Route 55

Poway Ca: This Past Weekend.

2011-11-01T16:04:00.002-04:00

$500 Guiter at Carvin

My past week in California was fun to listen to messages I took messages ate food beer too. I was relieved to be 3000 miles away from an October snowstorm that hit Philly but gave only rain to Millville.
I'm hoping to go possibly on the road trip this month to Arizona. THAT would be exciting! My brother John will be in Long Beach for a conference around the 10th, so Alice and I plan to hang out with him and celebrate both birthday's that weekend. Ought to be fun!!
I plan get back to Philly by Thanksgiving depending on how things progress.

Street Name in Poway Ca

Alice's kids Mimi and Hannah have been very nice to me and I picked them up from school couple times last week. We looked at cars last weekend. The one I liked;was a $3,000 Mercedes that had these flashy rims. Boy that would be a hoot to drive that! I checked out a guitar store called Carvin. Boy they had some like looking one's The cheapest one was $500! I had never heard on them but they are right here in San Diego. Halloween was very nice and quiet just the way I want a needed today and tomorrow is November 1 and getting the car and taken out and continuing paperwork stuff.

Grandpa Enjoying a Good Read

Heard from a friend in Millville who give me some updates on the goings on. and another friend is going to be staying in Florida from the 18th till probably March of next year so I have to miss seeing her and her husband. I hope to be able to visit them this winter if I can pull it off.

Love the Rims Baby!!

I plan to go to the pool and house is a member around him this is supposed to be actually be a little bit of rain on Friday. San Diego chargers lost in overtime cause the quarterback fumbled the ball and KC recovered the fumble and kicked a game-winning field goal. The real football news is that the Eagles whipped some Dallas butt on Sunday night. Mo Pagano is coming out with a book in a few week. Its called ”Everyone has a Book” . Its too bad I am going to Miss 3rd Friday cause the book should be out by then.

I am now going to go to get my sister's care fixed. It s little dent and will cost $65 for the bumber (Plastic) to get fixed.

Gmail Not sure hoa it worked!

I have heard from friends at work. Its nice to know folks are thinking of me!

Photos October 28

2011-10-29T04:59:00.000-04:00

Dylan 1963

Depression

Video Chat

Yesterday Today Tomorrow

Centering

California October 13 to 27th

2011-10-28T13:55:00.001-04:00


Leaving Philly


Overnight in Chicago

What a View!

I decided that I needed to take a break from my reality and called my sister who quickly invited me out to San Diego. She paid for the flight and on Thursday October 13th went to work, got my time off and took a Souithwest Airlines flight that had a layover in Chicago. After a long drawnout flight, where I missed my connecting flight due to my plane from Philly being 3 hours late, I finally arrived in San Diego to see my sister and her kids. Been lying low and trying to relax at this time. I got to see La Jolla where she used to live many years ago before she had children and to Hillside, the funky part of San Diego.I sometime have picked up the kids at their High School. Its a pretty nice looking place all clean and modern. The funny thing is they have no cafeteria. The mod planners of the 70's decided since it does not rain too much here in San Diego, that the kids do not need to sit and eat inside.

One thing I notice out here is the the BIG roads and freeways everywhere. I can see if you have no car, you are pretty much outta luck.

Sat October 15

Funky Part of Downtown!

I am going to be out here for awhile and work on some matters and help out my sister when I can. Here are some photos of the experience. You gotta love Vegas where you can shoot a machinegun!! Oh BOY!! This advertisement was at the Las Vagas airport. The wearther is very nice as everyone knows but it actually gets COLD at night. I was a bit surprised at that. Good thing I did manage to pack a sweater cause its been helpful the past 2 nights.
Well, got to go for now. Be back in Philly sometime around Thanksgiving . I have plenty to be thankful for.

All Aboard!!!

2011-10-12T01:55:00.001-04:00

I am alright

S**T Happens

2011-10-11T01:58:00.000-04:00

Yup That's what's in There

Well, It was one of those kind of days. Saw something I never seen before with plumbing. I think the photo says it all. Never seen THAT before!! I wish I had a magic flute to make it all go away with a nice toot and all would be alright. Well, in the real world, the plumber will need to finish off this travesty and we pay for it. Even the plumber said he has not seen many of THIS going on.; He was able to find where the problem lies but did not have his auger with him in the truck. I was able then to clean the tub after the plumber drained the outside PVC and let all the trapped water gush out

Letting the Trapped Water Out

The Promised Land???

Thank goodness I was off for the holiday and was able a plumber to come out and start the process. The tube is clean and I can start moving to the next thing. I took the dogs on a small road trip on the Harding Hwy. Went though Maliga, Elmer, Woodstown and Salem before crossing the Delaware Memorial Bridge to the land of promise and a smooth road ahead. I was able to escape the land of "Portentosa". I did hear that the ""Portentosa" has migrated North for the Winter. I am sure they will thrive.
I read this in my Washington Post email tonite.Monday, October 10, 2011 10:18:28 PM

NBA Commissioner David Stern canceled the first two weeks of the season Monday after owners and players were unable to reach a new labor deal and end the lockout, the Associated Press is reporting.

