Well the teacher’s strike in the South Butler School District is over! Students are back to school. Congratulations everyone!
Oh wait. It is over because state law says it has to be over. The students need to get 180 days of school before mid June. If the teachers continued to strike, that would push the 180 days past mid-June which is not allowed. So the strike is over by default.
Here is my unsolicited advice to the administrators at the South Butler School District:
Don’t worry about negotiations until after mid-June! Let the teacher’s focus now on educating the students. Then, after the school year is over get them back in to negotiating mode.
No need to worry about a mass exodus or revolt either. Teachers rarely leave their jobs, except for retirement. Plus there are many, many people with education degrees that can’t find a teaching job in the state.
This is part of the union problem. It breaks the law of supply and demand! There is a large supply of teachers in Pennsylvania, therefore you would think that would drive the price down, but because of PSEA (the teachers union) they drive the cost higher, breaking the laws of simple economics!
Paying teachers an unreasonably large salary increases costs for the district. This, of course, raises property taxes for the homeowners. This is why the formula for funding school districts needs to be changed and property taxes eliminated. Teachers should only be allowed to strike after school, on weekends, and during the summer. Their strikes should not effect the student’s education.
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November 19, 2008
November 18, 2008
Book Review
Whose Money Is It Anyway?
By John MacArthur
I finished reading this book. Surprisingly, I was unable to really “get into it” like other books written by MacArthur. Maybe it was just the other busy activities I had going on that kept me from reading the book excitingly.
Overall, this is a good book. It gives a through biblical view of money and how the Christian should use and respond to it. MacArthur gives biblical warnings and guidelines about money. He also talks about the neutral morality of money.
MacArthur also uses Scripture to describe Biblical stewardship and the Biblical model for giving to the Church or other organization that promotes the Gospel of Christ.
There are nine chapters in this book. Each chapter focuses on one aspect of money. At the end of the book is a brief summary of each chapter with some questions that can be used as a study guide to focus on the important aspects of that chapter. MacArthur also includes some ideas to focus on during your prayer time as well as some scriptures to memorize and apply in your life.
This is a good book to read for anyone interested in learning a Biblical perspective on money. Of course as a Christian we need to remember that our true riches are in Heaven.
Next up: I will be reviewing some bible study material to use in January when our weekly Bible Study group meets again. The first study book I’ll be looking at is Life Lessons with Max Lucado: Ruth and Esther.
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By John MacArthur
I finished reading this book. Surprisingly, I was unable to really “get into it” like other books written by MacArthur. Maybe it was just the other busy activities I had going on that kept me from reading the book excitingly.
Overall, this is a good book. It gives a through biblical view of money and how the Christian should use and respond to it. MacArthur gives biblical warnings and guidelines about money. He also talks about the neutral morality of money.
MacArthur also uses Scripture to describe Biblical stewardship and the Biblical model for giving to the Church or other organization that promotes the Gospel of Christ.
There are nine chapters in this book. Each chapter focuses on one aspect of money. At the end of the book is a brief summary of each chapter with some questions that can be used as a study guide to focus on the important aspects of that chapter. MacArthur also includes some ideas to focus on during your prayer time as well as some scriptures to memorize and apply in your life.
This is a good book to read for anyone interested in learning a Biblical perspective on money. Of course as a Christian we need to remember that our true riches are in Heaven.
Next up: I will be reviewing some bible study material to use in January when our weekly Bible Study group meets again. The first study book I’ll be looking at is Life Lessons with Max Lucado: Ruth and Esther.
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November 17, 2008
Bible Study
Chapter #9 - Becoming Whole
James 5:12-20
Throughout this letter, James describes several aspects of a Christian's life.
James 5:12-20
Throughout this letter, James describes several aspects of a Christian's life.
- staying faithful during trials and temptations
- living out their faith
- selfless love
- controlling their words
- being humble
- trusting in God rather than themselves or their riches
- having patience
Finally, James concludes his letter by discussing prayer. Whatever situation you are in, it is a good idea to pray. Pray if you are happy or sad. Pray for healing or pray for continued good health.
Passionate prayers can accomplish so much. James presents Elijah as an example of powerful prayer from the Old Testament. It seems that prayer like Elijah is lacking these days. Many people are no longer passionate in their prayers and rather simple routine. Make it a goal of yours to be more passionate and pray with a purpose.
This concludes our study of James.
November 14, 2008
Bible Study
Chapter 8 – What Awaits
James 5:1-11
James continues his tests of faith in Chapter 5. Now James focuses on money and the believers view of money.
James condemns the people who profess to be Christians, but really worship money. He tells them to look at their hearts once again.
James then looks at the poor who were persecuted by the rich. He tells the poor to be patient during their trials. This too shows where they place their trust.
