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Friday, October 31, 2014

Grim Prospects For Democrats


Rep. Joe Pitts: Some Things Are Truly Frightening

By Congressman Joe Pitts
Guest Columnist

The problems we face as a nation are frightening. But right now, in many ways, we are like the person in the horror movie who is hiding under a bed. The thing is though, these problems are stalking us and will, sooner or later, they are going to drag us out from cover. It’s far better to face them now, head on, then to wait until we have almost no options.

Some of these problems actually look kind of like a horror movie, like ISIL and Ebola. Some of them are horrifically large numbers, like our current and future debt.

Muslim extremists have long wished for a state that they could call their own. A place where they could operate freely, imposing a sadistic interpretation of their faith. For a while, Afghanistan was the site of their dystopia and the leaders went by the name of Taliban.

Now ISIL is trying the same grim project in war-torn Syria and Iraq with the hope that they can spread the borders of their new state across all Muslim lands. Stonings and beheadings are routine punishments. When it come to terrorism, the stated ambitions of ISIL are the same as the Taliban.

There was a time when oceans and distance would have kept us safe from such horrors. Now however, the same planes that let us enjoy a vacation in a distant part of the world, bring us problems from distant lands.

Despite whatever rhetoric President Obama may want to use, we are at war with ISIL. I was an Air Force officer in another war that had limited aims and limited means—Vietnam. If we intend to keep ISIL from establishing a terror state, we must not hold back. That does not mean sending substantial ground forces, but we should have a force that meets the needs of military commanders, not politicians. Our allies in the region must hold the ground we help them take.

Ebola, in many ways, is the disease of our nightmares. It kills the majority of people who contract it and takes their lives in a particularly painful and gruesome process. For months, we hoped that the west African nations from which Ebola sprung would be able to get things under control. Those hopes were sorely misplaced.
We’re playing catch-up now. There are some who hope that just placing travel restrictions will keep us safe. We do need smart travel restrictions that keep people out of the U.S. until we know they don’t have the disease, but we also need to get help into these nations.

Diseases don’t recognize lines on a map, and the borders in Africa are particularly porous. While the Ivory Coast has closed its border crossings, thousands of miles of fields and forests are open for infected persons to walk across. If Ebola becomes out of control in neighboring Liberia, it would trigger a refugee problem that could quickly spiral out of control, infecting another nation.

We have U.S. troops working to construct some facilities and coordinate supplies. We may need to do more. We certainly need to do much more to prepare U.S. medical facilities, including clinics and doctors offices, to diagnose Ebola and quickly isolate patients.

Our federal government is plagued with persistent deficits. That does not have the visceral terror of violence or disease. However, without a properly functioning government, those horrors and others would come to our shores.

We have more than $200 trillion in government obligations that we don’t have a plan to pay for. Funding programs like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security will take over all other priorities unless we strengthen and save these programs. We all want government to do more than just provide for these programs. We want to be safe from foreign threats and from pandemics.

We can’t hide from our budget problems. Just a few years from now, we will be forced to either raise taxes incredibly high or cuts programs deeply. Neither of those are good options. Incremental changes now, done on a bipartisan basis, can prevent a great deal of pain decades from now.

Fear isn’t always a bad thing. There are things we need to be concerned about. Actions we need to take. Hiding isn’t an option.

Pa. newspaper: Re-elect Gov. Tom Corbett for concrete way forward

From the Times-Leader in Wilkes-Barre:
We wanted to like Tom Wolf.

With many aspects of the commonwealth struggling under the leadership of Gov. Tom Corbett, we went into our endorsement process – like so many Pennsylvanians – assuming Wolf would come out on top.

But when it came time to pit Corbett’s record against Wolf’s rhetoric, we couldn’t bring ourselves to support the Democratic challenger.

We don’t know where Wolf stands on too many important issues that affect Northeastern Pennsylvania. From capturing methane gas to restoring rail service from New York City to Scranton, Wolf is the candidate who just won’t commit to a position.
Our Opinion: Re-elect Gov. Tom Corbett for concrete way forward - Times Leader - timesleader.com

Tom 'Taxman' Wolf Cartoon Gallery



Berks County Republicans express optimism as Election Day nears

Berks County Republicans express optimism as Election Day nears | Reading Eagle - NEWS

Pa. newspaper: Endorsing Tom Wolf is not an option; Re-elect Gov. Tom Corbett

From the Times-Leader in Wilkes-Barre:
We wanted to like Tom Wolf.

With many aspects of the commonwealth struggling under the leadership of Gov. Tom Corbett, we went into our endorsement process – like so many Pennsylvanians – assuming Wolf would come out on top.

But when it came time to pit Corbett’s record against Wolf’s rhetoric, we couldn’t bring ourselves to support the Democratic challenger.

We don’t know where Wolf stands on too many important issues that affect Northeastern Pennsylvania. From capturing methane gas to restoring rail service from New York City to Scranton, Wolf is the candidate who just won’t commit to a position.
Our Opinion: Re-elect Gov. Tom Corbett for concrete way forward - Times Leader - timesleader.com

Many Empty Seats at Hillary Rally in Maryland

Many Empty Seats at Hillary Rally in Maryland | The Weekly Standard

Middle-Aged White Woman Mary Landrieu Plays the Race Card

Landrieu: Harder for Me, Obama Because of South's Racist Past | The Weekly Standard

The End of the Age of Obama

Jay Cost: End of the Age of Obama | The Weekly Standard

PA Democrat Tom Wolf's $1 billion lie about new tax revenues

Tom Wolf's $1 billion myth

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Democrats Are The Real Party of the Rich

Fred Barnes: The Real Party of the Rich | The Weekly Standard

Democrats Rev Up Their Voter Fraud Machine

Here Comes The 2014 Voter Fraud | RedFlagNews.com

Meet Tom Wolf, Obama's Biggest Fan

Obama Plans to Bring Foreign Ebola Patients to U.S.