I say "YAWN", "Who Cares" and "Oh Well!". Pro Basketball is boring with all those points and the same team in the playoffs and the showboating all the time. I say stick to the college hoops if you need to watch basketball.
Its been a Its been a HUGE example of crazy leading the shots kind of October so far. Maybe we all need to cancel the next few weeks till the balance of life is put in its rightful place by the time I turn 50 years old next month

Photos of the Week

2011-10-10T12:44:00.002-04:00

Golden Glass

Reaper Needs a Ride

Message

October Drive

Keep On Rocking Me Baby!

2011-10-10T12:29:00.000-04:00

Cailiff Crowe October 8

Saturday late afternoon and evening, I went to see Cailiff and had a nice dinner. The Crowe's were there and finishing up the basement mildew issue. I was able to help a bit. I found out that he like Steve Miller's song Keep on Rocking Me Baby He would stop fussing and smile to the song. Hey I got up slept in a little bit to do some business in the house and then drove on down to Delaware. It was a nice day for a drive really nice It was pretty warm and in the mid 80s . The dogs and I enjoyed the cruise did what we had to do and and enjoyed the scenery. We had a funky plumbing issue when the toilet water went into the tub when I was using the plunger. Thought I would have to call the plumber but it seemed to resolve itself and now I have to get the tub drain unclogged. No plumber will be called cause $$ and I should be able to throw come chemicals in.

Bean and Jesus 10-8

Today Monday I had an eight o'clock dentist appointment and then I went back to sleep. Doing laundry have some errands to do and then go back to the dentist at 5Pm I have the day off for Columbus holiday and I guess the overtime is done so maybe it'll be more normal week then this week. that should be an interesting day in the neighborhood and the weather still supposed be nice. June seems to be taking well to the medication that she's on as well. Its now 12:30 Monday. Have a great day and stuff

On the Harding Hwy

Caught in the Act!

2011-10-08T16:48:00.004-04:00

Guess Where I Was??

The Old Sam's Place

Yes, I worked overtime again today, but today I slacked off and guess what, I really liked it. I think it was good for me to just have coffee and hang at a friend's house and blog away on the computer. We went to Earth Cup which used to be called Sam's Place way back in my ye olde West Philly daze. The new place is much friendlier then the old Sam's Place and Pat gets along well there. He used to hate going to Sam's Place cause they were slacker snobs. I noticed it too at times. Wow, it makes the day seem longer and more varied when you do not have to work, umm... I was caught by a surveillance camera slacking off while some clean mildew. Well, tomorrow I get to visit and Monday, I get my 8am dentist appointment to fix my teeth and take care of business. I may get a call finding out if the FEMA office in downtown Philly has some overtime.

FEMA Food Stamps

Blogging in Action

Well, its now 4;30 and got to get over to Clark's Pond and see if I can be of some help and to pick up the puppies who have stayed over while I was working. Its a very nice day and a good day to drive back to Millville. Tomorrow, I am heading to Delaware.

The Week that Was: October 3rd to 7th.

2011-10-08T16:18:00.000-04:00

This week has been well, pretty funky. October is usually a lite and fun month for me unlike March and April. I just found out one of my dogs probably has congestive heart failure which her days are numbered. June is on meds now. There goes .$200 down the tubes just for x-rays, to visit and prescription. We do have to look forward to making a life and death decision soon. This overtime is really tiring but I can not wait to see the $$. Its has just gotten really old I know I need the money. except on the bus but that's very limited this point size I walk to sleep another day away..
It's weird things feel melancholy but that's only way I can describe feeling at this point come to the type stress and he really didn't deal with now the realization that heavy times are and it's October and still eastern daylight time.

His famious speech concerning this mortal coil

Weds night we went to Dahlik and it was quiet. We saw the Brewers play the Diamondbacks. The really big story was the death of Steve Jobs. He had pancreatic cancer for 8 years. CNN showed the same 8 photos over and over. They also had his famous commencement speech from 2005 at Stanford . He spoke on personal topics including death. I heard this statement:

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don’t want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because death is very likely the single best invention of life

Workin it!

SECA Auction!!

Thursday I woke up from a cold overnight and did not sleep very well. It was COLD and I was not prepared for it. I did not work the overtime this day since I had a Zoning Meeting. While going to this meeting I met up with the RRCA Director and her assistant. They were very pleasant and it was a nice conversation. At the end of the conversation at 7:21pm, I get a text message that the Zoning Board meeting was OVER! They had 4 folks and passed the minutes and some resolutions. The folks wanted to have a decision with 7 member and we were not even close, so I did not miss anything. I went to the Oar House with Linda and tried some fun beers. I have been drinking the cheap stuff like Pabst and Lager since the $$ is tight. We had a good conversation. She will be resigning the Zoning Board after next month's meeting.

Working so Hard, the Computer has a Hernia!!

