him in his new profession as well.

2009-03-24T22:09:00.010-04:00

HAPPY RETIREMENT SENATOR SPECTER !!

HELP WANTED:

CANDIDATE FOR THE UNITED STATES SENATE THAT WILL SUPPORT WORKING FAMILIES.

United States Senator Arlen Specter announced that he will not support the Employee Free Choice Act. When Senator Specter leaves office he will enjoy the benefit of a pension and healthcare for life with the taxpayers of the United States of America picking up the tab. If Senator Specter wants to do the right thing he should just say no to these retirement benefits since he has DENIED WORKING AMERICANS the opportunity to organize and negotiate quality, affordable, healthcare and the ability to retire and maintain a quality of life.

Perhaps Senator Specter can work as a greeter at Walmart?

ONE IN FIVE UNINSURED

2009-03-24T09:55:00.007-04:00

A good article from the Associated Press today... One in five americans are uninsured. How long can this country go on like this? How much more are the insured paying in premiums to cover the non insured?

What is really sad is that there are alot of workers who work for healthcare providers such as UPMC and many other agencies who are denied access to quality affordable healthcare. There are workers who provide in home services to our elderly and disabled population that make about 10$ an hour with NO healthcare or other benefits!!

How many americans are forced out of their homes and eventually lose their homes because they can not afford long term care?

If 20% of our population is uninsured, and not getting medical care; imagine the number of jobs that could be created if we found a solution to deliver this huge population access to quality, affordable healthcare?

The Huddler hopes that President Obama finds a solution to this problem. The Huddler sees a direct relation between healthcare providers that are organized and belong to a union who have quality affordable healthcare and those that don't. This is just another reason that we need the employee free choice act !!!

This also brings the words, "SINGLE PAYER HEALTHCARE" to mind ....

PROUD DAY FOR PITTSBURGH

2009-03-17T11:06:00.004-04:00

Pittsburgh's favorite son, Dan Rooney was announced as President Obama's choice for Ambassador to Ireland today.....

As the Huddler posted earlier this year, this is no surprise. Rooney started a non profit to help bring peace among Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland. This charity has raised over $300 Million dollars since it's inception in the 1970's.

This is GREAT for PITTSBURGH !!!! Happy St. Patrick's Day, and Best wishes and God's Blessings to the Rooney family....

Sally Kalson on the Employee Free Choice Act

2009-03-16T11:59:00.002-04:00

Great job this weekend by Sally Kalson from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette... On the Employee Free Choice Act.

Big business will do anything to prevent paying workers a fair wage, with quality, affordable healthcare...

PARADE DAY KICK OFF

2009-03-13T18:15:00.012-04:00

The HUDDLER like many Burghers out there is preparing for "PARADE DAY".... An event like no other, when every man, woman, and child, who wants to be Irish for the day is given the opportunity. Some use this day to spend with family, and friends, and carry on decades of tradition, while others choose to use it to carry on a decades old tradition of imbiding in a little too much too drink.

Lots going on in local news this friday, apparently Patrick Dowd is trying to beat a dead horse. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire recently begain the process of installing up to One million dollars worth of safety equipment in fire houses. This equipment protects firefighters from dangerous diesel fumes in the workplace. Apparently the City decided to piggyback on a state contract, and Dowd is screaming about no bid contracts. IS this legal ? The Huddler imagines that it is. The state had to "bid" this out at one point or another. There was a bid to get on the state list?

The Post Gazette article went on to talk about how Philly did a big study, blah.. blah.. blah.. Well Philly bought the same system. How many times do we have to have this conversation? Don't WE want less government? If every municipality in the state buys the same model police car every year, do we have to bid this out thousands and thousands of times? OR can we all piggyback on the state contract?

It seems like a no brainer to the HUDDLER?

The case of the missing "STEELERS SUPERBOWL BANNERS" may lead to criminal charges...

The Post Gazette reported that (11) of these notorious banners which were sold to die hard Steeler fans turned up missing from a secure area of a City garage. Who took the banners? It shouldn't be hard to figure out. Who had access? If the HUDDLER were in charge, there would be a 24 hour period on amnesty, before heads started to roll. BUT, perhaps it wasn't City employees. Apparently a cleaning contractor had full access to this area as well? The HUDDLER is wondering if there is a black market for this type of stuff? Anyone know where the HUDDLER can purchase one of those cool "SHAMROCK" road signs that are marking the parade route this year?

Kudos to Auditor General Jack Wagner - who announced that his office will be investigating the 750K contract given by the PLCB to a husband of a regional manner to teach Liquor store clerks to be more pleasant?

And last but no least, too little surprise of most bloggers out there that follow politics here in the Burgh. Council candidate Anthony Coghill has sued in Common Pleas Court to throw out the endorsement in the District 4 race. Perhaps Mr. Coghill has beaten a confession out of some little old woman with a garden hose? Can one of the more techy bloggers out there can find this court filing. It should make for interesting reading.

Club Pittsburgh "Out of the Woods" ....

2009-03-12T17:58:00.004-04:00

From the Post Gazette .... The D.A. has announced that the poor guy who died at Club Pittsburgh died from a combination of cocaine use and using an industrial inhalent. The D.A. went on to say that there would NOT be charges filed in the case.

This death was a tragedy. It probably could have been prevented if someone wasn't selling industrial cleaners for illicit purposes? The HUDDLER is not a toxicologist so we will leave it at that?

The HUDDLER wonders where this civil case will go? Will the family follow the yellow brick road looking for some cash?

It's Rabbit Season !!!!

2009-03-12T02:36:00.005-04:00

If it walks like a ‘duck” and quacks like a “duck’ it’s probably a “duck”…. Or in this case maybe a DOK?

Well it is official. The Huddler has survived “endorsement week”. With the coming of St. Patrick’s day – Pittsburgh politics will be turned up a notch. It's officially rabbit season. As in those rascally rabbits - aka politicians that are chasing the vote of all of those democratic faithful that participate in the election process known as the democratic primary election.

The HUDDLER is not surprised to hear that the local democrats can’t even do an endorsement process without a scandal. The HUDDLER will say, that this can and probably does happen on a semi-regular basis. The odds are low, and it is certainly not the norm but it is still WRONG. The HUDDLER is referring to the committee person that took his aunt to the polls to vote in place of his mother. The HUDDLER would love to know more details on this one, but thinks that he will learn the answer to the decade old question of how many licks it does take to get to the center of a tootsie pop first….

The Huddler would like to know IF this Aunt showed the poll worker a photo ID?
The Huddler witnessed an event similar to this one, while waiting to vote, an elderly women was being assisted by her younger son in the poll. The HUDDLER heard the women say, “no I want to vote for the democrat” when the son said something to the effect that she did, before touching the screen and dragging her out by her arm. It takes a real piece of work to rob your elderly parent of their right to vote.

The Huddler hasn’t picked on the Hoagie in some time, so perhaps this was inevitable. (besides it tends to attract viewers to the blog, just kidding.) Apparently the HOAGIE has started accepting blog posts directly from the candidates. While the HUDDLER was tickled that someone apparently had an entire day to do research on the man now known as “DOK”, the huddler is highly suspicious that this info did not come from Ravenstahl’s campaign. And apparently the Coghill camp had the time to call the Hoagie and report the results of an independent witch hunt, where Coghill who just happened to know the address of this old lady, (because he put her roof on? Wonder if she got a discount if she supported his last run at office). You do not conduct your own investigation and got out banging on doors, to make accusations. There is a system in place to report discrepancies. Unless the candidates can show this happened on more than one occasion, the HUDDLER sees this vote standing. (Due to the margin) The HUDDLER is not the official white knight of the Wagner family. But for people to say they put this old lady and her son up to this is flat out wrong. Unless someone has proof that this occurred.

Moving on to the Mayoral ticket….
Let the HUDDLER be crystal clear, the HUDDLER is not impressed by “DOK”. DOK has several issues to resolve before his candidacy can be taken seriously. First DOK is not a Burgher. The HUDDLER is sure that if DOK had an odometer which accounted for the time DOK actually spent in the “city limits’ the hours would be extremely low. Unless you count throwing yourself birthday parties, clubbing, and being an “eternal” student at Pittsburgh institutions of higher learning. DOK reeks of the “spoiled” rich kid mentality. How is the average Pittsburgher going to identify with Franco Jr.? Has DOK ever faced the same issues of the average Pittsburgher? Cutbacks of City services? Bad neighbors? Absentee landlords? How to pay the taxes? How to pay the rent? Do I pay the light bill or get the kids new school shoes? The HUDDLER especially wasn’t won over by DOK walking the Mexican War streets with dad…. (as seen on you tube). The War Streets are great, but the HUDDLER would hardly consider them as the epicenter of life in the BURGH.

