Dr. Bompiani is a Defender of our Right to Bear Arms. He is proud to be given a 100% rating by the Firearm Owners Against Crime, and an A Rating from the NRA.
Dr. Bompiani is Pro-Life. He is proud to be endorsed by LifePac.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
BOMPIANI Denies Senator's Parting Shots
Tony Bompiani, the Democratic candidate hoping to succeed state Sen. Bob Regola, said Tuesday that he never intended to inject the incumbent's legal or personal problems into the campaign.
At a news conference outside the Westmoreland County Courthouse in Greensburg, Bompiani made his first public comments since Regola, a first-term Republican from Hempfield, withdrew from the race Monday.
"Make no mistake about it, this campaign was never about Sen. Regola," said Bompiani, a Youngwood chiropractor. "This campaign is about, and will always be about, issues."
Read the full article by clicking here.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Congratulations Coach Ruffner!
Mt. Pleasant hires Ruffner as football coach
Tribune-Review - The Mt. Pleasant school board voted Monday to hire Robert "Bo" Ruffner as football coach. He replaces Mark Lyons, who was not rehired after winning three consecutive Keystone Conference titles.
Ruffner, a teacher at Hempfield, was given a two-year contract that was unanimously approved by the board.
"Mt. Pleasant has a great tradition," said Ruffner. "They won two WPIAL titles in the 1980s and a number of conference titles. I'm looking forward to continuing that tradition and starting a new one in Class AA."
Tribune-Review - The Mt. Pleasant school board voted Monday to hire Robert "Bo" Ruffner as football coach. He replaces Mark Lyons, who was not rehired after winning three consecutive Keystone Conference titles.
Ruffner, a teacher at Hempfield, was given a two-year contract that was unanimously approved by the board.
"Mt. Pleasant has a great tradition," said Ruffner. "They won two WPIAL titles in the 1980s and a number of conference titles. I'm looking forward to continuing that tradition and starting a new one in Class AA."
Friday, May 9, 2008
Friday, May 2, 2008
Property Tax Relief??????
Here are the numbers regarding the estimated property tax relief for residents of Westmoreland County School Districts (Dollars per household per year) due to gaming revenue. This is obviously not enough and we need to do more to change the way we fund public education to make it better for our children and more affordable for our taxpayers. The state legislators will try to pass the responsibility to the school districts and blame property taxes on overspending. Sorry, but that is ridiculous. That's an easy "gotcha" political answer and accusation. To see some of my ideas regarding property tax reform, click here.
Belle Vernon Area - $170
Burrell - $162
Derry Area - $197
Franklin Regional - $123
Greater Latrobe - $92
Greensburg Salem - $133
Hempfield Area - $87
Jeannette City - $266
Kiski Area - $141
Ligonier Valley - $68
Monessen City - $226
Mount Pleasant - $164
New Kensington-Arnold - $310
Norwin - $93
Penn-Trafford - $135
Southmoreland - $221
Yough - $165
Belle Vernon Area - $170
Burrell - $162
Derry Area - $197
Franklin Regional - $123
Greater Latrobe - $92
Greensburg Salem - $133
Hempfield Area - $87
Jeannette City - $266
Kiski Area - $141
Ligonier Valley - $68
Monessen City - $226
Mount Pleasant - $164
New Kensington-Arnold - $310
Norwin - $93
Penn-Trafford - $135
Southmoreland - $221
Yough - $165
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Thanks for your support!!!
Post-Gazette - Primary 2008/East: Bompiani wins solid contest
The victory party at the AMS Club in South Greensburg, according to Tony Bompiani, drew more than 200 guests and went on long after early returns showed he led the Democratic race for the state Senate in District 39 with more than 60 percent of the vote.
This ability to unite people behind a common cause is, according to some of his supporters, one of the main reasons for Dr. Bompiani's landslide victory in Tuesday's primary.
"We all pulled together and we knew what we had," said his wife, Renee, of the way family, friends and constituents worked to support her husband, a Youngwood chiropractor.
"We stood behind him 100 percent. Knowing him the way we know him, we knew that there was no one else better for the job."
Dale Hutchinson of Greensburg said: "He's going to strengthen the Democratic Party again, bring it back where it was -- and bring the respect back to Westmoreland County."