Yesterday, Friday, I drove in to work feeling tired again. I found that I do not like to drive the commute to work. I felt a bit shaky on the road and did not feel relaxed at all. Work was bearable and I got a little OT in once again. We had a SECA kick off. SECA is the State Employees Combined Appeal. We had a fun auction to start the fund raising and had a good laugh. I then went over Jon's house and picked up a pizza at a place called Joe's Pizza. We were joined by Pat and watched that wretched Phillies game which will go down in history as one of the most painful finishes ever. Yes, I include the 1977 Phillies Dodgers Playoff Game game referred to as "Black Friday". Guess what last night's DEPRESSING 1-0 loss was on Friday October 7th!!!! Scary aint it??

Oh well it's off

Depressing

2011-10-08T01:38:00.000-04:00

It's Curtains for the Phillies

WOW..the Gods really did it this time. Could you have imagined a MORE depressing way to see a game end. Ryan Howard making the last out (like last year) and seeing him crumpled on the ground while the Cardinals celebrate. It was a stunning sight seeing the folks in the stands stare blankly as if they could not believe it. What did it was ONE run in the last 17 innings as the offense went COLD again!
As Bob Ford said it:

There is little in baseball more depressing than watching the other team celebrate after the deciding game of a series, and nothing worse than having to watch it on your home field. That was the fate of the Phillies this season, though, as the Cardinals jumped into each others' arms while Ryan Howard, having twisted his ankle on the final groundout, lay writhing on the ground.

It was an ugly end, befitting a season of such promise that went unfulfilled.

Its been that kind of week in my world..Lets go...Flyers??

A Thought: Is Marriage for White People??

2011-10-04T05:31:00.000-04:00

So another week starts. It's Monday. It's a cool crisp fall morning.
As I sit here some thoughts come to me. How bout that pastor Jim Dunkins running for Freeholder while saying he was not going to run till Lou Magazzu resigned. Umm. Mr Dunkuns needs to make up his mind. Better yet just keep to your original decision and just not run. I also wonder if MagazzuWatch keeps its focused eye on the Cumberland County freeholders when Republicans as expected take over the seats this Fall. I will be interested and hoping they'll be held to account when they screw up like the Democrats.

While reading the Philly Inquirer, (iPhone battery died) I saw an article written by Michael Smerconish that talks about a book called: “Is Marriage for White People?” It is written by Ralph Richard Brooks. The book is premised on the hypothesis that that educated black women can find enough men in their race and fail get married. Here is a summation:

During the past half century, marriage has declined throughout American society. Among those who do marry, the wife is more likely than ever to outearn or be better educated than her husband. Why have these changes occurred? How have they shaped intimate relationships?

Is Marriage for White People? answers these questions through an exploration of the lives of the black middle class. African Americans are the most unmarried group of people in our nation. Black women are more than three times as likely as white women never to marry. And when black women do marry, they are more likely than any other group of women to marry a man who is less educated or earns less than they do. In fact, more than half of college educated black wives have less educated husbands who are not.

Off to Work

This looks like a must read and should spark some dialogue about an issue that gets ignored or shouted about.
I now start another week of FEMA food stamps and so far the rumor has it will be working overtime until Tuesday or I'll where I'll want a hamburger on Thursday.. Well, got to fly now

TrackRacket Lawsuit

2011-10-03T05:32:00.000-04:00

Time is Money$$$

I got up this morning and decided to check some blogs of note. Well, I see that Robert Owens commented about the settlement of the TrackRacket lawsuit. This settlement happens back in July but it was kept hush-hush by the Motorsports Park and TrackRacket. It was kept so well that none of my sources could tell me what the terms were. They did hint that the lawyers made a bundle and lo and behold they were correct, they made 81,000 from the deal.
I would agree with Mr. Owens that 2 years of litigation and they come up with a "Noise Committee". I also think the only reason the park agreed to any of this stuff is due to the bankruptcy. I suppose that the TrackRacket claim that the Motorsports Park reduced home values fell flat on its face. Most of us have seen our home values plunge due to the great recession caused by the big banks.
I would state settling this lawsuit is good for everyone and now folks can act constructively and the track can get its act together and become the economic beacon it was advertised to be. I am glad that cooler heads prevailed. I guess the crying at public meetings will end as well:)

September into October..

2011-10-02T23:24:00.000-04:00

Extra Spicy

43rd and Locust Philly

Cailiff Crowe!!