What could possibly go wrong by bringing people infected with a deadly disease with no known cure into the United States? Hope and change, baby!

State Dept. Doc Affirms JW’s Report on Obama Plan to Bring Foreign Ebola Patients to U.S.

Judicial Watch: Obama May Have Been Elected With Votes by Non-Citizens

Obama May Have Been Elected With Illegal Votes

The Obama Legacy: Failure Upon Failure

Check out this article by Stephen Hayes on the disintegration of the Obama presidency.
Failure Upon Failure | The Weekly Standard

Beware of (Tom) Wolf in Sheep's Clothing



Democrat Tom Wolf wants to raise taxes on Pennsylvania families and businesses. But Pennsylvania is already taxed enough. This from David Baldinger of the Pennsylvania Taxpayers Cyber Coalition: Pennsylvania is number 34 overall but 46 in corporate tax and 42 in property tax and everyone wonders why businesses don’t want to locate here.  HB/SB 76 can have a profound effect on at least one of these factors.
 

Memo: Obama Plans to Bring Non-Citizens to US for Ebola Treatment

State Department Denies Own Memo of Plan to Bring Non-Citizens to US for Ebola Treatment

Liberal magazine upset liberal newspapers didn't endorse Tom Wolf

The Inquirer Endorses Nobody for Governor | News | Philadelphia Magazine

Misbehavior pays if you work for the Obama Administration

From the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:
The federal government kept more than 57,000 employees accused of
misbehavior on paid administrative leave for a month or longer — some
for a year or more — during the past three fiscal years, costing
taxpayers more than $775 million just for salaries.
Editorial: Misbehavior pays

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Make This Election a Referendum on Obamacare


90 Percent of Iraq's Orthodox Christians Are Displaced by Muslim Attacks

90 Percent of Iraq's Orthodox Christians Are Displaced, Only 30 of 600 Orthodox Families Remain in Baghdad

Co-Founder of Weather Channel: Global Warming is Hoax

Co-Founder of Weather Channel: Global Warming is Hoax | Truth Revolt

OXI Day: This poem about Greeks will touch your soul

OXI Day: This poem about Greeks will touch your soul | Hellenic American Leadership CouncilHellenic American Leadership Council

Study: Voter Fraud By Democrats May Have Swung Key 2008 Elections

Research Shows Voter Fraud May Have Swung Key 2008 Elections

50 Years Ago This Week: Ronald Regan Delivers One of the Greatest Political Speeches of All-Time

Columnist: D.C. elites miss signs pointing to GOP control of Senate

Salena Zito: D.C. elites miss signs pointing to GOP Senate

105 being monitored for Ebola in Pennsylvania

It's only a matter of time before Ebola is diagnosed in Pennsylvania. Be sure to thank Barack Obama and his open borders policy for bringing this deadly disease to our doorstep.
105 being monitored for Ebola in Pennsylvania

Obama's Foreign Policy Is on the Ballot

2 newspaper endorsements Tom Wolf won't get

Two of Pennsylvania's most liberal newspapers will not be endorsing liberal Democrat Tom Wolf, the current front-runner in the race for Pennsylvania governor.

The new owner of The Philadelphia Inquirer and Philadelphia News has decided his newspapers will not endorse a candidate for governor this year. That means Tom Wolf won't get the automatic endorsement of the left-leaning editorial boards that run the two newspapers.

Instead, owner/publisher Gerry Lenfest announced that his newspapers will present a series of issues the editors believe are critical to the state's future, where the two candidates stand on those issues ... and where the newspaper stands on the issue. Then it's up to voters to decide who to elect governor for on Nov. 4.

You can argue that the editorial board will tailor the "issues" to favor Wolf, but the Democrat was going to get the endorsements anyway over incumbent Republican Gov. Tom Corbett, so at least the newspapers are going through the motions of pretending they're giving voters an objective look at the candidates.

Check out the newspapers' non-endorsement "endorsement" editorial at the link below:

Campaign of contrasts

Monday, October 27, 2014

'The Greek Secret'

Critics: Democratic PA Attorney General Kathleen Kane puts politics first

A partisan hack like Kathleen Kane would make an excellent addition to the Obama administration, maybe even as successor to the ultimate partisan hack: Eric Holder.

Critics claim state Attorney General Kane puts politics first

PA Gov. Tom Corbett vows to protect coal industry against job-killing Obama/Wolf agenda

Corbett vows to protect coal industry at Armstrong County rally

Christian Leader Visits Turkish-Occupied Cyprus

Greek Orthodox Archbishop of America Demetrios visited the few remaining Greek Cypriots living in Turkish-occupied Cyprus. Turkish troops have held 40 percent of the island hostage since 1974, destroying Christian churches and monasteries that date back centuries and driving 200,000 Christians from their homes in one of the largest examples of ethnic cleansing in history.

Archbishop of America Demetrios Visits Turkish-Occupied Karpasia in Cyprus | GreekReporter.com

PA State Rep. Mike Vereb: Once is Too Often for Crime Victims

PA State Rep. Mike Vereb - Once is Too Often for Crime Victims

Gov. Corbett predicts re-election win on November 4

The pundits, pollsters and liberal media have written him off, but Gov. Tom Corbett is confident Pennsylvania voters will give him a second term.

Gov. Corbett claims internal polling shows him closing in on Tom Wolf | Local News - WTAE Home

Obama's Next 'Fear' Summit


Newspaper questions Democrat Kathleen Kane's competence as PA attorney general

A Pennsylvania newspaper questions Democratic PA Attorney General's competence. Looks like there's a place for her in the Obama administration, where competence is not required.
Reversing Kane: Questions of competence

Sunday, October 26, 2014

Newspaper: Corbett clear choice for Pa. governor over Wolf's dangerous agenda

From the Williamsport Sun-Gazette:
We endorse a second term for Gov. Corbett. Contrary to the ridiculous claims of Wolf, Corbett has increased the state's funding of education. He wants to continue managing the gas industry that is generating jobs and producing revenue and attack the looming pension crisis with changes to make it solvent in the long-term future. He wants to privatize the liquor store system, bringing in revenue from sale of licenses and increasing consumer choice.

