Updated January 1, 2013 9:25 AM
Attention all residents of Mt. Lebanon. This affects all of us. As one wrote on the petition:
"For all of the Mt. Lebo families - even if you don't have kids in school anymore, this is an important issue that will affect the quality education that Mt Lebanon has been known for."
If it gets out that parents are dissatisfied with their children's education, we're toast. Contrary to popular belief, it is our school system, not our fields, that bring people here. Please sign the petition and support these concerned parents.
Elaine
A new website has been launched in Mt. Lebanon. Lebomathfacts.org "is run by a diverse group of parents, who are concerned about quality mathematics education" in Mt. Lebanon.
Lebo Citizens readers know that I have had several stories about Terc Investigations including:
http://lebocitizens.blogspot.com/2012/11/posti-on-terc-investigations.html
http://lebocitizens.blogspot.com/2012/11/more-on-terc-investigations.html
http://lebocitizens.blogspot.com/2012/12/dream-team-change-orders-and-more.html
I see that an online petition has been posted at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/petition-to-ask-the-mt-lebanon-school-district-to/
It is sad that it had to come to this. The school board directors were amazed at the response to the Math Nights, drawing 650 people. Have they figured out that the community is deeply concerned about our TERC Investigations math program?
Please visit Lebomathfacts.org and read about the Fall 2012 meeting that concerned parents had with Dr. Steinhauer. Our Requests summarizes their requests along with recommended timelines.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Anything on your mind?
While I am taking a breather during the Christmas break, I thought I would open this up for whatever is on your mind. Now is your chance to submit a comment that is off topic. If it is civil, I will approve it.
A few ideas: How can we be a better community? What was the highlight of 2012? Suggestions for future posts? What should we do differently in 2013?
Happy Holidays!
A few ideas: How can we be a better community? What was the highlight of 2012? Suggestions for future posts? What should we do differently in 2013?
Happy Holidays!
Fiscal Cliff Poll
I see that two have voted on my latest poll. Do you think the fiscal cliff will be averted in time? Take a second and cast your vote.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Ready for Christmas
Well, the Christmas lights are up. I need to pop the Hot Pockets in the oven soon. The family will be over in a bit. Hope everyone has a Merry Christmas.
Elaine
Saturday, December 22, 2012
A very disturbing post by Kristen Linfante
One week ago, our nation learned of an unspeakable event that left us devastated. The country mourns while the media is filled with stories about gun control and ways to show our support to those affected in Newtown, Connecticut.
During this time, it has been difficult for me to look at the newspaper, watch the news, and go on the Internet. I know I am not alone.
Unfortunately, I made the mistake to look at Kristen Linfante's blog. Last weekend, Kristen wrote a very disturbing post. An Interesting Article About Deer
During this time, it has been difficult for me to look at the newspaper, watch the news, and go on the Internet. I know I am not alone.
Unfortunately, I made the mistake to look at Kristen Linfante's blog. Last weekend, Kristen wrote a very disturbing post. An Interesting Article About Deer
While some people may be concerned about killing deer with guns or arrows, I believe that our current method of killing deer is much more dangerous to humans - killing deer with our own cars.Now Kristen decides to write about guns and killing? To be be politically correct, we do not refer to it as "killing deer." It is "deer management through culling." It sounds so much more civilized that way. I read the article that a resident sent to the commission. I doubt Ms. Linfante read the whole thing. Had she done that, she would have seen the link to NPS plan to cull Rock Creek Park deer on hold pending federal court case.
The lawsuits assert that five residents of Washington and two of Poughkeepsie would suffer, among other things, “emotional and psychological distress” and might even have to move away if deer were killed.I have reached that point. I cannot go through another cull or as Kristen likes to say, "Kill deer." Her untimely post shows that she only cares about one issue. Her poor judgment and cold-heartedness during this difficult time is disturbing. Kristen, give it a rest for a while. Please.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Crystal Ball, what is in our future?
Right out of The Almanac. This will be us. Dave Franklin was appointed as the Parks Advisory Board liaison to Dave Brumfield's newly created Sports Advisory Board. Read about Peters Township's artificial turf, multi-use field, Gatorade, folding chairs, special interest group and all the other things that have been brought up here.
Do not worry about the Peters Township Council. Despite having authority to override the Parks and Recreation Board’s decisions, they won’t, for fear of setting a precedent that they may have to weigh in on future issues. If this sounds too good to be true, watch the proceedings of the Dec. 10 council meeting. There, you will see that the Peters Township Soccer Association accomplished just that! Kudos PTSA. Your negotiations rival that of the Louisiana Purchase!
Shame on you, Peters Township Council, for allowing yourselves to be blackmailed by a special interest group who pushed through their agenda, under the auspices of creating a multi-use field, and then threatened to withhold their payment when asked to share the field with other established users. Despite a letter from Shaw, the turf manufacturer, supported by detailed testimony, showing clearly that the PTSA’s fear of potential turf damage was unfounded, you neglected your fiduciary responsibility and allowed your previous decision to be overturned at their whim. The PTSA was not asked to substantiate their fears of damage. They simply needed to say they did not want other users on the field. There has been no response to concerns posed about folding chairs, coffee, Gatorade, dogs, etc., which the manufacturer states will absolutely cause damage to the playing surface, because those concerns are not being voiced by someone with a check. If the intent is purely to protect the investment made in the field, why are these issues not being addressed? Why is the focus on use of equipment that has been proven will cause no harm?
While the cross country team can now look forward to a new course in another soon to be beautified area of the park, I walk away baffled that public land can be sold so easily.
We don’t have to look very far to understand the problems we have in Washington!
Barbara Wehn McMurray
Public land easily sold in PT
Peterswood Park is for sale. At a price of $240,000 you can buy three to four acres of improved land with no future tax burden or maintenance expense. The taxpayers of Peters Township will pay upwards of $750,000 for the improvements you specify. To qualify, you simply need to secure a spot on the Parks and Recreation Board so that your personal agenda can be pushed through by your friends. Do not worry about the Peters Township Council. Despite having authority to override the Parks and Recreation Board’s decisions, they won’t, for fear of setting a precedent that they may have to weigh in on future issues. If this sounds too good to be true, watch the proceedings of the Dec. 10 council meeting. There, you will see that the Peters Township Soccer Association accomplished just that! Kudos PTSA. Your negotiations rival that of the Louisiana Purchase!
Shame on you, Peters Township Council, for allowing yourselves to be blackmailed by a special interest group who pushed through their agenda, under the auspices of creating a multi-use field, and then threatened to withhold their payment when asked to share the field with other established users. Despite a letter from Shaw, the turf manufacturer, supported by detailed testimony, showing clearly that the PTSA’s fear of potential turf damage was unfounded, you neglected your fiduciary responsibility and allowed your previous decision to be overturned at their whim. The PTSA was not asked to substantiate their fears of damage. They simply needed to say they did not want other users on the field. There has been no response to concerns posed about folding chairs, coffee, Gatorade, dogs, etc., which the manufacturer states will absolutely cause damage to the playing surface, because those concerns are not being voiced by someone with a check. If the intent is purely to protect the investment made in the field, why are these issues not being addressed? Why is the focus on use of equipment that has been proven will cause no harm?
While the cross country team can now look forward to a new course in another soon to be beautified area of the park, I walk away baffled that public land can be sold so easily.
We don’t have to look very far to understand the problems we have in Washington!
Barbara Wehn McMurray
The REST of the story
Pennsylvania American Water announced two of twenty recipients, each receiving $2500 in special grants. Amazingly enough, Josephine Posti presented checks to Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania and Mt. Lebanon Foundation of Education (MLFE). Does MLFE sound familiar? It should. MLFE helped to fund Josephine's pet project, a feasibility study done by Pursuant Ketchum. Did our water bills help to fund this? Here is the article from the Almanac.
Josephine Posti's Girl Scout Troop led the Pledge of Allegiance at a recent school board meeting.
Nice picture of Matt Smith with Josephine. Doesn't he realize there is a conflict of interest? I know...
Josephine Posti's Girl Scout Troop led the Pledge of Allegiance at a recent school board meeting.
Nice picture of Matt Smith with Josephine. Doesn't he realize there is a conflict of interest? I know...
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Dream Team, Change Orders, and More
I updated the change orders list (see sidebar) to reflect tabled item number 28. Dan Remely, always careful with our tax dollars, felt that the carpeting expense could be considered as a capital expense item down the road. I deducted $6,559 from the change orders running total.
We have a new Policy Committee, which one reader described as our "Dream Team." The new members consist of
Other big news, a resident expressed concern regarding the networking technology bidding and contract, and how we are implementing antiquated systems, instead of state-of-the-art technology.
I would love to hear more about this, if that resident is reading this. In fact, as always, I would like anyone "in the business" weigh in on this.
In addition, the School Board was amazed at the response to the Math Nights, drawing 650 people. Are they surprised that the community is deeply concerned about our TERC Investigations math program?
Finally, the School Board listened to the students, as Larry Lebowitz pointed out, and promoted Judith Kolko to the new activities director. Carlie McGinty is now at the USC High School as their new guidance counselor. Congrats to both women.
We have a new Policy Committee, which one reader described as our "Dream Team." The new members consist of
- Plagiarism expert and authority on bending school board policies, Josephine Posti
- Mary Birks, our resident Harrisburg aficionado who blames Corbett for everything
- Bill Cooper, all around nice guy who never makes waves by agreeing with the status quo
I would love to hear more about this, if that resident is reading this. In fact, as always, I would like anyone "in the business" weigh in on this.
In addition, the School Board was amazed at the response to the Math Nights, drawing 650 people. Are they surprised that the community is deeply concerned about our TERC Investigations math program?
Finally, the School Board listened to the students, as Larry Lebowitz pointed out, and promoted Judith Kolko to the new activities director. Carlie McGinty is now at the USC High School as their new guidance counselor. Congrats to both women.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Show Your Support for the Families and Community of Newtown
Please take a moment to remember those families who have been so deeply affected by the unspeakable events in Newtown, Connecticut.
Newtown needs our nation's support now more than ever. With your donation, we can help them through this incredibly difficult time and offer our condolences.
Below, please find a link to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund that has been set up by the United Way of Western Connecticut to help the families and community of Newtown recover.
https://newtown.uwwesternct.org
Thank you in advance for your generosity and for assisting our fellow Americans during their time of great need.
Newtown needs our nation's support now more than ever. With your donation, we can help them through this incredibly difficult time and offer our condolences.