Getting back to the Hoagie, it seems like every anon poster out in the burghosphere has shit to talk on the Wagner Clan. The HUDDLER takes great pride in being able to predict winners in local races. However this district 4 race is truly testing the HUDDLER’s abilities. Perhaps the HUDDLER lacks the internal – behind the scenes access to poll every committee person out there. But the HUDDLER was shocked to see that Rudiak only pulled down 5 votes from the democratic committee. This is the same committee that she has served on for a considerable amount of time. The other two candidates nearly split the vote, with Patrick Reilly coming out on top by a few votes.

The HUDDLER must ask…. IF Rudiak only pulled down 5 committee votes, does she have what it takes to win this race? In addition, the HUDDLER did not think that Coghill would retain the influence and votes he carried the last time he ran for public office. This race will get more and more interesting in weeks to come.

The Huddler must give the Angry Drunk Bureaucrat a big old atta boy for keeping track of the notorious Pat Ford. While most of Pittsburgh is trying to forget this character, Bram kept his eye of the ball to report on Ford’s new gig. Just when the HUDDLER thought he had seen some of the most inept politicians, apparently someone actually hired Mr. Ford. Are these folks nuts in Maryland? Who would hire this train wreck?

The HUDDLER is once again apologizing to the burghosphere for a lack of posts. It has been six days since the Huddler pushed this drabble of comments, thoughts, and run on sentences, onto the viewers in the burghosphere. The HUDDLER just hasn’t been feeling the urge to write. Therefore the HUDDLER will be accepting applications for a co-blogger. SO anyone interested in writing here at the HUDDLER, can send an email to thehuddler@gmail.com.

The HUDDLER likes to think that any decent blog has more than one contributor. And the Huddler’s only purpose in life is to improve the burghosphere, and save the working class. Right now the former sounds a lot easier. So if you are interested in blogging at the HUDDLER….. Send the HUDDLER your best shot at writing down your thoughts, with a touch of sarcasm, attitude, and your personal twist on things as you see them.

Employer thuggery and intimidation....

2009-03-05T01:04:00.003-05:00

Every 20 minutes in the UNITED STATE OF AMERICA, a worker is fired for trying to organize a union.

Apparently it is no different here in the Burgh.... Where are the elected officials? Where are the concerned citizens? Where are the community leaders?

Someone needs to stand with these workers and tell them that they are NOT alone !!
The HUDDLER says; call Mayor Ravenstahl's office and TELL LUKE to STAND UP for workers rights to organize a union !!!!!!!!!!!

CALL THE MAYOR - (412) 255-2626

READ THE ARTICLE IN THE POST GAZETTE

TAKING AWAY THE RIGHT TO VOTE

2009-03-04T10:49:00.001-05:00

State Senator Jane Orie (R) has announded that she wants voters to have to provide a photo id when voting.

Perhaps everyone up in Cranberry has a driver's license or state identification card. In urban areas alot of folks for one reason or another do not.

Now if the state wants to provide a FREE photo id to all residents, perhaps we can require them to produce it when voting?

So the state sells us the identification cards required to vote? Sounds like a poll tax to the HUDDLER.

POST GAZETTE ARTICLE

The HUDDLER's favorite Simpson's episode...

2009-03-02T22:52:00.003-05:00

The HUDDLER will never try and OUT DO our friend Bram. But here is a snapshot from the HUDDLER's favorite episode of the Simpsons.... Who knows the name of the episode?

ALL EYES ON SPECTER ....

2009-03-02T11:27:00.003-05:00

From Early Returns, All eyes are on Pennsylvania Senator Arlen Specter (R). The Senator is holding meetings on the Employee Free Choice Act everyday.

The HUDDLER is an advocate for the Employee Free Choice Act because it allows for either a card check system or an election based on WHAT THE EMPLOYEES WANT. Not the boss or government dictates, but what the WORKERS choose.

Those of you (however many or few) that follow the HUDDLER realize by now that the HUDDLER has a deep faith in the Roman Catholic Church and teachings. Often we ask ourselves or others; “WHAT WOULD JESUS DO?” - Well the HUDDLER knows the Church, and teachings support workers rights.

But after reading this Early Returns post regarding Arlen Specter, the HUDDLER asked the question; “What would the late Senator H. John Heinz III do?” Senator Heinz was an advocate for the residents of Western Pennsylvania and many say he would have reached the White House if not for his untimely death. Senator Heinz always supported workers rights. The HUDDLER registered as a Republican once upon a time, until realizing that with Senator Heinz gone, the only candidate the HUDDLER could ever vote for in the primary was Senator Specter. The HUDDLER has long since abandoned those Republican roots, after seeing the light. But the HUDDLER has always supported Senator Specter. The HUDDLER just hopes that Senator Specter does the RIGHT thing, and supports the Employee Free Choice Act. The HUDDLER is certain that Senator Heinz would support this legislation! And the HUDDLER hopes that Senator Specter will support the Employee Free Choice Act !!

There is no place like home ....

2009-03-02T01:13:00.005-05:00

The HUDDLER is back in town, getting over a nasty combination of jet lag and a cold. But times are good, and the HUDDLER is just glad to be back in the burgh before this nasty storm stops all travel on the east coast.

Things have been brewing over the past week, Patrick Dowd continues to wade into this Mayoral election. Ms. Carmen Robinson is still NO WHERE to be found? The Hoagie is whispering of things to come over at State Rep. Jake Wheatley’s office? Inquiring minds want to KNOW !!!

We are a week away from the Allegheny County democratic primary endorsements, the preliminary weather forecast is calling for fair to moderate weather. The HUDDLER is predicting a heavy turnout among committee members, so the candidates better get all of that swag ready, after all what would committee people do without all of those pill holders, nail files, and other junk? (all of which the HUDDLER is certain is made in china) The HUDDLER cringes when thinking about all of the wasted campaign contributions on this stuff !!!

The HUDDLER wants to send out the HOAGIE an atta’ boy for posting the letters he receives from potential candidates.

Bram has been holding down the fort over at the comet to make up for the rest of us less ambitious, (ok. LAZY) bloggers. Someone mentioned that Bram has a certain talent for writing, and should be doing it professionally. (Note to Bram; what’s that old saying about giving the milk away for free?) Besides, I doubt any of us in the burghosphere want to submit our work to an editor for approval. (the huddler is certain that if certain teachers from the catholic school system were to haunt the huddler, this blog would be FULL OF RED INK for grammar errors)

Lady Elaine apparently attended the EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE RALLY. Check out the post. Someone told the HUDDLER that County Councilman Matt Drozd attended as well and had a few comments, apparently Mr. Drozd’s medications need adjusting. The HUDDLER had a momentary crush on L.E. after reading this post. The HUDDLER is glad there are a few bloggers out there with their head on straight when it comes to protecting workers rights. The HUDDLER was not real impressed with Mr. Dowd's testimonial about his attempt to start a union. If Mr. Dowd couldn't organize a small group of teachers to form a union, or stand up to the boss? How in the hell is he going to be able to organize the City of Pittsburgh?

There is a new blog in town. The Pittsburgh Left, has joined the rest of us in scribbling down our thoughts, views, likes, dislikes, and so on. The HUDDLER is jealous of this new blog author’s ability to use graphic design. It is also making the HUDDLER a little suspicious that perhaps this is part of a certain campaign? But then that is just the HUDDLER being overly suspicious. The Pittsburgh Left looks great !!!

The trash can scandal of 2009 continues …. The TRIB has done an article on every tom, dick, and harry, who thinks they can replicate, the trash cans recently purchased by the city at over 1k a pop. The HUDDLER has yet to see ANY that are equal to those purchased. There is a reason that these trash cans weigh over 280 pounds each. The HUDDLER is listening to the wind right now, and is glad that the current trash cans are NOT being turned into projectiles like those of the HUDDLER’s neighbors- for some reason wind storms always occur on trash days? In addition, there has to be an advantage at the size and design of the current cans, which prevents them from being kicked over, tossed thru windows, and vandalized by intoxicated college students, and drunk partygoers ? The HUDDLER also wonders what the life span of these cans are? 10-20-30 years? And last but not least, does anyone think the Mayor picked these cans out himself? LOL. Unless somebody drops a house on LUKE, the HUDDLER is 100% certain that DOWD has no chance in this race!!

It’s good to be back in the burgh !!!!!!!

ASH WEDNESDAY

2009-02-25T10:30:00.003-05:00

Today is Ash Wednesday for many Christians across the globe. The HUDDLER get's a little too religious at times, and does not want to sound like the huddler is trying to convert all of you none believers out there in the burghosphere.