These are practical choices that make long-term sense. The only reason more of them have not been implemented is a politicized wing of the Legislature. We believe Wolf would take this state in a dangerous direction that Pennsylvanians once they see it in action - will be unhappy with.
Corbett clearly the choice over Wolf's dangerous agenda - SunGazette.com | News, Sports, Jobs, Community Information - Williamsport-Sun Gazette

The IRS and Ebola?


Pittsburgh Newspaper Endorses Tom Corbett For Pennsylvania Governor

From the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review:
Four years ago, we "heartily" endorsed Republican Tom Corbett for governor of Pennsylvania. The commonwealth, we said then, could not survive the kind of third Ed Rendell term being offered by Democrat Dan Onorato. 

Four years later, and after much deliberation, we again endorse Tom Corbett. It is not a hearty endorsement. But it is a necessary one, given his opponent's Rendellian proclivities. And it comes with conditions for our continued support.
For Pennsylvania governor: Re-elect Tom Corbett

Saturday, October 25, 2014

Weekly Republican Address: TX-23 Challenger Will Hurd

Charles Krauthammer: Barack Obama, bewildered bystander

Charles Krauthammer: Barack Obama, bewildered bystander

Democrat Tom Wolf pledges to expand Pa. welfare rolls if elected governor

Pennsylvania already spends $11 billion a year on welfare programs, but that's not enough for Democrat Tom Wolf, who wants to be the state's next governor. Wolf says he will eliminate reforms Gov. Tom Corbett has put into place to end welfare fraud so the state can add more residents to its welfare rolls.
Wolf says he'll end food-stamp asset test if elected governor

Philly Inquirer Endorses GOP's Costello for PA 6th Congressional Dist.

Here's a mild surprise. The Philadelphia Inquirer, Pennsylvania's largest newspaper but with a left-leaning editorial board, has endorsed Republican Ryan Costello for Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District.

There's no doubt that Costello is far more qualified than his Democratic challenger to represent the 6th District in Congress, but the Inquirer endorses Democrats 99 percent of the time, so any time the paper backs a Republican, it's a "Stop The Presses" moment.

Read the full endorsement editorial here.

Friday, October 24, 2014

Kiss Obama Goodbye


Ground Zero Greek Orthodox Church Will Rebuild

Ground Zero Church Will Rebuild

Ted Cruz: Time to Drop the 'Illusion' That Latest Terror Attacks Are 'Random Acts'

Ted Cruz: Time to Drop the 'Illusion' That Latest Terror Attacks Are 'Random Acts'

Obama is persona non grata even among his own party

Donald Lambro: Obama is persona non grata even among his own party | Human Events

Ebola in the Big Apple Courtesy of Barack Obama

Ebola in the Big Apple | Human Events

Scary Movie: Tom Wolf's Plans To Raise Pa. Taxes

Liberal Donny Deutsch: People Are Tired Of Hillary

Donny Deutsch: People Are Tired Of Hillary | Truth Revolt

Prohibition Redux: Pennsylvania to Destroy Thousands of Bottles of Wine

Prohibition Redux: Pennsylvania to Destroy Thousands of Bottles of Wine

Obama caught lying about release of criminal illegal aliens

Obama Administration caught lying about release of criminal illegal aliens | Human Events

Obama Throws Dems Under The Bus


Obama Goes From Democratic Messiah to Pariah

Dana Milbank: President Pariah

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Whistleblower: Obama blocking voter roll cleanup

Democrats are firing up their voter-fraud machine to try to save a few Congressional seats in the upcoming General Election.

Whistleblower: Obama blocking voter roll cleanup

Obama spies now looking at your Twitter posts

Government twits on the prowl for 'subversive' tweets

The simple choice for Pennsylvania governor ...


CDC: Pennsylvania to expand Ebola monitoring

CDC: Pennsylvania to expand Ebola monitoring

Unions Bankroll Democrat Tom Wolf on the Backs of Taxpayers

If you're wondering who is bankrolling Democrat Tom Wolf's bid for Pennsylvania governor, it's public-sector unions (and they expect to get paid if Wolf becomes governor.)

Unions Bankroll Candidates on the Backs of Taxpayers

Democrat Tom Wolf Finally Releases Tax Returns: Reports $1.3M in 2013

Wolf reports $1.3M in 2013 income - WHTM Harrisburg, Pa.

The Obama Warning System


VP Joe Biden's son thrown out of the Navy for cocaine use

Imagine the coverage if this had been the son of a Republican politician.

Why Hunter Biden will get away with being thrown out of the Navy for cocaine use. | RedState

Thousands of Obama government workers paid to sit home

Paid leave: the government 'punishment' that only hurts the victims | Human Events

Monday, October 20, 2014

Pa. Supreme Court Justice McCaffery, a Democrat, suspended in email porn scandal

State Supreme Court Justice McCaffery suspended in email porn scandal

Poll: Two-Thirds Say America 'Out of Control' Under Obama

Politico Poll: Two-Thirds Say America 'Out of Control' | Truth Revolt

Democrats Walk Out During Obama Campaign Appearance

People Walk Out During Obama Campaign Appearance | Truth Revolt

Andrew Klavan: Helping the Pro-Obama Media Learn From the Past

The Democrats' phony 'war on women' incantation is a mindless substitute for thought

George F. Will: The 'war on women' incantation is a mindless substitute for thought

Not Paying Enough Taxes? Elect Tom Wolf Pa. Governor

Greece Third Among 'Countries That Hate Their Government Most'

Greece Third Among '12 Countries That Hate Their Government Most' | GreekReporter.com

Democrat Tom Wolf: Elect me Pa. governor before I tell you how much I will raise your taxes

Candidate for governor Wolf won't pinpoint tax increase figures

A sinking sense of 'security' under Obama

Ralph R. Reiland: A sinking sense of 'security'

Voters poised to hit brakes on Obama, Dems

Salena Zito: Voters poised to hit brakes on Obama, Dems

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Tom Wolf severance tax would hurt Pennsylvania county budgets

Pennsylvania counties have received millions of dollars from the natural gas industry in the form of "impact fees" in recent years but Democrat Tom Wolf, who is running for governor, wants to impose new taxes on the industry, which would reduce the impact fees or eliminate them entirely. Wolf's plan would funnel more money into public education (already getting $10 billion from the state) but would reduce money for county and municipal governments.