Below, please find a link to the Sandy Hook School Support Fund that has been set up by the United Way of Western Connecticut to help the families and community of Newtown recover.
https://newtown.uwwesternct.org
Thank you in advance for your generosity and for assisting our fellow Americans during their time of great need.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Improved sight lines
What does that mean? "Improved sight lines." On Jo Posti's Center Court blog, Supporting students, staff and families, Josephine writes about the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut and takes the opportunity to throw in a plug for the high school renovation.First, and foremost, I am deeply saddened by what happened on Friday. When I see children in stores or walking to school, I am reminded and burst into tears. I am thankful that the School District is offering support to our children and families. I cannot, however, comprehend that this is the time to justify the elimination of Building C. What does "improved sight lines" even mean? All I have ever heard from school board directors is that they will not revisit Building C. Now you decide to talk about it, Josephine?While I'm confident in the work our staff will be doing to reassure our students and staff and make any necessary improvements to our security measures, I'm also grateful for the work being done to improve the physical security of the high school. While construction is an inconvenience, the end result will be a reduced number of building entrances, the elimination of blind vestibules in B Building, improved sight lines by the elimination of C Building as well as many other security measures that could not have been anticipated when the building was originally built in the 1930s and subsequently renovated in the 1970s.
Free firewood
Davey Tree Service came through the neighborhood last week. I was expecting the worst from all the horror stories I heard and pictures I saw at the commission meeting. They did a nice job here. There is some firewood cut and neatly stacked in a couple of areas of Rockwood Park. Anyone need some free wood, not to be burned this year? I will be removing this post once it is gone.
Friday, December 14, 2012
"...it's not to make their taxes as low as possible" UPDATED
As you all know, the Commissioners passed a $29.84 million operating budget on Tuesday. In the Trib article, $29.84M budget passes*, Matt Kluck told the Trib that:
Kelly Fraasch posted Budget...and what I have learned. on her blog. Kelly learned five lessons from this year's budget process. Having a Finance Advisory Board and a list of options to consider for deduction from the budget in addition to an add listing are just two of the lessons listed.
Kristen Linfante was silent, even though she got her deer survey ($12,000) and an additional $1,000 for Outreach added to the budget. Here is what is on her blog. In my own words...Mt. Lebanon, my home.... She mentions several times that she is a musician.
John Bendel had no comment.
*Article not available online
Update December 16, 2012 2:05 PM Kristen Linfante posted 2013 Budget on her blog. (and you say you don't read this blog, Kristen.) When she wrote, "As many of you know," I thought she was going to tell us that she was a musician; instead it was about deer. She also wrote:
"...he opposed the budget because of the increase in tax revenues, given that the municipality had raised property tax rates last year and instituted a stormwater fee, and because the budget raised personnel costs with raises and new hires."In the PG's Calculations to come Dave Brumfield was quoted as saying:
"We have a duty to residents, and it's not to make their taxes as low as possible...It's to make Mt. Lebanon the best community it can be."Don't miss Bill Matthew's quote.
Kelly Fraasch posted Budget...and what I have learned. on her blog. Kelly learned five lessons from this year's budget process. Having a Finance Advisory Board and a list of options to consider for deduction from the budget in addition to an add listing are just two of the lessons listed.
Kristen Linfante was silent, even though she got her deer survey ($12,000) and an additional $1,000 for Outreach added to the budget. Here is what is on her blog. In my own words...Mt. Lebanon, my home.... She mentions several times that she is a musician.
John Bendel had no comment.
*Article not available online
Update December 16, 2012 2:05 PM Kristen Linfante posted 2013 Budget on her blog. (and you say you don't read this blog, Kristen.) When she wrote, "As many of you know," I thought she was going to tell us that she was a musician; instead it was about deer. She also wrote:
I was pleased to successfully rally the support of both Commissioner Bendel and Commissioner Brumfield to get a deer survey included in next year's budget.What Kristen fails to admit is that Kelly Fraasch also approved the budget, therefore supporting a deer survey. What Kristen may not know is that Kelly had reached out to residents on both sides of the deer issue. She spent countless hours writing emails, making phone calls, and meeting with constituents from all wards trying to come up with some sort of compromise on this controversial topic. Has Kristen done that? After all, she collaborates, cooperates and communicates. Sure she does.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Right-to-work...right-to-play
I was reading about Michigan's right-to-work law that was passed and started to think about Mt. Lebanon's future.
Let me back up. Wikipedia defines right-to-work laws as:
What would that mean to Mt. Lebanon? It has been said that the MTL school board is cheerleading for the unions. I don't know if that is necessarily true, but it occurred to me that the YSA, for all intents and purposes, has unionized the ball fields in Mt. Lebanon. In effect, the new Sports Advisory Board is representing groups which are required to pay "dues" to use school district facilities. The municipality collects no money for use of fields. Isn't that essentially what the Joint Maintenance Agreement is? It was initially an agreement to maintain school district fields. The YSA controls ALL fields for its members, in essence, the right-to -play. By the way, what is the status of the Joint Maintenance Agreement?
Let me back up. Wikipedia defines right-to-work laws as:
A right-to-work law is a statute in the United States of America that prohibits union security agreements, or agreements between labor unions and employers that govern the extent to which an established union can require employees' membership, payment of union dues, or fees as a condition of employment, either before or after hiring. "Right-to-work" laws do not, as the short phrase might suggest, aim to provide a general guarantee of employment to people seeking work, but rather are a government regulation of the contractual agreements between employers and labor unions that prevents them from excluding non-union workers.KDKA reports that Pennsylvania could follow. Could Pennsylvania Be Next For Right To Work Legislation? Local unions are on alert, according to KDKA.
What would that mean to Mt. Lebanon? It has been said that the MTL school board is cheerleading for the unions. I don't know if that is necessarily true, but it occurred to me that the YSA, for all intents and purposes, has unionized the ball fields in Mt. Lebanon. In effect, the new Sports Advisory Board is representing groups which are required to pay "dues" to use school district facilities. The municipality collects no money for use of fields. Isn't that essentially what the Joint Maintenance Agreement is? It was initially an agreement to maintain school district fields. The YSA controls ALL fields for its members, in essence, the right-to -play. By the way, what is the status of the Joint Maintenance Agreement?
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Tweets from our super Super
As we wait for the December pizza pics to show up on Dr. Steinhauer's blog, we can see a unique perspective of the construction, this time from the fifth floor. I didn't want anyone to miss the tweets from our super Super. He also shared photos of two (one, two) concert programs and one concert. Throw in the picture of our new school board president and vice president, and now everyone is caught up from the November pizza lunch. Oh, so powerful! It is always inspiring to hear from the professionals. Dr. Steinhauer is in his element. Let's see...$157,000 a year...six photos per month...Yes, we are getting our money's worth.
While Dr. Steinhauer is documenting his attendance at extracurricular activities, Josephine Posti updated her Center Court blog with Math FAQs. Josephine provided a link to Lincoln Elementary School's math webpage. I thought it would nice to list the other elementary schools' math webpages.
Foster Elementary School
Hoover Elementary School
Howe Elementary School
Jefferson Elementary School
Lincoln Elementary School
Markham Elementary School
Washington Elementary School
I have gotten emails and phone calls from some very frustrated parents concerning the math program. Is it getting better? Was Family Math Night helpful? Any advice from one parent to another?
While Dr. Steinhauer is documenting his attendance at extracurricular activities, Josephine Posti updated her Center Court blog with Math FAQs. Josephine provided a link to Lincoln Elementary School's math webpage. I thought it would nice to list the other elementary schools' math webpages.
Foster Elementary School
Hoover Elementary School
Howe Elementary School
Jefferson Elementary School
Lincoln Elementary School
Markham Elementary School
Washington Elementary School
I have gotten emails and phone calls from some very frustrated parents concerning the math program. Is it getting better? Was Family Math Night helpful? Any advice from one parent to another?
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Breaking news! Don't approve tonight's budget!
Yesterday afternoon, Judge Wettick amended the March 20, 2012 court order at 1:30 PM, extending the deadline for budgets to be approved by all taxing bodies from December 31, 2012 to January 31, 2013. Amended Court Order
Some neighboring communities have chosen to approve their budgets next month, instead of this week. This is good news for our commissioners, since they would have been forced to meet December 24, 2012, if there were any questions on tonight's budget.
Update December 11, 2012 PM 2:15 PM The County just uploaded the amended court order. An article ran in the Trib this morning quoting our manager, Steve Feller. http://triblive.com/news/allegheny/3110279-74/millage-appeals-county#axzz2EiCORF6G
Some neighboring communities have chosen to approve their budgets next month, instead of this week. This is good news for our commissioners, since they would have been forced to meet December 24, 2012, if there were any questions on tonight's budget.
Update December 11, 2012 PM 2:15 PM The County just uploaded the amended court order. An article ran in the Trib this morning quoting our manager, Steve Feller. http://triblive.com/news/allegheny/3110279-74/millage-appeals-county#axzz2EiCORF6G
Want to hear a good one?
The Republican Committee is considering School Board Director Dan Remely as the Republican hopeful to run against Dan Miller for Matt Smith's old House seat. I understand Remely will be running for reelection with Dale Ostergaard for School Board. Does the MLRC think that Dan is doing such a bang up job with the high school renovation, to be a viable candidate for higher office? Still not going through the vetting process, guys? When will the MLRC break up the good old boy network? I wish I could be a member of a party I respect.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Top ten books
Richard Gideon had emailed me a few months ago with an idea that I thought would be nice to run in December. RG suggested that I post my top ten favorite books and ask my readers to submit their lists to the blog.
I am not much of a reader, mainly because I don't have time, but I have been able to list a few.
Follow the Money (2010) by Lynndee Kemmet. By the description, everyone in Mt. Lebanon needs to read it.
Richard Gideon's list follows:
So what are your favorite books? Maybe this will give some Lebo Citizen readers ideas for the Holidays.
I am not much of a reader, mainly because I don't have time, but I have been able to list a few.
- Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
- Righteous Indignation: Excuse Me While I Save the World! by Andrew Breitbart
- Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
- Cookbooks by Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa
Follow the Money (2010) by Lynndee Kemmet. By the description, everyone in Mt. Lebanon needs to read it.
Follow the Money: A Citizens Guide to Local Government is a citizen’s primer on how to work with local officials on the heart and soul of government: the budget. The goal is collaboration, not confrontation, over how public money is being spent. Too often there’s a clash between citizens and local officials at the witching hour of budget adoption.Our witching hour is tomorrow night.
