The Pittsburgh Women's Blogging Society

Support Western PA Girl Scouts & Pgh TransYouth: Buy More Cookies

2012-01-12T09:27:00.003-05:00

Earlier this year, a Brownie troop in Colorado made news when they (after some delay) welcomed a 9 year old transgirl into their ranks. This prompted the typical outrage with some troops leaving the GSA to join with a more socially conservative, faith based girl's organization.

Fast forward to cookie season. A 14 year old Girl Scout has released a video on YouTube, chastising the Girl Scouts for not taking her safety into consideration over this decision and calling for a cookie ban.

In response, I urge you to purchase one extra box of cookies and donate to the youth programs at the Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Pittsburgh. It a simple $4 investment to support the Girl Scouts of Western PA AND transyouth in our area. Scouts are taking orders now and the cookie "booths" will be set up in February so you have many opportunities. If you need some assistance getting the donation to the GLCC, please email me pghlesbian (at) gmail.

And hope this young woman stays connected with Scouts so she can learn to open her mind and her heart.

(Still wrapping my head around the 14 year old worried about being safe from a 9 year old ... that adds a new twist on bullying.)

Why We Need More Lobbyists

2011-12-13T16:41:00.000-05:00

How many times have you clicked a box to add your name to one of those “Make the world a better place. Sign our petition now” email links? Congratulations. You are a lobbyist. Have you ever accepted one whose purpose was to eliminate lobbyists? Congratulations. You are confused.

It’s become fashionable to gripe about lobbying and lobbyists as somehow evil, corrupt, and “un-American”. Trolls and pundits want to storm the castle with torches and pitchforks, demanding their obliteration. Actually, there is nothing more American than a good, old-fashioned lobbyist.

Read More … http://voices.yahoo.com/why-we-more-lobbyists-10626393.html?cat=9

Tales Exaggerate Congressional Pay and Pensions

2011-12-10T13:32:00.000-05:00

As long as I can remember, there has been a vague general rumbling that members of Congress collect exorbitant salaries and outrageous pensions and other benefits. The rumblings have changed form over the years, from idle gossip to organized viral email campaigns, but the substance remains. Despite efforts to spread the truth, many Americans still contend that members of Congress take home truckloads of money, don’t participate in Social Security, and get full pay for their lifetimes after serving only a single term in Congress. Sorry, folks, it just isn’t true.

What is the Constitution Anyway?

2011-11-30T17:11:00.000-05:00

Our schools don’t teach this stuff.

The U.S. Constitution has been in the news more in recent years than at any time that I can remember. Many Republicans have been throwing temper tantrums about the Constitution. They screech and whine and holler that they just love it eversomuch, but they’re usually wrong about what it says.

Schools used to teach “Civics”, which concerns the rules by which our governments are organized and how they operate. Then the schools stopped teaching civics for a while; it just wasn’t fashionable. Now, some schools teach it and some don’t. When they do teach it, they do it very poorly. And today, America has two generations of citizens who have no idea how our own government works. But that doesn’t stop them all from hollering at each other.

Thanksgiving, the U.S. Constitution, and American Ignorance

2011-11-23T18:31:00.000-05:00

Thursday is Thanksgiving Day. American teachers tell us that we created the holiday to give thanks for the Pilgrims’ relatively safe completion of their first year in the New World. There were some offerings of thanks in that regard, but official Thanksgiving celebrations made only sporadic appearances in history until Congress declared a national holiday to honor the Civil War dead, wounded, and families in 1863.

But the first federal Thanksgiving Day Proclamation wasn’t about Pilgrims, or a difficult winter, or a civil war. It was about government. In 1789 Congress asked President George Washington to proclaim a day of thanks for the United States Constitution. The Constitution was about sixteen months old when Washington issued his proclamation on October 3, 1789. America celebrated its first Thanksgiving Day as a nation on November 26.

Scenes from Occupy Pittsburgh

2011-11-05T20:55:00.000-04:00

The evolution of a revolution. Here's our Hope and Change.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/slideshow/131627/scenes_from_occupy_pittsburgh.html?cat=3

Obama to Visit Pittsburgh for American Jobs Act

2011-10-10T16:38:00.002-04:00

I'll be covering President Obama's event at IBEW Local 5, Pittsburgh, for his American Jobs Act tomorrow in South Side. Watch my column for the story.

http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/933068/pat_omalley.html

TV’s Latest Trend Offends All of Us

2011-10-06T19:34:00.002-04:00

Women worked hard to build our “place” in the world. We made progress, until now. Mad Men, Pan Am, and The Playboy Club drag us backward to the juvenile behaviors of their period. This junk was bad enough 50 years ago. It’s worse now. Teach your children.

Voter Registration Deadline is Tuesday, October 11

2011-10-03T21:53:00.002-04:00

Local elections don’t carry nearly as much drama as federal and state contests, but are no less important. Be sure you’re registered to vote by October 11. Learn where and how here.

Read More …

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8993875/voter_registration_deadline_is_tuesday.html?cat=7

Pittsburgh Unity Fair Offers Help for All Working Families

2011-09-30T18:29:00.000-04:00

Unemployment is a community problem. Are you out of work, facing a lay-off, or under-employed? Do you know someone who is? The Pennsylvania Wants to Work! Resource, Jobs and Unity Fair can connect you with information, help, and support.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8874419/pittsburgh_unity_fair_offers_help_for.html?cat=31

President Obama’s American Jobs Act

2011-09-28T20:26:00.002-04:00

Congress is now sitting on President Obama’s American Jobs Act. It emphasizes infrastructure improvements and tax cuts. Given the politics, it will not move quickly. Congress just isn’t interested because it affects your life, not theirs.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8689657/president_obamas_american_jobs_act.html?cat=3

Weekly News Roundup September 9

2011-09-09T10:16:00.001-04:00

Check out these interesting articles on kids and technology!

Back-to-school advice for parents of special needs kids (mommyish.com)

The top 10 most influential kid bloggers (babble.com)

Pittsburgh's A+ Schools program seeks volunteers for confidential teacher talks (post-gazette.com)

Father and son curated blog "The Kid Should See This" shares off-the-grid videos to educate and entertain children (thekidshouldseethis.com)

The top 5 real-life skills students need to be taught today (edweek.org)

LeapFrog creates its own "iPad" (usatoday.com)

Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF goes digital with online costume party (marketwatch.com)

For more information,visit the Spark blog!

Republicans Want to Steal Your Vote

2011-09-07T03:16:00.000-04:00

Lyndon Johnson said voting is: "…the basic right without which all others are meaningless.” He signed the Voting Rights Act as president in 1965. Today, the Republican Party and other Koch brothers’ stooges want to strip you of your right to vote.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8374989/republicans_want_to_steal_your_vote.html

POETS...

2011-09-04T18:37:00.001-04:00

Join Your Friends and Neighbors in the Labor Day Parade

2011-09-01T20:25:00.002-04:00

Monday September 5, Labor Day parade, downtown. Gather 8:30. Parade 10:00. Unions honor all workers-union and nonunion-especially now when corporate and political thugs attack U.S. workers like never before. Watch Out America! They’re Coming For You Next.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8362111/join_your_friends_and_neighbors_in.html?image=1414532&cat=8

Weekly News Roundup August 26

2011-08-26T11:02:00.000-04:00

Check out these interesting articles on kids and technology!

E-readers: technology that works for developing countries (readwriteweb.com)

What do today's tech-savvy kids need to be taught about computers? (theatlantic.com)

Missouri teachers protest 'Facebook Law' meant to protect students from sexual predators (abcnews.go.com)

Comcast to offer $10 internet service to disadvantaged students (mashable.com)

Open University research says there's no such thing as a 'digital native' (agent4change.net)

5 ways to use Twitter in the classroom (hp.com)

"20th Century Students" video highlights the changing face of education (schooltube.com)

For the latest updates on kids and technology, check out the Spark blog!