Earlier today, State Rep. Tom Murt, R-152nd Dist.,, Montgomery County Commissioner Bruce Castor and former Montgomery County Commissioner Tom Ellis held a press conference on the steps of the Montgomery County Courthouse in Norristown to discuss the benefits of the impact fee in Montgomery County.

The presentation was one of 50 that took place across Pennsylvania as part of the "Commonwealth Day of Truth" campaign organized by the Republican Party of Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia newspapers shutting down websites

Philadelphia Inquirer, Daily News Websites Shutting Down | News | Philadelphia Magazine

Democrat Worth Millions Plays Poor in New Campaign Ad

Dem Worth Millions Plays Poor in New Campaign Ad

Gov. Tom Corbett speaks to the Digital First Media editors

The New York Times discovers WMD in Iraq, shattering the left's 'Bush Lied' mantra

The New York Times discovers WMD in Iraq | Human Events

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Lt. Col. Ralph Peters calls Obama ‘worst president ever!’

Defense expert calls Obama 'worst president ever!'

Fact Checker: Democrats Blaming GOP for Cuts to CDC 'Absurd'

The Democratic Party should change its name to the Pinocchio Party considering all the lies it tells. 

WaPo Fact Checker: Charge: Blaming GOP for Cuts to CDC 'Absurd' | Truth Revolt

Who should get the next U.S. jobs? More illegals or America's jobless?

NOAA says global warming not linked to extreme weather

Another blow to the Al Gore Fan Club. The facts keep getting in the way of the global warming hoax.

NOAA says global warming not linked to extreme weather | Human Events

Ebola, ISIS and the Great Moment of Doubt

John Hayward: Ebola, ISIS and the Great Moment of Doubt | Human Events

More ObamaCare rate shock awaits... after the elections, of course

Stop the madness. The only way to kill Obamacare is to vote out every Congressional Democrat on the ballot on Nov. 4.

More ObamaCare rate shock awaits... after the elections, of course | Human Events

Tom Wolf Has A Message for Pennsylvania Voters


Obama: We'll tell you how dangerous Ebola is after the election

Ann Coulter examines the maddening reaction of the Obama Administration to the Obama crisis caused by ... the Obama Administration.

We'll tell you how dangerous Ebola is after the election | Human Events

Majority View Democratic Party Unfavorably for First Time in 30 Years

Majority View Democratic Party Unfavorably for First Time in 30 Years | Truth Revolt

The movie everyone in the Obama White House should be forced to watch

Hitler finds out Ebola landed in Dallas

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Democrats' last-ditch strategy for mid-terms


As major parties decline, independents rise in Pennsylvania

As major parties decline, independents rise in Pennsylvania

Newspaper: Wolf refuses to say how much he will raise Pa. taxes

Candidate for governor Wolf won't pinpoint tax increase figures

Shocker! PA Teachers' Union Endorses Republican Ryan Costello for Congress

Stop the Presses! You better be sitting down for this one. Pennsylvania's largest teachers' union, which endorses Democrats 99.99% of the time, has endorsed Republican Ryan Costello in the race for Pennsylvania's 6th Congressional District over Democrat Manan Trivedi. You can stick a fork in Trivedi. His political career is done.

Here's the official press release from the Costello for Congress campaign:

PSEA Recommends Ryan Costello Over Opponent in PA-6
Pennsylvania State Education Association says "Costello firmly believes that supporting quality public education for all children is a right for every child."

WEST CHESTER, PA – A strong supporter of public education, Ryan Costello – the Republican candidate for Congress in Pennsylvania's 6th District has received the support of the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) and the National Education Association (NEA) Fund for Children and Public Education. The NEA Fund for Children and Public Education serves as the political voice of more than 3 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, and students preparing to become teachers. 

"Mr. Costello firmly believes that supporting quality public education for all children is a right for every child," said Korri Brown, President of the Southeastern Region for the PSEA, which represent 182,000 educators and retired educators in Pennsylvania.  "He comes from a long line of family members, including his parents, who have dedicated their lives to children and our schools. He is a person that understands the world that teachers and education professionals work and live in and we believe he will be a strong advocate for our members if elected."

Brown noted that the Southeastern Region PSEA/PACE is a bipartisan group the has recommended eight Republicans and eight Democrats this year for the general election based on their positions on issues important to the organization's members.  Brown said the PSEA team interviewed and closely examined both candidates in this race, which included interviews with both candidates, and decided that Costello was the candidate best suited to support public education in Washington.

Karen White, Director of Campaigns and Elections for the NEA, added to Brown's comments, thanking Costello for his "commitment to policies that foster great public schools for every child."

"Both of my parents were Pennsylvania public school teachers, so I know the value and importance of a good education," said Costello.  "We need to ensure that we are providing our young people a strong academic foundation to prepare them for success later in life. I have the utmost respect for our teachers and other educators who play a vital role in instilling in our children a desire to learn, so their support means a great deal to me.  I look forward to working with school leaders, teachers, and parents to improve our educational system and provide educators with the tools and funding needed to meet the educational needs of our young people."

Costello also noted that he has serious concerns about the implementation of No Child Left Behind and Common Core standards. "I believe the federal government is too involved in micromanaging education at the local level," said Costello. "As someone who grew up at a dinner table listening to discussions about education, I believe we need to return more control to local school districts and teachers to allow for greater innovation.  We cannot have a one size fits all mentality when it comes to our children's education."
 