SO - rather than preach about repenting your sins, (you know who you are) the HUDDLER would rather pass on this VALUABLE information. Along with Lent comes the annual "FISH FRY" season. Some of these churches and other non profits make the best of the best...

So during this Lenten season, Christian-Catholic OR not.... Stop by and support these folks and get something good to eat in the process. Please feel free to comment on your FAVORITE Lenten dining spots as well.

THE PITTSBURGH CATHOLIC FISH FRY LISTINGS

PITTSBURGH POST GAZETTE FISH FRY LISTINGS **

** The HUDDLER is disappointed in the PG listings, the HUDDLER thought they were much more extensive. SO PLEASE add to the listings via the comment section.

Community Event

2009-02-24T13:53:00.002-05:00

The HUDDLER will be out of town on a secret squirrel mission, but hopefully some of you from the burghosphere can attend this worth while event and report back?

Please join community and labor leaders including SEIU, CWA, ATU 85, IUOE 95, Teamsters 926, UNITEHERE, UFCW, Sierra Club, PIIN, Pittsburgh UNITED, CLUW, USW, PFT, and many more for a forum to discuss a worker’s right to organize and its benefits to our communities. The event will take place;

Saturday, February 28th
Calvary United Methodist Church
971 Beech Ave,
Pittsburgh 15233
(Corner of Beech and Allegheny Ave)
10:00am-Noon

Elected officials are respectfully encouraged to attend and will have the opportunity to question a panel of community leaders and activists, distinguished elected officials, and labor leaders on the Employee Free Choice Act and related local issues. The right to organize creates a landscape where we can rebuild our communities through good jobs, hold corporations accountable, and ensure living wage jobs for our families. Join us as our community comes together to discuss the right to organize and its importance to rebuilding the fading American middle class.

Does America Still Need Labor Unions?

2009-02-23T15:12:00.004-05:00

PARADE MAGAZINE is asking America this question via an online poll. READ THE ARTICLE, TAKE THE POLL.

THE HUDDLER IS PRO LABOR !!!!! Vote early and often. Please send this to your family and friends.

Organized labor helped build America's middle class. A union contract is the difference between having a job that pays a living wage, with affordable-quality healthcare, and the hope of retiring, OR NOT.

The EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT, will be a controversial piece of legislation in coming months. The HUDDLER will be doing an in depth analysis of the Act.

In the mean time, read more about the Employee Free Choice Act.

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDREL

2009-02-20T00:39:00.005-05:00

McCullough ARRESTED ...
$154,000. Stolen from a little old lady
$ 20,000. Bond to get out of Jail

An Allegheny County Republican doing a perp walk?

PRICELESS

* All Dirty Rotten Scoundrels are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, or chased down in the street by a pack of citizens wielding pitchforks and torches.

(8 + 1 = 9) City Council back to full roster

2009-02-19T10:51:00.004-05:00

It was the HUDDLER'S pleasure to witness the swearing in of Theresa Smith to the office of City Council. The showing of the family, friends, and community leaders exemplify the support that district two has for Councilwomen Smith.

District two needs a grass roots, community based, ADVOCATE on City Council. Theresa Smith is an ADVOCATE, therefore the HUDDLER is sure that Ms. Smith will excel on council.

It is unusual for so many politicians to be in the same room with a smile on their face. The HUDDLER suspects that is because that for a moment- everyone can put political indifferences aside, and remember WHY they got involved in their community. WHY they stood up, and made the sacrifice to become an elected official, and ADVOCATE, for their fellow citizens.

Sometimes it seems like the HUDDLER says the Rosary a lot. But the HUDDLER will be saying a special Rosary that our elected officials gain something from today’s ceremony. That our elected officials REMEMBER why they ran for office, and the oath that they took to serve the constituents in their community, and do so to the best of their abilities.

In closing the HUDDLER wishes the best for Theresa Smith, if she services district 2 in the same fashion she represented her neighborhood communities, district 2 will be well served.

Mayoral Primary

2009-02-17T08:33:00.002-05:00

The HUDDLER is not surprised to see Patrick Dowd enter the Mayoral race. For all of you"party" insiders out there... The HUDDLER is assuming that DOWD is not going to attempt to obtain the party endorsement? The HUDDLER keeps on trying to learn the rules of the Allegheny County Democratic Party, but likens it to learning the game of "bacharach" after a night of too many pints....

Patrick Dowd has NO TRACK record on City Council. He showed up for meetings. BUT- DOWD is hardly MAYOR material. This is just the HUDDLER's opinion. Our current Mayor - Luke Ravenstahl, (the HUDDLER hopes this kid was smart enough to change his name back - since FOOTBALL season is now over, much like the Mayor's D II kicking career) has been a "DRS" on more than one occasion, and despite his sound bites is NO FRIEND OF ORGANIZED labor. Tsk. Tsk. Michael Lamb, maybe you SHOULD have ran? The Huddler would have volunteered for that race!

The HUDDLER is highly disappointed lately in City-wide politics. Thankfully there will be some good City Council races this spring.

SPEAKING of City Council races... Can some of you out there in the Burghosphere help the HUDDLER out ? Who is Rob Frank? The Huddler knows the basics. Does he have a chance against Councilwomen Smith?

Also- word on the street via the south hills neighborhoods - Natalia Rudiak continues her push for City Council. The HUDDLER expects to be eating a proverbial foot soon, as the HUDDLER had Patrick Reilly as an early favorite in this race.

NON PROFITS FAIL CITY RESIDENTS ....

2009-02-16T20:42:00.003-05:00

Today we have learned that the non profits in the City of Pittsburgh have declined to voluntarily pay the City of Pittsburgh a payment towards public services in lieu of a tax payment.

These are the same non profits such as UPMC that have DECLINED treatment to the the Cititzens of Pittsburgh that have NO HEALTHCARE.

During the recent SUPER BOWL celebration - THE NATION - witnessed live television reports of the non for profit; "UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH" student body take over public streets and cause tens of thousands of damage and cost city taxpayers close to a half million dollars in public safety overtime.

Imagine this, your grandmother lives in Oakland, and on a friday night she had a heart attack, at the same time; some drunk college freshman has too much to drink. Depending on who calls 911 first, your grandmother dies because some frat brat drank too much?

The non profits of the City of Pittsburgh approached the City with the concept of a payment in lieu of taxes to prevent the state legislature for legislating a tax on these entitities.

MESSAGE TO HARRISBURG: Forget the in lieu of payment... TAX THESE NON PROFITS THAT NEGLECT THE CITIZENS OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH, UTILIZE THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH INFRASTRUCTURE, AND COST THE TAXPAYERS OF THE CITY OF PITTSBURGH MILLIONS OF DOLLARS PER YEAR.

How many public entities in this state have close to a third of their properties off of the tax rolls due to non profit status?

Who is surpised that the city is broke when you have a third of all properties in the City of Pittsburgh tax exempt?

It is time to pay... Taxpayers should not be burdened by non profits that have turned their back on city taxpayers, these are the same non profits that pay executives tens of millions of dollars a year.

Church, Cheers, and stimulating our economy...

2009-02-16T11:37:00.006-05:00

So much for a quiet President's Day ? There seems to be a lot going on in the world... OR at least in the Huddler's mind.

The STIMULUS PACKAGE is the talk of the nation today, the questions are flying and everyone has their opinion. Will this package save our economy? The Huddler was hoping for MORE job creation language. The HUDDLER subscribes to the old chinese proverb. "Give a man a fish and you feed him for the day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime".

Education, job training, unemployment assistance, housing, infastructure improvements, healthcare, new energy solutions, law enforcement, so many areas that need attention. But at the end of the day, the only thing that will revitalize our economy is the creation of jobs. GOOD JOBS. An interesting quote from CNN today, one good paying manufacturing job creates enough buying power in the economy to support 4 other non manufacturing jobs.

The Huddler was at Church this Sunday, and the readings and gospel talked about leprosy. The Priest in his homily talked about how the unemployed often feel like lepers. Father went on to talk about how we need to treat EVERYONE with the same love and kindness Jesus gave to us. He included those with different religous beliefs, different sexual orientations, and so on. (The Huddler wishes there was a transcript.) It was one of the better homilies the Huddler has experienced in recent years. During the homily, the HUDDLER could not help but over hear a man and women discussing the homily in an adjacent pew. The man was very "NASTY" about President Obama's spending plan and voiced his disagreement with everything the Priest had to say. (which is no crime the Huddler has been there often) This man said it was a waste of money. Imagine the Huddler's surprise later on when the HUDDLER noticed the man was wearing a U.S. Postal employee jacket ? Here the HUDDLER was expecting a "SUIT" type... But no this guy was "CLIFF" from "CHEERS". The Huddler imagines that there are alot of "CLIFFS" out there.... The "CLIFFS" of this country that have a good job need to wake up. How can "CLIFF" bad mouth using taxpayer monies to create jobs? Feed children? House the homeless?