The 4C’s Help Children Go Above and Beyond

2011-08-24T10:40:00.001-04:00

We've all heard of the the 3R's-- Reading, wRiting, and aRithmetic. The 3R's are easy to name because they're traditionally thought of as the fundamental areas of elementary learning. Try to name the 4C's, and you might have more trouble. Yet incorporating these skills: Communication, Collaboration, Critical thinking and Creativity, into elementary education might just be the key to creating students who can flourish in the 21st Century.

Head over to the Spark blog, to watch the short animated film Above and Beyond. Produced through a partnership with P21 and FableVision, Above and Beyond tells the story of what can happen with the 3R's and 4C's are integrated into one holistic approach to education.

Why Congress Can’t Get Anything Done

2011-08-15T21:39:00.002-04:00

And What You Can Do About It

America needs serious adults, working together, to solve our problems. Most members of Congress care more about pleasing their big bucks corporate campaign donors than in doing the job that we hired them to do. Corporations don’t vote. Real people vote.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8314961/why_congress_cant_get_anything_done.html?cat=9

Who Should Provide Social Services?

2011-08-09T23:25:00.000-04:00

Who would gut social services just when we need them the most? During the debt “negotiations”, republithugs demanded social service cuts. President Neville Chamberlain appeased them AGAIN. Should government or private agencies provide those services?

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8300253/who_should_provide_social_services.html?cat=48

Weekly News Roundup August 5th

2011-08-09T16:42:00.000-04:00

Check out these interesting articles on kids and technology!

7 obscure children’s books by authors of grown-up literature (brainpickings.org)

McDonalds recruits Mom bloggers to smooth over healthy Happy Meal rollout (cnn.com)

Toys R Us to carry Kindle (reuters.com)

16 Must-have apps for a healthy pregnancy (parents.com)

Cell phone use doesn't alter kids' cancer risk: study (reuters.com)

Nintendo says 3DS is not for kids (mnn.com)

Social media game aims to end extremism (bbc.co.uk)

For more news on kids and technology, visit the Spark blog!

PEACE

2011-08-09T10:45:00.002-04:00

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yes-it's ME

2011-08-05T14:56:00.000-04:00

i'm still around. anyway, just wanted you all to know that. i've been writing my regular blog and working on my poems plus been doing a weekly opinion column at worldwidehippies.com

still crazy after all these years!

oh, and i had my very 1st. bison burger for lunch today-nothing ventured-nothing gained and i am a brave little burgh woman- it rocked- terrific! went to burgatory at the water works. 1st. time there too!

celebrating the steelers getting ready to PLAY!

YEP!

2011-08-04T14:26:00.002-04:00

‎"Corporations making lots of profit does not equal 'jobs', it turns out. It just equals...'lots of corporate profit'."

~Rachel Maddow
http://on.msnbc.com/obeWcM

Skype game gets kids excited about geography

2011-08-04T13:34:00.000-04:00

For teachers looking to inject some excitement into their geography lesson, Skype might be the answer. Silvia Tolisano recently created a game she calls "Mystery Skype Call" that uses the video conferencing tool and some critical thinking to teach students geography in a new and exciting way. The game is like a high-tech version of 20 questions that pits two classrooms from across the country against each other in a race to pin-point each other's destinations.

continue reading on the Spark blog...

Children’s Book for iPad Teaches Acceptance

2011-08-02T12:26:00.002-04:00

At first glance, Pop It seems no different from the many other interactive children's books "popping up" on the market for the iPad. But give the screen a shake and you'll begin to see the bigger picture.

The book features a child going through normal daily activities with his parents. By shaking the iPad, these parents can be changed from a homosexual couple, to a lesbian couple, to a heterosexual couple.

“It’s a metaphor for shaking from one perspective to another,” said artist and author Raghava KK in an interview with Mashable. “The relationship between parent and child does not change if they have two moms, two dads. I’m challenging the concept of family.”

Raghava hopes to use the concept to teach children to be open-minded about a variety of issues, including racial and ethnic biases. Eventually, he would like the project to be open-source and to allow users to create interpretations that address different biases that they deal with in their everyday lives.

Continue reading this story on the Spark blog...

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Weekly News Roundup July 29th

2011-07-29T13:45:00.002-04:00

Check out these interesting articles on kids and technology!

--- Slideshow presents the evolution of kid's computers (computerworlduk.com)

--- 5 reasons why the iPad was made to keep parents sane (cnn.com)

--- 10-year-old releases iPhone game with help from Make-a-Wish (geekwire.com)

--- The Netflix of baby clothes (plumgear.com)

--- Survey proves kids would rather be outside (guardian.co.uk)

--- Justin Bieber says, 'Don't text and drive' (mnn.com)

Read more news on kids and technology on the Spark blog...

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Brentwood Officials Are Still Covering Up Police Crimes

2011-07-28T20:38:00.000-04:00

Brentwood cops are out of control. Borough council lets them get away with it. Terroristic threats, harassment, intimidation, and conspiracy when they think there are no witnesses. Brentwood needs to control its cops before someone gets killed. AGAIN.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8269573/brentwood_officials_are_still_covering.html?cat=17

Back to School Shopping - Putting Last Year's Backpacks to Good Use

2011-07-27T14:00:00.004-04:00

The Pittsburgh Tote Bag Project has an interesting idea as your family launches into back-to-school shopping this month and next.

They are collecting gently used backpacks, both for children and adults, which will be distributed to food pantries so families can more easily carry their groceries home. These along with the tote bags also distributed also provide the family with reusable bags for other purposes (including school if that's appropriate).

The project collaborates with a dozen local organizations including Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, East End Food Co-Op, Construction Junction and more to collect excess new and gently used tote bags for redistribution to the region's food pantries. The project has nearly a dozen permanent drop-off spots and partners with varius groups and companies to organize tote bag drives.

So why kids' backpacks?

I remember being a child and walking with my mum to the grocery store to pick up items. She didn't drive, so we walked. My Dad drove us for the big shopping on payday, but he worked. A lot. So it was often my young brother and I helping for those "in-between" trips.

We hated it. The walk was about a mile each way. My mother kept a brisk pace, a tight list and was typically not given to buying us a treat (this was the 70s and 80s and we were a steelworking family on a budget). And we had to carry stuff. This was in the era of paper bags so you couldn't drape it from your wrist. It was a bag in each arm and keep up the pace. The worst was our ongoing battle over who had to carry the gallon jug of 2% milk. It was cold, uncomfortable and usually wet from condensation. Ugggg.

Equally ugggg would have been letting my Mum carry everything herself. Not that she gave us that option, but still I knew it wasn't fun for her to do this. Now I do want to mention that my parents did utilize food pantries when my Dad was laid off. But they never took us. I am sure it was a matter of pride.

Then there was the unload from the "big" grocery shopping trips on payday. Usually, we had to go along to help (again, ugggg). But we definitely needed to be front and center to unload and put away 18 thousand bags of groceries (at least it seemed that way). I would have gladly abdicated that job, but my Mum's theory was that if wanted to eat, we had to participate.

No one used reusable bags in those days. At least, not in the Mon Valley.

I digress to my lifelong aversion to the gallon jug of 2% milk to put our next request into context ...

You can see where an adult sized backpack can help an adult sized family member transport grocery items very efficiently. We want to have bags on hand to help the kid sized family members be able to help should that be necessary/desired.

And, frankly, it is a very practical use for the leftover bags. I don't like the idea of anyone, much less a child, having to struggle with a thin plastic bag filled with whatever item they are responsible to transport.

Make it more impactful for your kids. Explain the reason you are donating the bags and offer them a chance to donate grocery items that might fit into the backpack. For example, if a PTA filled bags with 18 ounce jars of peanut butter, canned fruit and any type of juice ... perfect! You can take your children along to the drop-off spot to contribute the items directly. Or we can work with you to set up an informal drive and make arrangements for the kids to see the Food Bank if you prefer.

We anticipate collecting our 1500th reusable bag by Saturday. That translates into 750 households served, 4500 disposable bags kept out of use and an unknown amount of pantry money freed up to spend on food instead of bags.