According to the Westmoreland County Election Bureau, Dr. Bompiani defeated Chris Huffman, 40, of Rostraver, by gaining 65 percent of the vote -- despite Mr. Huffman's endorsement from the county Democratic committee. Vote totals are unofficials.
Dr. Bompiani, 54, of Hempfield, will face incumbent Bob Regola, R-Hempfield, in the November election. Mr. Regola, who is in his first term, ran unopposed in the primary.
Mr. Huffman said he has "no regrets" regarding his race and hopes his party will come together to support Dr. Bompiani in November.
"We need to join together and make sure that we get that seat back," said Mr. Huffman, a Greensburg attorney.
Dr. Bompiani agreed that unity among Democrats was the best way to defeat Mr. Regola and said he and Mr. Huffman would meet in early May to discuss options to bring party members together.
"We need to meet with the other side of the Democratic Party and draw them together because we can't win in November without both sides together," he said. "More important, the party needs to brought together and to become as one for the future."
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thank you to EVERYONE for your SUPPORT!!!
Hi everyone. This is Anthony, Tony's son. I posted this clip today for various reasons. First, it's a great song and my father-in-law, Larry Rega's favorite. It is also the song that came on the radio as I pulled into Level-Green in Penn Township to work the poll. I worked there for most of the day and Senator Regola was there the entire day. I think the song is very fitting for the campaign.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Should the size of Pennsylvania's Legislature be reduced?
That question was posed to Dr. Bompiani and his opponent by the good people that developed the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Voter Guide. Here are the responses:Dr. Bompiani:
Yes. Reducing the size of our Legislature is a fine idea, but it does not address the real problem of run away spending by the legislators themselves. By now, we are all familiar with bonus scandals from the 2006 legislative session. In the 2006 session House Democrats doled out $2.3 million in bonuses to staffers. House Republicans spent $919,000. In the Senate, Democrats handed out $41,000, and Republicans gave $366,000 in bonuses to staffers. The total of those bonuses is $3,626,000. Additionally, every State Senator gets a $10,000 expense account; $15,000 for their district offices; $26,500 for postage; $480 for flags for their constituents; $600 per month for car rentals; and $124 a day while in Harrisburg. This totals $82,424 if you assume that a State Senator spends 6 months out of the year in Harrisburg. Multiply that number by 50 (the number of Senators), and you get $4,121,200. This calculation does not include the base salaries. Before we focus all our attention on reducing the size of the Legislature, we need to focus on making it less expensive for the people.
His Opponent:
I am willing to look at reducing the size of the Legislature. However, we need to make sure that people will still have access to their legislator when they have an issue to discuss or a problem that they need help with. The 39th senatorial district is very large. It is about an hour drive from end to end. If this Senate district is any larger it would be hard for the people to get help when they need it. I will support any measure that reduces the Legislature so long as it does not have a major impact on the people's ability to have access to their legislator when they need help.
You can decide who you want to vote for to represent you in an overly expensive Harrisburg on Tuesday, April 22, 2008. Don't forget to vote.
Visit the PG Voters Guide by clicking here to find the candidates' stances on other issues.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Based on a true understanding of the issues....
The choice is clear for the 39th District. Dr. Bompiani and his opponent disagree on whether or not gaming revenue is the answer to reduce property taxes. Dr. Bompiani thinks gaming revenue is a Band-Aid fix to the gaping wound that is our property tax structure. His opponent thinks it's a great answer.
This is a section of an article in the Post-Gazette on April 17, 2008:
He and Mr. Bompiani disagree on the impact gambling revenue will have on the region's economy. The Youngwood chiropractor does not believe that money will lower school taxes enough for property owners. Mr. Huffman, however, said that "once casinos are up and running, property tax relief will be realized." Link
This is a section of an article in the Post-Gazette on April 16, 2008:
While the size of property tax reductions from slots revenue will vary among 500 Pennsylvania school districts, $169 is the average amount of relief statewide when school property tax bills go out in July, Michael Masch, state budget secretary, said yesterday. In Philadelphia, the slots money will go to lower the city's 4 percent wage tax rather than property taxes.