Richard Gideon's list follows:
EG:
Here are my top ten favorite books, in no particular order:
1. The New Testament in Koine (period Greek)
2. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
3. Free to Choose by Milton and Rose Friedman
4. The Spirit of St. Louis by Charles Lindbergh
5. Sophisms of the Protectionists by Frédéric Bastiat (in French)
6. The Four Million by O. Henry
7. Life with Father by Clarence Day II
8. The History of Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
9. The Civil War by Shelby Foote
10. Law Miscellanies by Hugh Henry Brackenridge
I should tell you that I have a lot of "favorites" - but this is a "short list."
RG
So what are your favorite books? Maybe this will give some Lebo Citizen readers ideas for the Holidays.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
'Tis the season...for more change orders
Looks like the MTLSD website is up and running again. The agenda for tomorrow's school board meeting includes more change orders totaling $38,941 for the December 17, 2012 meeting.
Change Orders for High School Renovation Project - This month’s list of change orders proposes six changes for Board consideration. They are as follows:
a. GC-14-27 to Nello for $4,430 to cut a door for a roof mechanical enclosure on F Building
b. GC-16-29 to Nello for $6,559 for carpet for the upper Little Theatre Lobby which was not scheduled for replacement
c. EL-05-30 to Farfield for $7,149 to restore power to the ticket booth and to parking lot lights
d. ME-02-31 to McKamish for $14,014 for smoke dampers in fire rated walls not on drawings
e. EL-06-32 to Farfield for $1,937 for design changes in lighting in F Building for the inside EXIT sign
f. EL-07-33 to Farfield for $4,852 to add a new emergency circuit for existing house lights in the Little Theatre
These changes have been reviewed by PJ Dick, the architects, Rick Marciniak and Jan Klein who recommend them for Board approval. The superintendent recommends approval of these change orders.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Commission Chambers - A Happening Place On Tuesday UPDATED
Looking at the agenda set for Tuesday's Commission meeting, I think it is going to be a late night.
The final hearing for the Commission revisions to the manager’s recommended budget is first on the list. The link to Bill No. 17-12 seems to be password protected, but the amended budget appears on pages two and three of the agenda. How much revenue is estimated to be generated from signs? Where is it going?
The tax rate is listed. Will someone explain to me where the 5% increase is indicated?
The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2013-2017 will be adopted. It can be found here.
The 2013 Comprehensive Fee Schedule will be approved. Notice no fees for fields.
The Compensation for employees for 2013 will be set. The Ordinance is here. Pretty tricky how it is listed. It isn't clear that it is a 3% raise across the board.
Update December 8, 2012 9:40 AM Bill Matthews was kind enough to send the page right out of the budget reflecting the 4.8% tax increase. MTL 2013 Budget Revenues Yep, it is right there in black and white.
The final hearing for the Commission revisions to the manager’s recommended budget is first on the list. The link to Bill No. 17-12 seems to be password protected, but the amended budget appears on pages two and three of the agenda. How much revenue is estimated to be generated from signs? Where is it going?
The tax rate is listed. Will someone explain to me where the 5% increase is indicated?
The Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for 2013-2017 will be adopted. It can be found here.
The 2013 Comprehensive Fee Schedule will be approved. Notice no fees for fields.
The Compensation for employees for 2013 will be set. The Ordinance is here. Pretty tricky how it is listed. It isn't clear that it is a 3% raise across the board.
Update December 8, 2012 9:40 AM Bill Matthews was kind enough to send the page right out of the budget reflecting the 4.8% tax increase. MTL 2013 Budget Revenues Yep, it is right there in black and white.
Monday, December 3, 2012
The results are in...
Elaine Cappucci is President. Larry Lebowitz is Vice President. No fights tonight. Everything was decided in advance.
From the District website:
Mt. Lebanon School Board Elects New Leadership at Reorganization MeetingThe Mt. Lebanon Board of School Directors held a reorganization meeting on December 3, 2012. In a unanimous vote, Elaine Cappucci was elected Board President and Lawrence Lebowitz as Board Vice-President for a term of one year. The School Board also took action to appointed Thomas P. Peterson as School Board Solicitor and set the Board calendar for 2013.
From the District website:
Mt. Lebanon School Board Elects New Leadership at Reorganization MeetingThe Mt. Lebanon Board of School Directors held a reorganization meeting on December 3, 2012. In a unanimous vote, Elaine Cappucci was elected Board President and Lawrence Lebowitz as Board Vice-President for a term of one year. The School Board also took action to appointed Thomas P. Peterson as School Board Solicitor and set the Board calendar for 2013.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Amendments to the Municipal Budget
From lebomag.com:
http://lebomag.com/8604/proposed-amendments-to-recommended-budget/
After a month of budget hearings and discussions, commissioners formulated a list of amendments in the form of additions and subtractions to the 2013 Manager’s Recommended Budget. The final public hearing on the budget will be 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 11 in commission chambers. The budget vote will immediately follow.
Here are some highlights:
Changes to revenue include:
* Reduce real estate tax to meet the windfall cap (required under law during a reassessment year) — $60,000 decrease. The exact certified values of real estate within municipal borders for the 2013 tax year are not known as a result of the ongoing reassessment of properties in Allegheny County. The millage rate is currently 5.43 mills but this rate will be reduced by the commission after receipt of the final 2013 values.
* Addition of revenues from alternate sources, such as the Veteran’s Memorial fund and the Plein Air event — $21,360 increase
* Revenue from tennis court lighting: $6,000
Changes to expenditures include:
* Reduction in anticipated cost of health insurance: $53,700 decrease
* Fee for participation in the new regional earned income tax collection district: $4,790
* Increase in assessment from Medical Rescue Team South Authority: $16,210
* Addition of a development consultant to procure grants and outside funding: $35,000
* Reduction in cost of new management assistant position by waiting until April to fill: $22,000 decrease
* Purchase of artwork from the Plein Air festival to place in the Municipal Building: $1,000 (funded by contributions, as noted above); additional pole decorations for Beverly Road: $3,770 (with 50 percent funding by contributions).
* Add irrigation system to Veteran’s Memorial: $18,480 (funded by contributions)
* Debt service reduction: $62,030 decrease
* Add deer survey: $12,000
* Add streaming and indexing of public meetings: $13,100
* Increase to Outreach Teen & Family Services subsidy: $1,000
* Hire consultant to appeal under-assessed properties: $25,000
* Reduce swimming pool maintenance since pool items are covered in recent bond issue: $7,500 reduction.
The budget amendments also include a shifting of a position in the finance office to cover collections.
There are still several unknowns in the budget. The municipality is waiting to hear a final total for payment to the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority. Additionally, the commission will need to approve any budget carryovers for any items that were budgeted for 2012 but not yet completed.
http://lebomag.com/8604/proposed-amendments-to-recommended-budget/
After a month of budget hearings and discussions, commissioners formulated a list of amendments in the form of additions and subtractions to the 2013 Manager’s Recommended Budget. The final public hearing on the budget will be 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 11 in commission chambers. The budget vote will immediately follow.
Here are some highlights:
Changes to revenue include:
* Reduce real estate tax to meet the windfall cap (required under law during a reassessment year) — $60,000 decrease. The exact certified values of real estate within municipal borders for the 2013 tax year are not known as a result of the ongoing reassessment of properties in Allegheny County. The millage rate is currently 5.43 mills but this rate will be reduced by the commission after receipt of the final 2013 values.
* Addition of revenues from alternate sources, such as the Veteran’s Memorial fund and the Plein Air event — $21,360 increase
* Revenue from tennis court lighting: $6,000
Changes to expenditures include:
* Reduction in anticipated cost of health insurance: $53,700 decrease
* Fee for participation in the new regional earned income tax collection district: $4,790
* Increase in assessment from Medical Rescue Team South Authority: $16,210
* Addition of a development consultant to procure grants and outside funding: $35,000
* Reduction in cost of new management assistant position by waiting until April to fill: $22,000 decrease
* Purchase of artwork from the Plein Air festival to place in the Municipal Building: $1,000 (funded by contributions, as noted above); additional pole decorations for Beverly Road: $3,770 (with 50 percent funding by contributions).
* Add irrigation system to Veteran’s Memorial: $18,480 (funded by contributions)
* Debt service reduction: $62,030 decrease
* Add deer survey: $12,000
* Add streaming and indexing of public meetings: $13,100
* Increase to Outreach Teen & Family Services subsidy: $1,000
* Hire consultant to appeal under-assessed properties: $25,000
* Reduce swimming pool maintenance since pool items are covered in recent bond issue: $7,500 reduction.
The budget amendments also include a shifting of a position in the finance office to cover collections.
There are still several unknowns in the budget. The municipality is waiting to hear a final total for payment to the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority. Additionally, the commission will need to approve any budget carryovers for any items that were budgeted for 2012 but not yet completed.
Up for some entertainment?
On Monday, December 3, the Mt. Lebanon Board of School Directors will be electing their new president and vice president during their Reorganization Meeting. The agenda has been published and can be found here.
My favorite reorg. meeting was held in December 2009. Fighting, lying, name-calling - it had it all. I watched it on TV and could not believe what I was seeing. It was the first time I tuned into a school board meeting. Ahh, those were the days.
The following year, Josephine Posti got everyone in line and won the president's seat. That meeting was definitely a 180 from the previous year.
Posti won again in 2012. Will she go for three? Will she leave kicking and screaming? Will Larry "I'm excited" Lebowitz steal the crown? Will Proud Mary be rollin', rollin' her way to the top? Will Vice President Cappucci go on to be president or will she end up being stunned as Josephine was on December 3, 2007 when Mark Hart was elected? Stay tuned...
My favorite reorg. meeting was held in December 2009. Fighting, lying, name-calling - it had it all. I watched it on TV and could not believe what I was seeing. It was the first time I tuned into a school board meeting. Ahh, those were the days.
The following year, Josephine Posti got everyone in line and won the president's seat. That meeting was definitely a 180 from the previous year.
Posti won again in 2012. Will she go for three? Will she leave kicking and screaming? Will Larry "I'm excited" Lebowitz steal the crown? Will Proud Mary be rollin', rollin' her way to the top? Will Vice President Cappucci go on to be president or will she end up being stunned as Josephine was on December 3, 2007 when Mark Hart was elected? Stay tuned...
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Common Core State Standards
I was checking Center Court and Steinhauer's blog for anything that resembled a post on the new Common Core State Standards, and struck out. Instead, I noticed that Josephine now has ads on her blog. Really, Jo? Not making enough at your day job? Or was this a recommendation made by Pursuing Ketchup?
While Josephine is blogging about charter schools and Timmy is blogging about pizza, pics, and post it notes, nothing has been mentioned about Common Core State Standards.