The NEA joins a growing list of organizations that have formally backed Ryan Costello's campaign for Congress.  Other groups endorsing Costello include the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the Southeastern Pennsylvania Chambers of Commerce (SEPAC), the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry, and the Greater Reading Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

'Unfair: Exposing the IRS' official trailer

Opinion: Tom Wolf's dumb idea about Philly schools

Tom Wolf's dumb idea about SRC

‘Unemployed’ Man in Dem Attack Ad is Actually Employed

‘Unemployed’ Man in Dem Attack Ad is Actually Employed

NFIB: Tom Corbett A Clear Choice for Pennsylvania Governor in November

A Clear Choice for Pennsylvania Governor in November | NFIB

Monday, October 13, 2014

Greek Food Bazaar Returns to Berks County on Oct. 17-18-19



READING – The largest ethnic food festival in Berks County returns this weekend for its 44th year at Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church.
In addition to authentic Greek food and pastry, the three-day festival (Oct. 17-18-19) features live music, folk dancing, gift rooms and church tours.
New this year is The Plaka, where local crafters will be selling their wares, as well as children’s activities, including a train ride. Also new is an expanded seating area under an outdoor tent, which will offer new food choices and music/dancing to the sounds of the band Enosi, which will perform Saturday from 6-10 p.m. (There is cover charge for the Enosi performance).
“The food has always been the big draw at the Bazaar, but we’re trying some new things this year to give younger families and young adults more activities,” said Achilleas Lambriodes, who is chairman of the outdoor activities. “There’s a lot more to see and do this year.”
The food is prepared and cooked on the premises by church members using family recipes handed down through generations. All food items are available to eat-in in or take-out.
Athenian-style chicken platters, which comes with Pastitsio or rice pilaf, Greek-style string beans, a Greek salad, roll and butter for $12 will be offered all weekend in the main dining hall. You can substitute Plaki (fresh fish fillet baked with vegetables, herbs and wine) or Souvlaki (chunks of marinated pork) on the platter meal.
There are also a la carte items such Gyro (marinated beef and lamb slices) and Souvlaki (pork shis-ke-bob) sandwiches; Calamari (squid) cooked in tomatoes and wine; Moussaka (eggplant casserole); Arni Psito (roast lamb cooked with herbs); and Pastitsio (layered Greek pasta, seasoned with chopped beef topped with béchamel sauce).
A variety of imported Greek wines and spirits, including Ouzo, an anise-flavored liqueur, are available, as well as domestic and imported beers.
While enjoying a meal in the main dining hall, visitors will be treated to Greek music by Stavros & Maria, a brother-sister duo who are also members of the church.
The church’s youth dance group, Kefi, will perform traditional Greek dances wearing colorful costumes on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
After a hearty meal, there’s plenty to see and do on the church grounds. The Agora (Greek market) offers packaged Greek foods and prepared dishes to go. The Kafenio (Greek coffee house) features fresh-brewed Greek-style coffee, rice pudding and pastries in a relaxed atmosphere.
Visitors can also shop for original artwork, gold jewelry and items imported from Greece in various gift rooms.
A popular stop for all visitors is the pastry room, where you can sample Baklava (almonds, butter and honey layered in flaky pastry), Teelikta (walnuts, butter and honey rolled in flaky pastry); Kourabiethes (butter cookies topped with powdered sugar); Koulourakia (Greek twisted butter cookie); and Galaktobouriko (a filo pastry filled with custard and moistened with honey syrup).
Another Greek delicacy offered throughout the weekend is Loukoumades (puffed honey balls), a warm, dough pastry topped with syrup, cinnamon and chopped nuts.
Tours of the church interior, which features one of the largest collections of Byzantine iconography in the United States, are offered on the hour throughout the weekend.
Bazaar hours are noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Admission and parking are free. Additional parking is available at the adjacent Berks Catholic High School. The event will be held rain or shine.
The church is located at 1001 E. Wyomissing Blvd., about one mile from Business Route 222 South (Lancaster Avenue).
For more information, call 610-374-7511 or visit www.stsconstantinehelen.org

Business Group Endorses Tom Corbett for Pa. Governor

A group that represents more than 15,000 Pennsylvania businesses is urging voters to re-elect Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett.

From the Corbett-Cawley Campaign:
HARRISBURG – The Corbett-Cawley Campaign today announced that the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has endorsed Governor Tom Corbett for re-election over Secretary Tom Wolf.  In endorsing Corbett, the NFIB noted Secretary Tom Wolf’s proposed tax increases on Pennsylvania business that will harm their ability to cover their operating expenses.  The organization represents over 15,000 small and independent employers in Pennsylvania.

“I am honored to have the endorsement of the NFIB, which serves as the voice of over 15,000 businesses in Pennsylvania,” stated Governor Tom Corbett.  “I am proud of the work my administration has done to keep taxes low in Pennsylvania, which has helped to create 180,000 new private sector jobs.  I look forward to partnering with these job creators over the next four years to build an even stronger Pennsylvania.”

“The NFIB is the latest group to recognize that Secretary Tom Wolf’s billions in new government spending proposals will require higher taxes on middle class families and businesses,” stated Communications Director Chris Pack.  “The sheep’s clothing has been removed and there is no denying it any longer – Tom Wolf has been exposed as the tax-and-spend liberal who has no plan of substance to lead Pennsylvania.”

The National Federation of Independent Business is Pennsylvania’s premiere small business advocacy organization representing over 15,000 small- and independent-employers in Pennsylvania. Read their endorsement of Governor Tom Corbett’s re-election by clicking HERE.