Taxpayers will not actually see the money and may not be notified directly about how much their school taxes will be reduced. The money will go directly to school districts that will reduce the homeowner's tax bill by the appropriate amount. Link
Just so we are all clear...that's $169.00 per year. That's it. And it won't even go directly to the taxpayers. This simple Band-Aid fix is frequently suggested by inexperienced candidates because the issues surrounding property tax reform are too complicated. For more information on our flawed system and ways to fix it, click here.
This is a section of an article in the Post-Gazette on April 17, 2008:
He and Mr. Bompiani disagree on the impact gambling revenue will have on the region's economy. The Youngwood chiropractor does not believe that money will lower school taxes enough for property owners. Mr. Huffman, however, said that "once casinos are up and running, property tax relief will be realized." Link
This is a section of an article in the Post-Gazette on April 16, 2008:
While the size of property tax reductions from slots revenue will vary among 500 Pennsylvania school districts, $169 is the average amount of relief statewide when school property tax bills go out in July, Michael Masch, state budget secretary, said yesterday. In Philadelphia, the slots money will go to lower the city's 4 percent wage tax rather than property taxes.
Taxpayers will not actually see the money and may not be notified directly about how much their school taxes will be reduced. The money will go directly to school districts that will reduce the homeowner's tax bill by the appropriate amount. Link
Just so we are all clear...that's $169.00 per year. That's it. And it won't even go directly to the taxpayers. This simple Band-Aid fix is frequently suggested by inexperienced candidates because the issues surrounding property tax reform are too complicated. For more information on our flawed system and ways to fix it, click here.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Definition of Smear Tactics from Wikepedia
Smear tactics differ from normal discourse or debate in that they do not bear upon the issues or arguments in question. A smear is a simple attempt to malign a group or an individual and to attempt to undermine their credibility.
Smears often consist of ad hominem attacks in the form of unverifiable rumors and are often distortions, half-truths, or even outright lies; smear campaigns are often propagated by gossip spreading.
I have an idea. Instead of distorting records with unverifiable rumors, half-truths and outright lies, lets hear about the issues and what you will bring to the table in Harrisburg for the people of the 39th District.
Smears often consist of ad hominem attacks in the form of unverifiable rumors and are often distortions, half-truths, or even outright lies; smear campaigns are often propagated by gossip spreading.
I have an idea. Instead of distorting records with unverifiable rumors, half-truths and outright lies, lets hear about the issues and what you will bring to the table in Harrisburg for the people of the 39th District.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Jeannette joins the party!
A crowd of 375 Bompiani supporters crowded the Jeannette American Legion on Friday, April 11, 2008 for the Get Out the Vote Rally. Representative Tom Tangretti introduced Dr. Bompiani to the crowd with a heartfelt speech. Dr. Bompiani discussed property tax reform and integrity in the legislature. The theme of the event was ten days until victory.Friday, April 11, 2008
Thank you Jeannette/Greensburg NAACP and League of Women Voters
I want to express my sincere thanks to the Jeannette/Greensburg NAACP and League of Women Voters for setting up and moderating the debate last night. I thought it was run very well, and it was obvious that a lot of work was put into it. I know I can speak for my opponent as well when I say it was greatly appreciated.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Rizzo's Fundraiser a HUGE Success...Momentum continues to build
On Tuesday, April 8, 2008, Friends of Bompiani hosted a fundraiser at Rizzo's Malabar Inn in Crabtree. The event was very well-attended by Bompiani supporters who are gearing up for election day. Claude Petroy introduced Dr. Bompiani to the crowd of supporters. Dr. Bompiani discussed property tax reform, government reform, and education. Included in attendance were Senator Allen Kukovich, Sandy Tangretti, and candidate for the House of Representative, Bud Mertz.Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Debate on Thursday?