PA Common Core Standards
Eleanor Chute mentioned PA Common Core Standards in Monday's
Study: Pennsylvania students with access to full-time librarians do better
Cost reductions list totaling approximately $850,000 while twenty administrators received raises?
Ms. Chute continues:
When will this Board and Administration report on more pressing issues such as the transition to Common Core State Standards, 21st Century Education, replacing our fuzzy math program, and the like, instead of concentrating on sports, turf, fundraising, and charter schools? On the two year anniversary of Lebo Citizens blog, I can't think of one wise decision this Board has made.
While Josephine is blogging about charter schools and Timmy is blogging about pizza, pics, and post it notes, nothing has been mentioned about Common Core State Standards.
PA Common Core Standards
The State Board adopted Common Core Standards in July 2010. Since that time, the decision was made to craft a set of PA Common Core Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics. A group of Pennsylvania educators created a draft set of PA Common Core Standards. These new standards mirror the content and rigor of Common Core, but reflect the organization and design of the PA Academic Standards.Pine-Richland School District's website has a whole page dedicated to understanding the Transitions to Common Core Standards.
Eleanor Chute mentioned PA Common Core Standards in Monday's
Study: Pennsylvania students with access to full-time librarians do better
As school districts look for ways to save money, supporters of school libraries point to a recent study showing Pennsylvania students do better on state tests in reading and writing if they have access to strong school libraries.Remember how our illustrious board cut staff in our libraries as listed in the
The study found students with access to a better-staffed, funded, equipped, stocked and accessible school library are more likely to score advanced and less likely to score below basic on the state reading and writing tests.
Cost reductions list totaling approximately $850,000 while twenty administrators received raises?
Ms. Chute continues:
Mary Kay Biagini, director of the school library certification program at the School of Information Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh and an analyst for the study, said that 56 percent of public schools in the state didn't have access to a full-time school librarian in 2011-12.
With the economic conditions and resulting library cuts of the past two years, she said, "Students are getting even less of a chance to have access to library resources and information literacy curriculum."
She believes school libraries will be even more important as schools implement the new Common Core State Standards in English language arts and math that call for the curriculum to go deeper in fewer areas rather than skimming the surface in many.
When will this Board and Administration report on more pressing issues such as the transition to Common Core State Standards, 21st Century Education, replacing our fuzzy math program, and the like, instead of concentrating on sports, turf, fundraising, and charter schools? On the two year anniversary of Lebo Citizens blog, I can't think of one wise decision this Board has made.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
More on TERC Investigations
Josephine Posti has to go. Surely, she should not seek reelection with this kind of attitude towards stakeholders. Will the Board think enough of her to elect her to a third term as President next week?
In the emails listed, identifying information has been redacted to protect the personal privacy of individuals discussed in the letters.
I have received numerous emails complaining about Dr. Deb Allen's performance. Yes, I agree with the stakeholder. Getting rid of Posti, Steinhauer, and Allen would be a great start. Throw in Klein's retirement and we just might get the District back on its feet again.
In the emails listed, identifying information has been redacted to protect the personal privacy of individuals discussed in the letters.
From: JPosti@mtlsd.net
To: Stakeholder, Parent 1
CC: SchoolBoardEmaillist@mtlsd.net; Parent 2
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2012 19:08:02 +0000
Stakeholder,
Your email is childish, disrespectful and counterproductive in addressing the concerns of parents with children in the District. Name-calling is beneath you and not an effective method of motivating the educational professionals charged with curricular responsibility.
Parent 1 and Parent 2,
Have you discussed your concerns with your [child's] teacher or principal? An understanding of those discussions would be helpful to Dr. Allen and her team as they evaluate how Investigations is being used in each building and within specific classrooms.
For the Board,
Josephine Posti
President
Mt. Lebanon School Board
412.667.1479
http://jposti.blogspot.com
Mission: To provide the best education possible for each and every student
________________________________
From: Stakeholder
Sent: Wednesday, November 28, 2012 1:03 PM
To: Parent 1,
Cc: School Board Email list; Parent 2
Subject: Re: TERC Investigations
Good going.....I hope parents organize and hound the SB and staff at meetings & e-mail to get off their "high horses" and do something about this....firing Steinhauer for his behavior know-it-all attitude plus Allen for her total incompetence would be good for starters....then give 12th grade PSSA, ACT & SAT math portion tests to all math teachers forcing them to use only this current flawed math teaching protocol. Fire all who fail the tests!
---------- Original Message ----------
From: Parent 1
To: <schoolboardemaillist@mtlsd.net>
Cc: Parent 2
BCC: Additional Stakeholders
Subject: TERC Investigations
Date: Wed, 28 Nov 2012 17:25:51 +0000
Good afternoon Board,
Have all of you actually reviewed the Investigations books that are actually used in the classroom? If so, what have you found?
Yesterday evening, ...I asked my [child] if...Seriously folks, would this have been acceptable for your children?
I honestly don't see how the entire board can just sit there while the mother of a 6th grader says during a public meeting her son cannot do long division. The parents of the children in our school district demand more. What are you going to do about it?
Here is a link to provide you more information:
http://www.wgquirk.com/TERC2008.html
Parent 1
I have received numerous emails complaining about Dr. Deb Allen's performance. Yes, I agree with the stakeholder. Getting rid of Posti, Steinhauer, and Allen would be a great start. Throw in Klein's retirement and we just might get the District back on its feet again.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
PSSA math scores - a mixed bag
Richard Gideon prepared the following PDF showing PSSA math test results for Mt. Lebanon from 2007 through 2012. Thank you, Richard, for your analysis of the PSSA math scores.
MTLSD PSSA Math Scores 2007-2012
Mrs. Posti writes,
Anecdotal evidence in math and the sciences is frowned upon by the pros.
MTLSD PSSA Math Scores 2007-2012
Mrs. Posti writes,
"If you look at the District's student achievement results since these program change proposals were approved, it appears to have been a wise decision that has resulted in academic success for our students and, anecdotally, an increased love of math that our middle and high school teachers have observed since its adoption."The figures for PSSA math tests show a mixed bag - she is right in some cases and wrong in others. I don't see how one can claim overall success for TERC based on these figures. There are too many variables to take into consideration with respect to these numbers. We know that students are coached prior to taking the PSSA's; but then a number of parents who haven't been thrilled with TERC have tutored their kids in basic math, or paid a tutor to do the job for them. We don't know how many teachers are supplementing TERC with more traditional techniques on their own authority.
Anecdotal evidence in math and the sciences is frowned upon by the pros.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Posti on TERC Investigations UPDATED
There has been a lot of interest in this particular thread. David Huston had an email exchange with Josephine Posti concerning TERC Investigations. As with any email exchange, start at the bottom and work your way up. To avoid confusion, I separated the emails with ***.
RE: TERC Investigations math
FromDavid Huston
To jposti@mtlsd.net
Ccgwensell gwensell@southfayette.org, schoolboardemaillist@mtlsd.net
Ms. Posti,
Thank you for correcting me regarding Mr. Wensell.
You can understand my confusion because you never mentioned his first name.
Please see the attached booklet from 2009, when Mr. Wensell was employed by the District.
Mr. Wensell's presentation was:
Obviously, when Mr. Wensell recommended TERC Investigations, he
thought it was best to include traditional resources.
Now Mr. Wensell is using traditional resources along with Investigations at South Fayette.
The Mt. Lebanon School District is now using 100% TERC investigations,
which goes against Mr. Wensell's recommendation.
Who made the decision to go all TERC in our district?
I included Mr. Wensell so he can provide clarification beyond the spelling of his name.
David Huston
***
From: JPosti@mtlsd.net
To: David Huston, SchoolBoardEmaillist@mtlsd.net
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:35:26 +0000
Ken Wentzel is a retired high school physical education teacher so I'm not sure what report you'd be referring to. You may want submit a RTK request.
Josephine Posti
President
Mt. Lebanon School Board
412.667.1479
http://jposti.blogspot.com
Mission: To provide the best education possible for each and every student
***
From: David Huston
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2012 3:20 PM
To: Josephine C. Posti; School Board Email list
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Ms. Posti,
The 138 parents signing a petition to scrap TERC in 2011 were not overly satisfied:
http://www.amherstbee.com/news/2011-04-13/Education/Parents_want_examination_of_elementary_math_progra.html
The man's name is Ken Wentzel, not Wensell.
Please provide Mr. Wentzel's report for the public to review.
David Huston
***
From: JPosti@mtlsd.net
To: David Huston; SchoolBoardEmaillist@mtlsd.net
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:11:41 +0000
Mr. Huston,
FormerSchoolDirector's rationale is the same rationale most Board members follow when making decisions about curriculum. With few exceptions, we are not educators and rely on recommendations of the District's educational professionals on curriculum decisions. This was no exception.
Mr. Wensell's recommendation was brought to the Board for our approval after he conducted research and evaluation of tools that could help better prepare our students for middle school math, was vetted within his department, shared with Curriculum Council and evaluated by our administration. If you look at the District's student achievement results since these program change proposals were approved, it appears to have been a wise decision that has resulted in academic success for our students and, anecdotally, an increased love of math that our middle and high school teachers have observed since its adoption. As with any part of our curriculum, if there are opportunities to improve it, we will pursue them. Our goal is to teach a balanced math program that meets PA common core standards and prepares students for success.
Regarding the information you shared below, did you know that Amherst Central School District continues to use Investigations as a core resource in elementary math and that when surveyed, parents were overwhelmingly satisfied with the math curriculum?
Thanks and best regards,
Josephine Posti
President
Mt. Lebanon School Board
412.667.1479
http://jposti.blogspot.com
Mission: To provide the best education possible for each and every student
****
From: David Huston
Sent: Saturday, November 24, 2012 6:46 PM
To: School Board Email list
Subject: FW: TERC Investigations math
Hello Board,
Please see the exchange I had with a former school director 2 years ago.
Ms. Posti and Mr. Remely were on the board at the time and voted to approve Investigations.
Why did Ms. Posti and Mr. Remely approve it?
Also, the link below is informative.
Update November 27, 2012 1:37 AM Josephine Posti updated her blog to include this post, More on Math.
RE: TERC Investigations math
From
David Huston To jposti@mtlsd.net
Cc
gwensell gwensell@southfayette.org, schoolboardemaillist@mtlsd.net
Mon, Nov 26, 2012 4:15 pm
Ms. Posti,
Thank you for correcting me regarding Mr. Wensell.
You can understand my confusion because you never mentioned his first name.
