Making Jason Altmire Look Good

Yes, I know it's a tall order but here it is via CQ Politics (by way of PA2010):

Former U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan is increasingly leaning towards running against Rep. Jason Altmire (D-Pa.), according to two Pennsylvania Republicans with first-hand knowledge of her budding campaign.

Buchanan is interviewing political consultants and will likely announce her campaign by the end of the month, the GOP sources said.

Who wouldn't want someone who saved us from the dreaded water pipe and who persecuted prosecuted Cyril Wecht (twice) from having a national stage to work her magic?

Of course Altmire -- who royally pissed off many with his vote against HCR -- may not be safe even in a primary vote. Rumors abound that he may face a challenge from Georgia Berner or Franco Dok Harris.
,

Netroots Nation 09 - Photos from Day One

Georgia Berner from http://www.whatifpost.com/ at the Women's Caucus
 
Fadia Halma, Politcal Director, Pennsylvania Democratic Party at the Women's Caucus (in purple)
 
The Other Political Junkie and Post-Gazette's Tony Norman and my camera functioning poorly
 
The Post-Gazette's Mackenzie Carpenter
 
The Post-Gazette's Tim McNulty


As always: What Digby Said (http://digbysblog.blogspot.com/)


Braddock Mayor John Fetterman and Celeste Taylor from http://pennsylvaniaequity.org/


PA Rep. Chelsa Wagner talking about redistricting
 
Pam Spaulding from http://www.pamshouseblend.com/ takes one for the blog
 
The crowd waits for The Big Dog
 
Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato running for governor talking about our region
 
Surprisingly this was taken before the heckler. Someone shouted out about Don't Ask Don't Tell. By the time that Clinton finished answering Lane Hudson, Hudson gave Clinton a Standing O.
 
This way to the party at The Warhol


Franco "Dok" Harris outside The Warhol
http://www.harrisforpittsburgh.com .

I endorse...ME!

Yeah, I don't believe that I've mentioned it here before, but on the off chance that anyone reading this blog lives in my district (16-2) I'm running for Allegheny County Democratic Committee female member.

In case you don't know what a committee member does, their official duties are to vote on committee endorsements and hand out slate cards on election day. It's an unpaid position.

So if you vote in the first room at Morse Garden on Sarah & 24th Streets on Pittsburgh's South Side, vote for:

Maria T. Lupinacci

My opponent has been in office for quite some time so this ain't gonna be a walk in the park.

Oh yeah, in case you haven't noticed, I'm for these folks as well:

Allegheny County Democratic Committee:
(About 50 new folks running this year. WDUQ interviewed some of them and it will be replayed throughout the day.)

Mark DePasquale, ?
Janis Williams, ? (North Side)
Matt Preston, 9-2
John Riegert, 9-3
Erika Fricke, 9-4
Gloria Forouzan, 9-5
Josh Punchur, 9-5
Rebecca White, 9-6
Heather Sage, 9-7
Maria T. Lupinacci, 16-2
Benjamin Ragheb, 16-2

State Democratic Committee:
Robert Vincent Frank, 42nd District www.voterobfrank.com
Christopher J. Bowers, 8th District (write-in) http://www.mydd.com/story/2006/5/11/132550/883
Kevin W. Scott, 8th District (write-in) http://www.mydd.com/story/2006/5/11/132550/883

PA House:
Susan Banahasky, District 20 www.susaninthehouse.com
Lisa Bennington, District 21 http://www.lisaforhouse.com
Chelsa Wagner, District 22 http://www.chelsawagner.com
Ed Gainey, District 24 http://www.electedgainey.com
Dan Cindric, District 27 http://www.cindric2006.com
Steve Karas, District 34 www.karasforpahouse34.zoomshare.com
Harry Readshaw, District 36 http://www.pahouse.com/readshaw
Anne Dicker, District 175 http://www.annedicker.com/ (Tell your friends in Philly)

PA Senate:
Jim Ferlo, District 28 http://www.jimferlo.com

US Congress:
Georgia Berner, 4th Congressional District http://georgiaberner.com
Mike Isaac, District 14 http://www.isaacforcongress.org

US Senate:
Chuck Pennacchio www.chuck2006.com

Lt. Governor
Valerie McDonald Roberts http://www.valerieforpa.com

Governor:
Ed Rendell http://rendellforgovernor.com

Help Wanted!

Susan Banahasky: PA House, District 20

Please email matt@susaninthehouse.com if you are able to help.

- Election Day (please send your available time; help needed 6:30am - 9pm; you may also get a call from one of our interns over the next day or two)

- Get Out the Vote Push (please send available days/times Sat 5/13, Sun 5/14, Mon 5/15)

- Final Week to Find our Supporters (make phone calls or knock on doors, script & training provided! Please send availability Mon 5/8 - Fri 5/12)

- Susan Asks for Your Personal Endorsement (they can provide you with a list of addresses in your neighborhood, and they ask that you write and send a letter from YOU telling your neighbors why you know that Susan will reform our state government)

You can read Susan's pledge to reform state government at www.susaninthehouse.com and click on 'issues.'