For more information on the Corbett-Cawley campaign for a stronger Pennsylvania, visit www.tomcorbettforgovernor.com

Columnist: Democrat Tom Wolf Misinformed About Reforming Pa. Legislature

Further proof that Democrat Tom Wolf doesn't have a clue about Pennsylvania government. Philadelphia Daily News columnist John Baer can't believe Wolf doesn't think the Pennsylvania Legislature is too big. (It's the largest full-time state legislature in the country and costs Pennsylvania taxpayers more than $300 million a year. The bloated size of the Legislature - 253 members - allows do-nothing politicians to hide in the crowd.) 

John Baer: Memo to Tom Wolf: Size matters

Airport Screening Nightmare


Report: 4 Islamic terrorists found in Texas in last 36 hours

Report: 4 Islamic terrorists found in Texas in last 36 hours

Nursing home chain to pay $38M for alleged fraud, poor care

Nursing chain to pay $38M for alleged fraud, poor care

Newspaper: Tom Wolf's 'Fresh Start': Vague & Stale

Tom Wolf's 'Fresh Start': Vague & stale

Prepping for Ebola in Pennsylvania

Prepping for Ebola in Pennsylvania involves orchestra of departments

Saturday, October 11, 2014

Weekly GOP Address: Democrats, Obama Weak on National Security

Wendy Davis Unveils 'One of the Nastiest Campaign Ads You Will Ever See'

Who else but a Democrat would use an empty wheelchair to attack her paraplegic opponent?

Wendy Davis Unveils 'One of the Nastiest Campaign Ads You Will Ever See'

Newspaper questions Democrat Tom Wolf's honesty

Although
the liberal Philadelphia Inquirer will end up endorsing Tom Wolf for
governor because it endorses Democrats 99 percent of the time, the
newspaper's editorial board raises questions about Mr. Wolf's dishonesty
in plans to raise taxes on Pennsylvania families. - See more at:
http://tonyphyrillas.blogspot.com/#sthash.lxxaKyEJ.dpuf
Even through The Philadelphia Inquirer will end up endorsing Tom Wolf for Pennsylvania governor because the liberal newspaper endorses Democrats 99 percent of the time, its editorial board makes it clear that Mr. Wolf has been dishonest during the campaign about his plans to raises taxes on Pennsylvania families. The very same editorial board was among the first to expose Wolf's lies about education funding cuts under Republican Gov. Tom Corbett.

Although
the liberal Philadelphia Inquirer will end up endorsing Tom Wolf for
governor because it endorses Democrats 99 percent of the time, the
newspaper's editorial board raises questions about Mr. Wolf's dishonesty
in plans to raise taxes on Pennsylvania families. - See more at:
http://tonyphyrillas.blogspot.com/#sthash.lxxaKyEJ.dpuf
Editorial: Fuzzy math

Friday, October 10, 2014

What Democrats fear most: Obola


Guest Column: Pennsylvania Education Funding: A Look At the Facts


By Pa. State Rep. Garth Everett
(R-Lycoming)

Since 2011, when Gov. Tom Corbett took office and Republicans regained the majority in the state House, I have heard ad nauseam about how “Corbett cut education by a billion dollars” or “Corbett is underfunding education.” Let’s just take a look at the facts.

First, governors do not enact budgets by themselves. In February of each year, the governor proposes a budget to start the process. Following that, both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees have public hearings with each department and agency of state government to review in detail each proposed appropriation. In addition, both the House and Senate committee chairmen take feedback from their respective committee members and from all members of their respective chambers.

When that review process is complete, both the House and Senate develop their own revised budgets and the negotiation process begins among the House and Senate leaders and the governor’s office. To say that this can be an intense process would be a vast understatement. Each chamber and member of the General Assembly and the governor have differing views and priorities on both revenues and expenditures, and getting 102 votes in the House, 26 in the Senate and the governor onboard is an exhausting undertaking.

My point in outlining the budget process is simply to point out that the enacted budget is not the “governor’s” budget – it is the product of a process – not the dictate of one person, though I will agree that the governor’s one veto vote carries a lot more weight than my one vote on the Appropriations Committee or on the floor of the House.

Next, let’s look at the facts of state education funding in the budgets enacted under the last two governors. In particular, let’s look at Gov. Ed Rendell’s last three education budgets and the four under Corbett. In the 2009-10 budget, Rendell asked for, and the Democratic House approved, a reduction in state education spending from $9.6 billion to $9.2 billion. This reduction was “backfilled” with $655 million in federal stimulus funds to bring about an apparent increase in spending on education.

Again in the 2010-11 budget, Rendell asked for and the Democratic House approved a reduction in state education spending from the previous year’s $9.2 billion to $8.9 billion. Again this reduction was backfilled with $1 billion in federal stimulus funds to bring about another apparent increase in spending on education.

The problems with using short-term stimulus funds are many. First, it sets school districts up for failure. Despite warnings that these stimulus dollars would go away after two years and that state funding would go back to pre-stimulus levels, many school districts folded these stimulus funds into their operating budgets, hired new teachers and staff, took on new debt and generally increased spending to levels which would not be sustainable without significant school property tax increases.

Second, from a state budget perspective, relying on stimulus funds to be part of the general education funding line also set the state budget up for failure by artificially inflating the revenue for the overall state budget. In the 2009-10 and 2010-11 budgets, the $655 million and $1 billion in federal stimulus funds that were used in the education line item were treated as revenue and shifted into increased spending in other line items of the budget.

Fast forward to 2011-12 – Corbett takes office, the majority in the House shifts to the Republicans, and the $1 billion in federal stimulus dollars for education go away. Because of this loss of $1 billion and other “smoke and mirrors” budgeting by the previous governor and House, the new governor and House are faced with a $4 billion deficit going into their first budget. This results in a lot of belt tightening in departments and agencies across the board – particularly the Department of Public Welfare.

To avoid the “budget crunch” both school districts and the state faced in 2011-12 and in subsequent budget years, those stimulus funds in 2009-11 should not have been used as “revenue” for spending in the general fund but rather used as block grants for specific capital investments at school districts above and beyond our normal state education funding. In that way, we would not have ended up with artificially high levels of spending that cannot be sustained with our existing revenue stream.