Please see the attached booklet from 2009, when Mr. Wensell was employed by the District.
Mr. Wensell's presentation was:
Creating a Balanced K-12 Mathematics ProgramIs your school district seeking a balance between procedural and
conceptual learning opportunities for students? Come learn how
one district's approach led to the incorporation of both reform and
traditional resources.
Obviously, when Mr. Wensell recommended TERC Investigations, he
thought it was best to include traditional resources.
Now Mr. Wensell is using traditional resources along with Investigations at South Fayette.
The Mt. Lebanon School District is now using 100% TERC investigations,
which goes against Mr. Wensell's recommendation.
Who made the decision to go all TERC in our district?
I included Mr. Wensell so he can provide clarification beyond the spelling of his name.
David Huston
***
From: JPosti@mtlsd.net
To: David Huston, SchoolBoardEmaillist@mtlsd.net
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:35:26 +0000
Ken Wentzel is a retired high school physical education teacher so I'm not sure what report you'd be referring to. You may want submit a RTK request.
Josephine Posti
President
Mt. Lebanon School Board
412.667.1479
http://jposti.blogspot.com
Mission: To provide the best education possible for each and every student
***
From: David Huston
Sent: Monday, November 26, 2012 3:20 PM
To: Josephine C. Posti; School Board Email list
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Ms. Posti,
The 138 parents signing a petition to scrap TERC in 2011 were not overly satisfied:
http://www.amherstbee.com/news/2011-04-13/Education/Parents_want_examination_of_elementary_math_progra.html
The man's name is Ken Wentzel, not Wensell.
Please provide Mr. Wentzel's report for the public to review.
David Huston
***
From: JPosti@mtlsd.net
To: David Huston; SchoolBoardEmaillist@mtlsd.net
Subject: RE: TERC Investigations math
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:11:41 +0000
Mr. Huston,
FormerSchoolDirector's rationale is the same rationale most Board members follow when making decisions about curriculum. With few exceptions, we are not educators and rely on recommendations of the District's educational professionals on curriculum decisions. This was no exception.
Mr. Wensell's recommendation was brought to the Board for our approval after he conducted research and evaluation of tools that could help better prepare our students for middle school math, was vetted within his department, shared with Curriculum Council and evaluated by our administration. If you look at the District's student achievement results since these program change proposals were approved, it appears to have been a wise decision that has resulted in academic success for our students and, anecdotally, an increased love of math that our middle and high school teachers have observed since its adoption. As with any part of our curriculum, if there are opportunities to improve it, we will pursue them. Our goal is to teach a balanced math program that meets PA common core standards and prepares students for success.
Regarding the information you shared below, did you know that Amherst Central School District continues to use Investigations as a core resource in elementary math and that when surveyed, parents were overwhelmingly satisfied with the math curriculum?
Thanks and best regards,
Josephine Posti
President
Mt. Lebanon School Board
412.667.1479
http://jposti.blogspot.com
Mission: To provide the best education possible for each and every student
****
From: David Huston
Sent: Saturday, November 24, 2012 6:46 PM
To: School Board Email list
Subject: FW: TERC Investigations math
Hello Board,
Please see the exchange I had with a former school director 2 years ago.
Ms. Posti and Mr. Remely were on the board at the time and voted to approve Investigations.
Why did Ms. Posti and Mr. Remely approve it?
Also, the link below is informative.
From: FormerSchoolDirector
To: David Huston
Date: Tue, 7 Sep 2010 17:37:46 -0400
Subject: Re: TERC Investigations math
I have no idea. Don't remember the discussion. Probably bc supervisor said to...
On Sep 7, 2010, at 5:37 PM, "David Huston" wrote:
Former School Director,
Why did the 2007 school board choose TERC Investigations
for the Mt. Lebanon math curriculum?
http://amherstmathprogram.com/math/main.php
Update November 27, 2012 1:37 AM Josephine Posti updated her blog to include this post, More on Math.
If you look at our comparator districts in Pennsylvania, many of them use Investigations, including local districts like Baldwin, Elizabeth Forward, Fox Chapel, Hampton, Peters Township and Upper St. Clair.But according to PG readers, Meetings will discuss new math curriculum in Mt. Lebanon schools, USC dropped this years ago. Dr. Steinhauer weighed in on the subject in the PG article. Josephine admitted that she is not an educator and relies on the educational professionals, yet the "educator" addresses more important issues such as Chinese proverbs and construction on his blog.
Dan Miller to run UPDATED
From Facebook:
Friends and Family -
I was recently contacted by the media regarding my interest in the upcoming vacancy in the 42nd state house district. To keep it short and sweet, I will indeed seek my party’s nomination for that position.
During my term as Commissioner in Mt. Lebanon, I was honored to receive so much support and pleased to work in a bipartisan way. We were able to make long-term investments in our community and increase government transparency while achieving greater fiscal responsibility. This is why a diverse coalition that includes Democrats, Republicans and Independents is already forming as I make these next steps.
The initiatives I spearheaded in Mt. Lebanon made our town stronger, bringing people together over common goals. I intend to fight for those types of issues in Harrisburg and remain a strong voice for education and quality jobs.
Kim and I spent a lot of time discussing this step and I can assure you that I will not be away from my family to avoid tackling the challenges our state faces. I will seek compromise where I can, and work every day to move the ball on issues that strengthen and grow our middle class. I am not interested in gridlock and I have no intention on being a silent advocate for this community. If given the opportunity to serve again, you will know where I stand.
We will make a more formal announcement once the process actually begins, but I wanted you to hear this from me.
Hope you all had a great holiday!
Best,
Sunday, November 25, 2012
How will they vote?
Tomorrow's Commission meeting includes an action to enact Bill No. 20-12, establishing a Sports Advisory Board.
KL 5. Public hearing and consideration of Ordinance (Bill No. 20-12) establishing a Sports Advisory Board.
The proposed advisory board will:
Review and assess all sports-related facilities and services in Mt. Lebanon. Recommend possible changes and improvements to sports-related facilities and services.
Assist in the continued safe provision of athletic opportunities to Mt. Lebanon residents.
Receive and consider public comment and other public input regarding sports facilities and services.
Support, promote and/or provide programs and services to assist athletes and coaches in Mt. Lebanon.
Membership of the board will consist of staff from the municipality and school district, a representative from any sports organization recognized by the municipality, a representative from the parks board and a commission liaison. The school district will also provide a liaison and may request participation by other staff or groups. This ordinance was introduced November 13, 2012.
Who will be the Commission Liaison?
Will it be President Dave Brumfield, who is with Lacrosse and came up with this idea?
Will it be Vice-President Matt Kluck, who was not welcomed to attend the Joint Discussion Session?
Will it be John Bendel, who wants to look at turf again at Mellon?
Will it be Kelly Fraasch, who wants the sports groups to pay for turf and whose husband was crucified while on the school board?
Or will it be Kristen Linfante, blogger on Real-Lebo?
I found an interesting comment posted on Real-Lebo, dated January 2, 2010 at 3:05 PM by Kristen Linfante. It sheds some light on her views on sports in this town and the rifle range at the high school.
I hope this is tabled. The School Board has a full plate with change orders and the renovation, parents up in arms over the math program, not meeting AYP for a group at the high school, dances, and substance abuse. Did I miss anything? It would be nice if their focus was on education, not fields or construction.
The proposed advisory board will:
Review and assess all sports-related facilities and services in Mt. Lebanon. Recommend possible changes and improvements to sports-related facilities and services.
Assist in the continued safe provision of athletic opportunities to Mt. Lebanon residents.
Receive and consider public comment and other public input regarding sports facilities and services.
Support, promote and/or provide programs and services to assist athletes and coaches in Mt. Lebanon.
Membership of the board will consist of staff from the municipality and school district, a representative from any sports organization recognized by the municipality, a representative from the parks board and a commission liaison. The school district will also provide a liaison and may request participation by other staff or groups. This ordinance was introduced November 13, 2012.
Who will be the Commission Liaison?
Will it be President Dave Brumfield, who is with Lacrosse and came up with this idea?
Will it be Vice-President Matt Kluck, who was not welcomed to attend the Joint Discussion Session?
Will it be John Bendel, who wants to look at turf again at Mellon?
Will it be Kelly Fraasch, who wants the sports groups to pay for turf and whose husband was crucified while on the school board?
Or will it be Kristen Linfante, blogger on Real-Lebo?
I found an interesting comment posted on Real-Lebo, dated January 2, 2010 at 3:05 PM by Kristen Linfante. It sheds some light on her views on sports in this town and the rifle range at the high school.
I personally don't give a hoot about a 6-lane pool, 8-lane pool, or even a pool at all. A rifle range seems like a joke to me, as does a football field that looks like Heinz Field....and tennis courts that could host the US Open - not of interest to me either. However, it has become very clear to me that many in this town put sports at the top of the list. I am not one of those people. However, I do recognize and even respect the fact that many, many sports people in the community have come forward and demanded that the board listen and include all of the sports "bells and whistles" in the new design. http://www.reallebo.com/2009/12/high-school-renovation-takes-big-step.html#comment-formKristen has come a long way. She is the biggest supporter of shooting in this town, as well as introducing and moving to enact Bill No. 21-12.
I hope this is tabled. The School Board has a full plate with change orders and the renovation, parents up in arms over the math program, not meeting AYP for a group at the high school, dances, and substance abuse. Did I miss anything? It would be nice if their focus was on education, not fields or construction.
Friday, November 23, 2012
USC, Bethel, but not here UPDATED
A Lebo Citizens reader was kind enough to send me the following message from the Bethel Park School Board President, Donna Cook. http://www.bpsd.org/boardmessage.aspx
The take-away that I got from President Cook's message:
The second point is for my commissioner's benefit.
Update November 23, 2012 2:45 PM Witte comment about MTLSD math program
Also available here:
Witte comment on Lebocitizens.com
The take-away that I got from President Cook's message:
- All Bethel Park Administrators voluntarily took a wage freeze for the 2011-2012 school year.
- The school board appreciates their constituents' attendance and participation in these meetings; it has become increasingly difficult to sit silently while statements are being made that are simply not correct.
The second point is for my commissioner's benefit.