You can help us push onward. For more information about the project, including a complete list of drop-off spots please visit http://www.tote4pgh.org/

Girls Take Top Prize at Google Science Fair

2011-07-25T15:06:00.002-04:00

Although women make up nearly half of the world population, their presence in the sciences constitutes a vastly smaller percentage. Today, only twelve percent of engineers are female. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM for short) are all fields in which women are under-represented. This is precisely why this year’s Google Science Fair results are so exciting–all three top prizes were awarded to women.

The winning projects put the classic baking soda volcano to shame. Lauren Hodge, winner of the 13-14 age group, tested a variety of marinades and their effects on the carcinogens typically found in grilled chicken. Her findings showed that lemon juice and brown sugar sharply decreased carcinogen levels, while soy sauce actually increased them.

Naomi Shah, winner of the 15-16 age group, performed a study of 103 adult subjects where she was able to link the increase in two environmental pollutants to decreased lung function and asthma symptoms.

The grand prize was awarded to the winner of the 17-18 age group,Shree Bose of Fort Worth, Texas. Bose’s project focused on the chemotherapy drug cisplatin that is commonly taken by women with ovarian cancer. Bose discovered a protein known as AMPK that, when paired with the drug, stops cancer cells from becoming resistant to its effects. Bose shared her feelings in an interview with ABC:

“That perception that women can’t compete in science has been ingrained in this field for so long. It just shows that our world is changing and women are stepping forward in science, and I’m excited to be a small part of that.”

Weekly News Roundup July 22

2011-07-22T12:04:00.001-04:00

Check out these interesting articles on kids and technology!

Parents will enjoy these iPhone and iPad apps (Parents.com)

Mom’s Facebook Community Helps Diagnose Her Ailing Son (Mommyish.com)

New regulations for food, beverage advertising toward children (Healthkey.com)

Using touch screens and apps to treat autism (mercurynews.com)

The Internet Is Making Your Kids Think Differently, Not Less (Mommyish.com)

Teaching Angry Birds In School (neatorama.com)

Infographic Shows Top and Bottom States for Science Education (livescience.com)

For the latest on kids and technology, visit the Spark blog!

The Milk Truck

2011-07-20T19:33:00.000-04:00

Pennsylvania may have passed a law back in 2007 which allows women to breastfeed in public, but there are still those who would try to shame or bully them to stop. Enter The Milk Truck:

The Milk Truck is the creation of Jill Miller - artist and faculty member in the School of Art at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Milk Truck will be included in the 2011 Pittsburgh Biennial at the Andy Warhol Museum from September 26 - December 10.

The Milk Truck is a combination of guerilla theater, activism and a little slapstick humor. Yes, we will buy a truck and put a giant boob on the roof. Yes, we plan to drive it around Pittsburgh for the duration of the biennial exhibition. And yes, there’s a reason for making The Milk Truck - to create a mobile breastfeeding unit that allows mothers to feed their babies in places where they have been discouraged - restaurants, shopping malls, public spaces, etc. Babies should be able to eat anywhere. And everywhere.

[snip]

Thought the nursing mother created a spectacle? Meet The Milk Truck.

Glad someone remembers the real reason we have breasts...it ain't Hooters.

They can use some $ to make this a reality. You can contribute at the link above.

(h/t to Ms. Mon)

New Member

2011-07-20T16:23:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Alayna blogging for The Spark Blog sponsored by the Sprout Fund! She's already jumped in feet first so enjoy her contributions!

9 Year Old Designs App for iPhone

2011-07-20T13:07:00.001-04:00

When asked to create something, most nine year olds will grab crayons and construction paper. Ding Wen Lim of Singapore is much more likely to sit down at his computer. The fourth grader started using the computer at age two and has since learned six programming languages. At age nine, he has already completed 20 programming projects. His latest, Doodle Kids, is a free drawing program for use on Apple's iPhone. Lim says, “I wrote the program for my younger sisters, who like to draw but I am happy that other people like it.”

It seems this propensity for programming runs in the family, as Lim's father, Lim Thye Chean, also writes iPhone applications. He says, “He told me it was his wish to learn programming so I decided to teach him the basics. Every evening we check the statistics emailed to us (by iTunes) to see who has more downloads.”

Read more on the Spark blog...

Get your message to your legislators

2011-07-19T20:15:00.000-04:00

Our schools are supposed to teach this stuff, but they don't want you to know it.

How many of those irritating “Make Congress do what we want. Sign our petition today” emails did you get today? They’re a popular community organizing tool, but they’re the least effective way to get your representatives’ attention. Find out the best way.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8247027/get_your_message_to_your_legislators.html?cat=9

Billboards Give Pittsburgh Youth a Voice

2011-07-19T16:32:00.003-04:00

Hear Me, a project of CMU's CREATE Lab, strives to make the voices of children heard. This summer, they have chosen a larger-than-life medium that they hope will give children one more way to communicate: billboards.

So far, 50 billboards have been erected in Allegheny County and the surrounding region. The topics discussed cover everything from cyber-bullying and neighborhood violence to concerns over the environment. One billboard reads, "I still get called names... --- Crystal, 16." Another reads, "I was scared when I first heard the gunshot... -- Sherdina, 12." The billboards include links that viewers can follow to the Hear Me website where they'll find audio stories from more than 3,000 students in 25 school districts.

"We assume that children today have plenty of opportunities to make their dreams, fears and hopes known, whether it's by a mobile phone, computer or just talking," said Heide Waldbaum, director of Hear Me, "But learning how to express themselves about things that they really care about -- and getting adults and people in authority to really listen to them -- is difficult for many young people."

Spark Project Spotlight: Story Box

2011-07-19T12:00:00.004-04:00

Story Boxes are popping up all over town--in museums, libraries, and schools. To date, about 130 Story Box units have been produced, and that's just the beginning. So what exactly are Story Boxes, and what do they mean for children in Pittsburgh?

A Story Box is a 21” x 12” x 4” portable device containing images with "hot spots" that, when pressed, play related audio clips. For example, the "My Favorite Animal" Story Box features photographs of young children with illustrated embellishments to make them look like different animals. By pressing on a child's photo, the listener can hear audio clips of that child roaring like a tiger, describing a zebra's fur, or remembering the time they met a unicorn on the beach.

Each Story Box focuses on a specific theme. Story Boxes produced to date have included topics such as:

What I Am Thankful For
Unique Things I Know How To Do
My Favorite Animal
Bullying
Martin Luther King
Personal Narratives
Impact Of The Arts
Hope For The Coming Year
Environmental Documentaries
Career Profiles

Learn more about Story Boxes on the Spark blog...

Children Predict the Future of Technology

2011-07-16T13:44:00.002-04:00

Can children predict the future of computer technology? Recent research says yes.

Last year, Latitude, an international research and consulting firm asked 201 children from across the globe a simple question: “What would you like your computer or the Internet to do that it can’t do right now?” The children were asked to draw a picture in response. The study was aimed at targeting the first generation of “digital natives” and discovering their desires and expectations when it comes to technology. Despite the fact that the children ranged in age (from 5-12) and location (from South Africa to Chile and many countries in between) many of them echoed similar desires.

Read more on the Spark blog...

As the Budget Gets Smaller, Class Time Gets Shorter

2011-07-16T13:09:00.001-04:00

It's no secret that state and local budget cuts have been putting pressure on education. A recently published New York Times article discusses one of the many outcomes of this pressure-- decreased class time. It seems many institutions are dealing with a smaller budget by creating a shorter school day. "Thousands of school districts across the nation are gutting summer-school programs, cramming classes into four-day weeks or lopping days off the school year."