On Thursday, April 10th at 6:30 P.M., the Greensburg/Jeannette NAACP and League of Women Voters will be sponsoring a candidates debate at the Greensburg Garden and Civic Center. Dr. Bompiani, his opponent in the primary, and the Senator are to attend to debate the issues. The only issue as of now is whether or not Dr. Bompiani's primary opponent will show as he has not yet attended a debate regarding the issues facing the Commonwealth.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Property Tax Reform...More complicated than using gaming revenue
With my 12 years of experience serving on the Hempfield School Board I have become familiar with the inherent problems in our funding of public education through our property taxes. It is much more complicated than simply using gaming revenue to offer relief. Over the past few years, we have seen a decrease in the State Government's funding of public education yet inflation at a rate of approximately 3% per year (not including the increase in the price of gasoline) has continued to raised costs for the school districts. Couple that with the fact that school districts continue to compete with each other to attract people to their district and it's easy to see how the burden of cost has been placed in the laps of the taxpayers. All that being said, my plan for property tax reform is a four-part plan which is outlined below. Keep in mind that we need to provide relief to our seniors first.
1. 50% Cost Share: The State needs to fulfill its promise of a 50% cost share for education. Twenty years ago the State contributed 50% to public education. Now, it contributes 34.4%. If the State would own up to its promise, the people of the 39th District could see a 15.6% discount in property taxes.
2. Regionalization: Regionalization of schools for business purposes will increase buying power and level the playing field of the school districts. Right now, there is too much competition between school districts. With regionalization, instead of school districts competing against each other, the regions would negotiate together. This would make public education more cost effective resulting in a discount in property taxes.
3. Eliminate Unfunded Mandates: The State needs to stop the unfunded mandates. If the State is going to mandate educational programs to the school districts, it needs to pay for them.
4. Gaming Revenue: My opponent has continued to pitch that gaming revenue will offer the relief needed with property tax reduction. Gaming revenue will offer some relief, but it is overestimated and is simply a Band-Aid fix. Specifically, with gaming revenue we will only see an approximate decrease of a few hundred dollars per year. That's not enough and there is no guarantee that the relief will continue beyond a couple years. Again, it's a Band-Aid fix. We cannot gamble our children’s education on gaming alone.
If you have any further questions or you want to offer input with regard to my plan to reduce property taxes please contact my campaign headquarters at (724) 837-3900.
1. 50% Cost Share: The State needs to fulfill its promise of a 50% cost share for education. Twenty years ago the State contributed 50% to public education. Now, it contributes 34.4%. If the State would own up to its promise, the people of the 39th District could see a 15.6% discount in property taxes.
2. Regionalization: Regionalization of schools for business purposes will increase buying power and level the playing field of the school districts. Right now, there is too much competition between school districts. With regionalization, instead of school districts competing against each other, the regions would negotiate together. This would make public education more cost effective resulting in a discount in property taxes.
3. Eliminate Unfunded Mandates: The State needs to stop the unfunded mandates. If the State is going to mandate educational programs to the school districts, it needs to pay for them.
4. Gaming Revenue: My opponent has continued to pitch that gaming revenue will offer the relief needed with property tax reduction. Gaming revenue will offer some relief, but it is overestimated and is simply a Band-Aid fix. Specifically, with gaming revenue we will only see an approximate decrease of a few hundred dollars per year. That's not enough and there is no guarantee that the relief will continue beyond a couple years. Again, it's a Band-Aid fix. We cannot gamble our children’s education on gaming alone.
If you have any further questions or you want to offer input with regard to my plan to reduce property taxes please contact my campaign headquarters at (724) 837-3900.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Clinton, Obama pound on McCain over economy
Post-Gazette- With polls showing the economy is the biggest worry -- by far -- among Pennsylvania voters, New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton yesterday brought her presidential primary-season barnstorming tour to a tiny diner in tiny Swatara, Dauphin County.
Talk at the Capitol Diner with a pre-selected group of Harrisburg-area voters revolved around health care, the high cost of college, energy prices and other budget issues hitting middle-class America.
Sipping tea, the Democrat responded to questions with details of her tax-relief proposals, while also taking shots at President Bush and the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Arizona Sen. John McCain.
"The best I could determine, [Mr. McCain's economic] plan would be to not have a plan," she said to laughter in the diner crowd. "If he got the 3 a.m. call on the economy, he would just let the phone ring and ring and ring."
Her competitor, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, in Lancaster, also critiqued Mr. McCain, saying his campaign was an effort to launch a third Bush term.
View the entire article here.