Valerie McDonald Roberts: Lt. Governor
Pittsburgh Rallies:
Thursday, May 11, 7-9pm
Booker T. Washington Lodge 218, 1137 Walnut Street, McKeesport. Refreshments provided.
Thursday, May 11, 8-10pm
Tazza D'Oro, 1125 North Highland Avenue in Highland Park. Refreshments provided.

Philadelphia Rally:
Catch up with Valerie in Philly this Friday, with other young progressives!
Friday, May 12, 5:30-8:30pm
The Kyber, 2nd Floor, 56 S. 2nd Street. Event sponsored by Young Philly Politics.

Valerie still needs your financial support: they need to pay for election day materials and literature. $50 pays for 500 pieces of lit. Contribute online at http://www.valerieforpa.com/contribute.asp

They need your help on Election Day:
They still need election day workers so contribute a few hours of your time to helping Valerie win on Tuesday. Call their office at 412.281.2800 to find out how you can help.

http://www.valerieforpa.com


Georgia Berner, US Congress, 4th Congressional District
She's picked up four more endorsements:
- New Castle News
- Lawrence County Commissioner, Steve Craig
- The Communication Workers of America
- The League of Young Voters

Click here to make a Contribution
Click here to sign up to Volunteer

This Saturday, May 13th, 7:00 - 9:00 pm:
You are invited to a Pizza Party in Beaver
All are welcome to attend - bring a friend to meet Georgia!
Place: The Club of St. Michaels, Crestmont Shopping Center, Hopewell Township (next to George’s Restaurant)
To RSVP, call 724-770-2220 or e-mail contact@georgiaberner.com

http://georgiaberner.com


Robert Vincent Frank: State Commmittee, 42nd Senatorial District

Rob would like you to call/email your friends, family or co-workers in his huge district and ask them to vote for him (second name on the second screen of the computer voting machine) on May 16th. He has run an aggressive grassroots campaign and only lost last time by less than one vote per polling place.

His district includes:

Baldwin Twp., Bellevue, Brentwood, Carnegie, Castle Shannon,Coraopolis, Crafton, Dormont, Green Tree, Heidelberg, Ingram, Kennedy, McKees Rocks, Neville Island, Pennsbury Village, Robinson Twp, Rosslyn Farms, Scott Twp, Stowe Twp, Thornsburg,City of Pittsburgh Ward 1: Downtown, Bluff, Duquesne University, Ward 2: Downtown Pittsburgh, Lower Hill District, Strip District, Oakland, Soho,Ward 17 South Side, 21st Street, St. Paul's Monastery and St. Michaels' neighborhood. Allentown, Bon Air, Beltzhoover, Brookline,Beechview, Mt. Washington, Duquesne Heights, Ward 20 West End, Ridgement, Corliss, Elliot, Sheridan, Banksville, Ward 21: Manchester, Chateau North Side, Ward 22 Stadium Allegheny Center, North Side Proper, Ward 27, Woods Run, Brighton Road, Brighton Heights, Marshall/Shadeland, California/Kirkbride. Ward 28 Fairywood, Windgap, Chartiers City, Crafton Heights, West wood, Oakwood, East Carnegie, Esplen, Ward 30, Knoxville and Ward 32 Overbrook/East Brookline.

His website is www.voterobfrank.com and his phone number is 412-431-4828.


Steve Karas: PA House, District 34
Needs poll workers and phone bankers (you can make calls from the comfort of your own home). Contact campaign at: gbh65@verizon.net 412-719-0571

His website is www.karasforpahouse34.zoomshare.com


Chuck Pennacchio: US Senate

Canvassers wanted:
Thursday - Lawrenceville - meet at the Brillobox Bar 4104 Penn Ave at 6:00 PM canvass from 6:00-8:00 PM.

Friday - Southside - meet at the Beehive at 6:00 PM canvass from 6:00-8:00 PM.

Saturday Morning - literature distribution. Meet at 9:00 at Pamela's on 21st Street for Breakfast or at 9:30 to distribute literature. Call 412-680-1626 if you are running late or cannot find us.

Saturday Afternoon - Squirrel Hill - meet at the Starbucks located at 6304 Forbes Avenue at 1:00 PM. Canvass from 1:00-4:00 PM. Call 412-680-1626 if you can't meet at 1:00 but want to join us later in the day.

Sunday - Lawrenceville - meet at the Chuck Brew Works at 1:00 PM. Canvass from 1:00-3:00 PM. Call 412-680-1626 if you can't meet at 1:00 but want to join us later in the day.

www.chuck2006.com


Ed Rendell: Governor

Phone banking all this week. If you can help contact Lauren Bachorski at 412-201-9024. They need 6-8 people every night.

The campaign office is located at 3rd and Ross downtown - free parking can be easily found after 5:30. They need help up until 9:00 PM.

http://rendellforgovernor.com

Berner Buzz

Georgia Berner's rare honey bees make the news this week. There is a video clip available at WTAE, and from the Post-Gazette:

Plans for barn renovation uncover a honey of a problem in Zelienople
Monday, May 08, 2006
By Nate Guidry, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Georgia Berner and her husband, Jim Farber, were planning to remodel a part of their old Zelienople barn. They were going to transform one wing into a family room, ideal for entertaining friends as well as viewing the valley that sprawls in the distance.