Reimagining Capitalism: From the Ground Up

2011-07-13T22:45:00.000-04:00

Capitalists are bullies. Pure capitalism is a massive failure. Most Americans can’t define capitalism, but think that our Constitution requires it because our schools yield politically and economically illiterate citizens. We can create a new capitalism.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8231209/reimagining_capitalism_from_the_ground.html?cat=9

2011-07-02T21:44:00.002-04:00

Read the Declaration of Independence

The Declaration of Independence was more a process than a moment in history. This act of treason against an empire sparked the Revolutionary War and, eventually, the United States of America. It is not, and has never been, a law, but it is worth reading.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8200949/read_the_declaration_of_independence.html?cat=37

Infrastructure Spending Stimulates the Entire Economy

2011-07-01T00:08:00.002-04:00

Every business that has ever sold anything to a construction company or a construction worker has benefitted from stimulus spending. The stimulus bill could have worked better if Republicans hadn’t hijacked one third of it for their own tax cuts.

Read More … http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8190515/infrastructure_spending_stimulates.html?cat=55

How to Become President of the United States

2011-06-20T21:00:00.002-04:00

The Presidential Election Processes

America’s next presidential election will be Nov 6, 2012, more than 16 months from now. The candidates and the media have already begun the journey and it promises to be a great show. It’s a long and grueling process with many things happening at once.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8162467/how_to_become_president_of_the_united.html?cat=31

America’s Liberal Roots, Shunning, and Other Random Thoughts

2011-06-16T21:25:00.000-04:00

Enjoy two dozen nuggets of remarkable insight, analysis, and wisdom about politics and life.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8153415/americas_liberal_roots_shunning_and.html?image=1414532&cat=3

We Are All Welfare Recipients

2011-06-14T22:25:00.000-04:00

The republithugs love to squawk that they adore the Constitution and chastise, belittle, and whine about “welfare recipients”. They won’t admit, even to themselves, that we are all welfare recipients and that every “welfare program” is constitutional.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8147225/we_are_all_welfare_recipients.html?cat=17

Who Should Pay Taxes?

2011-06-09T18:46:00.002-04:00

At its barest minimum, government has expenses. So government needs money. Government gets its money from taxes. Tax cuts do not create jobs. We all must contribute to the society that we enjoy. Everyone should pay taxes. It's part of being a grownup.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8133091/who_should_pay_taxes.html?cat=3

American Education: We Need Higher Standards

2011-06-01T00:26:00.000-04:00

Our schools turn out financially, economically, politically, and socially illiterate citizens. This stuff doesn’t happen by accident. The last thing any fascist wants is an educated workforce. We must require more from our kids and from public education.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8108387/american_education_we_need_higher_standards.html?cat=9

disabled sit in

2011-05-28T14:02:00.002-04:00

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Labor Unions: Myths and Facts

2011-05-27T01:09:00.002-04:00

The republithugs blame labor unions for every problem we face. It’s just another pathetic stunt to divide, conquer, and destroy the American middle class. Labor unions benefit every working person in America, whether they belong to a union or not.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8095601/labor_unions_myths_and_facts.html?cat=55

Help Local Girls: On the Spot Tonight!

2011-05-24T05:30:00.002-04:00

Scarf down cookies and beer to help local girls!

Via On the Spot:

On the Spot Round 3!

Looking to gorge yourself on cookies and other baked treats while donating menstrual supplies to girls in need around the Pittsburgh region? You’re in luck, On the Spot will be hosting another party to gather donations to supply girls with the menstrual supplies they need.

When: Tuesday May 24th, 6pm – 9pm

Where: Hough’s in Greenfield (563 Greenfield Avenue)

Costs: $10 or $5 and a package of pads or tampons (pads preferred)

All the stuff you love will be back: raffle prizes, a 50/50, a DJ, and of course: multiple cookie tables!

Facebook page here.
.

Welfare in America: Myths and Facts

2011-05-23T18:15:00.000-04:00

Everything you think you know about welfare is wrong.

We can debate whether to provide welfare benefits at all, but we must open that discussion with the truth, not with rumors or lies or distortions. Some even want to punish anyone who dares to ask for help. Why are so many people so proud of being so mean?

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8084493/welfare_in_america_myths_and_facts.html?cat=55

Blog for Equality Day 2011

2011-05-10T09:50:00.002-04:00

Today is Blog for Equality Day 2011 in Pittsburgh. We are responding to a measure introduced by State Representative Darryl Metcalfe to amend the PA Constitution to restrict the definition of marriage.

All bloggers and social media users are invited to participate. A post, Facebook note or even a tweet on the subject will help raise awareness and educate people on how drastic this amendment is.

To participate, write away and send a link to me via email, Twitter @Pghlesbian24, Facebook or some other shout out.

This promises to be a long, ugly battle and includes other conservative agenda issues so please help galvanize the troops.

Unemployment Compensation: Myths and Facts

2011-05-07T19:45:00.000-04:00

The GOP is still setting Americans against each other by lying about unemployment benefits and unemployed people. Don’t fall for it. Here’s the truth. Tell your legislators to support working families who pay taxes, not the corporations that don’t.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8039179/unemployment_compensation_myths_and.html?cat=55

Rally for a Responsible Budget Was a Huge Success

2011-05-04T20:54:00.002-04:00

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Completely Missed the Point

Nearly 7,000 Pennsylvanians from throughout the state and dozens of groups rallied in Harrisburg with a single message. We demand a responsible budget. All corporations must pay taxes. We lobbied our legislators. Now we all must keep up the pressure.

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8031509/rally_for_a_responsible_budget_was.html?cat=9

Joanna Russ, Writer & Feminist Icon, Died This Morning

2011-04-29T14:41:00.000-04:00

She was 74 and had recently had some strokes.

She had a big influence on me, mostly from one story "When It Changed"

Win two FREE tickets to hear Victoria Kennedy speak

2011-04-29T13:19:00.003-04:00

Adagio Health is celebrating 40 years of providing health care with a festive celebration on Thursday, May 19, 2011 at Rodef Shalom.

Reception at 5:30
Keynote presentation and Q&A with Victoria Kennedy begins at 6:30

They've asked us to raffle two tickets to our Society readers.

If you are interested, leave a comment and be sure to leave your email address!

Pennsylvania Needs a Responsible Budget

2011-04-27T18:34:00.002-04:00

Corbett’s budget plan cuts one billion dollars from all public schools and universities. No school is safe. All local wage and property taxes will rise. Join us in Harrisburg on May 3 to stand up for your family. All are welcome. Free buses are available.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8009341/pennsylvania_needs_a_responsible_budget.html?image=1414532&cat=55

WWH-Who Are We?

2011-04-26T20:14:00.000-04:00

WWH-Who Are We?

me- shameless self promotion but hey...! ; )

Mourn for the Dead. Fight for the Living.

2011-04-25T19:14:00.000-04:00

Join us on Workers Memorial Day.

Each year, dangerous conditions kill thousands of workers on the job. The AFL-CIO observes April 28 as a day to “mourn for the dead, fight for the living.” Labor unions and workers in nearly 100 countries observe the day. Join us at an event in your town.
Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8002137/mourn_for_the_dead_fight_for_the_living.html?cat=55

Let’s Criminalize Poverty

2011-04-22T00:29:00.000-04:00

I love recessions. They’re just so darned entertaining. First, politicians try to deflect attention away from their fiscal failures by turning Americans against each other. Then the great American middle class gets an education.

Read more . . .

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7991525/lets_criminalize_poverty.html?cat=55

Remember Before You Vote

2011-04-14T17:56:00.000-04:00

Remember Before You Vote

Laurie D. T. Mann

Many politicians make it clear they don't care who dies,

so long as the wealthy and corporations pay less in taxes.

They don't care when people die from lack of medical care.

They don't care when women die from backroom abortions.

They don't care when soldiers die in pointless wars.

They don't care when citizens die in war,

or industrial hazard,

or from a failure to plan well,

or from poor infrastructure,

or from a lack of education,

or from bad water, food or air.

They don't care when the harassed die from murder or suicide.

Don't elect the ignorant who make it perfectly clear they don't care about

"Government of the people

by the people

for the people."

It's still your choice.

Vote smart!