Update November 23, 2012 2:45 PM Witte comment about MTLSD math program
Also available here:
Witte comment on Lebocitizens.com
Thursday, November 22, 2012
No Peace on Thanksgiving
A special school board meeting has been called for Monday, November 26, 2012 at 6:30 PM. This is for another change order for the Fine Arts Building.
http://www.mtlsd.org/district/stuff/special%20meeting%20agenda%20112612.pdf
A resident sent the following to me:
Change Orders for High School Project: RESOLVED, That the Board approves Change Order GC-15-28 to Nello on a time and material basis not to exceed $80,500 for the construction of walls and ceilings in Building F.
http://www.mtlsd.org/district/stuff/special%20meeting%20agenda%20112612.pdf
A resident sent the following to me:
$80,500 change order for Nello to build a wall in Building F.Why does this special meeting have to be scheduled during the Commission Discussion Session when the Joint Maintenance Agreement will be discussed?
The $72,000 change order AB-02-17 on Monday was related to GC-11-24.
Change order GC-11-24 was for demolition work in building F.
Why wasn't this brought up during Monday's meeting?
Is the $80,500 change order for the same wall that the $72,000 change order is for?
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Public Hearing for Sports Advisory Board
The agenda for Monday's Commission meeting has been posted. We finally get to see the ordinance written for Bill No. 20-12, The Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances to Establish a Sports Advisory Board. This bill was introduced on November 13, 2012 by Kristen Linfante, but was never posted since the link was incorrect. The public hearing for this new Sports Advisory Board, or as Josephine Posti likes to call it an ad-hoc committee, will be held on Monday evening. It is number five on the agenda. Kristen will be moving to enact the ordinance after the meeting. Perhaps, this is how Dave suddenly changed his mind on shooting deer. The commission meeting starts at 8:00 PM.
In case you were wondering, the Joint Maintenance Agreement will be item number five on the Commission Discussion Session agenda. That meeting starts at 6:40 PM.
I uploaded the podcast to the November Parks Advisory Board meeting. I apologize for the quality of the recording. The Director of Recreation recorded it for the purpose of writing the minutes of the meeting. Around the eighteen minute mark is when the voices start to get a little louder. Dave Franklin is pretty easy to understand. I am reasonably sure he will be appointed as the Parks Advisory Board representative, don't you?
In case you were wondering, the Joint Maintenance Agreement will be item number five on the Commission Discussion Session agenda. That meeting starts at 6:40 PM.
I uploaded the podcast to the November Parks Advisory Board meeting. I apologize for the quality of the recording. The Director of Recreation recorded it for the purpose of writing the minutes of the meeting. Around the eighteen minute mark is when the voices start to get a little louder. Dave Franklin is pretty easy to understand. I am reasonably sure he will be appointed as the Parks Advisory Board representative, don't you?
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
District/Municipal Collaboration
Wow! I can't believe it. Both the President's November Report and the Superintendent's November Report have been posted on the School District website. I didn't have to remind them. Just a little background, both reports were about six months behind on the website. While Dr. Steinhauer was blogging about fortune cookies and construction, his monthly board reports were MIA. Mrs. Posti decided to reprint her board reports on her unofficial blog instead of keeping them official on the website. Nice to see some improvement.
By reading Posti's report from last night's meeting, I see that she is taking a more cooperative stand with the municipality.
By reading Posti's report from last night's meeting, I see that she is taking a more cooperative stand with the municipality.
Later this month, the Commission will be taking action on developing a new ad hoc committee designed to review Mt. Lebanon’s available fields as well as the needs that the various local athletic organizations have for field space. This committee will be made up of representatives from the Municipality, each of the field sport organizations as well as representatives from the District. Should this committee’s development be approved by the Commission, I’ve asked Mr. Grogan, Mr. Marciniak and Mr. Kubit to serve on the committee.Josephine Posti forgot to mention how she had cheerfully invited the commissioners to the school board community coffees rather than having a Joint Discussion Session. She is much too busy and requires an agenda to determine if it is worth her time. Josephine also failed to bring up how difficult it has been for the commissioners to discuss the Joint Maintenance Agreement with the board members.
This is just one of the many ways the two local taxing bodies work together on a regular basis to realize cost efficiencies, share resources and provide support to each other. In addition to this committee, representatives from both taxing bodies serve on our Strategic Planning Committee, the Municipality’s Comprehensive Planning Committee, the Environmental Sustainability Board, our Safety and Security Committee and the Municipality’s Economic Development Council. Our staff work together to coordinate field maintenance, fuel purchase, winter maintenance, photocopying and printing, interoffice mail delivery, fire safety, police and fire training, pedestrian safety, drivers training, contracted services, recreation, parking and communication. We also work together on programs like School in the Park and Arts in the Park regularly and have realized cost efficiencies for things like joint elevator maintenance in the past when it was cost-efficient to do so.
Additional areas of potential cooperation might include contracting District employees for things like HVAC and Building Automation controls, janitorial services, shared purchasing and fleet management. As contracts are renegotiated in future years, these opportunities and others might be explored. We’ve worked with the Municipality over the years to realize cost and service efficiencies that benefit our residents and are grateful for such a collaborative relationship with their employees and elected officials.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Shop Small Saturday
During this make it or break it time of the year, newspapers are filled with circulars trying to get your business. At one time, stores opened at 6:00 AM the day after Thanksgiving, known in the biz as Black Friday. This year, larger chain stores will be open on Thanksgiving, forcing employees to work instead of spending time with their families. Cyber Monday is getting a jump start on Sunday. Small businesses don't stand a chance during this cut throat shopping frenzy. That is why I support Shop Small Saturday.
Last year, I encouraged readers to 'Shop Small" here. This year is no different. Mt. Lebanon has vibrant business districts on Beverly Road and Washington Road. They are the lifeblood of our community. Help your neighbors and Shop Small this Saturday, November 24.
Read more: http://www.sba.gov/community/blogs/official-sba-news-and-views/open-business/shop-small-saturday-november-24th-2012
Last year, I encouraged readers to 'Shop Small" here. This year is no different. Mt. Lebanon has vibrant business districts on Beverly Road and Washington Road. They are the lifeblood of our community. Help your neighbors and Shop Small this Saturday, November 24.
Read more: http://www.sba.gov/community/blogs/official-sba-news-and-views/open-business/shop-small-saturday-november-24th-2012
Sunday, November 18, 2012
The nightmares have started again UPDATED
Thanks to Kristen Linfante, the nightmares have started again. I am reliving those terrifying nights where I was not safe in my own house. Hearing the gunshots, seeing the white pick up truck with a shooter standing in the back of it aiming just feet away from me, afraid for my dog’s safety when he had to go out, remembering the encounter with the youth riding his bike through the park; it is all coming back to me.
Citizens have expressed their concerns; supporting their statements with facts. Ms. Linfante would dismiss their statements with, “That’s your opinion.” I have been alerting the commission to the dangers of deer culling since 2006. I have tried to verify the statements made in Ms. Linfante’s presentation and presented my findings only to have the minutes from the October 22, 2012 meeting show that I don’t “believe stories about a serious deer and vehicle accident in Upper St. Clair.” http://mtlebanon.org/archives/31/Minutes%2010-22-12.pdf
I have tried to document serious safety issues concerning the deer cullings in the past only to be interrupted, humiliated, and dismissed by Ms. Linfante at previous meetings. Others have shared the same experience. We have been presenting serious safety issues concerning a deer cull, yet Ms. Linfante cites unsupported “serious safety issues” to have a deer culling in the small parks and private property of Mt. Lebanon. Ms. Linfante continues to use Upper St. Clair as a prime example of a successful deer management program. She fails to consider that any USC cullings have been done in large, open areas and not in close proximity to people’s homes.
I have expressed my concerns of liability to the commission. Wildlife Services did not provide insurance. Mt. Lebanon had to assume all liabilities. Ms. Linfante asked a resident during Citizen Comments how they would feel as a commissioner, if someone was killed in a deer/vehicle accident. Would they feel a responsibility? I must ask the same questions to Ms. Linfante. Kristen, how would you feel if there were an accident due to a deer culling where you ignored our warnings?
Kristen, you reiterate your feelings about car accidents and how a deer culling will reduce the chances. Are you aware that the last two cullings did not include bucks to be culled? Are does to blame for car accidents only? How many of those deer/vehicle collisions involved residents who were texting, DUI, or were otherwise distracted? What precautions can I take when you allow shooting high powered weapons in our neighborhoods? Must I spend my nights in my basement half the year, in order to feel safe? Or am I forced to put my house on the market and take what I can get because of my close proximity to a neighborhood park?
In case you haven’t noticed, Kristen, I have not been able to attend deer management meetings. I have left during meetings when the subject of deer culling has come up. It has taken everything I have, not burst into tears at meetings when you sit and express how uncomfortable you are at the sight of a gun shell. Yet you have no problem putting others and me at risk IN OUR OWN HOMES for a deer culling. This will not be a one time event. Since you like to use Upper St. Clair as an example, let me say that they have been involved in deer management since 1997. That is fifteen years and counting. The Mt. Lebanon budget will be approved to spend $12,000 on a deer survey in 2013, with the possibility of spending another $51,000 plus expenses for 2014. Your plan will cost us $63,000 plus expenses for a minimum of fifteen years, to a tune of close to a million dollars. In addition, what are we getting for that? A false sense of safety for some, a real danger for others, and once again, Kristen, you are pitting neighbor against neighbor.
The nightmares have started again. The flashbacks are returning. My future is bleak. So what are my options, Kristen? Live in my basement or sell my house? I cannot spend another night not feeling safe in my own house. My destiny is in your hands. Thanks a lot.
Update: Here is Kristen Linfante's response, sent at 12:33 PM today.
Dear Ms. Gillen,
I will answer the questions you posed to me.
1. Surely, if someone were harmed or killed during a culling I would
feel an enormous sense of responsibility. However, it is my job to
weigh the pros and cons of controlling deer population or not.
Statistically speaking, the risk of being harmed or killed in a cull
is much less than the risk of being harmed or killed in a
deer/vehicular/human incident. It is my job to try to keep our
community safe. There are never guarantees in life. However,
statistically speaking, culling with guns is safer than culling with
cars.
2. Generally speaking, culling typically involves culling females
since they are the ones that give birth to more deer. If one buck is
killed, that accounts for one deer. Period. If one doe is killed, it
accounts not only for that doe, but for all future births she may have
had. Therefore, killing does aids in reducing future populations.
3. No, does are not to blame for car accidents only. See #2 for an
explanation about why does are targeted in culls.
4. I cannot answer your question regarding texting, DUI, etc.
However, I can assure you that since both texting and DUI are both
illegal, our police are actively enforcing those laws. If you have
concerns about law enforcement, I suggest you contact MLPD. By the
way, a few weeks ago, one of our own police officers hit a deer in one
of our police cruisers. I can assure you that they were not texting,
DUI, or otherwise distracted.