Father asked the congregation to pray for the stimulus package, that it would CREATE JOBS, that the monies would be used responsibly and effectively. The Huddler said a special rosary for all of the above, and for all of the "CLIFFS of the world".

BUT where will these monies be spent? How will they effect Pennyslvanians?
(Post Gazette Early Returns)

(Link to the readings and gospel from yesterday)

MOURNING

2009-02-14T09:38:00.005-05:00

The HUDDLER will be in MOURNING this weekend.... Gun violence has taken the life of a young Philiadelphia Police Officer. When the Huddler "huddles "with counterparts from the eastern part of the state, Philadelphia in paticular, there is a much more urgent struggle with gun violence. It is clear that Philadelphia has a bigger gun violence problem than Pittsburgh.

The Huddler will say a special rosary for this young officer, his widowed wife, (who is two months pregnant) family, and the men and women of the Philadelphia Police Department as well as all law enforcement officers across our nation who place their lives on the line every day for us.

This is a tragic, needless death. This is why the death penalty was created. We should still allow public hangings in cases such as this.

Related Articles:

Philadelphia Inquirer
Pittsburgh Post Gazette

Luke turns back on workers

2009-02-13T13:09:00.004-05:00

The HUDDLER has an additional nominee for Dirty Rotten Scoundrel of the week....

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl has turned his back on City workers once again.

Read the article in the Post Gazette. Perhaps with the city law department's batting average the Service Employees International Union is better off going at this one their own?

Pleased to see Allegheny County Labor Council Jack Shea putting the Mayor on notice and backing these efforts of these hard working men and women!!

The HUDDLER is wondering how much money the Building Owners Association gave LUKE?

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDREL NOMINEE: UPMC

2009-02-12T11:56:00.003-05:00

The Huddler has already received a nominee for this week's dirty rotten scoundrel award;
UPMC - Health Systems has been denying active duty U.S. military and their families who utilize the armed forces medical insurance access to the UPMC Health system.

Read about it in the Post Gazette

******************************************
ADDITIONAL information making UPMC a "DRS"....

from the Tribune Review ... women can't afford cancer treatment and her husband works for who? None other than UPMC !!!!

Labor prepares for primary endorsements

2009-02-12T10:24:00.004-05:00

Imagine the Huddler's surprise when the Huddler saw the following article in the Trib Review...

Organized Labor will interview prospective candidates for the primary election on March 6th, and 7th, 2009.

Interested candidates can contact the Allegheny County Labor Council to schedule an appointment at ( 412-281-7450 ).

GOOD ARTICLE and great work by Jack Shea, President of the Labor Council.

The Weekend update.. A few days late and a few dollars short - BUT still better off than the state budget...

2009-02-10T22:21:00.002-05:00

The Huddler appreciates the emails… Unfortunately the Huddler has not been able to respond recently due to well… A whole lot of “huddling”….. In addition the weekend update is a few days late….

So much happened over the last week, (correction past ten days) where does one start? I guess the Huddler will have to start with the Super Bowl? Can the Huddler get a “Hell Yeah” for the Rooney family and the Pittsburgh Steelers? The Huddler was wrapped head to tie in black and gold to celebrate with the other 350 thousand Steeler fans. The Huddler was NOT surprised to see Luke or Danny in the parade. The Huddler was not nearly as offended as some in the burghosphere. After all these are the same two dirty rotten scoundrels that spent campaign contributions to live it up down in Tampa. UGH!

Speaking of UGHS …. Word on the street is that Dan Onorato spent Tuesday night in Harrisburg at the AFL CIO Legislative convention. I wonder how he get from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg in such a short amount of time? I wonder if his county paid police officer driver had to break the speed limit? LOL. I think that all elected officials should be required to account for their hours worked. I have a feeling Danny is spending A LOT of time OUTSIDE of Allegheny county campaigning for governor. Although I am certain that Dan’s spokesperson would say he was in Philadelphia representing Allegheny county in an official capacity?

Speaking of Harrisburg – Governor Rendell outdid himself this time around. Given the economy, the Huddler is not surprised that state finances are in the red. We have some serious issues in Harrisburg. Unemployment continues to RISE. Pennsylvania’s unemployment funds will be depleted in coming weeks. This will force the state to “borrow” monies from other funds such as the motor vehicle fund to pay unemployment benefits. The Huddler has a lot to say about this budget. So the Huddler is going to work on a separate post once the huddler has the time to digest the budget. The Huddler is thankful that the budget is in “E” format. The huddler would hate to be on the disabled list due to lugging around a paper version of the state budget !!!!
The Huddler will say this about the budget. Is it in Rendell’s interest to show a balanced budget? Doesn’t Pennsylvania need to be in “CRISIS” mode to get a bigger slice of the “economic stimulus” package? The Huddler is deeply disappointed in the blank check package – or should I say the stimulus package? Where are the mandates for the creation of new jobs? Where are the mandates that these jobs stay in the United States? Where is the mandate that these jobs will come with affordable quality healthcare? Where is the mandate that government will do the right thing with these monies? Where are the strings? Where is the oversight? We have the banking industry a blank check and look where it went? We gave the auto industry some cash and it came with more strings than a baby grand piano! (this may not be the best analogy but the Huddler is on an out of control roll now)…..

Also in Harrisburg there is the news of possible new tax revenues. First the Huddler is not a big advocate of gaming. It takes advantage of a lot of folks who do not have the money to lose in the first place. HOWEVER – if there is going to be illegal gaming, as there is now in a lot of neighborhood establishments, shouldn’t we legalize it? Tax it? The Huddler does NOT advocate these monies going to education. All gaming revenues should go to property tax relief. There were also mentions of raising revenues via tobacco, which the Huddler says TAX IT. And a managed care tax, although the Huddler is not well read on this particular proposal yet, if this could raise the cost of health care in any way, we need to avoid this tax at all costs!! If this tax would only cut into the profits and surpluses (aka emergency reserves) of the Highmarks and UPMCS of the world, the Huddler says TAX IT!!!
Nobody wants to pay more in taxes, but if we have a system that does not allow for inflation, government services will be cut. Vital services will be cut.

Someone has been listening to the Huddler – just recently the Huddler stated we have TOO many school districts. Now fast Eddy, and Danny are jumping on the band wagon. Onorato now want to combine cities, townships, boroughs, hamlets, and the like into larger governing bodies the size of school districts to consolidate governmental services and cut costs. The Huddler is certain that the teacher’s unions will resist this, and lobby against it.

On a brighter note, the HUDDLER is glad to see Ms. Theresa Smith going to grant street in the capacity as the newly elected Councilwomen representing district 2. The Huddler agrees that our communities need to do more for ourselves when it comes to certain community issues. The Huddler is not saying we need to pave our own streets. The Huddler thinks we need to be good citizens. We need to report crimes when we see them. We need to follow through with our elected officials and government agencies when we see a problem. We need to know our neighbors and help those less fortunate. Our community groups need to be active. This includes everything from little league to clean up-neighborhood beautification projects. This is one reason that the Huddler endorsed Theresa Smith and will most likely back Natalia Rudiak in the coming primary. The Huddler is hearing on the street that Ms. Rudiak could win even without the party endorsement.

I guess the Huddler should try a different approach in keeping up with the burghosphere? Perhaps many smaller shorter – posts ??? Sorry for the wait… I DOUBT it was worth it? And keep on “huddling” !!!!!!!!!!

Preview of the Weekend Update

2009-02-05T12:07:00.005-05:00

SO many issues - so little time....

The Huddler is preparing for the end of the week and is thinking about everything that has happened over the last week.

1. The State Budget
Cuts to vital services
Layoffs of state workers

2. The Pittsburg Promise gets another 2.5 Million dollars from Benedum Foundation

3. Theresa Smith goes to City Council!

4. New tax revenues proposed by Governor
Sales tax increase except for Allegheny and Philadelphia
Managed Care tax
Legalizing video poker machines

5. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels of the week; (nominees)
Governor Ed Rendell
( The Huddler will accept nominations for this coveted award thru Saturday am)

VOTE TODAY CITY OF PITTSBURGH COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

2009-02-03T08:54:00.002-05:00

As the old saying goes VOTE EARLY and VOTE OFTEN !

If you live in the City of Pittsburgh Council District Two... The HUDDLER encourages you to make it to the polls and cast your vote for Theresa Smith !!

THE HUDDLER UNEQUIVOCALLY ENDORSES THERESA SMITH FOR COUNCIL !!!!!!!