This Last week of September ended with with rain and much cooler temps. I could feel the change of seasons with the cool air and the fact that at 7pm its DARK!! I continued to work overtime.. Friday morning I barley made the 408 after coming home at 12 midnight since I had missed the one bus I needed to take and had to sit in Camden for almost 2 hours. It was a good ride up to Philly, no mishaps. At work worked from 4:30 to 7 on the FEMA Food Stamps. I then went to order some delicious Chinese food truck food at 38th and Chestnut and stayed overnight at Pats and just chilled for the evening. Saturday, I worked from 8am to7pm. I got so tired from calling all these folks about their applications, that I just went to Pats and slept at 8pm and got up around 8pm. I walked to a coffee shop at Penn's Campus. It was nice to just take a stroll with no where to go and relax. I then took the bus this morning. I did some errands kitty litter and such. Jon Densie and Cailiff came over and we had some NY Style Pizza for dinner. Cailiff is growing week by week! It amazing to see. Right now as I type this, the Phillies are losing 5-4 in the top of the 8th. The Cardinals got 12 hits and 5 runs off Cliff Lee. The Eagles ALREADY lost to the SF 49ers 24-23.
Lets go Phillies. I am going to sleep now. I am too tired to stay up right now. Bastardo is up in the top of the 8th inning and now there is a man on first with 0 outs. Last inning Jimmy Rollings got cought stealing to end the enning. Lets go Phillies. Its 11:20 pm and I get up at 4:15am

Funky Nights

2011-09-30T05:38:00.000-04:00

Weds Nite Dinner

Good day. Weds night, I stayed overnite in Philly. No shopping errend so I had time to enjoy some Middle Eastern fare. This was umm..umm good! The strangeness of the week continued later that night. the chaparone thing did not work out so well. it was a funky moment at the Tritone. Pat and I decided to walk across the street to Bob and Barbara's and watched the Phillies beat the Braves and sent them home from the playoffs. At the same time Boston choked itself out of the playoffs by allowing 2 runs in the bottom of the ninth at Baltimore. The Phillies will play St. Louis in the playoffs next week. The people were into it as well. It was a funky sports bar scene.

South Street Weds

Last night, I missed the Bus and had to hang in Camden for over an hour. It was "interesting" to say the least. That late 408 had Calvin and I saw Miss D on the bus and it was cool to see her. She and Calvin had the bus in fits of laughter. I was too tired to stay with them long but the ride did go by pretty good.

Camden at night

The work overtime presses on. Rumor has it that it will continue till Tuesday of next week and the extension will be mentioned in churches in Philly. There is not enough time to write much, Dave is driving the bus this AM!

Burning Bus

2011-09-28T05:40:00.000-04:00

Well I thought it would be a strange week. Yesterday Tues September 27 was one of thoseAfter a fitfully kind of sleep, I hopped on the 408. In Newfield, the bus managed to catch on fire!! I mean the FLAMES were shooting out of the exhaust pipe burning rubber!!! We all got out fine and the replacement bus went straight to Route 55 which saved 20 min or so. I got to work and what a sight I saw!!! There was a line around the my welfare office of people looking for the FEMA money. You had to see it to believe it!! I mean it was pretty wild!! I was invited to Tritone and told that I couls be a roadie to assist an 18 yr old band member. I don't have to pay cover. Came home on the 313 from Cape Map and boy was it FAST! I came home and just went to bed. This morning fetched milk and took out the garbage.

Newfield NJ Tues Sept 27

Yesterday at My Office 8:30am

The 408 Tues 6am

What's The Frequency??

2011-09-27T05:32:00.001-04:00

I love this song!!

Monday:FEMA, Fish and Phillies

2011-09-27T05:30:00.000-04:00

Today was quite a fishy day to start the week. .

Bus Station Camden

FEMA $$

I got on the bus and and showed off my new screen cover and iPhone protector to my friends on the bus. They said it looked like a new phone. The bus then arrived at Camden bus station around 7:30 am today. Caught the PATCO right on time and then to the El to 56th Street. Work was very very busy today. Folks were applying for FEMA flood relief. The line went around the office and the office was PACKED. Even at 5pm when I started to help, it was packed with folks completing forms. I got some overtime so its ok with me. I was done at 7pm and got home tonite around 10pm.This is why I am blogging at 1 am I then changed the kitty litter. Boy it really was bad and I just changed it on Saturday and possibly on yesterday as well. I think it the hot stale air that we have had over the past 10 days or so. Its never been this bad so quickly. The Eagle stunk so bad that I wish Koy Detmer was back to lead the charge. Vick has a broken hand. Well we will see if there is ANY audacity of hope for this football season!! The Phillies have won 2 games in a row after that scary 8 game loosing streak. They now have won 100 games and we have to hope that the relief pitching and the hitting hold up cause if not, then the stupid Yankees will win it again after Boston totally choked a bag full of flies this season.
I have listened to REM from the Album Monster. This is one of my faves. Listen to the song Bang and Blame and be transported to 1994/1995 again..

Birthday Fun, Trail Mix and Scap.