But there was one problem.

Actually, there were thousands of buzzing little problems.

Several colonies of wild honeybees had settled into a wall in the exact area Ms. Berner planned to renovate. They had been colonizing for nearly 12 years.

Over the years, Ms. Berner said, she and the bees had lived in harmony. She had gotten used to them and they seemed all right with her.

Ms. Berner, who is a Democratic congressional candidate in the state's 4th District, didn't want anything to happen to the bees, so she phoned Kevin Lutz, a beekeeper who lives just up the road, and asked for his help.

[snip]

Mr. Cella [a Pennsylvania bee inspector] said honeybees pollinate about 90 percent of all fruits and vegetables, including apples, peaches, soybeans, pumpkins, grapes and snap beans.

He said the honeybee population is dying off because of mites and viruses and estimates there are precious few wild bees left in America.

"I thought all I was going to do was remove a colony of honeybees, but discovered an impending natural and economic disaster," said Ms. Berner.

"The commercial beekeepers and small farmers are going to lose their livelihood if bees are not saved in the United States."

You can read the entire article here.

You can find out more about candidate Georgia Berner at: www.georgiaberner.com/

League of Young Voters endorses Pennacchio, Rendell, Roberts, Berner & Isaac

The League of Young Voters PAC endorsed the following candidates:

US. Senator: Chuck Pennacchio
PA Governor: Ed Rendell
PA Lt. Governor: Valerie McDonald-Roberts
U.S. Congress (District 4): Georgia Berner
U.S. Congress (District 14): Mike Isaac
PA Senate (District 38): Jim Ferlo
PA House (District 19): Jake Wheatley
PA House (District 20): Susan Banahasky
PA House (District 21): Lisa Bennington
PA House (District 22) Chelsa Wagner
PA House (District 23): Dan Frankel
PA House (District 24): Ed Gainey
PA House (District 27): Shawn Flaherty

www.pittsburgh.indyvoter.org

Georgia Berner News

Candidate for US Congress (4th Congressional District)
Missy Heart's District!

BERNER HONORED BY U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMININSTRATION
As seen in Pittsburgh Business Times:
Georgia Berner's Berner International Corp. of New Castle was named as exporter of the year for Western Pennsylvania by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Since 2002, export sales for the company have increased 47 percent and has nearly doubled the number of employees since 2001. Georgia Berner, the president of Berner International, will be honored at a ceremony at the Westin Convention Center Hotel on May 17.

AFSCME ENDORSES GEORGIA BERNER FOR CONGRESS!
Last week, the Public Employees Organized to Promote Legislative Equality (PEOPLE) Committee of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), Local 84 voted to endorse my campaign.

GEORGIA BILLBOARDS ARE UP:


WANT TO HELP?
If you would like a yard sign, please e-mail: contact@georgiaberner.com or call 724-770-2220. (They also have window signs, buttons, and bumper stickers available!)

Over the next four weeks and on Election Day, they need lots of volunteers to help with the campaign. If you can help on Election Day, May 16th, go door-to-door, help phone bank, or assist in other ways – please sign up to volunteer! Click here to sign up to help or call 724-770-2220

Click here to contribute on-line or mail your contribution to:
Georgia Berner for Congress
PO Box 8359
New Castle, PA 16101-8359

You can also email Lindsay Patross at lpatross@yahoo.com to help.


www.georgiaberner.com

Events!

TODAY:

***Meet Georgia Berner***

WHAT: Come & Meet Georgia Berner - Democrat for U.S. Congress Not a fundraiser, just an opportunity to meet Georgia.
WHEN: April 7, 2006, 7:00-8:00 pm
WHERE: Chatham Village Clubhouse, 655 Pennridge Road, Pittsburgh, Pa 15211

www.GeorgiaBerner.com Please RSVP: georgiablots@yahoo.com


***Unblurred this Week-end***

FIRST FRIDAYS ON PENN AVENUE

You have GOT to give it up to the Jeffrey Dorsey and the Penn Avenue Arts Initiative (PIAA) for consistently supplying Pittsburgh with a monthly, week-end long event like UNBLURRED. It has become a staple of the Progressive scene in Pittsburgh, and ITS WARM AGAIN. You have FOUR DAYS of UNBLURRED to choose from.

See www.pennavenuearts.org for a complete listing of dates, times, locations, and events.


SATURDAY:

***Recycle for Reform***

Host: Friends for Susan Banahasky
Location: Gravel Lot, 3618 Penn Avenue, Lawrenceville, PA
When: Saturday, April 8, 9:00am to 1:00pm

Schedule for RECYCLE FOR REFORM

---9-1 drop off cans any time
---Noon - 1pm RALLY for SUSAN
---1pm - 6pm Volunteer Opportunities
Door knocking, Phone Banking, and lit dropping throughout the district! To volunteer, please call Matt Preston at 412.600.3405

FRIENDS FOR SUSAN BANAHASKY would like to request your CANS!