Week in review

2009-01-31T10:56:00.007-05:00

Pittsburgh and the nation continue to prepare for the Super Bowl. This includes politicians from Grant Street to the White House. Steeler fever has consumed America!

Allegheny County Chief Executive, Dan Onorato and City of Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl (aka Steelerstahl) put on a kick ass pre game pep rally this past Thursday, before climbing onto a private charter jet and heading off to Tampa for the big game, not at the cost of taxpayers but at the cost of those who contributed to their political campaigns! (oh what a relief – NOT!!!!)

Meanwhile President Obama invited elected officials from Pennsylvania and Arizona to the White House for a Super Bowl party. The Huddler is betting that Danny O’ and Luke are jealous!

The Huddler wonders how much money could have been raised at a “charity auction”? If either of these officials auctioned off their seats on a private Steeler charter, game tickets, and accommodations? The Huddler is certain that the price tag would have gone as high as 15K. That is A LOT of food to feed hungry kids or unemployed workers via the Pittsburgh food bank.

These missteps have led to the Huddler giving Dan Onorato and Luke Ravenstahl the distinction of being the Huddler’s DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS of the week. (Not because they are Steeler fans, or have access to free tickets, BECAUSE they are paying for it with campaign contributions.)

However they will have to SHARE this award with the other “boss”. Bruce Springsteen is coming to town this coming May and will also be performing at the half time show during the Super Bowl. Now without the disclosing what year the Huddler was born, we will just say that the Huddler has been a Springsteen fan for a VERY long time. Springsteen and his band have always been very supportive of working men and women. Imagine the Huddler’s surprise when it was announced that Springsteen signed an exclusive agreement with WALMART – who is notorious for paying workers minimal wage, inadequate – unaffordable healthcare, is the largest importer of foreign products, is anti union, and every other despicable trait known to the Huddler. Springsteen himself has acknowledged that this probably wan not a good thing. But until the Boss makes up for it, the Huddler will be boycotting this May show and will certainly not be buying the greatest hits CD from Walmart. The Huddler is suggesting that Bruce make a large cash donation in each City to a local food bank to make up for this embarrassing snafu. BOOO SPRINGSTEEN !!

This weeks Rosary is going to be for a HEAT WAVE !!!! In addition to the Huddler saying a special Rosary for the players, officials, and fans all headed to Tampa, the Huddler is praying that our Heavenly Father sends us a glimmer of hope that Spring will soon arrive via a heat wave. The Huddler is not hoping for a sixty degree day, but for the love of God how about a 40 degree day or two? But low and behold forecasters are predicting the possibility of a monster snow storm early this week. The snow crews are exhausted, and the Huddler is tired of shoveling. Speaking of forecasts? The Huddlers new poll will be on Ground Hog day…. Will our little rat friend Punxsutawney Phil see his shadow?

Have a good week and LET’s Go STEELERS !!!! The Huddler invites all of you to enjoy a pint of Guiness and break out your old Steelers polka records !!!!

Dan Rooney for Ambassador to Ireland

2009-01-29T03:08:00.006-05:00

Mark your calendars - The HUDDLER is giving the Trib Review a big old atta boy on this one. Great article today. In addition there is a lovely article in the Irish Times as well. Folks have been whispering about this one for months. Some are saying that President Obama should appoint the Steelers Patriarch Dan Rooney as Ambassador to Ireland.

The Rooney family has long ties, a history of philanthropy and partnership with the emerald isle. The Rooney family lead by the senior Rooney has made peace in Northern Ireland a family priority over the past thirty years.

THE HUDDLER FULLY ENCOURAGES, SUPPORTS, AND ENDORSES ROONEY AS AMBASSADOR TO IRELAND. The HUDDLER will say a special rosary to this effect. And since the Huddler has decided NOT to waste any ink writing to the PG editorial board concerning their lack of judgement regarding the Blotzer endorsement. The HUDDLER is going to pen a quick letter to our esteemed President Obama to encourage this appointment. The Huddler encourages all of you out in the burghosphere to do the same!!!

The HUDDLER can not think of a more noble campaign to start or work for than this. The picture says it all. The Huddler likes to think that we all have a purpose on this earth. Call it a destiny... The Rooney family has been taking care of Pittsburgh for the past two generations. The HUDDLER can not think of a better PURPOSE for Dan Rooney than Ambassador to Ireland. God Bless you Dan Rooney.

SNOW DAY

2009-01-28T11:20:00.010-05:00

The HUDDLER like many out there in the Burghosphere is enjoying a snow day at home! The HUDDLER will be saying a special mid-week rosary for all of the workers that have to work in this mess or travel on days like today. Not that it is the end of the world. But hopefully everyone will slow down and take it easy. The Huddler just realized that it's been a week since last posting. The Huddler never realized how much effort it takes to scribble down a few ramblings, along with a sarcastic remark or two. The Huddler sends out the deserved props to all of those bloggers that manage to post on a regular basis.

With the snow brings a Pittsburgh tradition of saving your street side parking space with a chair. The HUDDLER thought for sure this was only a Pittsburgh tradition. A quick google search showed that it is also a tradition in Detroit! (The HUDDLER needs to get out of the Burgh more often apparently). Along with the chairs come the army of "shovelers" willing and able knocking on doors, willing to shovel your walk or driveway for a nominal fee. The Huddler actually saw one with a car brush in hand too, willing to clean off your car as part of the deal. This kid is thinking out of the box. The Huddler told his he should apply at the Mayor's office? Because we needed more youth with his ambition in government! What was disturbing is the number of shovelers out there after recent storms and the age of the shovelers. These are adults going door to door looking for work. It is rather depressing - as it is an indicator of the economy and lack of QUALITY jobs out there. THANK GOD for President OBAMA - hopefully he comes through and does the right thing regarding an economic stimulus that will CREATE JOBS!!! It is INSPIRING to see that Americans are willing to roll up thier sleeves and go out and look for work to make money. Even if it is only a few bucks shoveling snow. In these hard times every penny helps. With the bad weather - WE should ALL be looking to help those in need and the less fortunate. Check on your elderly or disabled neighbors. Shovel the walk for them... Make sure they have heat... Take over a hot meal....(alot of the elderly depend on meals on wheels, the huddler noticed alot were closed today) The Huddler's mom always said whatever you give comes back ten fold. And mom wasn't talking about money.

Speaking of parking issues, apparently there will be some major street closures surrounding the Steelers Pep Rally downtown tomorrow during the lunch hour. The Huddler couldn’t find anything in the MSM regarding this. But learned from sources within the Pittsburgh Police Bureau there are going to some road closures surrounding the pep rally due to expectations of large crowds. So if you aren’t a Steelers fan and don’t need to be in town tomorrow- STAY HOME !

Pittsburgh City Council races are on fire right now. There is apparently a formidable challenger running against Councilwomen Tonya Payne. Ms. Payne is being challenged by Daniel Lavelle. The Huddler must say that there is still a lot to learn about Mr. Lavelle. However historically these two separate clans get along as well as the Hatfields and McCoys – I mean Wagners and Onoratos. Progress Pittsburgh has a good article regarding this. They seemed to break the story in the burgosphere. The Huddler is disappointed in the Lavelle picture posted over at the comet that is done in the style of the poplular President Obama art out there. The Huddler may not know everything to know about Lavelle. But the Huddler can say that Lavelle is NO OBAMA !!!!

The race to replace Motznick on City Council just got another contender. Anthony Coghill has tossed his hat into the race. This leaves us with at least (4) candidates for the May primary. The Huddler may have to eat his hat on this one. The Huddler named Patrick Reilly as an early favorite. However perhaps there is something MORE sinister going on in this race. Word on the street is that the Ward Chair - Pete Wagner was supporting Reilly. (This has not been confirmed to the Huddlers knowledge) However with three of the four candidates being from the Beechview side of the district- theses candidates are essentially splitting the committee votes among the three of them. Which could lead to a surprising endorsement of Rudiak if she carries the Carrick side of the district and syphons some other votes as well) In addition word is that Chelsa Wagner supports Rudiak. It just so happens that Patrick Reilly works for Chelsa Wagner. The Huddler is wondering to himself if Patrick Reilly is in this race to win it OR just take committe votes from Coghill ?

Still no word on challengers for either Shields or Peduto? The Huddler understands that Squirrel Hill is overflowing with progressive dems who are qualified, organized, and ready to make change. The Huddler is surprised no challengers have come forward as of yet.

Someone out in the Burghosphere asked who is running for school board this year? To date, very little activity in these regards. The Huddler actually thinks we should do away with the school board and expand city council and thier responsibilites to cover this vital agency. The Huddler is not saying we should DOUBLE the size of council or anything like that. But we could certainly save some money IF we reduced the duplicative departments between the "city" and the "board".