Now, let’s take a look at education spending during Corbett’s years in office. The first “Corbett budget” in 2011-12 included $9.4 billion of state funds for education – an increase of $500 million over the previous year’s state spending in the last “Rendell budget.” In the next “Corbett budget” of 2012-13, state spending on education was again increased $300 million to $9.7 billion – the highest amount of state funding in history. Again in the 2013-14 budget, state spending on education was increased to $9.98 billion – another record. Finally, in this year’s budget for 2014-15, “we” increased state spending on education to an all-time high of $10.5 billion.

So, the question remains – where does the claim of Tom Corbett’s $1 billion cut in education come from? The only answer is that the facts do not bear out the claim, and that the only $1 billion cut in education was the loss of federal stimulus funding in 2011.

Rep. Garth D. Everett
84th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives

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PA State Rep. Garth Everett - Pennsylvania Education Funding: A Look At the Facts

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Newspaper blasts PA AG Kathleen Kane's handling of porn emails

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NJ yanks abortion doctor's license for late-term abortions

New Jersey yanks abortion doctor's license

Wednesday, October 08, 2014

CBS Buries Own Poll Showing Poor Ratings for Obama, Democrats

CBS Buries Results of Own Poll Showing Poor Ratings for Obama, Democrats Ahead of Midterms

Democrat Tom Wolf Still Telling 'Billion Dollar Lie' About Pa. Education Spending


Millionaire Democrat Tom Wofl's big lie about education funding cuts in Pennsylvania has been exposed, but he continues to use it, taking a page out of the Obama playbook ... lie your way into office

A Pittsburgh Tribune-Review editorial said the following regarding Tom Wolf’s education lie, calling it a,  “blatant lie that Tom Corbett cut $1,000,000,000 from education.” – Pittsburgh Tribune Review, 8/30/14

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that “Corbett has increased the state’s annual funding for basic education” – The Philadelphia Inquirer, 9/14/14

“State Spending on public education is at the highest level ever” – Commonwealth Foundation, 2/11/14

Analysis: Tom Wolf's 'Fresh Start' Plan Requires Huge Tax Increases in PA

If you're planning to vote for Democrat Tom Wolf for Pennsylvania governor, you should do so knowing that his spending plans will require a 121% increase in the state income tax. So if you feel you're not paying enough taxes, then Tom Wolf is your man.

Analysis: Wolf's "Fresh Start" Plan Requires Huge Tax Increases

Poll: More Still Say Obamacare Has Hurt Instead of Helped Them

More Still Say Health Law Has Hurt Instead of Helped Them

Obama Declares War on Ebola - Sorta


Democratic Congressman Chaka Fattah nonprofits paid millions to ex-staffers

Fattah nonprofits paid millions to ex-staffers

Obamacare adds inmates to Medicaid rolls

Obamacare adds inmates to Medicaid rolls | WashingtonExaminer.com

Democratic senator throws Harry Reid under the bus

Warner says Senate 'could perhaps do better' than Reid as leader | WashingtonExaminer.com

Tuesday, October 07, 2014

Democrats Waive White Flag on 2 Pa. Congressional Seats

It appears the Democratic Party has already conceded Republican victories in Pennsylvania's 6th and 8th Congressional Districts.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee  has pulled all of its planned television advertising on behalf of the Democratic candidates in the two suburban Philadelphia districts.

In the 6th District seat, currently held by Republican Rep. Jim Gerlach, who is not seeking re-election, Republican Ryan Costello appears to cruising to a victory on Nov. 4 against Democrat Manan Trivedi, who previously lost to Gerlach in 2010 and 2012.

In the 8th District, incumbent Republican Mike Fitzpatrick looks like a shoo-in for re-election against Democratic opponent Kevin Strouse.

DCCC Pulls Out of PA-6 and PA-8 Races

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Liberal newspaper: It's the teachers' turn to sacrifice

Philadelphia Daily News Editorial: It's the teachers' turn to sacrifice

Gallup: Voter Opposition to Obama Hits All-Time High

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Mission Demolished


GOP raises record $16 million in September

GOP raises record $16 million in September | Human Events

Sorry Al Gore: No global warming for 18 years

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CBS Hillary Show, Madam Secretary, Loses Another 500,000 Viewers

From Front Page Magazine:
Looks like CBS’s $100 Million Contribution to Ready for Hillary is proving to be about as popular as its namesake. Madam Secretary has been steadily bleeding viewers every week it aired.

It had lost 2 million viewers by the second episode. This week it lost another 500,000 viewers.
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Is Pa.'s energy industry afraid of the big, bad (Tom) Wolf?

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Union thuggery 101: Pa. ironworkers case details arsons, intimidation

Pa. ironworkers case details arsons, intimidation | CNS News

Softball Anyone?


Monday, October 06, 2014

Blaming Obamacare, Highmark hikes Pa. seniors' rates up to 110%

Highmark hikes seniors' rates up to 110%

Group wants 'fair funding' for Pennsylvania public schools at forefront in 2015

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Pennsylvania charter schools now teach 128,000 students

It appears many Pennsylvania residents like having a choice in where to send their children to school.

Pennsylvania charter schools now teach 128,000 students

Politico: Big Dem Donors Looking For A Hillary Substitute

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Welcome to Obama's America


Study: 20% Of US Population Does Not Speak English At Home

Study: 20% Of US Population Does Not Speak English At Home

IRS withheld information from hundreds of FOIAs

IRS withheld information from hundreds of FOIAs | WashingtonExaminer.com

Poll: 71% of Obama voters 'regret' their vote to reelect him

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Gallup: Voter opposition to Obama at 16-year high, worse than Bush, Clinton

Gallup: Voter opposition to Obama at 16-year high, worse than Bush, Clinton | WashingtonExaminer.com

Sunday, October 05, 2014

1.1 Million Page Views

My site counter has recorded 1.1 million page views from 515,000 unique visitors to Tony Phyrillas on Politics. Thanks for checking out my blog ... and come back again.