Yes, that's right, your aluminum cans...

We are RECYCLING FOR REFORM!

Save your cans for the next month and bring them to our RALLY on Saturday April 8th from 9am - 1pm

The cans will be squished by a big truck and then delivered to a scrap yard, and the proceeds will be used to PUT SUSAN IN THE HOUSE!

Tell your friends
Tell your neighbors
Tell your local coffee shop and college students!
Start drinking and save your cans...
it's for a good cause! (Please don't Drink & Drive)

If you can't make the rally, they will be happy to arrange to have your cans picked up!


***Mr. Roboto Project Arts Fair and Media Swap***

WHERE: The Spinning Plate Gallery, 5720 Friendship Avenue, Pittsburgh PA 15206
WHEN: Saturday April 8, Arts Fair from 11 AM 7:30 PM (reception to follow), Media Swap from 2 PM. - 4 PM
COST: $2/$1 for Roboto members

Music By: American Ocean, Hotness, Mike Tamburo, Flotilla Way and more…

Vendors Include: AL HOFF, ENAMEL RECORDS, HEATHER WOOD. www.hlwdesign.com KHARISMA VINTAGE FASHIONS, GIRLS' NIGHT IN, JOSEPH WILK., ENCYCLOPEDIA DESTRUCTICA, FRESH POPCORN PRODUCTIONS, DESTRUCTION BY DESIGN, WEARABLE ART (www.wearableartonline.com ), BRADY BECKWITH AND EMILEE DIXON, JODY KENNEDY, CHRISTOPHER HEADINGS/KELLY RAMSEY, FRIEND OR FOE, INCREDIBLY THIN, MISS CHIEF/JESSICA MANACK (www.misschiefshop.com ), GRACIE SPARKLES/GRACE DOBUSH (www.graciesparkles.com ), RYAN EMMETT/DYNAMO SOUND COLLECTIVE, JENNY JO PATTON, JOHN MUNSHOUR, ASHLEY, SARA, AND ALYSSA.


***Democratic Senate Candidate Debate***

WHAT: Hear Pennacchio, Sandals & Casey debate the issues
WHEN: 7:00 p.m., Sat., April 8th
WHERE: McKay Education Building Auditorium on the Slippery Rock Campus (corner of School Drive and E. Maltby Ave.).

The debates will be carried on PCN, which reaches customers via cable, satellite and webcast. Here's a link to info about viewing the debate in your area:
http://www.chuck2006.com/info.asp?content=channels

More here


***14th Ward Independent Democratic Club***

WHAT: Annual Fundraiser
WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 2006 @ 7:00-10:00 PM
WHERE: Schenley Park Ice Skating Rink Party Room

The film WAL-MART: THE HIGH COST OF LOW PRICE will be screened, followed by a discussion led by Carrie Leana, Professor of Business Administration and of Public and International Affairs, Katz School of Business, University of Pittsburgh. Snacks, soda, beer, and wine will be provided by the Club.

WAL-MART: THE HIGH COST OF LOW PRICE is a feature length documentary that uncovers a retail giant's assault on families and American values. "The free market functions effectively only when consumers have all the facts. A brilliant new film by Robert Greenwald tells the real story of the corrosive effects that Wal-Mart wreaks upon the communities in which it operates and the men and women it employs." -- Rob Reiner

* $20/person, $10 for students and persons with limited income
* $50 for a sponsorship (includes 2 tickets and recognition at the event)
* $100 for a GOLD sponsorship (includes 4 tickets and recognition at the event)

This annual fundraiser supports Club activities, especially the endorsement mailing that is sent to 17,000 registered Democrats in the 14th Ward before the primary. The mailing includes the endorsements voted on by Club members on Endorsement Day, Sunday, April 9th.

EVENTS THIS WEEK

TUESDAY 3/7/06

All Day Mailer for Bruce A Kraus
Tuesday, 3/7/06
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
157 S 18th St.
Pittsburgh PA 15203

Looking for volunteers to assist with a mailing ALL DAY (from 10am to 10pm). Your help & support is greatly appreciated as Election Day is fast approaching (Marxh 14th). Please stop by campaign headquarters @ 157 S. 18th Street to lend a hand (any amount of time you can contribute is greatly appreciated).

RSVP: bruce4council@aol.com (or just show up)

http://www.bruce4council.com
bruce4council@aol.com
412-583-6082
412-431-8104

Put Susan in the House II
Tuesday, March 7
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Coca Cafe
3811 Butler Street
Lawrenceville, PA
Host: FRIENDS FOR SUSAN BANAHASKY

Join with other friends of Susan for another opportunityto talk with the woman herself!