2011-09-27T01:40:00.000-04:00

Dennis on Sunday

Scrap

Our Backyard

I already written about last week and Saturday. Sunday was a very busy day. First I moved stuff in the backyard such as the swing barbecue food for someone to pick up second move tiles from the car to the backyard and move the fence back then went shopping for various items such as clamps and the correct trail mix. After that I heard Carl called and picked up the scrap. I said I would meet up with him and we hung out a BoJos where we saw Dennis. Boy, that was a surprise!! He lo..s like VanGogh

Carl with Still Life with St. Jude

Next we went to Carl's house for his birthday where Homemade soup. Ummm..GOOD! Carl showed 2 of his newest works.I learned that some Haitians visit graves at Noon every day in November since is the month of the dead.
Also, I heard that the Weed and Seed $$ is set to expire September 30. The MPD will be writing tickets to ANYONE!! The "element" will be on the run. Speaking of the "element", a friend on the bus tells me Foundry St is know drug dealing area.
Now it's Monday morning and VERY FOGGY! As of 7am, the fog had not lifted. A new work week begins. As you will see on this blog soon, its gonna be a busy one

The Levoy Builds Again

2011-09-26T23:59:00.000-04:00

After for what it seemed forever, serious construction has begun on the Levoy Theatre in Millville's Arts District. As you can see from the pictures, things are full speed ahead. We can expect a 2012 opening

September 22nd to September 24th 2011

2011-09-24T23:56:00.002-04:00

It was pretty eventful at the end of this week. Thursday night I was in Philly and went to Dalhak We had some food and beer and met some nice folks and it was fun. Work all week was ok since I felt like I was making some headway and that is is good as it gets for me.

Friday was pretty rainy but I left work early enough to get the Pittman Express bus back to Millville. Since Carolyne was a meeting, I decided to have some Pizza and NY Style and then walk to Bogarts Books where I got to see 4 Piece Jazz with Rita ,Steve, Jody and his wife. Its has been a long time since I saw them and they sounded good to me. Saw some folks I recognize and it was alright for sure. I got a new case and cover for my iPhone since the others were pretty worn out. I got new Rockport's for 20 bucks off. It was time to get casual shoes since I have been wearing sneakers for months now at work

.
Saturday (today) we had yoga class with Carolyne and Ostara Yoga. Kay, Bill and Elizabeth showed up and it was a workout. Next we went to see Densie and ib and Cailiff. Cailiff had a sporty shirt on and was making all these different facial expressions. It was pretty funny.

I then collected tiles and put them in the car. They will be used in the backyard. I will be doing some stuff aournd the house. The dryer house is messed up, and the tiles have to be put in the yard. Gotta call about Kate's computer which is running badly as well.
I noticed tonite that when I am in the "compose" mode with blogger, the test and photos jump around and code seems to be created about tables etc. Also the break code seems to be created randomly. So its been a pain trying to get this blog entry looking organized and not all sloppy.

Speaking of sloppy, what is going on with the Phillies. The Phillies have lost 8 in a row to the Nationals and the Mets. Lets prey that all this is out of their system come October or there is going to be a long Fall for Philly sports fans. As for the Eagles, they are going to be inconsistent at best. Well, lets just hope this weirdness of loosing leaves quickly. Winter is going to be cold enough as it is

Photos Thurday September 22

2011-09-24T22:11:00.000-04:00

Hello, this is the report for Thursday to Saturday, the beginning of the end of September 2011. Thursday, I was in the mood to take lots of photos of my commute to work. There are many interesting places and things that call me out to take a photo, so I just do it and it feels good. Its a nice way to have some artistic fun while killing time getting to work from Philly to Millville NJ. These were taken by my iPhone and the Camera + App I bought for a buck several months ago. It works very well with the iPhone and its very flexible

Direction

Lines

REM: 31 Years of Groovy Sounds

2011-09-22T05:33:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I forgot my phone and missed this story. I found out though Facebook thru Stan Demeski of the band the Feelies who was going to a rehearsal for Michael Stipe's solo project. After 31 years it sounds like time to end it. I remember the last time I saw them was at Temple University. It was nice cause the venue was smaller then the Spectrum where I had seen them in 1995 when Monster (one of my favorites) came out. Thanks for all the great music during my college and post college years and beyond!!

`995 Monster Tour

A Classic

Its Thursday morning and time to catch the bus. Its time to go to my "ALRIGHT" job. I will be in Philly overnight and hope not to get caught in the rain. Supposed to rain off and on for the next 4 days or so.

Google+ and Tax+

2011-09-21T05:35:00.000-04:00

Sept 21st 5AM Joined Google+

I woke up a bit early and after making coffee, I decided to check out Google+. As far as I know (not much) its a social networking site that is competing with Facebook which is going gangbusters at this moment in time. What I do know is that since Google is my email program, Google+ can find folks to be in the Google+ social network VERY easy. Some might say too easy. They have a concept that you divide your contact in to different groups or "circles". The default "circles" are Friends, Family, Acquaintances, and Follow. So I plunged in and so far have 2 folks that have responded. Its quite different then Facebook in the look but the concept is the same. Google+ enables to subdivide the folks you want to network with.
This way I have a social network tied to my email account. This ought to be interesting.
I just read that Millville City Commission is proposing to raise property taxes 4.2% next fiscal year. Its not that simple as the article in the Vineland Daily Journal points out.