Darlene Harris for City Council

2011-04-14T14:30:00.001-04:00

When I met Darlene Harris I was fairly confident I would like her. I knew she loved animals, stood up to the Mayor when necessary and had a Northside brashness to her that I've come to appreciate.

What I didn't expect was how much she seemed to like me. She was very interested in blogs, asking me several questions and the confessing that she secretly enjoyed the anonymous blogs about Pgh politics. I told her I had zero anonymity, but had been kissed by at least 4 City Councilman. That part didn't impress her that much, but hey -- I'm not privy to anything more juicy (that I can share).

Darlene Harris combines what I imagine is old school Northside politics with a skillful capacity to evolve with the times (hence the blog appreciation) because it was was best for Pittsburgh. Our conversation flitted from pensions plans to soap operas, from Animal Care Control to the real smoke filled eras of days gone by.

Let me assure you, Darlene lives and breathes the Northside. She has no patience for the term North Shore and told me that even though I lived in Manchester (another district), I was a neighbor. I tried to test her by asking her to name all of her neighborhoods in reverse alphabetical order. She gave me a look over the top of her glasses and asked for a minute to think.

What she can do is regularly attend community meetings throughout the district. When candidate night rolls around, Darlene was more of a fixture than a guest. She believes this is the essential way to build a relationship with the district - keeping people engaged and she makes no bones about using a mother's style to meet her district needs.The same is true of her Council presidency - she strives for engagement and compromise. Then she laughs heartily when admitting it hasn't always worked out that way.

Born and raised in Troy Hill, Darlene made the big move to Spring Hill and has been there ever since. She became involved in the community when neighbors filled up a dumpster she had rented while she slept. She called the local community group and asked them to replace the dumpster since the community had filled it. It worked and a life of community advocacy began. She moved up the ranks from volunteer to leader and eventually found herself President of the Pittsburgh Public School Board. From there, it was just a few steps away to Pittsburgh City Council.

She has a strong interest in public safety. She admits she almost applied to be a police officer, but was distracted. During her tenure on City Council, she has had cameras installed in each of her neighborhoods, been vocal about the need for people to report crime to the police if they want to see something done and called for more police on the force. She actually abstained on the City's personnel budget because it defunded police positions. She is adamant that more police visibility deters crime.

She is equally adamant that the suburbanites are not pulling their weight when it comes to public safety and other public services. $52 is not enough, she shakes her head as she enumerates the variety of services people received while expecting 300,000+ folks to financially support it. She was philosophical about getting that changed, instead tearing into another long time debate - taxing non-profits. She spit out the statistics faster than I could write, sat back with her arms folded matter of factly and said "the City lives off wage taxes and property taxes, you do the math."

Her campaign manager handed her a sheef of papers and she cagily offered to name the neighborhoods in reverse alphabetical order. I was saved from an unPresidential point of order when both of her cell phones rangs at the same time. She was experienced juggling competing call and I was enthralled watching her negotiate a work related issue with plans for some activity with her family. Those on the other ends of the calls seem nonplussed by the crosstalk. I was really impressed when she continued to sip coffee throughout the calls.

We talked about diversity in public safety and she said it very bluntly -- people have to apply, the issue is not about hiring it is about recruitment. Darlene also regularly calls members of the media who punt and locate crimes in "the Northside" instead of pinpointing a specific neighborhood. She had a point when she said that didn't happen so much in the East End or the West End. She had neighborhood specific maps of the Northside printed up for distribution to the media. Education.

This also fits with her belief that each neighborhood in the Northside is unique. Her headquarters on East Ohio Street gave rise discussioin of revitalization. She envisions a Northside with plenty of green spaces and many new businesses. She also puts her money where her mouth is ... when the City is selling off a property, she consults with the neighborhood so they don't inadvertently create an absentee landlord situation.

Darlene's philosophy is pretty fundamental "Get Involved In Your Community" After all these years, it really does boil down to the dumpster mentality. Your rely on your community and you need to give back.

Someone recently asked me why I liked Darlene for City Council. I think it comes down to just our general conversation. I liked her self-confidence, her laying it on the line with me, her respect for community. I respect her leadership in a man's world and the example she sets for girls and younger women.

And I'm fairly certain she's memorized that list of neighborhoods, in reverse alphabetical order. Just because she can.

VERY COOL

2011-04-12T19:01:00.002-04:00

Rally for Equal Pay Today!

2011-04-12T07:40:00.003-04:00

Via the Women and Girls Foundation:

When the Women and Girls Foundation first began efforts to raise awareness of the wage gap and remedy this issue in Southwest PA, women were making less than 70 cents for every dollar a man was making. Since then, WGF has worked with city and county leaders throughout the region to pass wage equity legislation and to support the issue of fair pay for women. Now, in 2011, women are making 75 cents to a man's dollar. We have made change happen in our region, but there is still significant work to be done in Southwest PA and throughout the state to close the gap for women in Pennsylvania.

Equal Pay Day is commemorated annually, when groups organize nationally to raise awareness of the gender wage gap throughout the country. This day, each April, symbolizes how long it takes for women to catch up to men's wages from the previous year. While men earn their wages in 365 days, on average it takes women 483 days. Nationally, women make an average of 80 cents for every dollar a man makes and in Pennsylvania, women make 75 cents per dollar.

Hundreds of women and men have attended previous Equal Pay Day rallies. This year WGF is partnering with local organizations to bring you Equal Pay Day activities in Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Washington and Westmoreland counties!

See listings below to learn more about the activities being planned for your community, and plan to join us as we rally for Equal Pay in Southwest Pennsylvania.

Allegheny County
Partner: YWCA Greater Pittsburgh Center for Race and Gender Equity

Tuesday, April 12 from 12:00 to 1:00pm Market Square Park, Downtown Pittsburgh

Rally Featuring local corporate, nonprofit and business leaders, and representitives from the Allegheny County Regional Change Agents

Equal Pay Bake Sale* (hosted by the Allegheny County Regional Change Agents) Baked goods will be available for purchase. To help illustrate the wage gap, men will be charged $1 per item, and women will be charged 75 cents

A Second Equal Pay Bake Sale* will be held at Alderdice High School (hosted by the Allegheny County Regional Change Agents)

Public Demonstrations Do Bring Change

2011-04-11T21:20:00.000-04:00

Most Americans have a baffling fear of demonstrations, but they’re completely safe. No significant social, economic, or political change has happened anywhere in the world without protest and demonstration. History is made by those who show up. Join us!

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7956533/public_demonstrations_do_bring_change.html?cat=3

Nominations: Women "Greening" Pittsburgh and 40 Under 40 2011

2011-04-11T07:57:00.003-04:00

Two honors you should take note of ...

The Women & Girls Foundation of SW PA has selected "Women Greening Pittsburgh" as the theme for their annual recognition of prominent women in a local industry. Nominations are due by April 22, 2011 and the ceremony is scheduled for November.

On November 19th, the Women and Girls Foundation will celebrate outstanding women and girls in Southwestern Pennsylvania engaged in environmentally conscious innovation. This gala will honor women who through their actions, words and work are leading the way in green energy, green policy, green technology and green innovation in our region. We invite you to nominate a woman or girl in Southwest Pennsylvania who is engaged in leading the way in green energy, green policy, green technology, and green innovation in our region. Please help us recognize and celebrate the achievements of accomplished women and girls in our region by nominating someone you admire in your community, company or organization.

here

It is also time to honor Pittsburgh's 40 Under 40, a collaboration of Pittsburgh Magazine and PUMP. 40 Under 40 looks for individuals with a unique personal story and significant communnity contributions The winners and honors are also bestowed in November. Noominations are due June 3, 2011. Nomination forms here.

This is where I usually insert the story of how my 40 under 40 honor in 2004 eventually led me to blogging. That seems less and less relevant as the years march on, but I genuinely appreciate the recognition especially as it gave a little exposure to the LGBTQ community.