_________________________________________________________________
It's obvious that McCain is completely outmatched by both of the Democratic Candidates, especially regarding the Nation's economy. Just check out the answer he gave during a republican debate regarding the economy and the President's working group on financial markets.
Talk at the Capitol Diner with a pre-selected group of Harrisburg-area voters revolved around health care, the high cost of college, energy prices and other budget issues hitting middle-class America.
Sipping tea, the Democrat responded to questions with details of her tax-relief proposals, while also taking shots at President Bush and the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Arizona Sen. John McCain.
"The best I could determine, [Mr. McCain's economic] plan would be to not have a plan," she said to laughter in the diner crowd. "If he got the 3 a.m. call on the economy, he would just let the phone ring and ring and ring."
Her competitor, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama, in Lancaster, also critiqued Mr. McCain, saying his campaign was an effort to launch a third Bush term.
View the entire article here.
_________________________________________________________________
It's obvious that McCain is completely outmatched by both of the Democratic Candidates, especially regarding the Nation's economy. Just check out the answer he gave during a republican debate regarding the economy and the President's working group on financial markets.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Teamsters Local #30 Endorsement
On March 17, 2008, the Teamsters Local #30 PAC announced its endorsement of Dr. Tony Bompiani for Pennsylvania State Senator of the 39th District.Mr. Mark Pardus, Chairman, and Mr. Thomas G. Nancey, Jr., Treasurer, indicated that Dr. Bompiani's views are "responsive to the needs of both taxpayers and working people."
"I am honored to receive such an endorsement from the wonderful, hardworking people of the Teamsters union," Dr. Bompiani explained.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Senator Clinton and Dr. Tony Bompiani
Could this be a photo of the next President of the United States and the next Senator of the 39th District of Pennsylvania? The voters in the 39th District will have a chance to decide both on April 22, 2008.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Family Feud
Some supporters of state Senate hopeful Tony Bompiani of Hempfield are still second-guessing the Democrat endorsement of attorney Chris Huffman of Rostraver.
Bompiani was backed by Westmoreland County commissioners Tom Balya and Tom Ceraso, retiring state Rep. Tom Tangretti and Allen Kukovich, director of the Southwestern Regional Office of Gov. Ed Rendell.
But that couldn't garner the endorsement. Bompiani lost by an 82-79 margin. The Democratic Party's victor will face off in November against incumbent Republican Robert Regola, who faces no opposition in the April 22 primary.
Some in Bompiani's camp question whether party by-laws were circumvented, but county Chairman Dante Bertani says they were not.
One issue: Huffman works as a part-time assistant public defender under Bertani, the county's public defender.
"I didn't do anything to help Chris out," Bertani said.
Bertani conceded that since the start of the year he has filled almost 50 vacancies on the committee, including nine appointments made in the week leading up to the county convention. Bertani pointed out that party by-laws contain no provision outlawing the practice, a situation he believes should be rectified. Among the appointments were three teachers from Hempfield Area School District, where Bompiani served as a school director during contentious contract negotiations.
Bertani intends to propose a change in the by-laws to prohibit the appointment of committee members within 30 days of the convention.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_556279.html
Bompiani was backed by Westmoreland County commissioners Tom Balya and Tom Ceraso, retiring state Rep. Tom Tangretti and Allen Kukovich, director of the Southwestern Regional Office of Gov. Ed Rendell.
But that couldn't garner the endorsement. Bompiani lost by an 82-79 margin. The Democratic Party's victor will face off in November against incumbent Republican Robert Regola, who faces no opposition in the April 22 primary.
Some in Bompiani's camp question whether party by-laws were circumvented, but county Chairman Dante Bertani says they were not.
One issue: Huffman works as a part-time assistant public defender under Bertani, the county's public defender.
"I didn't do anything to help Chris out," Bertani said.
Bertani conceded that since the start of the year he has filled almost 50 vacancies on the committee, including nine appointments made in the week leading up to the county convention. Bertani pointed out that party by-laws contain no provision outlawing the practice, a situation he believes should be rectified. Among the appointments were three teachers from Hempfield Area School District, where Bompiani served as a school director during contentious contract negotiations.
Bertani intends to propose a change in the by-laws to prohibit the appointment of committee members within 30 days of the convention.
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_556279.html
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Proudly Announcing Endorsements...