The HUDDLER constantly hears that our senior citizens can not afford to pay thier school taxes.

Mayor Luke tries to burn firefighters...

2009-01-22T16:23:00.006-05:00

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl in an election year ploy to look tough on organized labor, has steered himself into direct conflict with the City of Pittsburgh Firefighters Union. AKA IAFF Local 1. In a Post Gazette article; the Mayor states that he will fight to get state law changed in relation to the discipline of firefighters.

This is after a tribunal board cleared a firefighter of wrong doing, due to the fact that the City of Pittsburgh did not adhere to the union contract.

The Huddler to Mayor Ravenstahl... Are you CRAZY? OR just plain STUPID?
State law is there to protect workers rights. The contract is there to protect workers rights. Now because the Mayor lost in his attempt to terminate the firefighter, the Mayor wants to change the rules? Follow the contract Mr. Mayor and you will not have this problem !!!!!!!!!!!!

The Huddler supports all of the Firefighters in this regard, and is willing to BET ALL OF THE MARBLES, that at the end of the day... The Mayor will lose, and Joey King and Firefighters across the state will prevail.

(second Post Gazette article)

Making education affordable

2009-01-22T09:36:00.002-05:00

The Huddler is old enough to remember when “generic brands” came out on the market. The packaging was plain and simple. White packaging – bold black letters describing the contents. No flare, no gimmicks, no advertising, just basic provisions.

Now the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Higher Education Council is proposing the same for our higher education system. Imagine for a momenet a state college without the bells and whistles. No sports programs, no extracurricular activities, no cathedral like buildings to build, support, and maintain. Just plain-simple-quality, EDUCATION.

The University of Phoenix and other private for profit education peddlers have already successfully marketed this type of education. Even our local Universities, such as Robert Morris, Duquesne, and many others, have started satellite classrooms, geared towards adults. Without the frills, and challenges, of the traditional college campus.

The Huddler has always thought that we will see our traditional college education change drastically in coming years. With the biggest change being in the number of actual hours of classroom hours required. For example – why spend six hours a week in class – three days a week, if you can accomplish the same via online sessions – with a single two or three hour class one day a week?

While the Huddler does not see the Ivy league going in this direction. This is great for students who can not afford 65k a year on private school. Imagine the possibilities. Students could even commute from long distances – for a single day of class per week. Dorm rooms could be converted into hotel like structures that allow students to come to classes one day a week OR even a single month per semester?

Huddler fact: Too many people can NOT AFFORD higher education. Education needs to be made AFFORDABLE !!!!

Read the article in the Post Gazette

WEEK IN REVIEW

2009-01-17T13:08:00.011-05:00

The Steelers are the word on the street this week. Burghers all across the world are prepping for the AFC Championship. Fair weather fans are pulling out their jerseys from seasons long ago. Emails are flooding in boxes with pictures of dead ravens. Fans are praying that the temperature becomes bearable before kick off. Others are just happy to stay home, or watch the game indoors with family, friends, and fellow burghers.
The Huddler’s prediction: Steelers 21 – Baltimore 17. Bookies everywhere are going to make a fortune off of this game.

Speaking of backyard rivalries, (or at least 19th ward rivalries) our spring primary is just starting to get interesting. Jim Motznick is bailing out of City Council, to follow his former colleague District Judge Riccardi into the District Judge profession. Motznick is running for a seat held by retiring Judge Charlie McClaughlin. It gets even more interesting now that former democrat, former councilman, and former state representative, Michael Diven is also probable to run for this same office. The Huddler thinks that this is a whole lot of "formers"... I wonder what Motznick will do if he loses? Did the City hire someone to fill former Councilman Jeff Koch's "snow route manager" job?

Read the article from the Trib to get some history here.

Apparently these guys have never heard of the word SOLIDARITY ?? – as The Huddler has never seen such a group of pit vipers!
With Motznick out of the City Council race, (word on the street he was up on Brookline Blvd at the tailor’s getting measured for his new robes, kind of reminds the Huddler of the old fairytale “the emperor’s new clothes”…) However this brings two new and younger candidates to fight it out for this council seat. Names have been flying, and finally two candidates have announced their intentions. A fine Irish lad; Patrick Reilly, who has the support of the Wagner clan. Along with newcomer Natalia Rudiak. Both of these candidates are under 30. Which makes the Huddler very happy. Our City needs this type of change. The Huddler is certain that this race will become even more crowded. We will keep a close eye on this one!!! The Huddler’s early call on this race? Old school politics beats out new school, with Patrick Reilly coming from behind and winning what will certainly be a very close race!

In another City Council race, Theresa Smith continues her march towards succeeding Dan Deasy as representative to City Council District 2. The signs are popping up and look great against that back drop of white snow. The Huddler is predicting Smith of giving her fellow candidates a good old fashioned ass kicking on this one. One of Smith’s contenders sent THE HOAGIE what appeared to be a post card with the wrong last name on it. The Huddler is shocked when he realized that the US Mail charges a first class rate for post cards now a days. The postal service needs to get more competitive with its products considering their volume is down 4%. One poster over at the Hoagie blog indicated that perhaps this other person was actually registered as a voter at the Hoagies address. A quick check of voting records indicated otherwise. There are no ghost voters registered there. However, the Huddler was wondering if the Hoagie returned this item he received in the mail to the post office, since he was clearly NOT the recipient named on the mailing? The Huddler was also wondering who Georgia Blotzer targeted in her mailing. Perhaps some of you out in the burghosphere can let us know IF you received one of these post cards? The Huddler is a super Dem, lives in this district and didn’t get anything from any of the candidates just yet. Who knows maybe the Huddler has been blackballed by the Democratic committee ?

Unemployment continues to rise. The hatchet man knows no boundaries. These numbers are not just seasonal retail MCJOBS. These are core jobs that define the American workforce and economy. This week has seen furloughs in every industry. Public, private, non-profit, industrial, healthcare, professional, nurses, bosses, you name it. If you have asked yourself if the economy has hit rock bottom yet? This weeks news should answer the question for you.

AMERICA NEEDS A STIMULUS PACKAGE TO CREATE NEW JOBS NOW !

Speaking of stimulus packages, the Honorable Mayor Luke Steelerstahl, announced a novel idea to bail out the troubling City of Pittsburgh pension system. The Pittsburgh Comet via Bram broke this story along with the MSM earlier this week. The Huddler thinks the Comet actually covered it better than our friend Mr. Lord. The Mayor has proposed selling and or leasing the assets of the City parking authority to get the needed monies to shore up the troubled pension system. The Huddler gives Mayor Luke a big old atta boy! Good stuff. Now we need Harrisburg to fix the law on this one. Mayors such as Tom Murphy should not be allowed to give away the house by increasing pension benefits WITHOUT funding them. In addition Pennsylvania has more public employee pensions systems than any other state. With administrative costs doubling and tripling those of most funds. The fat cats are getting rich at the expense of taxpayers, public employees, and retirees. THIS HAS GOT TO STOP!!!!! The Mayor has presented an idea here, let’s see where he goes with it?

Across the street at the Courthouse, Dan Onorato defended the use of Steeler playoff tickets in the Tribune Review. (Mayor Luke had no comment) The Huddler would like to know one, A SINGLE CASE where big business invested money or created a single job because an elected official took them to a Steeler game. These tickets should be distributed to charities, and or auctioned off with the proceeds going to charities. Foodbanks everywhere are out of money, and resources during these tough economic times. Speaking of which the Huddler wants to give a shout out to Council President Doug Shields (who the Huddler does not always see eye to eye with), who has placed a side bet with the President of Baltimore’s City Council with the benefactor being non profits that feed the hungry. GOOD STUFF !!!

Speaking of good stuff, it seems that just when Americans need a shot of “feel good”, God sends us something to feel good about, maybe even a miracle. This happened this week when a USAIR pilot, co-pilot and crew, (who are proud union members) landed a disabled airbus in the Hudson River. America watched proudly as ordinary citizens became heroes, and the vast resources of the NYPD and NYFD sprang into action to save every life aboard. Where is PETA on this one? The Huddler is ready to search online for Canadian goose recipes !! Perhaps food banks can market all of this goose meat to the needy ?

ROSARY OF THE WEEK:

The Huddler will be continuing to pray for peace in the middle east this week. Despite thousands upon thousands of years of war in this reason, the Huddler hopes that the killing ends in the continued Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The eyes will be on the United States of America this week, as President Elect Obama takes the Oath of Office and becomes the first black President of the United States. The Huddler is truly thankful that America has elected a President who is dedicated to helping the average American. President Obama has a tough job ahead of him, and the Huddler prays that the majority of Americans will support him. We all have tough times ahead. We can do it !!!! WE can change America and restore the middle class.