An on a note to tie this up, I received my 40 under 40 award the same year as Women & Girls Foundation CEO, Heather Arnet. :-)

Fundraiser for Lucille Prater-Holliday for Pittsburgh City Council

2011-04-08T11:41:00.000-04:00

Find out more/RSVP here. .

UTERUS

2011-04-08T10:50:00.002-04:00

http://youtu.be/zpBO3euQQPY

Yay Doyle, OMG GOP WTF???

2011-04-08T10:22:00.001-04:00

So, my little blog caused a bit of a stir yesterday! If you called Congressman Mike Doyle’s after reading yesterday’s post, or wandered over here after his response, then you know that Rep. Doyle in fact OPPOSES HR-3 and HR 358. In fact, he opposed them from the start, no pausing, no pondering, no prevarication.

He writes (about HR-358) “You will be happy to know that when this legislation was considered before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, of which I am a Member, I was vocal with my strong opposition, and voted against it. Despite that, H.R. 358 passed out of the Committee by a vote of 14 to 9, and will next be considered before the entire House of Representatives.”

According to the Congressman’s office, an intern got his facts wrong, and thus learned a valuable lesson on three very, very important words: “I don’t know.” I hope they weren’t too mad at the young man. I am encouraged that anyone still wants to go into politics these days.

Also, I spoke with Doyle’s office and they were very nice. They could have been jerks (even though I DID do my due diligence) human nature is often to lead with anger and indignation.

So it’s all good, right??

Wait…what did I see this morning? In the swirl of getting myself and the kids out the door on time I could swear I heard CNN say that the Budget deal to avoid a government shutdown hinges on….funding for Planned Parenthood.

Really?

REALLY????

Oi. Vey.

And according to this blog (and you know Blogs are the most reliable source for information right?) only Harry Reed and John Boehner can come together strike a deal and avoid a shut down. (Actually lots of outlets are reporting that it is the issue of funding for Planned Parenthood holding things up.)

We are doomed.

Just kidding. Actually we are

DOOMED.

Go read the rest of this post and TAKE ACTION!!!

WGF & PA Treasurer McCord announce new policy initiatives to increase gender equity

2011-04-07T19:22:00.001-04:00

From the Women and Girls Foundation --

On Tuesday, April 6, 2011 the Women and Girls Foundation hosted a press conference with PA Treasurer Rob McCord to stress the importance of increasing gender diversity on corporate boards. Five companies on Pittsburgh's "Top 50 in Business" were honored for their leadership on this topic and the Treasurer made an important announcement about Treasury’s efforts to engage in Institutional Advocacy around this topic.

At the press conference, Treasurer McCord presented proclamations honoring HFF, Allegheny Valley Bancorp, Alcoa, First Commonwealth, and PNC Financial Services. Each corporation is a publicly traded company included among Pittsburgh’s “Top 50” that have at least three or more women currently serving on their board of directors. The Pennsylvania Treasury has partnered with The Women and Girls Foundation to research best practices by other state Treasurers to improve portfolio performance and the board diversity of companies in which they invest. Treasurer McCord explained that the Pennsylvania Treasury, as an institutional investor, is encouraging increased corporate board diversity. Under the department’s amended proxy guidelines, the State Treasury will:
Manually vote on corporate board nominee slates via a formalized proxy voting system.
Correspond with company CEOs, board chairs, and nominating committees that fail to include women directors on corporate board nominee slates.
Maintain an open dialogue with corporate leadership and board nominating committees to include representation of women and minorities;
Sponsor, submit, and support shareholder resolutions that seek a greater representation of women on corporate boards;
Encourage amending board nominating committee charters to ensure that female candidates are routinely sought in board searches; and
Encourage other state treasurers and colleagues to join Pennsylvania in taking these actions.
”We are thrilled by today’s announcement by the Treasurer,” said Heather Arnet, WGF CEO. “Through identifying board diversity as a priority within Treasury proxy guidelines, the Treasurer is making real impact on this issue at the systemic level.”

Video of the press conference here ...

Beware the Politics of Distraction

2011-04-07T15:48:00.002-04:00

For 30 years, those on the political right have focused more on scaring you than informing you. Now they’re blaming their bad economic decisions on labor unions and public employees. They don’t believe any of this stuff. They want you to believe it.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7943113/beware_the_politics_of_distraction.html?cat=55

Aaaaaaa! OMG Doyle WTF??

2011-04-07T12:09:00.002-04:00

UPDATE: Congressman Doyle posted a clarifying response (he opposes HR-3 and HR-358 on the original blog.

Spurred on by something that showed up in my Facebook stream, I called my Congressman, Rep. Mike Doyle to ask about his stance on HR-3 and HR-358. The nice young man who answered the phone told me that Rep. Doyle has yet to take a position on these bills….

Really?

REALLY??????

HR-358 is the bill that would allow hospitals to let a woman die rather than performing a life saving abortion. So the scenario is this…a woman, most likely pregnant by choice and excited to become a mother suffers some monstrous, unimaginable injury or illness or complication. The only way to save her life is to terminate the pregnancy. A devastating and horrible choice for an expectant mother to make. This bill would let a hospital choose (note that the hospital and doctors seem to have a choice in this matter) to refuse to perform this LEGAL and NECESSARY medical procedure and allow the mother to die.

And Doyle doesn’t have a position on this yet????

SHAME. ON. YOU. Congressman Doyle.

Along with all the other anti-woman, infantalizing, misogynistic provisions in these bills (including the redefinition of rape)….I totally forgot where I was going with this sentence. My vision is blurring in a haze of outrage…oh, along with all these other provisions this is some of the worst and most damaging legislation for women and their families we’ve seen in a long time. I cannot support anyone who votes for these bills. Ever. I understand we all make compromises, and I have voted for anti-choice legislators before because they are the best choice overall, but these bills aren’t just anti choice, they will result in the deaths of women. These bills, if they become law, will condemn women to die from cancer, botched back alley abortions, and whatever you call it when a hospital watches a woman die (I call that murder.)

Please call Rep. Doyle now and urge him to “take a position” AGAINST these bills. If he wont, I can suggest a few other positions he take, starting with retired.

202-225-2135

waste water

2011-04-06T13:27:00.000-04:00

http://hosted.ap.org/specials/interactives/_national/marcellus-water/index.html

check out this interactive map

Pittsburgh Says: “THIS IS WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE!”

2011-04-05T17:18:00.000-04:00

The GOP attack on Americans began in Wisconsin nearly two months ago. More than 20 states have joined the assault. On Monday, nearly 1,000 people marched through downtown Pittsburgh in solidarity with the national “We Are One” campaign. Join us.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7936109/pittsburgh_says_this_is_what_democracy.html?cat=55

I like you in spite of you ...

2011-04-04T09:26:00.002-04:00

Crossposted from Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

Dear Virginia
by Sue on Sun 03 Apr 2011 07:07 PM EDT

A few days ago, Ginny Montanez came out as a Republican on her very popular blog, That's Church.

But this Sunday while reading an article about the Port Authority service cuts that went into effect today, I was first shocked to see the 67J was cut, because I assumed that was a pretty profitable and popular route. But I was the most shocked that transit union president Patrick McMahon said this to the media:

“Dan Onorato — union buster,” Mr. McMahon said. “That’s the label you will have whatever else you do in your life. You stink. You’re a Republican.”

The very day I outed myself as Virginia Montanez instead of PittGirl, Chad Hermann at the Radical Middle latched on to this letter to the editor I wrote when George Bush was re-elected, wondering how my readers were going to like me knowing I was a Republican. This resulted in some uproar from readers who were shocked I ever voted for a “war criminal.” Yes. WAR CRIMINAL. I voted for him because as you already know ME LOVE KILLING! GRRRRR.

Nearly 170 comments followed, many of which were very supportive of Ginny. What struck me? How many people were willing to "accept" her Republican lifestyle because she isn't like the rest of them. They liked her in spite of party affiliation.

Say what? Now I do not know Ginny personally, even though we brushed elbows at a fundraiser last summer. I don't always agree with her and I have admittedly cast an envious glance or two at her comment sections.