The proposed budget would spend $31,425,986, down about $1.5 million from last year's $32,956,001 budget. Local property owners will pay more than half the cost. One penny in property tax in Millville will raise $146,594 this year, down $1,108 from last year. The municipal tax rate will rise 3.4 percent, from $1.22 to $1.262 per $100 of assessed property valuation, under the proposed budget.One piece of good news is that the county property tax rate for Millville is down 9 cents at $1.18 per $100 due to a rise in the assessment-to-fair market property value ratio in the city. On that same property, the owner will pay $1,486 in taxes or $153 less than last year. The school tax rate is 71 cents. On that same property, the owner will pay $924 this year. The proposed budget anticipates collecting $18,491,204 from local property owners, with rest of the revenue coming from grants and fees. That amount, known as the tax levy, is 3.5 percent higher than last year.

The city has reduced its workforce EVEN laying off police and has received more tax money from the Union Lake Crossing Shopping Center and the NJ Motorsports park. The public hearing on the proposed tax increase is October 18. I might want to catch the Pittman Express and get to THIS meeting. I will hear the cries and cynical remarks from Millville First who will decry that that folks are being taxed out of their homes, while taking all the credit for the Commission slashing costs. Here is Paul Porreca the head of Millvile First writing a letter to the Editor in the Cumberland News:

Millville’s Commissioners appear to have at last realized that taxpayers are being taxed out of their homes. Consequently they are laying off policemen and other city employees in a desperate effort to minimize raising taxes. Of course, they blame it on the economy, state actions, health insurance and pension costs. However, the actions the commissioners control are equally responsible for the situation. For the first five years, Millville First has been telling them that their tax-and-spend policies were courting disaster. They were forewarned. Their reaction has been to spend more, divert more income, give more tax breaks and engage in bigger taxpayer-supported schemes under the guise of “economic development.” The time has come to stop. They must concentrate on providing essential city services like police protection. Millville instead is spending local real estate tax dollars on the Levoy, the RAD, consultants, lawyers and the acquisition and destruction of tax-paying properties. If you want the details go to Millville First website, www.millvillefirst.org, or come out to our meetings when they start up again in September. When will it stop? It won’t until the taxpaying, voting public tells the commissioners to stop. Go to the commission meetings. Call them. Write them. Email them. Tell them it is time to stop spending on the nonsense and use our tax dollars for the essentials.

You can expect more of the same on October 18. Well got to catch the 5:43 am 408 with Dave who like to be EARLY

This is September 19th 2011

2011-09-20T05:32:00.003-04:00

Still in Millville Yesterday

Well, its a Tuesday morning. Having a good cup of Coffee. Google is a pain in the butt. Since my gmail and blogger sites have different passwords, I have to go on 2 different browsers to see both at the same time. I made my blog when I still had Earthlink in 2005. Later, Google bought out blogger and that is what seems to have happened. I guess there is a way to "convert" but I have frankly not bothered with it.
There was the buzzing fat fly buzzing all over the kitchen this morning. I thought I would have to deal with it cause its too early to chase a fly around. Well, it drowned in my coffee RIP!! Ha..HA!!
Yesterday was the calmest day at work in a long time. I only had to see 2 folks the entire morning and boy can I get stuff done when that happens (RARE!). It was alright. I felt like I had an alright job without the baby mommas:)

A-Home house. Millville NJ

After work I went and visited Carl and saw that new A-Home house and boy it makes the entire block look better for sure! Lets hope the new owners keep it that way!!

Levoy Sept 19

I Googled myself and saw a blog by Robert OwensIts well-written of course what is new to me is the name "New Leaf" and his interest in running and biking. He is way into physical fitness. Nice job.The Levoy constriction seems to be starting in a big way. They have put in the steel surounding the inside of the basement area of the theater. Its expected to be finished by 2012. I am looking forward to that!!

Sunday with Cailiff and Friends

2011-09-19T05:36:00.001-04:00

Fred and His Art

Jon and Daisy

Yesterday was a sleepy cool Sunday in mid-September 2011. We got up pretty early but chilled out and had lots of coffee and hung out with our warm fuzzy cats and dogs. Densie and Jon came over with son Cailiff. Fred then came over with some of his new glass creations. We got some Chinese and Thai food which was quite the treat. It was a nice day to be with friends and family

The Sale of Cumberland Manor

2011-09-18T10:38:00.001-04:00

I have been made aware of the pending sale of the Cumberland Manor by the Cumberland County Freeholders. This issue has been reported with vigor by Magazzu Watch. There seems to me a lack of reporting on the underlying issues. The local media has made selling the Cumberland Manor sound like a no-brainer since there will be 2 million windfall in time for the current County budget.
Republicans seems eager to sell it too, as indicted from Saturday's article in the Daily Journal.

"I'm a little perturbed, to say the least, because 30 days ago when we had these conversations everything you've raised here was answered," Kirstein said. "You advised us, if we got started right away, we could make the deadline." "There was absolutely no support on this board for going to the CCIA that I ever heard," Sheppard then told Gibson. Sheppard added he was concerned about the impact of a delay on the county budget for 2012.

So it not ONLY be the Dems who want to make a quick killing on this sale. The Republicans might be just as eager since they stand a good chance of controlling the Freeholder Board come January. I know the part of the Republican way is to privatize as much as possible and give to their buddies.