Friends of Bompiani proudly announces that Dr. Bompiani has been endorsed by Lieutenant Governor and President of the Senate, Catherine Baker Knoll, the Director of the Southwest Regional Office of the Governor and former Pennsylvania State Senator of the 39th District, Allen Kukovich, Pennsylvania State House Representative of the 57th District, Tom Tangretti, and Westmoreland County Commissioners, Tom Balya and Tom Ceraso.
"I am truly humbled by these endorsements. Each of these individuals means a lot to me. Their commitments to the public are remarkable." -Dr. Tony Bompiani
"I am truly humbled by these endorsements. Each of these individuals means a lot to me. Their commitments to the public are remarkable." -Dr. Tony Bompiani
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
John Baer: How Pa. extension benefited Clinton
Philadelphia Daily News
HERE'S A LITTLE political banana peel.
Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign failed to file a full slate of convention delegate candidates for Pennsylvania's April 22 primary.
This despite the possibility the primary proves critical and despite Clinton owning the full-throated support of Gov. Rendell, state Democratic Party leadership, Mayor Nutter and, presumably, the organizational skill all that entails.
And despite a Rendell-ordered extension of the filing deadline that could be viewed as more than just coincidental.
"There are a number of Clinton delegates that did not file for reasons of illness or other issues," Democratic state chairman T.J. Rooney conceded yesterday after being questioned by the Daily News.
He initially said he was unaware of the fact, but confirmed it after checking with Clinton's state delegate petition organizer.
It appears Clinton came up 10 or 11 candidates short across a number of congressional districts, including two in Philadelphia.
That's close to 10 percent of the 103 delegates to be decided by voters.
It appears the shortage would've been double that if Rendell hadn't extended last week's candidate filing deadline by a day and a half, ostensibly due to bad weather.
This at a time when Clinton's campaign, like Barack Obama's - which did file a full slate in the state - hoards delegates like diamonds.
Going into today's Wisconsin primary, Obama leads Clinton by just 61 delegates (1,322 to 1,262 with 2,025 needed to win).
But Clinton's faux pas is more of an image problem than a practical one.
Under Democratic Party rules (and does any organization on the planet have more rules or more complex rules?) a presidential candidate winning in a congressional district gets delegates from that district (assigned at a later date) whether he or she files slates delegates or not.
Still.
For a national campaign stressing competence, experience, "ready day one," one might expect a full slate in what could be a key state.
Especially given the backing of big-shot party leaders.
"The Clinton people had the support of the ward structure here in Philadelphia," says Philly attorney Seth Williams, Obama's eastern Pennsylvania coordinator. "We just had grass-roots volunteers."
Pennsylvania has a total of 188 Democratic delegates, including superdelegates, at-large delegates, party leaders and elected officials.
Delegates elected by voters run in the primary after filing petitions with 250 signatures and a $25 filing fee.
The filing deadline was Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. But it was extended by Rendell until noon last Thursday, easing Clinton's filing woes.
The official announcement of the extension cited "winter weather," accidents and the "closure of interstates at various times."
But even with the extension, Clinton came up short, including what appears to be four candidates shy in Philly.
One is Erin Dougherty, 27, daughter of union boss and state Senate candidate John Dougherty.
She decided not to file, according to her father, to prevent voter confusion over more than one Dougherty on the same ballot.
Elsewhere, say Rooney and other Clinton supporters, one candidate's mother died suddenly, another candidate was ill and another had to deal with a property foreclosure.
The shortfall was brought to my attention by western Pennsylvania attorney Jack Hanna, a Democratic state party regional caucus chairman and Obama supporter.
Hanna says before the deadline extension Clinton could have been 21 delegate candidates short. One late filing was by former Mayor John Street.
"It seems to me they did not pay sufficient attention to the details," Hanna says.
And it seems to me, in a state that could be important, in a state known for bad winter weather, a forward-looking campaign might be, well, more forward-looking.
You know, so as not to slip up.
http://www.philly.com/dailynews/local/20080219_John_Baer__How_Pa__extension_benefited_Clinton.html
HERE'S A LITTLE political banana peel.
Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign failed to file a full slate of convention delegate candidates for Pennsylvania's April 22 primary.