But here's what I do know. When I asked her to help me raise funds to provide holiday gifts to families experiencing homelessness and/or living with mental illness, she did it. She simply said "How can I help?"with no concern that holiday gifts for 44 year old mentally ill men living in a shelter is not content for a very sexy blog post. It is just real. She helped and there was absolutely no question from her about the worth or value of the cause. She just helped.

Here's what else I know. Republicans are good people. A very dear friend of mine is a conservative Christian fundamentalist. I don't love him in spite of these facts. I love him because he lives the real values, not the hyped-up media portrayed values. I love him because we can agree that people need affordable housing and just disagree on how to create it. I love him because when I called him at 11 PM with an emergency, he was there by 8 AM the next morning and again the next day and the next. He isn't a stereotype to me and he isn't an exception. He reads me something, we argue and then we go have lunch. It is all good. I don't have enough fingers to count the ways he lived up to his values while the rest of us were talking about it.

My Dad is a Catholic Republican who loves George Bush and Rick Santorum. I try to talk with him about issues, but he has none of that talk. He is just glad I ended up with a lawyer, albeit a female, and treats her exactly like he treats my sister-in-law.

My point is that I love my friend and I love my Dad for who they are, not in spite of it. That's what I expect from them, right? No "lifestyle" comments, no "Sue and her friend" comments. My friend actually asks me a lot of questions and thinks my trust in the federal government is more perilous than my sexual orientation.

I write a political blog and I have taken swings at Republicans and probably did the very thing I'm railing about.

When I saw the piece in the Post-Gazette about Ginny, I just stopped what I was doing. She wants good public transportation, so do I. It sure seems like we can write a big list of "things Sue and Ginny agree about" if we tried.

If you told me you liked me in spite of the fact that I'm a lesbian or because I'm not like "those" lesbians, I would take a deep breath and smile while sweetly asking you to explain and just watch you dig yourself in deeper and deeper to show what an unbelievable homophobe you really are. I might punch you, but Ledcat frowns on potential lawsuits.

I like Ginny because she thinks 44 year old men living with mental illness in a shelter deserve a holiday gift just like kids and you and lesbians and George Bush. I think George Bush deserves a holiday gift. Seriously. But remember I'm the lesbian who wants to be an evangelical (remind me to tell you that I might actually be able to pull that off).

Ginny doesn't need me to defend her. But I will say that I learned a lesson about my broad strokes. There is a difference between Republican parties, strategies, tactics, plans and belief systems AND people who are Republican.

One thing I admire about Western PA Republicans is their willingness to be honest. There are a lot of Republicans in Democrat clothing and I find that abhorrent and self-serving the highest degree. But I also find it abhorrent to deny women reproductive healthcare. That's where it gets tough to sort out motives and beliefs and so forth.

It is a murky path we tread, but let's try to be a little more genuine. I have Republican friends, people I love and admire and appreciate. I have to work harder to remind myself that I am swooping them up into stereotypes. Perhaps that's inevitable when you blog politically, but it doesn't feel very good.

Frankly, if I had lunch with Ginny, I'd probably be more concerned about her pigeon-hating than her opinions on unions. I like pigeons. And unions.

And I like Ginny for putting this out there. Good conversations require self-disclosures, both lofty and otherwise.

Biography: Need to Know - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2011-04-04T08:38:00.000-04:00

How a Federal Government Shutdown Affects You

2011-04-03T20:09:00.000-04:00

News reports have been chattering about a possible government shutdown since September. The demodupes and republithugs have been posturing and saber-rattling and making a lot of noise, but none of them bother to explain what that means for the public.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7928929/how_a_federal_government_shutdown_affects.html?cat=8

Stand in Solidarity with Working People on April 4

2011-03-30T16:32:00.000-04:00

Elected republithugs are violating the law, flaunting court orders, and ignoring public will to drag us all back to the days of sweatshops and robber barons. Are you going to let them get away with it? Join us on Monday for a nationwide series of events.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7913861/stand_in_solidarity_with_working_people.html?cat=4

Hines Ward & Kym Johnson - Quickstep

2011-03-29T09:09:00.000-04:00

Pitt stop - NYPOST.com

2011-03-29T08:58:00.000-04:00

Pitt stop - NYPOST.com pretty cool!

Pittsburgh Unity Fair Offers Help for All Working Families

2011-03-28T18:59:00.000-04:00

Unemployment isn’t just a personal problem, it’s a community problem. Are you out of work, facing a lay-off, or under-employed? Do you know someone who is? The Pennsylvania Wants to Work! Resource, Jobs and Unity Fair can connect you with information, help, and support.

Vt. House Passes Single-Payer Health Care Bill | Common Dreams

2011-03-25T16:28:00.000-04:00

Vt. House Passes Single-Payer Health Care Bill Common Dreams

Triangle Fire Centennial Holds Lessons for All of Us

2011-03-25T16:14:00.002-04:00

Republithugs want to repeal safety rules made after 146 people died in 1911 Triangle factory fire. When lawmakers vote to relax business regulations, they vote to endanger your life. Are you willing to die so that your company CEO can have more money?

Read More . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7896544/what_the_triangle_factory_fire_did.html?cat=3

If You Don’t Stand for Something, You’ll Fall for Anything.

2011-03-20T22:38:00.000-04:00

As our government eagerly plans its third theatre of military operations in the Libyan no-fly zone, the Republithugs’ attack on the middle class keeps rolling along. So, show us what you stand for.

Read More . . . .

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7878002/if_you_dont_stand_for_something_youll.html?cat=75

Working America's Unemployment Lifeline Serves You

2011-03-16T21:40:00.000-04:00

Leveling the Battlefield in the GOP's War on the Middle Class.

America’s middle class has been under assault for thirty years and there is no end in sight. Working America's Unemployment LIfeline offers free services and a voice to the unemployed.

Read More . . . .

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7865146/working_americas_unemployment_lifeline.html?cat=75

2011-03-15T09:02:00.003-04:00

http://www.fbi.gov/news/pressrel/press-releases/tips-on-avoiding-fraudulent-charitable-contribution-schemes

Two Critical Actions on Tuesday

2011-03-14T20:18:00.000-04:00

Associated Content from Yahoo! - associatedcontent.com

www.associatedcontent.com

Protect your job and your transportation to get to work. Join your neighbors for two rallies in Downtaon Pittsburgh. Tuesday, March 15.

Pennsylvania’s Corbett Continues GOP Attack on the Middle Class

2011-03-11T00:05:00.000-05:00

I told you this was going to happen.

Who benefits from destroying everything that sustains the middle class? The last thing any Republican wants is an educated workforce. This stuff doesn't happen by accident.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7845888/pennsylvanias_corbett_continues_gop.html?cat=9

UN Women Executive Director Michelle Bachelet on the International Women...

2011-03-08T08:32:00.000-05:00

AN OBIT

2011-03-07T09:18:00.001-05:00

Olga (Staraniec) Pusateri

Rural Ridge

Olga (Staraniec) Pusateri, 85, of Rural Ridge, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 5, 2011, at Alle-Kiski Medical Center, Harrison. She was born Dec. 24, 1925, in Poland. A holocaust survivor, she and her son, Andrew Staraniec Sr., immigrated to America in 1950 and moved to Rural Ridge the same year, where she resided for the past 61 years. Olga worked for H.J. Heinz Co. for more than 32 years and was a member of the PNA, Russellton. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. One of her favorite pleasures was cooking traditional European meals for her family and also enjoyed gardening, cooking, reading and listening to polkas. Survivors include her husband of 44 years, Joseph A. Pusateri; son, Andrew (Sara) Staraniec Sr., of West Deer; grandchildren, Michelle Staraniec, of West Deer, Andrew Staraniec Jr., of New Kensington, and Heather (Dean) Chiamonte, of Etna; great-grandchildren, Eric and Anthony, Jacob, Jessica and Isabella; brothers, Walter and Peter Staraniec; and her sister, Sophia Staraniec, all in Europe. Olga was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Mary (Krwczyk) Staraniec; and four other brothers and sisters. Family and friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in the SIWICKI-YANICKO FUNERAL HOME, 23 McKrell Road, Russellton, West Deer Township, where services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Burial will be in Lakewood Memorial Gardens, Indiana Township.