I think the County politics is a good ole boy network and the Republicans want a piece of that pie that the Dems have had under Magazzu.

I am consistently amazed on how much the lawyers and consultants make in good time and the current bad times. There seems always $$ for the politically connected to make a quick buck. This is not Republican nor Democrat (I am a Dem) issue.
Selling the Manor is a one-shot deal that will not help in the future. Its a one-time infusion in the budget and a way for the insiders to get more money off the backs of the taxpayers. I am sure the Republicans are on it too since they may control the Freeholder Board next year.

I will ask the same question, When are you going to ask for a pound of flesh from the privileged in County Government?? Its time to stop messing with the libraries, seniors and others who can not afford lawyers and flashy consultants.

Maurice River September 17th 4:37pm

2011-09-17T20:40:00.000-04:00

Got a Free Computer!

2011-09-17T20:28:00.000-04:00

Moving in

Well, this was good news for sure. Its a Dell Inspiron B130. This will be good to have a computer until we get a newer model. Free is not bad for sure and its much easier to type with two hands then one thumb. The move in was smooth. Our neighbor is going to be moving in 2 weeks. She can't wait to stop paying the huge rent that she pays for the 1st floor.

The Dell

Its a cloudy cool day but its comfortable. No rain but it has threatened all day. Carolyne went to Canal's and there was a promotion with food being served. I got a Mike's Lemonade T-Shirt. My cat Daisy got a tumble in the dryer for 15 seconds since I didn't see her jump in. She came out nice and dry!! Well, I am going to say good night for now and start blogging again.

Fun in NYC May 26

2011-09-12T23:29:00.000-04:00

On Monday Pat and another friend went to NYC to the Iridium Jazz Club to see the Les Paul trio. Jane Widlin of the GoGo's sang a set of standards and even sang the hit GoGo's song "Our Lips Are Sealed." Steve Miller was a surprise guest and played some as well. Got home, slept an hour, then went to a HUGE labor union rally in Harrisburg. Quite an adventure.

A Response to Karen Heller of the Inquirer

2011-09-12T23:26:00.000-04:00

To: "kheller@phillynews.com"
Subject: Comments on State Employees

I am responding to your column in today's Sunday Inquirer.

http://m.philly.com/phillycom/db_41092/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=qGG8kSEA

Your write up on the Governor were spot on, your swipe at the people who work for the Commonwealth were uncalled for.
I wanted to give a different view. I wish you had not piled on concerning the latest contract for state employees. Do you research. Pa is 48 or 49th in the entire country in the ratio of state employees per resident. The number of retirements was 4,200 this year and believe me they are not in a rush to hire. As you know the state cut over $400 million from DPW. As a DPW employee, our customers will feel it right away. They have cut the budget of the welfare to work program run by PWDC 40%. This will be made up by having the remaining work done by understaffed DPW employees.
I am proud of my union for getting a decent contract. If you break it down, it's 2% per year which is below average compared w/ the average 2.2% pay increase workers across have received.
It's too bad that employees paid by the taxpayer are devalued. We pay taxes, buy stuff at stores and provide essential services.
I also note that young folks are not knocking down the door to work w/ DPW. Oh, when they do, many leave after a few years.
I hope you will follow up and visit a welfare office sometime. Take a peek behind the spin of well-paid politicians and staff in Harrisburg. Talk to AFSCME council 13 and SEIU 668. I think you will get a more complete picture of how the middle class now has to fight to EVEN keep what they have now.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you and will hope some follow-up.

Regards
Mark

P.S
Denise Chambers of Philly CAO
Resigned. Word is that she was forced out.

A Long goodbye to Lou Magazzu

2011-09-12T23:23:00.000-04:00

Zap! He is Gone!!

Well finally Lou Magazzu has resigned from the Cumberland County Freeholders mainly because the media finally reported on his naked pictures of himself sent to a unnamed mistress somewhere. It has been three (3) years since in August 2008
when I was first exposed to his ways. of dealing with people. Since that day, I have seen him play dirty with political foes and private citizens.I am one of MANY Cumberland County Democrats that supported Magazzu Watch over the past 3 years. The media does NOT bother to mention this. He was an embarrassment to many Democrats. Lou abused MANY folks in his own party. I mean the Newark Star Ledger printed an editorial that SUPPORTED Lou! Ummm. I wonder why? To me it's pure partisan bias at work. No media outlet seems to care to find out the threats and abuse he meted out.

Good News Travals Fast!