Pay Now: PAYPAL Donation (Suggested Donation: $25 -- All contributions appreciated )
RSVP: HERE

http://www.susaninthehouse.org


WEDNESDAY 3/8/06

Allegheny for Pennacchio Strategy Meeting
Wednesday, 3/8/06
7:00 PM
BEEHIVE Coffeehouse & Dessertery
1327 E Carson St
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
(412) 488-4483

Come out and help support the Real Democrat in this race.

http://www.chuck2006.com


THURSDAY 3/9/06

Cocktail Reception for Georgia Berner with Barbara Hafer
Thursday, March 9
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Bossa Nova
123 Seventh Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

Please join Former State Treasurer Barbara Hafer for a cocktail reception with GEORGIA BERNER, Democratic Candidate for Congress

For more information or to RSVP: phone 724-766-8025 or email contact@georgiaberner.com

Click Here to donate online - www.georgiaberner.com/march9
Or mail your check with the following information to:
Georgia Berner for Congress
PO BOX 8359
New Castle, PA 16101-8359
-------------------------------------------------------------
Sponsor $1000/person, Patron $500/person, Friends $250/person, Supporter $100/person, Student/Young Professional $25/person

http://www.georgiaberner.com


SATURDAY 3/11/06

Kraus Poll Staffing Orientation
Saturday, 3/11/06
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
157 S. 18th St
Pittsburgh PA 15203

Please stop by campaign headquarters @ 157 S. 18th Street this coming Saturday anytime between 9am & Noon. We will be passing out T-shirts, literature & providing a brief orientation to those who will be able to assist with staffing the polls. Also, you will be able to sign up for the polling location & times which best suit your schedule.

(If you are unable to make it during those times, please let us know & we will accommodate your schedule & provide you with the information you will need to assist. Any volunteers you are able to recruit would also be greatly appreciated.)

http://www.bruce4council.com
bruce4council@aol.com
412-583-6082
412-431-8104

Need something to do?

THURSDAY 2-23-06

Discover Pittsburgh 2006!
Progress Pittsburgh will be sharing a table with the League of Young Voters at Discover Pittsburgh! tomorrow, Thursday, 2/23 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm at the Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall (corner of Bigelow & Fifth Ave, Oakland). A gazillion other organizations will also have tables -- check out what Pittsburgh has to offer. Brought to you by PUMP.
Click here for more details.

Georgia Berner New Castle Petition Party @ Edwards
Edward's, 909 Wilmington Avenue, New Castle, PA
Thursday, February 23rd, 2006
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Stop by and say hello to Georgia. Sign a petition or pick up one to circulate.
Cost: FREE! Food will be provided, Cash bar.
Click here for more info/to RSVP

SATURDAY 2-25-06

Zelienople Meet & Greet with Georgia Berner
Beecher's, Main Street (Route 19), Zelienople, PA
Saturday, February 25th
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Stop by and say hello to Georgia. Sign a petition or pick up one to circulate.
Click here for more info/to RSVP

SUNDAY 2-26-06

ACDC Endorsements
This Sunday the Allegheny County Democratic Party will be holding their endorsement vote at the IBEW (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers) on the Southside. The Hall is located at the intersection of the Hot Metal bridge and Hot Metal Bridge Street (used be 28th Street) in the new Southside Works Complex. The event is from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. But even if you have 2 hours to give, that would be great!!

All Democratic Candidates need visibility and help collecting signatures at this event. Whether or not you are currently circulating a petition or just want to come and sign a few petitions, say hello to everyone, put on a sticker or button for your candidate, this is a great event for Democrats.

For example, we need folks to get signatures for Governor Ed Rendell, candidate Georgia Berner in the 4th District, candidate Valerie McDonald Roberts for Lt. Governor, Conressman Mike Doyle in the 14th District, Chuck Pennacchio who is running against Rick Santorum, Rob Frank running for State Democratic Committee in the 42nd Senatorial District (State Senator Wayne Fontana's District), etc., etc!

Want to help?
For Rendell, contact: Janis Williams: janis.jmw@comcast.net
For Berner, contact: Sam Hens-Greco contact@georgiaberner.com 724-766-8027
For McDonald Roberts, contact: Janis Williams: janis.jmw@comcast.net
For Doyle, contact: Janis Williams: janis.jmw@comcast.net
For Pennacchio, contact me: lupinaccim@aol.com or Janis Williams: janis.jmw@comcast.net
For Frank, contact: Rob Frank 412-431-4828 robfrank@winning.com

MONDAY 2-27-06

Candidate Forum for the District 3 City Council Race
Monday, 2/27 at 8:30 pm
Kurtzman Room of the Pitt Student Union
Candidate Forum for the District 3 City Council race. This is an open forum -- and a good opportunity to meet the candidates as well as residents of all parts of District 3. Please plan to come, and ask challenging questions.

* Live DJ: Enjoy the sounds of Omar-Abdul (Phonograffiti) on the wheels of steel.

* FREE FOOD: provided by the Pittsburgh League of Young Voters Education Fund.

* For more information contact: The Pittsburgh League of Young Voters Education Fund at 412-728-2197 or pittsburgh@indyvoter.org

TUESDAY 2-28-06

WRCT RADIO
Tuesday, 2/28 at 6:00 pm
Andrea from progress Pittsburgh will be chatting with City Paper editor Chris Potter on WRCT about the District 3 race -- tune in to 88.5 FM and let them know what you think.