5. Only you can answer the question about what is going to make you
feel safe. If it is living in your basement, then so be it. If it is
moving, then so be it. Those choices and decisions are your own. We
live in a democratic society, and we are a free society. Each
individual has his/her own comfort level in life.
6. Nobody is forcing you to put your house on the market. Again, your
choices are your own.
7. This is a clarification. I have never expressed discomfort in Mr.
Hoon bringing bullets to meetings. A resident contacted us and
expressed concern, but I have not myself. In addition, I did clarify
last week that our Chief of Police did volunteer to me that the
bullets Mr. Hoon brings, are NOT, in fact, the type of bullets used in
culls.
8. Your comment about cost is only a guess at best. We are in
complete control of how we cull, with what firm, when, for how long in
any season, and at what cost depending on our budget. Yes, costs
would be reoccurring. The benefit would be a safer community with
fewer vehicular accidents, deer/human/pet conflicts, etc.
9. You asked what your options are. Ms. Gillen, we all have options.
Your destiny is not in my hands. We are each responsible for our own
lives, destiny and happiness. Every human being is faced with choices
every day. I am proud and grateful to live in a country where freedom
exists.
In closing, I reiterate that I represent this entire community. I
receive far more pleas to cull than I do about people having
nightmares and me taking over their free-will. In the end, after
weighing all information, it is my job to make choices that are best
for the community (regarding deer and a whole host of other issues).
I understand that I will not always have the support of every member
of the community. I am ok with that. I am not trying to win praise or
friends. I am trying to be true to my beliefs, and make the tough
choices that I have been entrusted by my community to make.
Regards,
Kristen Linfante
Commissioner, Ward 3
Citizens have expressed their concerns; supporting their statements with facts. Ms. Linfante would dismiss their statements with, “That’s your opinion.” I have been alerting the commission to the dangers of deer culling since 2006. I have tried to verify the statements made in Ms. Linfante’s presentation and presented my findings only to have the minutes from the October 22, 2012 meeting show that I don’t “believe stories about a serious deer and vehicle accident in Upper St. Clair.” http://mtlebanon.org/archives/31/Minutes%2010-22-12.pdf
I have tried to document serious safety issues concerning the deer cullings in the past only to be interrupted, humiliated, and dismissed by Ms. Linfante at previous meetings. Others have shared the same experience. We have been presenting serious safety issues concerning a deer cull, yet Ms. Linfante cites unsupported “serious safety issues” to have a deer culling in the small parks and private property of Mt. Lebanon. Ms. Linfante continues to use Upper St. Clair as a prime example of a successful deer management program. She fails to consider that any USC cullings have been done in large, open areas and not in close proximity to people’s homes.
Kristen, you reiterate your feelings about car accidents and how a deer culling will reduce the chances. Are you aware that the last two cullings did not include bucks to be culled? Are does to blame for car accidents only? How many of those deer/vehicle collisions involved residents who were texting, DUI, or were otherwise distracted? What precautions can I take when you allow shooting high powered weapons in our neighborhoods? Must I spend my nights in my basement half the year, in order to feel safe? Or am I forced to put my house on the market and take what I can get because of my close proximity to a neighborhood park?
In case you haven’t noticed, Kristen, I have not been able to attend deer management meetings. I have left during meetings when the subject of deer culling has come up. It has taken everything I have, not burst into tears at meetings when you sit and express how uncomfortable you are at the sight of a gun shell. Yet you have no problem putting others and me at risk IN OUR OWN HOMES for a deer culling. This will not be a one time event. Since you like to use Upper St. Clair as an example, let me say that they have been involved in deer management since 1997. That is fifteen years and counting. The Mt. Lebanon budget will be approved to spend $12,000 on a deer survey in 2013, with the possibility of spending another $51,000 plus expenses for 2014. Your plan will cost us $63,000 plus expenses for a minimum of fifteen years, to a tune of close to a million dollars. In addition, what are we getting for that? A false sense of safety for some, a real danger for others, and once again, Kristen, you are pitting neighbor against neighbor.
The nightmares have started again. The flashbacks are returning. My future is bleak. So what are my options, Kristen? Live in my basement or sell my house? I cannot spend another night not feeling safe in my own house. My destiny is in your hands. Thanks a lot.
Update: Here is Kristen Linfante's response, sent at 12:33 PM today.
Dear Ms. Gillen,
I will answer the questions you posed to me.
1. Surely, if someone were harmed or killed during a culling I would
feel an enormous sense of responsibility. However, it is my job to
weigh the pros and cons of controlling deer population or not.
Statistically speaking, the risk of being harmed or killed in a cull
is much less than the risk of being harmed or killed in a
deer/vehicular/human incident. It is my job to try to keep our
community safe. There are never guarantees in life. However,
statistically speaking, culling with guns is safer than culling with
cars.
2. Generally speaking, culling typically involves culling females
since they are the ones that give birth to more deer. If one buck is
killed, that accounts for one deer. Period. If one doe is killed, it
accounts not only for that doe, but for all future births she may have
had. Therefore, killing does aids in reducing future populations.
3. No, does are not to blame for car accidents only. See #2 for an
explanation about why does are targeted in culls.
4. I cannot answer your question regarding texting, DUI, etc.
However, I can assure you that since both texting and DUI are both
illegal, our police are actively enforcing those laws. If you have
concerns about law enforcement, I suggest you contact MLPD. By the
way, a few weeks ago, one of our own police officers hit a deer in one
of our police cruisers. I can assure you that they were not texting,
DUI, or otherwise distracted.
5. Only you can answer the question about what is going to make you
feel safe. If it is living in your basement, then so be it. If it is
moving, then so be it. Those choices and decisions are your own. We
live in a democratic society, and we are a free society. Each
individual has his/her own comfort level in life.
6. Nobody is forcing you to put your house on the market. Again, your
choices are your own.
7. This is a clarification. I have never expressed discomfort in Mr.
Hoon bringing bullets to meetings. A resident contacted us and
expressed concern, but I have not myself. In addition, I did clarify
last week that our Chief of Police did volunteer to me that the
bullets Mr. Hoon brings, are NOT, in fact, the type of bullets used in
culls.
8. Your comment about cost is only a guess at best. We are in
complete control of how we cull, with what firm, when, for how long in
any season, and at what cost depending on our budget. Yes, costs
would be reoccurring. The benefit would be a safer community with
fewer vehicular accidents, deer/human/pet conflicts, etc.
9. You asked what your options are. Ms. Gillen, we all have options.
Your destiny is not in my hands. We are each responsible for our own
lives, destiny and happiness. Every human being is faced with choices
every day. I am proud and grateful to live in a country where freedom
exists.
In closing, I reiterate that I represent this entire community. I
receive far more pleas to cull than I do about people having
nightmares and me taking over their free-will. In the end, after
weighing all information, it is my job to make choices that are best
for the community (regarding deer and a whole host of other issues).
I understand that I will not always have the support of every member
of the community. I am ok with that. I am not trying to win praise or
friends. I am trying to be true to my beliefs, and make the tough
choices that I have been entrusted by my community to make.
Regards,
Kristen Linfante
Commissioner, Ward 3
Friday, November 16, 2012
Municipal Salaries
While I was sitting through those soooo exciting budget meetings, I was looking through the 2013 Manager's Recommended Budget and realized that I had no idea of what kind of money these folks earn. It really isn't broken down. So here is what I was able to find. 2011 and 2012 Municipal Salaries I do not have names listed, only by position. These figures do not include medical insurance costs, life insurance, vehicle allowances, worker's compensation, or bonuses.
Salary amounts will change in a couple of months when the new budget is passed. The final budget hearing is scheduled for December 11, 2012, when it will be approved.
Salary amounts will change in a couple of months when the new budget is passed. The final budget hearing is scheduled for December 11, 2012, when it will be approved.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Today's exchange with my commissioner
After last night's commission meeting, I felt the need to contact the Commission concerning my commissioner's behavior. Meeting after meeting, Kristen Linfante makes some reference about me whether she specifically mentions my name or she makes it clear as to whom she is talking about. Citizen comments have always been the only time when residents are permitted to speak on issues. It is the only time we are given. The rest of the meeting is when Commissioners express their views or positions. Executive Session and the Discussion Session is also a time exclusively reserved for the Commissioners to share their opinions.
The email exchange follows.
The email exchange follows.
Fromegillen476 egillen476@aol.com
To
Cc
Subject: We know how you feel
Kristen,
I would like to add to my comment from last night concerning public hearings and citizens comments. Your behavior is appalling. You are hostile to those who do not share your viewpoints. May I remind you of your values as posted on your website:
At 12:24 PM, Kristen sent the following response:The discussion meeting agenda was revised so that we could hear, once again, your views on a deer survey. Your peers want to follow the budget process. During Citizen Comments, you interrupted speakers or interjected your opinion with those you disagree. During the public hearing, we got your input concerning deer management. We get it. We know how you feel. But these segments are OUR times to comment. It is YOUR time to LISTEN to our voices. Our solos have been replaced with Linfante obbligato. Is that how you want to achieve true harmony?A Good Neighbor – As a professional musician, my role is to listen, collaborate and communicate. These are qualities I will bring to the Mt. Lebanon Commission and I believe they will serve me well as your representative. We value good neighbors and open and honest dialogue in our community and I am willing to roll up my sleeves and do the hard work necessary to ensure a brighter future. It is my goal that our many voices achieve true harmony.
This is the beginning of a conversation and I am interested in hearing your thoughts
Last night was not an isolated incident. It is ongoing. As one resident pointed out, you interrupted her at the September meeting and treated another resident last night the same way. What that resident failed to mention, was that you were just as rude to me at the October meeting. I shutter to think that one day, you will be president of the Commission.
Elaine Gillen
Dear Ms. Gillen,
Thanks for contacting the commission. I regret that you see my
dialogue with residents as anything other than an effort to
communicate.
When residents come and speak with the commission, I am acutely aware that there will be residents watching at home as well who do not
necessarily follow every meeting as some people do. I feel it is
important, in the spirit of open dialogue and transparency, to
represent where I stand on issues brought forth in any meeting -
especially when they are directed to me.
You may attend most meetings and know my stance on a variety of
issues, but there is an entire community that may not. It is my job
to let the community know where I stand.
I know your opinion about me, skateboard parks, Dan Miller, the
school district, etc. However, I would never ask for you to sit down
and not be heard simply because I already know where you stand. You
refer to "we" several times in your email to me. "We know how you
feel. We get it." I am not sure to whom you are referring when you
say "we". We have a community of almost 35,000. I serve all of them.