Wealth can be a blessing or a curse. It simply depends on the persons relationship with God. A right relationship produced blessing whereas a wrong relationship will be a curse.
Are you bless or cursed?
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James 5:1-11
James continues his tests of faith in Chapter 5. Now James focuses on money and the believers view of money.
James condemns the people who profess to be Christians, but really worship money. He tells them to look at their hearts once again.
James then looks at the poor who were persecuted by the rich. He tells the poor to be patient during their trials. This too shows where they place their trust.
Wealth can be a blessing or a curse. It simply depends on the persons relationship with God. A right relationship produced blessing whereas a wrong relationship will be a curse.
Are you bless or cursed?
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November 13, 2008
Update to a Previous Post
I e-mailed my congressmen regarding the $700 billion bailout package.
I did receive a response from all (Spector, Casey, and Murtha). They all seemed, like canned responses to me, but at least I did get a response. Spector and Murtha responded within a few days. Casey took almost a month to respond.
Both Spector and Murtha explained their reasons for signing the bill. Both state they were hesitant, but realized the need to act and this was the best thing they could come up with as a group. They believed they were acting in the best interest of America.
After reading Casey’s response, I am not sure he read or understood my e-mail to him! Casey pretty much just told me about the plan without really saying anything helpful that I didn’t already know. Again, remember that he sent his response almost a month later!
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I did receive a response from all (Spector, Casey, and Murtha). They all seemed, like canned responses to me, but at least I did get a response. Spector and Murtha responded within a few days. Casey took almost a month to respond.
Both Spector and Murtha explained their reasons for signing the bill. Both state they were hesitant, but realized the need to act and this was the best thing they could come up with as a group. They believed they were acting in the best interest of America.
After reading Casey’s response, I am not sure he read or understood my e-mail to him! Casey pretty much just told me about the plan without really saying anything helpful that I didn’t already know. Again, remember that he sent his response almost a month later!
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November 12, 2008
Money Talks!
Well as most of you are aware now, John Murtha has won his reelection bid. This time it was a little different, because even he was running scared at the end. However, money talks. The people voted with their wallet.
It comes down to this, Murtha (or pretty much anyone in Congress) can say or do what they want (provided it isn’t “too” illegal) and they will get reelected every time as long as they keep bringing the money in to their district.
As noted on this blog many times before, Johnstown really is John’s town! He brings in millions of dollars to the area and the people know that. Murtha’s view is, if I don’t bring the money to this area, it will just go somewhere else.
We’ll see what happens over the course of the next few years.
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It comes down to this, Murtha (or pretty much anyone in Congress) can say or do what they want (provided it isn’t “too” illegal) and they will get reelected every time as long as they keep bringing the money in to their district.
As noted on this blog many times before, Johnstown really is John’s town! He brings in millions of dollars to the area and the people know that. Murtha’s view is, if I don’t bring the money to this area, it will just go somewhere else.
We’ll see what happens over the course of the next few years.
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November 11, 2008
Over 60% of Pennsylvanians are clueless about finances!
That is according to a new poll. What poll you ask? The ballot question on the November 4th election of course.
The question was “Do you favor the incurring of indebtedness by the Commonwealth of $400,000,000 for grants and loans to municipalities and public utilities for the cost of all labor, materials, necessary operational machinery and equipment, lands, property, rights and easements, plans and specifications, surveys, estimates of costs and revenues, prefeasibility studies, engineering and legal services and all other expenses necessary or incident to the acquisition, construction, improvement, expansion, extension, repair or rehabilitation of all or part of drinking water system, storm water, nonpoint source projects, nutrient credits and wastewater treatment system projects?"
Over 60% of voters selected yes, meaning I support the government issuing a bond (debt, taking out a loan) to do something with water. As you can read from the question it is pretty vague. Will they be grants or will it be loans? What is a nonpoint source project or a nutrient credit?
I have no idea, but the people of PA must think it is a good deal. If the question read something like “Do you favor increasing taxes to fix water problems?” People would have voted NO! However, they voted yes.
They must not think bonds (debt) need to be paid back with interest! Where does that money come from? Taxes! Does the state have the money to pay this debt back? No. What will they do? Raise taxes! Clueless rednecks as Murtha would say.
By the way, I’ll bet the majority of the money goes to Philadelphia, Scranton, Harrisburg, and Pittsburgh.
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The question was “Do you favor the incurring of indebtedness by the Commonwealth of $400,000,000 for grants and loans to municipalities and public utilities for the cost of all labor, materials, necessary operational machinery and equipment, lands, property, rights and easements, plans and specifications, surveys, estimates of costs and revenues, prefeasibility studies, engineering and legal services and all other expenses necessary or incident to the acquisition, construction, improvement, expansion, extension, repair or rehabilitation of all or part of drinking water system, storm water, nonpoint source projects, nutrient credits and wastewater treatment system projects?"