This despite the possibility the primary proves critical and despite Clinton owning the full-throated support of Gov. Rendell, state Democratic Party leadership, Mayor Nutter and, presumably, the organizational skill all that entails.
And despite a Rendell-ordered extension of the filing deadline that could be viewed as more than just coincidental.
"There are a number of Clinton delegates that did not file for reasons of illness or other issues," Democratic state chairman T.J. Rooney conceded yesterday after being questioned by the Daily News.
He initially said he was unaware of the fact, but confirmed it after checking with Clinton's state delegate petition organizer.
It appears Clinton came up 10 or 11 candidates short across a number of congressional districts, including two in Philadelphia.
That's close to 10 percent of the 103 delegates to be decided by voters.
It appears the shortage would've been double that if Rendell hadn't extended last week's candidate filing deadline by a day and a half, ostensibly due to bad weather.
This at a time when Clinton's campaign, like Barack Obama's - which did file a full slate in the state - hoards delegates like diamonds.
Going into today's Wisconsin primary, Obama leads Clinton by just 61 delegates (1,322 to 1,262 with 2,025 needed to win).
But Clinton's faux pas is more of an image problem than a practical one.
Under Democratic Party rules (and does any organization on the planet have more rules or more complex rules?) a presidential candidate winning in a congressional district gets delegates from that district (assigned at a later date) whether he or she files slates delegates or not.
Still.
For a national campaign stressing competence, experience, "ready day one," one might expect a full slate in what could be a key state.
Especially given the backing of big-shot party leaders.
"The Clinton people had the support of the ward structure here in Philadelphia," says Philly attorney Seth Williams, Obama's eastern Pennsylvania coordinator. "We just had grass-roots volunteers."
Pennsylvania has a total of 188 Democratic delegates, including superdelegates, at-large delegates, party leaders and elected officials.
Delegates elected by voters run in the primary after filing petitions with 250 signatures and a $25 filing fee.
The filing deadline was Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. But it was extended by Rendell until noon last Thursday, easing Clinton's filing woes.
The official announcement of the extension cited "winter weather," accidents and the "closure of interstates at various times."
But even with the extension, Clinton came up short, including what appears to be four candidates shy in Philly.
One is Erin Dougherty, 27, daughter of union boss and state Senate candidate John Dougherty.
She decided not to file, according to her father, to prevent voter confusion over more than one Dougherty on the same ballot.
Elsewhere, say Rooney and other Clinton supporters, one candidate's mother died suddenly, another candidate was ill and another had to deal with a property foreclosure.
The shortfall was brought to my attention by western Pennsylvania attorney Jack Hanna, a Democratic state party regional caucus chairman and Obama supporter.
Hanna says before the deadline extension Clinton could have been 21 delegate candidates short. One late filing was by former Mayor John Street.
"It seems to me they did not pay sufficient attention to the details," Hanna says.
And it seems to me, in a state that could be important, in a state known for bad winter weather, a forward-looking campaign might be, well, more forward-looking.
You know, so as not to slip up.
http://www.philly.com/dailynews/local/20080219_John_Baer__How_Pa__extension_benefited_Clinton.html
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Hempfield Area High School Scores Well
Hempfield Area High School received a favorable report this month from a regional accreditation agency.
District school Superintendent Terry Foriska told school directors Monday night that a review by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, based in Philadelphia, credited the school for technology upgrades and improvements in staff development programming and initiatives, among other standards.
The report is part of a program on continuous school improvement that reviews progress every five years, although the high school participates in an accreditation process every 10 years.
Foriska noted that the school achieved five designated goals: integrating state-of-the-art technology; designing and implementing staff development programs to improve student learning and teacher effectiveness; implementing an intramural sports program; establishing a peer mediation program; and evaluating and correcting areas deemed to be safety and health hazards.
District school Superintendent Terry Foriska told school directors Monday night that a review by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, based in Philadelphia, credited the school for technology upgrades and improvements in staff development programming and initiatives, among other standards.
The report is part of a program on continuous school improvement that reviews progress every five years, although the high school participates in an accreditation process every 10 years.