I stand by my approach as a commissioner. I am always willing to
allow anyone to express his/her opinion. It is my job to express mine
too. Not everyone will like what I have to say. However, I didn't
become a commissioner to make friends and gain admirers. I became a commissioner to help our community, and I have made a commitment to the hard work it takes to make tough municipal decisions.
Again, thank you for your comments. You are certainly entitled to
your opinion.
Best regards,
Kristen Linfante
Commissioner, Ward 3
Rec bond passed
The commissioners approved the $4.8 million rec bond at Tuesday's meeting with a 4-1 vote. The public hearing was overwhelmingly positive. It was wonderful to hear the joy in people's comments as they spoke of an outdoor classroom, improvements to the pool, possibly a dog park, and more. Thank you, Kelly Fraasch, for all your time that you invested in this. Thank you, Comissioners, for coming to an agreement. Matt Kluck commended Marcia Taylor on her efforts, even though he would not support the bond. Even the folks who are lovingly referred to as malcontents on this blog, spoke in favor of the recreation bond. It was refreshing to have the community come together for a change.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
How many signatures are needed here?
I just read an article about residents in more than 30 states, including Pennsylvania filing secession petitions. Petitions to strip citizenship of those who sign the petitions to secede and exile them have also been filed. 25,000 signatures are required for the Administration to review and respond. Here is Pennsylvania's petition.
Now, I am not encouraging folks to secede, but it does raise the question, "How many signatures are needed for the School District to review and respond?" If the White House only needs 25,000, the School District ignored 4,000 signatures. I wonder if neighboring communities would consider moving the boundaries to include us in their communities.
Now, I am not encouraging folks to secede, but it does raise the question, "How many signatures are needed for the School District to review and respond?" If the White House only needs 25,000, the School District ignored 4,000 signatures. I wonder if neighboring communities would consider moving the boundaries to include us in their communities.
MT. LEBANON TAKE-AWAYS FROM THE 2012 GENERAL ELECTION
The following letter to the editor was submitted by frequent Lebo Citizens contributor, Richard Gideon. Mr. Gideon also provided a companion piece to his letter, which can be found here.
by Richard Gideon
Our quadrennial exercise in national representative democracy is over and the robo-calls have ceased - thank God! Election 2012 was a good one for Democrats, generally speaking, although the U.S. House of Representatives remains in Republican hands. But do the national and state races portend what may be in store for the Municipality of Mt. Lebanon in 2013? Based on the reactions to the 2012 General Election on this Blog local Republicans seem torn between depression and hostility toward their own party, and fear a socialist takeover. But Mt. Lebanon voters are a combination of the fickle, the uninformed, the shewed, the principled, and the realists. Add a sprinkling of "coin-flippers" and you can get some surprising results at the polls. Let's take a look at the results of all the races on the 2012 ballot and see if there is anything worth noting, and what we might expect to see next year. All of the data presented comes from the Allegheny County Board of Elections, and is for Mt. Lebanon only.
First, there are 26,667 registered voters in Mt. Lebanon, of which 19,666 showed up on 6 November 2012 to cast votes (or sent in absentee ballots). This represents a turnout of 73.75%, and is down from the last presidential election in 2008. Next, there are five wards in Mt. Lebanon, and a total of 38 districts. In the race for President of the United States there were four names on the ballot, representing the Republican, Democratic, Green, and Libertarian parties. The County's website shows a place-holder for the Constitutional Party, but there was no candidate represented.
FEDERAL RACES
Looking at federal races, in Mt. Lebanon 19,599 people cast a vote for president, with 53.2% of the vote going to the Democrats, 45.61% to the Republicans, 0.29% to the Greens, and 0.71% to the Libertarians. In terms of DISTRICTS, 81.58% voted Democratic and 18.42% voted Republican; only seven of the 38 districts voted a Republican majority.
In the race for U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania a total of 19337 votes were cast, with Democrat Robert Casey Jr. winning with 55.15% of the total. Republican Tom Smith picked up 43.32% of the total, and Libertarian Rayburn Douglas Smith received 1.47%. From a district perspective, four went Republican with 34 going Democratic. From this federal race onward there were no other third party candidates.
In the race for U.S. House of Representatives for the 18th Congressional District, Republican Tim Murphy easily defeated his Democratic rival Larry Maggi, picking up 56.94% of the 19,068 votes cast to Maggi's 42.86%. But from a District perspective, 37 out of 38 went Republican, with only one voting Democratic; a percentage of 97.37% to 2.63% in favor of the Republicans
PENNSYLVANIA RACES
As the races moved to from federal to state the results started to get more interesting. In the Pennsylvania Attorney General race, Mt. Lebanon cast 18,989 total votes, with 54.19% going to Democrat Kathleen G. Kane, 43.2% for David J. Freed, and 2.56% for Libertarian Marakay J. Rogers. Six out of Mt. Lebanon's 38 Districts voted Republican, and 32 voted Democratic.
In the Pennsylvania State Treasurer's race, Mt. Lebanon gave a win to Democrat Robert M. McCord over Republican Diana Irey Vaughan, with 51.92% vs. 44.2% of the 18,673 votes cast. Patricia M. Fryman won 716 votes and 3.83% of the total as a Libertarian. Eight Mt. Lebanon Districts voted Republican, whilst 30 voted Democratic.
In the race for State Senator from the 37th Senatorial District, 19,203 votes were cast, and Democrat Matt Smith picked up 60.4% of them. Republican D. Raja only managed to win 39.49%. All Mt. Lebanon voting Districts went Democratic. It is rather obvious that a significant number of registered Republicans and Independents voted Democratic, and that Raja was unpopular.
But the race for Pennsylvania Auditor General was probably the most interesting. Of the 18,854 total votes cast, Republican John Maher gathered 48.57% to Democrat Eugene A. DePasquale's 47.46%. Libertarian Betsy Elizabeth Summers picked up 3.91% - 737 votes - which made her a "spoiler" and the only third party candidate acting as such, the difference between Maher and DePasquale being just 209 votes! District wise, 17 went to the Republicans, 19 to the Democrats, and two were ties between the Republican and Democrat, making Summers a "spoiler" in those districts.
Finally, Matt Smith also ran for his seat as Representative from the 42nd District in the Pennsylvania General Assembly unopposed, gathering 16,836 out of 17,178 votes. The remaining 342 votes were write-ins. This was hardly a "race"; but it has the most "no shows," with 2,488 voters skipping it altogether. The fact that 342 people wrote in a selection is worth noting, as 342 represents more people than voted IN TOTAL in 34 out of 38 Mt. Lebanon Districts in 2011!
TAKE-AWAYS
1. Only seven districts in Mt. Lebanon gave any race 100% of the votes it could have received; that race was President of the United States. In all other elections there were always fewer votes cast for a given race than that race might have received. Across the municipality as a whole, no race received 100% of the ballots cast. Put another way, using the POTUS race as an example 19,666 registered votes went to the polls, but the POTUS race received a total of 19,599 votes; meaning 67 people didn't cast a vote for any of the candidates for President, nor did they use the write-in option. Also, as the race became more local the number of people casting votes dropped off. This can be seen by comparing the 19,599 votes for POTUS compared to 17,178 in the unopposed 42nd District "race."
2. Seven thousand and one registered Mt. Lebanon voters did not vote, which is more than the non-voters in the 2008 election (6,751). This is almost twice as many potential votes as the largest margin of any of the races; which was the PA Senatorial race in the 37th District. For most races it is three to four times the difference! In tight races even a few hundred extra voters might change the results of an election. Since "off-year" elections see a substantial drop in voter participation it means that new candidates for local office need to communicate to the community at large if they want to win.
3. While Mt. Lebanon voted the Democrats a majority in most 2012 races, the more local the race the more it came down to the candidate himself as opposed to a party ideology. Republican Tim Murphy handily won the 18th U.S. Congressional race in Mt. Lebanon by 2,646 votes over his Democratic rival plus 38 write-in votes. Conversely, Democrat Matt Smith's margin was an impressive 3,995 votes over his Republican opponent plus 20 write-in votes.
4. Up for grabs in Mt. Lebanon next year are the commission seats of Matt Kluck (Ward 2) and David Brumfield (Ward 4), and the Mt. Lebanon School Board "at large" positions currently held by Josephine Posti, Dale Ostergaard, Mary Birks, and Daniel Remely. Based on the results of the 2012 general election it would appear that Republican Matt Kluck's commission seat is vulnerable. Also, two "Republicans" on the school board, Dale Ostergaard and Daniel Remely, might be vulnerable as well. But while the school board seems to be an impregnable progressive plutocracy - and it certainly is as of this writing - it is not immune to the vicissitudes of the economy; and it is the economy more than any other issue that usually determines how people vote. The major party candidates (who cross-file and therefore run as "Demopublicans") may have a lock on local elections now, but a well-run independent campaign could very well win a Commission's or Director's chair. An independent's chances will likely depend upon a)the local economy next November, and b)the nature of the candidate himself or herself. It won't be easy or pretty, but it can be done.
Bottom line: Although things look rosy for the Democrats and Progressives in Mt. Lebanon, I would not let the results of the Federal elections predetermine the outcome of next year's local contests. The results of various state races seem to indicate that things are more fluid in "Club Lebo" than they appear. Local candidates for the Commission and the School Board that are true independents have a legitimate, although tough, shot at winning those seats. But such candidates need to be flushed out now if they are to have a chance.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Transfixed
Laura Pace Lilly wrote a feature recently for Lebomag.com titled, "making progress."
“Building a castle is difficult. Defending and maintaining it is harder still.” – Asian Proverb
Besides reading fortune cookies, taking pictures of Post It notes with unanswered questions, Tim can daydream along with the students while watching the men at work. This is why we pay him the big bucks.
 |
Timothy Steinhauer on Monday, October 22, 2012. Justin Merriman | Tribune-Review
|
 |
| Bob the Builder |
Ironworkers wearing safety ropes traipse along steel supports, a sight that often transfixes Steinhauer, he says. Students with the luxury of window seats in their classrooms also report daydreaming while watching the men at work.Apparently, Dr. Steinhauer is still transfixed. Just check his blog. Tim Steinhauer's Superintendent Blog Tim has started a series of photos from his office window. In addition, Dr. Steinhauer is quoting from his latest fortune cookie. Here is one for Tim.
“Building a castle is difficult. Defending and maintaining it is harder still.” – Asian Proverb
Besides reading fortune cookies, taking pictures of Post It notes with unanswered questions, Tim can daydream along with the students while watching the men at work. This is why we pay him the big bucks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)