Meet Bruce Kraus
Host: Bill Peduto
Location: CCI Center
64 South 14th Street, South Side (off Carson St.), PA
When: Tuesday, February 28, 7:30pm to 9:00pm

Pittsburgh City Councilman Bill Peduto and friends invite you to meet Bruce Kraus, the progressive and fiscally responsible candidate for City Council for District 3. This is your chance to get involved in changing Pittsburgh - don't leave it to someone else. The election is only three weeks away and Bruce needs your help to win. You can make the difference in this race, so please don't miss this important event and this chance to reform Pittsburgh!

Bruce has already received the endorsement of a caucus of progressives and is widely respected by numerous community groups.

Progress Pittsburgh Meeting
The regular bi-weekly P2 meeting scheduled for Tuesday 2/28 at 7:00 will be cancelled

THURSDAY 3-2-06

P2PA Notary Party
hursday, 3/2 at 6:00 pm at the Brillobox (Penn Ave just off Main St. in Bloomfield/Lawrenceville) Progress Pittsburgh Political Action invites you to a happy hour and petition-notarizing social, hosted in conjunction with Run, Baby, Run. Come out and meet candidates for local office, sign their petitions, and enjoy the excellent groove of the Brillobox.

Host: Progress Pittsburgh Political Action
Location: the brillobox
4104 Penn Ave (Penn & Main), Pittsburgh, PA
When: Thursday, March 2, 6:00pm
Progress Pittsburgh Political Action candidates for Allegheny County Democratic Committee & Run Baby Run candidates for Representative in the General Assembly
& their petition circulators are invited to come to this happy hour to have their nomination petitions notarized.

EVERYONE is invited to come meet & celebrate the new (and returning) voices in Pittsburgh politics

PENNACCHIO, MCDONALD ROBERTS, BERNER AND OTHERS RECEIVE DEMOCRACY FOR PITTSBURGH'S ENDORSEMENT

Seven Candidates Get A Thumbs Up At Endorsement Meeting

Democracy for Pittsburgh (the local coalition group for Democracy for America) announced today the results of an endorsement vote that was held on Saturday, February 18, 2006.

"Candidates need to jump a high hurdle in order to win our endorsement. They needed to receive at least 75% of the votes, not counting abstentions. I believe that no other progressive endorsing group in Pittsburgh requires this level of agreement from their membership," said Lou Takacs, member of Democracy for Pittsburgh's Organizing Committee and "meeting host" for the day. "Setting such a high standard also helps to ensure that winning candidates receive not only an endorsement, but a base of volunteers to draw from," he added.

Chuck Pennacchio was endorsed for US Senate (90%). Valerie McDonald Roberts was endorsed for Lt. Governor (100%). Georgia Berner was endorsed for US Representative - 4th Congressional District (91%). Susan Banahasky was endorsed for Rep. District 20 (92%). William Sargent was endorsed for Rep. District 42 (79%). And, two longtime members of Democracy for Pittsburgh were also endorsed for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives: Dan Cindric was endorsed for Rep. District 27 (96%) and Steve Karas was endorsed for Rep. District 34 (96%).

No endorsement could be reached in the following races: 14th Congressional District, 18th Congressional District, Rep. District 21, Rep. District 24 and special election for Pittsburgh City Council District 3.

During the meeting, the host asked for a show of hands of those members who were planning on running for Allegheny County Democratic Committee and nearly a quarter of those in attendance signaled their intentions to run - most for the first time.

Freep this poll

Vote here for Berner/Hafer:

http://politicspa.com/BallotBox.htm

Berner/Hafer Press Conference Today

Barbara Hafer Joins Democratic Candidate Georgia Berner’s Congressional Campaign as Honorary Finance Chair

Bridgewater, PA – On Monday, January 30, 2006, at 11:00 a.m., Democratic Congressional Candidate Georgia Berner will hold a press conference at the Silk House in Ambridge, Pennsylvania, to announce that former State Treasurer Barbara Hafer has agreed to serve as Ms. Berner’s Honorary Finance Chair.

Ms. Hafer will attend and will be available to members of the press for interviews following the conference.

Ms. Berner, a successful Lawrence County businesswoman and former Federal Reserve Board Member is a candidate for Congress in the 4th Congressional District.

The Silk House is located at 317 14th Street in Ambridge.

www.georgiaberner.com

Barbara Hafer Joins Georgia Berner Against Missy Hart

Please join Former State Treasurer Barbara Hafer for a cocktail reception with GEORGIA BERNER - Democratic Candidate for Congress

Monday January 30
5-7 pm
Rivers Club, One Oxford Center, 301 Grant Street,
Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Host Committee:
Heather Arnet, Terry Beggy, Miranda Berner, Yvonne Campos, Jeanne Clark, Bonnie DiCarlo, Joan Ellenbogen, Beth Hafer, Betsy Magley, Catherine Mott, Eve Picker, Heather Sage, Marilyn Sullivan, Betsy Teti

Suggested Donation: $100/person

For more information or to RSVP
by phone 724-766-8025 or email jan30@georgiaberner.com

http://www.georgiaberner.com

Altmire Campaign Slims Payroll

Funds drying up?