The Huddler closes the week out with the DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDREL OF THE WEEK…..

This weeks Dirty Rotten Scoundrel is a pair of twins:

President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney

The Huddler got all teary eyed during the President’s farewell message, not with sadness but tears of joy. Thank God these two men are retiring. The Huddler hopes that these elected officials enjoy their retirement, and enjoy spending the money they have fleeced from American taxpayers. (Thank God also for our right to free speech in this great land of ours!) Bush said he always tried to do the right thing, and what he believed was the best thing for the country. The scary part about this statement is that the Huddler believes him. Bush actually believed the crap that was fed to him. UGH. The Huddler still has the bumper sticker that was a gift right after “W” got elected…. It said “somewhere in Texas there is a village missing their idiot” The Huddler is wondering if there was a reward for his return? And if this village even wants their idiot back?

BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING

2009-01-14T17:55:00.006-05:00

The Huddler has followed the use of cameras and other technologies to observe (spy on) the public for a few years now.

Very few of us expect NOT to be on camera when walking into a bank, grocery store, and most retailers. The Huddler knows these cameras are installed, and operated by the store owners to curtail theft and to provide security for the owner, employees, and customers.

HOWEVER these cameras were never linked to a police station for law enforcement to obeserve and tax dollars have never been used to pay for these technologies.

Now we have tax dollars paying for security in private businesses... With law enforcement monitoring the lawful activities of law abiding citizens....

(This is different than using portable cameras in high crime areas, or even cameras mounted on public poles, monitoring public streets or rights of way, with recording devices that are accessed AFTER a crime has occurred)

What the hell? IF the waterfront wants cameras let the owner of the development pay for them. If they want them monitored - let them pay security guards.

This is a total violation of our rights. Thankfully the Huddler does NOT visit the waterfront very often, and will be doing so even LESS now.

PG Article

Weekend Review ....

2009-01-10T12:19:00.017-05:00

Working on Sunday …

The federal courts have upheld that it is legal for employers to mandate workers to work on Sundays in violation of their religious beliefs. See the article in the PG.
I would like to see the ruling appealed. I would also like to see what the Supreme Court would say about this. (although I doubt there will even be an appeal) Thank God for Obama, 8 years of Bush appointees to the Federal Bench has been a nightmare for workers and their rights.

I was disappointed that this women did not attempt to make other arrangements such as rotating her days off, or trying to trade shifts with co-workers.

Economic indicators:

Unemployment Rate SOARS to 7.2 percent, The commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s unemployment system is inundated to the point of being paralyzed by the sudden surge of applicants. With the economy being what it is – Rendell needs to fix this problem with the Unemployment Service Centers!! Hire the people to process the UC claims!

The unemployed are without healthcare now, unless the pay for COBRA which is very costly, to the laid off workers, thier employers, and the workers who still have jobs. Everyone loses with COBRA except the insurance companies.

WE NEED A HEATHCARE SYSTEM THAT IS AFFORDABLE FOR ALL AMERICANS !!!!

Obama is working hard to stimulate the economy by creating 4.1 million jobs. This is one of many reasons we needed this change in Washington D.C. – What has Bush done to create new jobs? Other than give tax credits to those who move American jobs overseas?

Dan Onorato had decided to help unemployed workers by offering free tuition at Allegheny County Community College. The Huddler hopes that there are some limits on this. Such as a prerequisite to being a county resident for a defined period of time, income requirements, and so on. Danny boy has laid off County workers in the past and never offered this opportunity for free college tuition to them. In addition the County budget and that of CCAC is a mess, I hope that State and Federal dollars are going to pay for this project. The Huddler is in favor of educating these workers and applauds these efforts. Its too bad that Onorato doesn't treat his own workers with the same respect. But then Onorato wasn't running for Governor at the time.

Word on the street is that scalpers can only get face value for the "in demand" playoff tickets.... If you like Steeler football, and can handle the cold wintery mix that has fallen on the region, now is the time to buy tickets.

Local Politics

The word on the street, or at least in the burghosphere this week has surrounded the now infamous Club Pittsburgh. The Comet and Hoagie have had lots of coverage. The Huddler was on the road and has not mastered the blackberry to post to the blog just yet.

The huddler wants to commend both of these guys for really beating out the media on this one. Mark your calendars – yes the Hoagie did a good job. (The Huddler has been accused in the past of being a Hoagie hater.)

The Huddler is wishy washy on this one, I think these guys that own this club are upstanding citizens. Let them fix their legal problems with the club and continue doing all the good they do on a regular basis. Although giving to charitable organizations and politicians does not give anyone a carte blanche to do what the hell they want and break laws – criminal, civil, or ZONING.
With football playoffs upon us, that means the spring primary season is closing in. The Huddler is anxious to hear the word on the street regarding City Council races. Has the Mayor found anyone to run in these races? Who is running for Motznick’s seat? Are there any challengers out there in the Peduto, and Shields races ?

The Huddler will be saying the Rosary for the following this week:

Steve Luncinski passed away. Aka "Little Stevie and Stevie the Castle Prankster" The Huddler had the pleasure of meeting Stevie on more than one occasion and was impressed with him. Mr. Luncinski apparently ran for State Senator at one point. While the Huddler is not familiar with Stevie's politics, Stevie was a great man, and warmed the hearts of everyone he met in life.

The Pittsburgh Police have been busy this week. Unfortunately in two cases officers were required to use deadly force. First during an attempted bank robbery and secondly as the result of a 9 plus hour standoff. Especially when it comes to having to take the life of an individual to protect the life of yourself, another officer, or an innocent bystander. The Huddler will say a special prayer to St. Michael the patron Saint of Law Enforcement for the men and women in blue that serve and protect the City of Pittsburgh.

The Huddler's Dirty Rotten Scoundrel of the week:

If it were legal for citizens to form large mobs and knock on the door of dirty rotten scoundrels the Huddler would be carrying a pitch fork and torch to the home of;

William F. Livorio, 67, was arrested yesterday and charged with 36 counts of theft by deception.

The Huddler believes that all people are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. However this should be an open and shut case. Mr. Livorio preyed upon elderly senior citizens - took thier money to do renovations, and never completed them! How can the Huddler get on this jury ?

January 1, 2009 - Day of World Peace

2009-01-02T03:27:00.009-05:00

In addition to being New Year's day, a day of pork, sauerkraut, and football, Catholic's around the globe celebrated a holy day, January 1st was the "Feast of Mary, Mother of God", which is a holy day of obligation in the Catholic Church. In addition Pope Benedict XV has declared January 1st a World Day of Peace. Like many Catholics I attended Mass, and my local parish priest read us part of a letter from November of 1948. This speech is as relevant today as it was over fifty years ago. I was so moved by it, I had to search out the entire speech, and wanted to share it with everyone out there in the burghosphere. I am not sure if we will ever see world peace?

Speech by General Omar N. Bradley
Boston, Massachusetts
November 10, 1948

ath bhliain faoi mhaise !!! (Happy New Year)

2008-12-31T09:10:00.006-05:00

Over at the Pittsburgh Hoagie, Matt H is rambling about decreased services, and high property taxes. Same old thing with Matt H. As a former public employee Matt is showing us his LACK of knowledge beyond that of a low level HACP employee. Matt why the censoriship on your blog? Tsk Tsk. So much for transparency at the Hoagie?

Meanwhile, at the Pittsburgh Comet, Bramhas a decent - semi thorough analysis of the City of Pittsburgh District 2 council race. For once the Huddler is agreeing with Mark Rauterkus! Theresa Smith is the right choice for this district.

In the PG, State Senator Jim Ferlo (D) has proposed anti hate legislation in Harrisburg. Ferlo is getting a little too middle of the road for the Huddler, but I guess that happens with age. Ferlo is a true champion of his constituents and doing the right thing. Thank you Senator Ferlo for your years of service and for doing the right thing!!!

The tavern owners and Danny boy are waiting on Judge Judy to come back with the drink tax decision, I am certain the tavern owners are going to blame a slow New Year's Eve on the tax, the PG reported on the low number of Burghers going out on the town to ring in the New Year. Perhaps this has something to do with the economy?

In this great Country of ours, we are free to voice our opinions. This is one of our great liberties, that makes our system the best in the world. Here in the burghosphere we have alot of different opinions. But as we close out 2008, and look forward to 2009 - we all have to agree that this year was fu@k@d !! The climax of 8 years of George W. Could it get any worse? The sad thing is that it may. On a more positive note we have changed history be electing a true leader to the White House. Depsite the economy we have alot to be thankful for. The Huddler will be alot more thankful when we finally start pulling our troops out of the middle east. With that being said, the Huddler extends a safe, healthy Happy New Year to all of you YINZERS in the burghosphere. And God Bless America!!