Foriska noted that the school achieved five designated goals: integrating state-of-the-art technology; designing and implementing staff development programs to improve student learning and teacher effectiveness; implementing an intramural sports program; establishing a peer mediation program; and evaluating and correcting areas deemed to be safety and health hazards.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Greensburg playground upgrade may cut crime: residents
Mike Olbeter said he believes an improved Coulter Playground in Greensburg will attract more children and discourage vandalism and other unwanted activity there.
"It's a good neighborhood, and a lot of kids are growing up there," Olbeter said.
A meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Jan. 26 at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art for residents who live near the playground. They will discuss what to do with a $10,000 KaBOOM grant that was awarded to make improvements at the playground in the city's 1st Ward, said organizer Steve Gifford, executive director of Greensburg Community Development Corp.
Gifford said the playground was discussed with neighbors during August meetings of My Neighborhood Program. That state program, known as the Elm Street Program, aims at enhancing areas near city downtown areas.
"One of the things they said they really wanted was improvements to the playground," Gifford said.
Some neighbors said the recreation area has been targeted by vandals. They worry about drug deals going on there.
"It will make it safer and keep the riffraff out," Olbeter said of the proposed changes.
Another resident who lives near the playground, Camie Grillo, believes the improvements will entice more children and adults to go there.
"I think our neighborhood will use it, but I know myself ... that others will use it, too," she said.
The playground is one of the few in the city with basketball courts, neighbors said.
"If it's kept up ... people will want to go there," Olbeter said.
Another nearby resident, Alex Graziani, said playgrounds help to attract residents.
"(Playgrounds) really stabilize neighborhoods," he added.
The recommendations made at the August meetings included replacing playground benches and equipment. Residents suggested that new lines be painted on the basketball court.
Other suggestions were painting of an existing swing and the additions of a water fountain, trash cans, walking path and flower garden.
The KaBOOM grant, which must be used by Aug. 15, was given by The Grable Foundation.
Gifford said overall Coulter expenses are projected at $38,000. The city, which owns the playground, is expected to make a contribution. Other grant funding is being sought, Gifford said.
Gifford said lights are being proposed to help deter vandalism and any other unwanted activity.
Barbara Ciampini, city planning director, said large-scale improvements haven't been made to the playground for at least 15 years.
"If it brings out the children and helps the neighborhood, that's wonderful," she said.
"It's a good neighborhood, and a lot of kids are growing up there," Olbeter said.
A meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Jan. 26 at the Westmoreland Museum of American Art for residents who live near the playground. They will discuss what to do with a $10,000 KaBOOM grant that was awarded to make improvements at the playground in the city's 1st Ward, said organizer Steve Gifford, executive director of Greensburg Community Development Corp.
Gifford said the playground was discussed with neighbors during August meetings of My Neighborhood Program. That state program, known as the Elm Street Program, aims at enhancing areas near city downtown areas.
"One of the things they said they really wanted was improvements to the playground," Gifford said.
Some neighbors said the recreation area has been targeted by vandals. They worry about drug deals going on there.
"It will make it safer and keep the riffraff out," Olbeter said of the proposed changes.
Another resident who lives near the playground, Camie Grillo, believes the improvements will entice more children and adults to go there.
"I think our neighborhood will use it, but I know myself ... that others will use it, too," she said.
The playground is one of the few in the city with basketball courts, neighbors said.
"If it's kept up ... people will want to go there," Olbeter said.
Another nearby resident, Alex Graziani, said playgrounds help to attract residents.
"(Playgrounds) really stabilize neighborhoods," he added.
The recommendations made at the August meetings included replacing playground benches and equipment. Residents suggested that new lines be painted on the basketball court.
Other suggestions were painting of an existing swing and the additions of a water fountain, trash cans, walking path and flower garden.
The KaBOOM grant, which must be used by Aug. 15, was given by The Grable Foundation.
Gifford said overall Coulter expenses are projected at $38,000. The city, which owns the playground, is expected to make a contribution. Other grant funding is being sought, Gifford said.
Gifford said lights are being proposed to help deter vandalism and any other unwanted activity.
Barbara Ciampini, city planning director, said large-scale improvements haven't been made to the playground for at least 15 years.
"If it brings out the children and helps the neighborhood, that's wonderful," she said.
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