I was privileged to get to know this lady and her family. She embodied the spirit of Pittsburgh and it's work ethic and attitude. she was forced labor for the Nazis and i can not imagine her experiences. nor do i want to.
In the begining life was harsh here for her and her son but she persevered and in time she and her son became a part of the american dream. i will always have a soft spot in my heart for her memory.

2011-03-05T12:02:00.000-05:00

JOIN ME in honoring Allison Krause for Women's History Month in 2011. Allison was a nineteen year old coed at Kent State University in 1970. On May 4th, in the national guard occupation of her campus, Allison was shot dead as she protested the Vietnam war. Sandy, Jeff & Bill were also killed and nine students were wounded in this acti...on to suppress dissent against war in America. The incident triggered national outrage in a country already divided over the Vietnam War. In the days that followed more than four million students rose up in dissent across 900 campuses, generating the only nationwide student protest in U.S. history. The Kent State killings have never been thoroughly examined and no person or group has been held accountable for wrongdoing.

Why The War On Planned Parenthood Might Backfire

2011-03-05T11:23:00.000-05:00

Why The War On Planned Parenthood Might Backfire

Allegheny County Labor Council endorses Harris, Prater-Holliday and Wagner

2011-03-05T10:23:00.003-05:00

Friday afternoon the Allegheny County Labor Council which represents 175 different labor organizations in Allegheny County endorsed three local women running for office.

State Representative Chelsa Wagner who is seeking to be the next Allegheny County Controller

City Council President Darlene Harris who is seeking another term on City Coucil

Lucille Prater-Holliday a community activist challenging current Councilman Ricky Burgess in the 9th council district.

"I'm honored to have the full support of the Allegheny County Labor Council," said Representative Wagner, "With the attacks on workers in Wisconsin and Ohio, I'm ready and willing to fight for the working families of Allegheny County and I will stand up for them everyday as Allegheny County Controller."

“I know firsthand how being a part of a union household can help working families make a living and access critical benefits such as health insurance,” said Prater-Holliday. “It is a privilege to have the backing of the Allegheny County Labor Council. As a member of City Council, I will work tirelessly to support working families in our neighborhoods.”

The Allegheny County Labor Council's endorsement is considered a heavy stamp of approval in a Democratic primary, and provides significant organizational and monetary support to endorsed candidates.

The Council also endorsed City Councilmen Bruce Kraus and Patrick Dowd in their reelection bids, along with Corey O'Connor.

Koch Bros. Move Into Pennsylvania

2011-02-28T20:15:00.000-05:00

Koch Bros. Move Into Pennsylvania

Walk to End Poverty for All

2011-02-28T20:08:00.000-05:00

On the first weekend in spring, get out and shake off that winter sluggishness. Take a good, brisk walk. Bring your friends. Make a difference.

Read More . . . .
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7804440/walk_to_end_poverty_for_all.html?cat=8

Watch out America. They’re Coming for You Next.

2011-02-28T19:25:00.002-05:00

Republicans Attack the Middle Class

If the public employee unions do fall, the private employee unions are next. And then it’s your turn.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7808688/watch_out_america_theyre_coming_for.html?image=1414532&cat=9

Billionaire Right-Wing Koch Brothers Fund Wisconsin Governor Campaign an...

2011-02-25T10:36:00.000-05:00

Walk for Choice in Many Cities Worldwide, Saturday, February 26 noon-3

2011-02-25T08:51:00.002-05:00

Any chance for something like this in Pittsburgh?

http://msmagazine.com/blog/blog/2011/02/24/walk-for-choice-this-saturday/

Pittsburgh Unions Join the Fight to Save the Middle Class

2011-02-24T23:24:00.001-05:00

Scott Walker is a liar. This fight is not about budgets. This is not about overpaid and underworked teachers, or firefighters, or public employees. This is a deliberate, organized attack on every working person in America.

Read More . . . . http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7794618/pittsburgh_joins_the_fight_to_save.html?cat=9

President Bloomingdale's We Are One message.mov

2011-02-20T13:02:00.000-05:00

UPDATE - Epic Tea Party FAIL: Anti-union

2011-02-19T18:45:00.000-05:00

UPDATE - Epic Tea Party FAIL: Anti-union

The Pittsburgh Women's Blogging Society

Support Western PA Girl Scouts & Pgh TransYouth: Buy More Cookies

Why We Need More Lobbyists

Tales Exaggerate Congressional Pay and Pensions

What is the Constitution Anyway?

Thanksgiving, the U.S. Constitution, and American Ignorance

Scenes from Occupy Pittsburgh

Obama to Visit Pittsburgh for American Jobs Act

I'll be covering President Obama's event at IBEW Local 5, Pittsburgh, for his American Jobs Act tomorrow in South Side. Watch my column for the story.http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/933068/pat_omalley.html

TV’s Latest Trend Offends All of Us

Voter Registration Deadline is Tuesday, October 11

Pittsburgh Unity Fair Offers Help for All Working Families

President Obama’s American Jobs Act

Weekly News Roundup September 9

Republicans Want to Steal Your Vote

POETS...

Join Your Friends and Neighbors in the Labor Day Parade

Weekly News Roundup August 26

The 4C’s Help Children Go Above and Beyond

Why Congress Can’t Get Anything Done

Who Should Provide Social Services?

Weekly News Roundup August 5th

PEACE

yes-it's ME

YEP!

Skype game gets kids excited about geography

Children’s Book for iPad Teaches Acceptance

Weekly News Roundup July 29th

Brentwood Officials Are Still Covering Up Police Crimes

Back to School Shopping - Putting Last Year's Backpacks to Good Use

Girls Take Top Prize at Google Science Fair

Weekly News Roundup July 22

The Milk Truck

New Member

9 Year Old Designs App for iPhone

Get your message to your legislators

Billboards Give Pittsburgh Youth a Voice

Spark Project Spotlight: Story Box

Children Predict the Future of Technology

As the Budget Gets Smaller, Class Time Gets Shorter

Reimagining Capitalism: From the Ground Up

Infrastructure Spending Stimulates the Entire Economy

How to Become President of the United States

America’s Liberal Roots, Shunning, and Other Random Thoughts

We Are All Welfare Recipients

Who Should Pay Taxes?

American Education: We Need Higher Standards

disabled sit in

Labor Unions: Myths and Facts

Help Local Girls: On the Spot Tonight!

Welfare in America: Myths and Facts

Blog for Equality Day 2011

Unemployment Compensation: Myths and Facts

Rally for a Responsible Budget Was a Huge Success

Joanna Russ, Writer & Feminist Icon, Died This Morning

Win two FREE tickets to hear Victoria Kennedy speak

Pennsylvania Needs a Responsible Budget

WWH-Who Are We?

Mourn for the Dead. Fight for the Living.

Let’s Criminalize Poverty

Remember Before You Vote

Remember Before You Vote

Laurie D. T. Mann

Darlene Harris for City Council

VERY COOL

Rally for Equal Pay Today!

Public Demonstrations Do Bring Change

Nominations: Women "Greening" Pittsburgh and 40 Under 40 2011

Fundraiser for Lucille Prater-Holliday for Pittsburgh City Council

UTERUS

Yay Doyle, OMG GOP WTF???

REALLY????

DOOMED.

WGF & PA Treasurer McCord announce new policy initiatives to increase gender equity

Beware the Politics of Distraction

Aaaaaaa! OMG Doyle WTF??

REALLY??????

SHAME. ON. YOU. Congressman Doyle.

202-225-2135

waste water

I'll be covering President Obama's event at IBEW Local 5, Pittsburgh, for his American Jobs Act tomorrow in South Side. Watch my column for the story.

http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/933068/pat_omalley.html