Over 60% of voters selected yes, meaning I support the government issuing a bond (debt, taking out a loan) to do something with water. As you can read from the question it is pretty vague. Will they be grants or will it be loans? What is a nonpoint source project or a nutrient credit?
I have no idea, but the people of PA must think it is a good deal. If the question read something like “Do you favor increasing taxes to fix water problems?” People would have voted NO! However, they voted yes.
They must not think bonds (debt) need to be paid back with interest! Where does that money come from? Taxes! Does the state have the money to pay this debt back? No. What will they do? Raise taxes! Clueless rednecks as Murtha would say.
By the way, I’ll bet the majority of the money goes to Philadelphia, Scranton, Harrisburg, and Pittsburgh.
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November 10, 2008
Letter to White and Reed
Below is an e-mail sent to Don White and Dave Reed.
Congratulations on your win in the recent election! Pennsylvania needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop unnecessary spending and reduce legislative spending either by the legislator’s own restraints or reduce the number of legislators.
2. Reduce taxes – No new taxes or fees and reduce the current taxes (unless an income or sales tax is used to eliminate property taxes), this can only be done through reducing governmental spending.
3. Eliminate teacher strikes – Pass legislation that either eliminates teacher strikes or allows teachers to strike only after school hours or on weekends.
4. Eliminate property taxes permanently – property taxes hurt Pennsylvanians living on a fixed income. School funding is crucial to a vital future for Pennsylvania and needs to be replaced with another revenue source.
5. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Encourage the expansion of broadband access to rural locations.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern during difficult times, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
.
Congratulations on your win in the recent election! Pennsylvania needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop unnecessary spending and reduce legislative spending either by the legislator’s own restraints or reduce the number of legislators.
2. Reduce taxes – No new taxes or fees and reduce the current taxes (unless an income or sales tax is used to eliminate property taxes), this can only be done through reducing governmental spending.
3. Eliminate teacher strikes – Pass legislation that either eliminates teacher strikes or allows teachers to strike only after school hours or on weekends.
4. Eliminate property taxes permanently – property taxes hurt Pennsylvanians living on a fixed income. School funding is crucial to a vital future for Pennsylvania and needs to be replaced with another revenue source.
5. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Encourage the expansion of broadband access to rural locations.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern during difficult times, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.
.
November 07, 2008
Letter to Murtha
Below is an e-mail that was sent to John Murtha.
Congratulations on your win in the recent election! America needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop wasteful spending, like corporate/farm subsidies and eliminate other unnecessary expenses and programs. No more bailouts!
2. Reduce taxes - Lower taxes for businesses and households. Make the tax cuts permanent. This will, of course, require budget cuts and eliminating programs to balance the budget. Revamping the tax code is also important. A flat tax is not without its problems, but it probably the easiest to implement and understand.
3. Eliminate Earmarks – design bills that are specific and serve the purpose for which they are being drafted.
4. Social Security/Welfare Reform - Social Security is an issue and will not take care of itself. The government needs to secure the Social Security system for future generations. One simple solution is to eliminate the cap (wage base), which is currently $102,000. Welfare is an important program that needs fixed, not by raising the minimum wage or throwing more money at the problem or spreading the wealth around. True reform requires job creation and growth so the people on welfare can work. Also, those people on welfare should be required to do something for that welfare check rather than serve no purpose to the community.
5. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Also, encourage rural broadband Internet access.
6. Border control – This is important to keep the proper flow of immigrants into the United States.
7. Military - Support the military, not just financially, but with your actions and words used at all times. It is fine to disagree with the deployment of troops, however, once there, they need support from all government officials and all citizens of the United States. Bring our troops home when the job is finished.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern what I believe to be the greatest nation in the world, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term.
.
Congratulations on your win in the recent election! America needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop wasteful spending, like corporate/farm subsidies and eliminate other unnecessary expenses and programs. No more bailouts!
2. Reduce taxes - Lower taxes for businesses and households. Make the tax cuts permanent. This will, of course, require budget cuts and eliminating programs to balance the budget. Revamping the tax code is also important. A flat tax is not without its problems, but it probably the easiest to implement and understand.
3. Eliminate Earmarks – design bills that are specific and serve the purpose for which they are being drafted.
4. Social Security/Welfare Reform - Social Security is an issue and will not take care of itself. The government needs to secure the Social Security system for future generations. One simple solution is to eliminate the cap (wage base), which is currently $102,000. Welfare is an important program that needs fixed, not by raising the minimum wage or throwing more money at the problem or spreading the wealth around. True reform requires job creation and growth so the people on welfare can work. Also, those people on welfare should be required to do something for that welfare check rather than serve no purpose to the community.
5. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Also, encourage rural broadband Internet access.
6. Border control – This is important to keep the proper flow of immigrants into the United States.
7. Military - Support the military, not just financially, but with your actions and words used at all times. It is fine to disagree with the deployment of troops, however, once there, they need support from all government officials and all citizens of the United States. Bring our troops home when the job is finished.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern what I believe to be the greatest nation in the world, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term.
.
November 06, 2008
Letter to Obama
Below is an e-mail I sent to President-elect Obama.
Congratulations on your historic win in the recent election! America needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop wasteful spending, like corporate/farm subsidies and eliminate other unnecessary expenses and programs. No more bailouts!
2. Reduce taxes - Lower taxes for businesses and households. Make the tax cuts permanent. This will, of course, require budget cuts and eliminating programs to balance the budget. Revamping the tax code is also important. A flat tax is not without its problems, but it is probably the easiest to implement and understand.
3. Social Security/Welfare reform - Social Security is an issue and will not take care of itself. The government needs to secure the Social Security system for future generations. One simple solution is to eliminate the cap (wage base), which is currently $102,000. Welfare is an important program that needs fixed, not by raising the minimum wage or throwing more money at the problem or by spreading the wealth around. True reform requires job creation and growth so the people on welfare can work. Also, those people on welfare should be required to do something for that welfare check rather than serve no purpose to the community.
4. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Also encourage rural broadband Internet access.
5. Border control – This is important to keep the proper flow of immigrants into the United States.
6. Military - Support the military, not just financially, but with your actions and words used at all times. It is fine to disagree with the deployment of troops, however, once there, they need support from all government officials and all citizens of the United States.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern what I believe to be the greatest nation in the world, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term.
.
Congratulations on your historic win in the recent election! America needs a responsible government; one that will not waste its resources. We need reform, not just business or politics as usual. Below are several areas the government needs to review.
1. Reduce government spending – Stop wasteful spending, like corporate/farm subsidies and eliminate other unnecessary expenses and programs. No more bailouts!
2. Reduce taxes - Lower taxes for businesses and households. Make the tax cuts permanent. This will, of course, require budget cuts and eliminating programs to balance the budget. Revamping the tax code is also important. A flat tax is not without its problems, but it is probably the easiest to implement and understand.
3. Social Security/Welfare reform - Social Security is an issue and will not take care of itself. The government needs to secure the Social Security system for future generations. One simple solution is to eliminate the cap (wage base), which is currently $102,000. Welfare is an important program that needs fixed, not by raising the minimum wage or throwing more money at the problem or by spreading the wealth around. True reform requires job creation and growth so the people on welfare can work. Also, those people on welfare should be required to do something for that welfare check rather than serve no purpose to the community.
4. Internet - Keep the Internet free of unnecessary regulation and taxes. Also encourage rural broadband Internet access.
5. Border control – This is important to keep the proper flow of immigrants into the United States.
6. Military - Support the military, not just financially, but with your actions and words used at all times. It is fine to disagree with the deployment of troops, however, once there, they need support from all government officials and all citizens of the United States.
You have been given the responsibility to help govern what I believe to be the greatest nation in the world, please act responsibly and patriotically throughout your term.
.
November 05, 2008
Election 2008 Results
Well, I am not sure if I did good or bad in the election.
The only person I voted for who won was Dave Reed. Everyone else I voted for lost.
Here are the results:
President: Obama
Attorney General: Corbett
Auditor General: Wagner
Treasurer: McCord
12th Rep: Murtha
41st Senator: White
62nd Rep: Reed
Bond Ref: Yes
I guess that is good, because it shows that I do not agree with the world and other “worldly” people.
However, it is bad, because there are so many “worldly” people out there!
Many people are concerned for the future, I have been pointing them to Romans 8:28:
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (NKJV)
So the question is, Do you love God? Do you trust God? Do you rely on God?
If so, ALL things work together for good! Read and think about Joseph or Daniel and the challenges they faced in life and see how things turned out for them!
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The only person I voted for who won was Dave Reed. Everyone else I voted for lost.
Here are the results:
President: Obama
Attorney General: Corbett
Auditor General: Wagner
Treasurer: McCord
12th Rep: Murtha
41st Senator: White
62nd Rep: Reed
Bond Ref: Yes
I guess that is good, because it shows that I do not agree with the world and other “worldly” people.
However, it is bad, because there are so many “worldly” people out there!
Many people are concerned for the future, I have been pointing them to Romans 8:28:
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” (NKJV)
So the question is, Do you love God? Do you trust God? Do you rely on God?
If so, ALL things work together for good! Read and think about Joseph or Daniel and the challenges they faced in life and see how things turned out for them!
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