Politics PA reported last week that Mark Salvas has left the Jason Altmire for Congress Campaign. He had been serving as the campaign's Communications Director. A little birdie told us last Tuesday evening that he wasn't the only one dropping their support in that campaign.

Maybe folks are realizing that now is not the time to run a lobbyist for Congress...

Maybe it just doesn't help that there's a better, stronger candidate (Georgia Berner, Georgia Berner, Georgia Berner) running now....

Maybe some folks just don't find his principles all that principled...

(Maybe if I hadn't had such a hellish week, I could have posted this days ago...)

THEY NEED YOUR HELP NOW!

Democracy for Pittsburgh (local coalition group for Democracy for America) usually features candidate forums at every meetup. The December meeting featured a few candidates who really stood out (in my humble opinion). I mention it now because December 31st is nearly upon us and this is your last chance to make a contribution to candidates for the 2005 year.

I therefore ask you to consider contributing anything that you can to any or all of the following candidates:


Georgia Berner, Candidate running for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania’s 4th Congressional District (www.georgiaberner.com )

Georgia Berner is an innovative CEO of a prominent and growing manufacturing company in New Castle, PA who is running for Congress in Pennsylvania's fourth congressional district against Melissa Hart (a horrid little conservative Republican who is for torture and corruption). Georgia's campaign is really gaining momentum and she could really use your help in keeping that momentum going. (Did I mention that Georgia is a pro-choice candidate, one of the few, if not the only one running in this race?) I was impressed with Georgia's down to earth style and common sense approach -- plus, this is a woman who knows how to CREATE JOBS.
DONATE TO GEORGIA BERNER HERE!


Tom Kovach, Candidate running for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania's 18th Congressional District (www.kovachforcongress.com)

Tom Kovach is part of a growing trend of "Fighting Dems" (Navy Vet). He's running a real grassroots campaign. As he puts it, "This is the people's campaign. We aren't interested in support or donations from big business and WILL show special interests that we, the people, can build a campaign and win without the big bucks shoveled out to our opponent by the likes of Dick Cheney and Tom DeLay. We are strong, experienced grassroots Democrats who want to send a message to our party that Dems shouldn't try to pace the Republicans in fundraising. Campaigning can be done with quarters and we'll prove it!" His issues page is heavy on restoring our economic well being and supporting a safe, fast and fair exit strategy for Iraq. Take my word for it that Tom's a dynamic speaker -- or better still, meet him yourself.
DONATE TO TOM KOVACH HERE!


William Sargent, Candidate for State House in the 42nd Legislative District of Pennsylvania, (www.votesargent.com)

William Sargent is one more "Fighting Dem" (He flew missions over Afghanistan and Iraq and is currently a Reservist). William intends to be a true “CITIZEN LEGISLATOR.” As he puts it, “Professional politicians have run Harrisburg for far too long, and the time has come to make a change. As an Air Force Reservist I represented the United States as a citizen soldier, and when elected I will serve my district as a citizen legislator, not a politician. As Pennsylvanians, we are in the midst of a crippling economic crisis stemming from ever-increasing property taxes, stagnant local and national economies, a decline in manufacturing jobs, and the rising cost of energy. We can no longer afford ineffectual leadership in Harrisburg.” I found him to be a riveting speaker.
DONATE TO WILLIAM SARGENT AT: PO BOX 11942, Mt Lebanon, PA 15228


Steve Karas, Candidate for State House in the 34th Legislative District of Pennsylvania, (www.karasforpahouse34.zoomshare.com)

Steve Karas is a member of Democracy for Pittsburgh and you can read his platform here. It includes such items as reducing both the benefits and size of the legislature to reasonable levels and allowing any citizen to gather signatures and offer ballot referendums. Steve's a great guy who can use your support.
DONATE TO STEVE KARAS: Contact him at gbh65@verizon.net


Chuck Pennacchio, Candidate for U.S. Senate -- Pennsylvania, (www.chuck2006.com)

And, if you've read this blog at all, you know I support CHUCK PENNACCHIO for US Senate. Pennacchio is everything that Bobby Casey, Jr. is not: a true progressive. He's the Blue State Candidate that we need for the Blue State of Pennsylvania (Poll shows Casey's support will plummet as voters learn he opposes choice).

YOU CAN HEAR CHUCK SPEAK AT DfP'S JANUARY MEETUP:

Event Date: Wednesday, January 4, 2006
Event Time: 7:00 PM
Venue Name: Mario’s South Side Saloon (upstairs)
Address: 1514 E Carson St
City: Pittsburgh
State: PA
Zip Code: 15203
R.S.V.P. for this meeting here.
DONATE TO CHUCK PENNACCHIO HERE!

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

UPDATE: 2 Political Junkies is NOT Democracy for Pittsburgh's blog. 2PJ is David's and my blog. David is free to post all he wants for whomever he wants (even Bob "I put my own self to sleep when I speak" Casey if he chooses to).