Judge Napolitano: The truth is Barack Obama's enemy

Andrew Napolitano: The truth is Barack Obama's enemy. And that's why Jame Clapper won't be fired.

Friday, October 03, 2014

Guest Column: A Healthy Fear of Ebola is Advisable


By Congressman Joe Pitts, R-Pa.-16th Dist.

For decades now, Hollywood has been producing thrillers about the rapid spread of disease. Many are pure fiction, with the disease resulting in brain-craving zombies. Others have the air of reality, like 1995’s blockbuster “Outbreak.”

We can’t help but recall images from movies when we think of the very real Ebola outbreak. But right now, the most important thing is to get the facts about what Ebola really is, what is going on in Africa and what is being done here in the U.S. to prevent spread of the disease.

First, Ebola is a virus that can infect humans and primates such as monkeys and chimpanzees. It was first discovered in 1976 and there have been sporadic outbreaks in Africa over the following decades.

The disease is not spread like the flu or the common cold. It cannot spread through the air, only through contact with bodily fluids of someone with symptoms. While early symptoms can appear similar to other fevers, extreme bleeding, diarrhea and vomiting develop over the coming days. Up to two out of three people who contract Ebola may lose their life to the disease.

The current outbreak started in Guinea in the spring of this year. It spread to the neighboring countries of Sierra Leone and Liberia. It has moved from smaller villages to larger cities, including the capital of Liberia, Monrovia.

While the World Health Organization has recorded over 3,000 deaths, they also say that this figure may be unreliable since none of the three nations have a modern public health system. That fact has been a critical factor in the spread of Ebola.

Medicine in West Africa looks almost nothing like what it does here. Where there are medical facilities, they are often open to the air. There may only be one doctor available to treat patients and nurses typically have only basic training.

In Africa, myths about the spread of Ebola abound. Many falsely believe that the disease is actually being spread by people trying to disinfect areas with chlorine. Personnel in protective equipment are often feared more than actual carriers of the disease.

By contrast with Africa, the United States has a sophisticated health system to prevent the spread of any disease. The Centers for Disease Control, based in Atlanta, is the premier organization in the world for studying and preventing communicable diseases.

In mid-September, I received a briefing from CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden while he was in Washington. Dr. Frieden had just returned from Africa, where he witnessed firsthand the situation. I then again spoke with Dr. Frieden after the announcement that a man in Dallas had been diagnosed with Ebola. I am confident that right now CDC is doing its best job and that they have adequate resources.

The CDC has been preparing for the possibility that someone would enter the country with the disease. Hospitals have received instructions about how to isolate, test and treat patients. More than 100 CDC staff are in the affected countries and hundreds more are doing work here in the U.S.

Ebola can only be spread by people who are showing symptoms. Currently, anyone getting on a plane in the affected countries is being tested for fever. However, given that the Dallas patient didn’t come down with a fever until arriving in the U.S., there may need to be more restrictions on travel. In fact, British Airways chose to suspend flights without a government order.

Africa is where Ebola started and it is where is must be stopped. It is important to know exactly why President Obama sent U.S. military personnel to the affected countries.

Service members are not treating patients. They are filling a much needed logistical role in coordinating the response. They are making sure that airports are functioning, ferrying in supplies. They are setting up tent hospitals so that more patients can be isolated and treated. They are also training additional nurses in how to combat Ebola.

This is low-risk work that could yield great rewards. The more people in Africa who contract Ebola, the greater the risk to the rest of the world. Sitting by idly is a recipe for disaster.

I will not say that there is absolutely nothing to fear. Ebola is a serious and deadly disease. What is needed is a healthy fear, based in real knowledge of the disease. Knowledge is the first weapon in preventing the spread of disease.

For more information visit www.cdc.gov.

GOP seizes on Obama's dare to turn Nov. 4 into referendum on his failed policies

GOP seizes on Obama's remark

Obama Offers Reassurance on Ebola Outbreak


Poll: Obamacare Approval at 31%

Obamacare Approval at 31 Percent

Watchdog: IRS Wrongly Withheld Info in Hundreds of Cases

IRS Wrongly Withheld Info in Hundreds of Cases, Watchdog Finds

Obama's America: Record 55.5M Women Not Participating in Labor Force

Record 55,553,000 Women Not Participating in Labor Force | CNS News

Democrat Tom Wolf opposes bill to eliminate school property taxes in Pa.

If you like paying high property taxes to fund Pennsylvania schools, then millionaire Democrat Tom Wolf is your man for Pennsylvania governor. Wolf doesn't have a problem with skyrocketing school property taxes and won't support an effort currently in the Pa. Legislature to eliminate them.

Tom Wolf talks to Reading Eagle: Stronger schools attract businesses and jobs | Reading Eagle - NEWS

Secret Service Overreaction


Democrat Tom Wolf vows to raise state income tax if elected Pa. governor

Not paying enough taxes? Make sure you vote for millionaire Democrat Tom Wolf on Nov. 4. He promises to raise your state income taxes if he's elected governor of Pennsylvania.
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Ebola Crisis: Networks Ignore CDC Failures in 98% of Reports

Networks Confident in CDC Over Ebola, Ignore Agency Failures in 98 Percent of News Reports

PBS Parrots Delusional Obama Claim Economy Has Improved

PBS Promotes Obama's Claim Country Has Improved 'By Every Economic Measure'; Lou Dobbs Proves Otherwise

Ebola victim lied on health form, may have had contact with 100 people

Ebola contact count grows, family monitored | Dallas | News from Fort Worth, Dallas, Arl...

Say Yes To Tom Corbett

Thursday, October 02, 2014

Democratic US Senate candidate too ashamed to admit she voted for Obama

Just how desperate are Democratic candidates to distance themselves from the sinking ship known as the Obama presidency?

Did this Democratic senate candidate really dodge a question about voting for Obama in 2012? | WashingtonExaminer.com