Christmas is over; time to pay the bills

2008-12-29T14:24:00.002-05:00

As the residents of Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh shake off the remnants of the Christmas Holiday, many of them are asking themselves how they are going to pay the bills that arrive in January. With the current global financial crisis, record unemployment, and house crisis alot of folks have alot on thier plate.

Currently our elected officials are making some BIG decisions with our tax revenues. In the news today; both Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh are facing dilemnas of how they will be paying the bills in January.

THE DRINK TAX - only for the Port Authority OR fixing roads and bridges too?
First, Allegheny County vs. the tavern owners. This battle has landed the County and tavern owners in the Court of Common Pleas. Recently appointed Judge Judith Olson, drew the short straw and got stuck with this train wreck. The dispute surrounds wether or not the highly controversial drink tax can be used for any other purpose than Mass transit. The questions at hand is what defines mass transit? Can the County use these monies for mass transit outside the Port Authority? For road and bridge repair?

Mass Transit in Oakland without a downtown stop?
Speaking of mass transit, Counilman Bill Peduto is proposing the implementation of a commuter rail from hazlewood thru oakland extending to Lawrenceville. This is good stuff. But it is missing one major connection. DOWNTOWN? I would like to see this commuter line tie into the amtrak line that currently lands in the new "transportation center" which was probably not needed in the first place, and was the center of the Lamar Sign scandal.

Do we have to spend millions to pay the bills?
Also in City news, Councilman Patrick Dowd wants Council to have a voice on how to allocate the current surplus of $45.3 million. The money has been dedicated to reduce the City's debt. Apparently there are concerns of how much of this money will actually go against the debt. And what debts will be paid. The City has a responsibility to the retirees and current employees, therefore the monies should be dedicated to the pension fund. However this is common sense. Just like we all do at home. List the debts. Pay off the debts that cost us the most. Do we really need to pay outside consultants to do this for us? I don't think City Council has any authority here, although I appreciate thier sincere interest in the matter.

Nollaig Shona Duit !!!

2008-12-24T09:38:00.003-05:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS from the Huddler...

A Christmas Classic:

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

SUPREME COURT PROTECTS ELECTED OFFICALS PRIVACY

2008-12-22T22:07:00.000-05:00

The Post Gazette and Tribune Review have reported that the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has denied the claim that cell phone records of elected officials are public record.

I am personally torn on this one. However at the end of the day I think justice was served. Public officials have the write to protect thier private communications with constituents, and thier staff. The decision does not prevent law enforcement from accessing records in criminal probes. This decision was a result of a lawsuit filed by the Tribune Review requesting cell phone records of former City of Pittsburgh Council members.

THE HUDDLER supports this decision and was pleased to see that Justice McCaffrey was the author of the opinion. Justice McCaffrey climbed the ranks from street cop to Supreme Court Justice and is a fine Irish lad to boot who rides Harleys, shoots guns, and is a military veteran. This guy is awesome. Although some of the more academic, ivy league crowd try and bad mouth him. Justice McCaffrey is top notch. His story is a text book case of why Judges need to be elected and not appointed.

GOP choses Chris Metz for district 2 race

2008-12-22T11:40:00.001-05:00

There were articles in both the Post Gazette and Tribune Review regarding the special election for the City of Pittsburgh Council District 2 race. Appartently there are (4) republican committee members in District 2 and they met over the weekend to endorse Chris Metz, (24) who is employed as the GOP Allegheny County political director for the race. I didn't know there were actually 4 republican committee members in this district. Nor did I know that the Rebublican's employed any full time staff here in Allegheny County. I guess you learn something every day?

Mr. Metz is from the Sheraden area. Does anyone out in the burghosphere know Chris Metz? I googled him with little success. Inquiring minds want to know. This is the locale of the infamaous Matt H... Perhaps he can tell us more about Mr. Metz?

The Pittsburgh Creche & PPG Ice Rink

2008-12-22T11:10:00.000-05:00

The Pittsburgh Creche on display now outside the USX Tower, is a must see for anyone that hasn't seen it yet. The Creche is also a must see for those out of town guests. For those of you that haven't seen it, make the trip. The Creche is a replica from the Creche on display at St. Peter's Square in Rome.

Visit the offical web page for more info. It is a beautiful Creche and Pittsburgh is fortunate to have it on display. This is another one the things that make Pittsburgh special. Also, check out the PPG ice rink.

Charlie Batch plays Santa

2008-12-20T14:35:00.000-05:00

Charlie Batch, the capable back up quarterback to Big Ben was out playing Santa today. THE HUDDLER officially bestows upon him our admiration for being one of the most socially responsible professional athletes in the business.

It is easy for people with resources to make contributions. Batch takes it a step further and goes out into the community he was raised in and makes a difference.

Second place, goes to Big Ben and his foundation. It is guys like Batch and Ben along with the Rooney family that make the Pittsburgh Steelers more than just a football team. I hope the new ownership tean mirrors what the Rooney's have done in the community. The article mentions Gwen Elliott, God Bless her, I am sure she is in heaven. She really cared about her community.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08355/936614-100.stm

SMITH WINS BIG IN DISTRICT 2 ENDORSEMENT VOTE

2008-12-20T14:04:00.000-05:00

CONGRATS TO THERESA SMITH

Theresa Smith is THE HUDDLER’S choice for the special council district 2 race. Ms. Smith is a long time community grass roots activist, this along with her experience inside the bureaucracy known as the City of Pittsburgh school system gives her some credibility. I don’t want anyone in the burghosphere bashing her just because she won the democratic endorsement. For once “the machine’ did the right thing and endorsed the BEST candidate for the job.

WORD ON THE STREET, is that Schubert was the mayor’s horse in this race. With all due respect to Mr. Schubert, I don’t believe he had the experience to take on the task of representing the district. I do encourage him to get more involved in his community, and play a positive role in it. I am sure we haven’t seen the last of him. Candidate Rob Frank would make an EXCELLENT staffer for the candidate that wins the race. As a long time democratic committee leader, it will be interesting to see if Mr. Frank goes outside his party endorsement system and runs as an independent. The same goes for Schubert. I know that Gloria Blotzer was quoted as saying she would not seek the democratic nomination. I think some of her comments in the post gazette article make her sound like a hypocrite. She should resign from the democratic committee seat she holds. I follow this district very closely, and know nothing about her or Mr. Folino. The special election is scheduled for February 3, 20009.

Once again THE HUDDLER would like to say great job to Theresa Smith!

Burgh mourns the loss of the "Burgher"

2008-12-20T05:13:00.002-05:00

Is it a coincidence that the anonymous bloggers such as pittgirl and the burgher have been forced into retirement? Is there that much stress being an anonymous blogger?

The bloggers out there that are known such as Bram, and Matt H have survived... Is it because they are "OUT" ? I have never done an inventory of the blogs in the burghosphere and categorized those which the authors are known and which are anonymous? Then we have the media types such as Delano, McYapper, ect.
Speaking of the MSM type, I would really enjoy life if a couple of people started blogs. Like Dicky Scaiffe. He enjoys plastering his political views all over the Trib Review, I would like to have the opportunity to post my opinions and debate him on his views. On the other side of the news media, I would like to interact with Rich Lord. No offense Mr. Lord, I am not comparing you to Dicky!

It's funny. Here in the burgh we are such a small town. There is no doubt in my mind that I have been in the same room as the Burgher and probably walked down the street and seen alot of the anons who post in the burghosphere.

I have asked myself if I am crazy for starting a blog. It's alot of work to keep one up. I see the bloggers out there who do a good job and those that don't. I remember clicking on to the burgh report, only to be disappointed that there were no new posts. NOW it is gone. UGH. But then the Burgh Report wasn't just a blog. It was a collection of people, a gathering place, a place to debate, throw cyber stones, and gossip. Burgher... Why not just STOP posting and pass the Burgh Report onto someone who wanted to continue your success?

WELCOME TO THE HUDDLER

2008-12-19T14:29:00.000-05:00

With the passing of the "burgh report" I am pleased to announce the launching of "The Huddler". Like the title says, it is a Pittsburgh blog, political rag, cyber tabloid, and place to hear the word on the street.

For all of yinz english teachers out there in the burgh, please do not expect any pulitzer winning materials here. This is simply a place to talk about the happenings here in our burgh.

I have not decided wether to accept anonymous posts. I am debating on wether to require those who post here to have a registered name with google. Not out of sensorship, but to take a step to make those who post in the burghosphere more accountable for thier comments.

So perhaps the first conversation we can have as a cyber community here on the THE HUDDLER is wether or not anonymous posters should be permitted here in the burgosphere?