The website for Democracy for Pittsburgh is:
http://www.pghdfa.org/blog/

If you go there you'll notice that I blog there as well. HOWEVER, when I do blog there, I feel that I am blogging on behalf of the group and so I do not personally advocate on behalf of any candidates there. Once a candidate is endorsed by the group, then and only then, do I feel that it is perfectly legitimate to push for particular candidates on DfP's website. I hope this clears up any misunderstanding.

HAPPENING THIS WEEKEND

FRIDAY::: GREEN DRINKS (A Holiday Edition)
Beer, The Enviroment & Sean Brady = Good Time

Friday, December 16, 2005
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Phipps Cafe© at Phipps Conservatory
One Schenley Park
Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3830

GREEN DRINKS is a monthly happy hour/networking event for folks with an interest in the environmental future of Pittsburgh, outdoors stuff, or for the purists, an interest in drinks.

GREEN DRINKS has been meeting at Phipps all year, but in January they'll start taking the show around the city. This month's speaker Sean Brady from Venture Outdoors! There will be a discussion of some of the great outdoor activities you can take part in during a Pittsburgh winter.

MORE INFO: Shawn Westcott shawnmwestcott@yahoo.com


SATURDAY::: GEORGIA BERNER OPEN HOUSE
Meet Georgia Berner (running for Congress in the 4th district -- North Hills and counties north of Allegheny)

Saturday, December 17th, 2005
1:00 Pm – 3:00 PM
222 Bridge Street
Bridgewater, PA
(Coffee, Cocoa & Cookies)

"Come find out what is going on with my campaign for Congress, meet my team, and share stories of our concerns and hopes for our region. I look forward to meeting you there! "

The campaign office in Bridgewater (Beaver County) is OPEN and is located on Bridge Street in Bridgewater, just over the Beaver River from the K-Mart and Giant Eagle in Rochester.

Check out Georgia’s interview in PoliticsPa: http://politicspa.com/FEATURES/Interviews/berner.htm

"With your help – we can win this race! We are just weeks away from the important end of year FEC deadline. Please help Georgia’s campaign by making a donation before Dec. 30th." http://www.georgiaberner.com

You can contact the campaign at 724.770.2220 or contact@georgiaberner.com

R.S.V.P at:
http://www.evite.com/contact@georgiaberner.com/openhouse


SATURDAY::: LUPEC ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY
LUPEC HOLIDAY PARTY Honoring the Duchess! All Hail Her Royal Majesty Duchess

Saturday, December 17, 2005
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Lava Lounge
2204 E Carson St. (South Side)
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
412-431-5282

LUPEC are the Ladies United for the Preservation of Endangered Cocktails. This Saturday they will celebrate at their annual holiday party which will also honor the "Duchess" (Norma-Jean Wofford Robinson, d. 2005).

"Norma-Jean was my first sidekick, we did everything together. She was like family which is why I told everyone she was my sister. There was no one else like her and I will miss her very much." --Bo Diddley, 2005

Did you know that Bo Diddley's guitar player was a young lady from the Hill District right here in Pittsburgh?

Neither did we.

But, now that we all know it, LUPEC wants to celebrate her and they hope that you will join them at their annual holiday party.

LUPEC will be featuring a new cocktail created by Del Marcus of The Lava Lounge in honor of Norma-Jean Wofford Robinson, aka "Duchess". Three other endangered cocktails will be released into the wild as part of LUPEC's Endangered Cocktail Breed and Release Program.

http://www.lupec.org

Candidate Forum Today at DfP Meetup!

Five candidates will be speaking at Democracy for Pittsburgh's meeting this evening:

Georgia Berner, Candidate running for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania’s in the 4th Congressional District (www.georgiaberner.com )

Tom Kovach, Candidate running for U.S. Congress in Pennsylvania's 18th Congressional District (www.kovachforcongress.com)

Matt Smith, Candidate for State House in the 42nd Legislative District of Pennsylvania (www.mattsmith2006.com)

William Sargent, Candidate for State House in the 42nd Legislative District of Pennsylvania, (www.votesargent.com)

Steve Karass, Candidate for State House in the 34th Legislative District of Pennsylvania, (www.karasforpahouse34.zoomshare.com)

Also, Democracy for Pittsburgh will vote on endorsements for the May primary in February. In order to vote in February, a member must have attended at least one of the three previous monthly meetings (November 2005, December 2005 or January 2006).

So if you haven’t been to a meeting for a while: you need to attend in either December or January.

DfP meetings are always held at 7:00 PM on the first Wednesday of the month.

December’s meeting info:>

Event Title: Monthly Meetup
Event Type: DFA-Link Meeting
Event Date: Wednesday, December 7, 2005
Event Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Venue Name: Mario’s South Side Saloon (upstairs)
Address: 1514 E Carson St
City: Pittsburgh
State: PA
Zip Code: 15203
Phone Number: 412-381-5610

R.S.V.P. at http://tools.democracyforamerica.com/link/event.php?id=2844