He was THE political force of Cumberland County NJ for years. Yet after he leaves, the Democrats have a slim 4-3 majority on the Freeholder Board. This blog has followed with interest.the goings on of Big Lou and his minions as they trampled those who DARE to question him. One such issue in Cumberland County is Teen Pregnancy. Our county has the highest rate in all of New Jersey. When a citizen wrote a critical letter in the local newspaper about Lou and the County Freeholders were handling this issue, this person was visited by County Tax Assorors at her house.
Thank you Carl and MagazzuWatch. You proved that justice can prevail with a lot of patience and persistence.
Good bye Lou and enjoy Chicago!!
This is the last of my comments on Mr Magazzu

Sep 8, 2011, at 9:00 PM,

2011-09-12T23:21:00.000-04:00

Well, lookin again for a person. She said this:" Yes, it looks very eclectic which I like, but it seems very fullthis one is priced. Thanks so much for sending today if you are availableso we can discussThanks,o Due to this response, we spent time fixing this room for the woman who may rent this room. Moved out furniture, scraped off paint, mopped floor and put Olde English on the floor.This is before anything was done. I will send the after. Another fine vacation project by us.The woman visits Sat 3 pm. We sent the "after" photo and the woman was impressed. Sal, a 2nd prospective renter is coming Sunday.Oh, we are pulling out of selling the house due to the "Homekeepers" app.I GET PAID!!!!! WOW $$$$$$ Well, she wlll move in Sat.

iPhone Photos This Week

2011-09-06T15:52:00.001-04:00

Flame From Inside

Green Dreams

Left and Right

Recession Fade

Atmosphere 11

Sparkle at the (W)hole

Father and Son

EARTHQUAKE!!!

2011-08-23T14:16:00.002-04:00

Man it really shook the building here at 57th and Market!!!

Magnitude 5.9 - VIRGINIA
2011 August 23 17:51:03 UTC
DetailsMapsTsunami Earthquake Details
This event has been reviewed by a seismologist.
Magnitude 5.9
Date-Time Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at 17:51:03 UTC
Tuesday, August 23, 2011 at 01:51:03 PM at epicenter

Location 37.975°N, 77.969°W
Depth 1 km (~0.6 mile) (poorly constrained)
Region VIRGINIA
Distances 6 km (4 miles) SSE (152°) from Louisa, VA
6 km (4 miles) SW (236°) from Mineral, VA
26 km (16 miles) SE (133°) from Gordonsville, VA
66 km (41 miles) NW (318°) from Richmond, VA
134 km (83 miles) SW (219°) from Washington, DC

Location Uncertainty horizontal +/- 10.9 km (6.8 miles); depth +/- 7.4 km (4.6 miles)
Parameters NST=390, Nph=390, Dmin=57.9 km, Rmss=1.17 sec, Gp= 47°,
M-type=regional moment magnitude (Mw), Version=6
Source Magnitude: USGS NEIC (WDCS-D)
Location: USGS NEIC (WDCS-D)

Event ID usc0005ild

Did you feel it? Report shaking and damage at your location. You can also view a map displaying accumulated data from your report and others.
Earthquake Maps

Recent Activity At This Location
Google Map
Google Earth KML
(Requires Google Earth) Did you feel it? Report shaking and damage at your location. You can also view a map displaying accumulated data from your report and others.
Tsunami Information
The earthquake locations and magnitudes cited in NOAA tsunami statements and bulletins are preliminary and are superseded by USGS locations and magnitudes computed using more extensive data sets.

General Tsunami Information
NOAA West Coast & Alaska Tsunami Warning Center
NOAA Pacific Tsunami Warning Center
International Tsunami Information Center
Tsunami Information Links

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lou Magazzu Resigns!!

2011-08-02T18:19:00.001-04:00

It's true
http://m.pressofatlanticcity.com/mobile/news/breaking/cumberland-freeholder-louis-magazzu-resigns-after-internet-scandal/article_92325b9e-bd42-11e0-ae3b-001cc4c002e0.html
It's a sunny evening in Cumberland County!

A Visit to Long Beach Island

2011-07-30T14:51:00.000-04:00

Last night I paid a visit to LBI and met up with John Dave and Mike and their kids to 74th Street. Mike had a vacation this past week and John took his son Alex to the East Coast. I left work at 4pm and stopped over at Mayo's Halfway House as I have done since my parents took us there for lunch or dinner in the 70's and 80's I took a quick dip in the ocean. Man that was quite refreshing. We then had crab-cakes and corn on the cob for dinner and boy that was tasty. We hung out while a huge thunderstorm hit.

Krulls on Friday July 29

Storm!!

Rockin at Kubel's

Going home today on the GSP

It was quite the lightning show that it scared the kids a bit. We then went to Kubels (Old DeFreata's) to see if we would run in to any of the long lost folks we used to see many years ago, we did not but the band was very good. They played covers of Cream, Alman Brothers and the like and we danced around and had a fun time.
Hope, we can do that again cause LBI is a good shore point and has not changed all that much and I think that is way better then most of the shore points with great sand on its beaches.
Well, I am visiting my Grandson now, so go to fly!

Back to work

2011-07-21T21:54:00.000-04:00

On Jul 17, 2011,
Well it was time to get back to work this past week.
Monday, I stayed at Pat's in Philly since there was a union contract meeting at 6:30. After that meeting met Pat downtown for a beer then we walked back to his house. Pat does not ride SEPTA!! Tuesday, we took a trip to Mauricetown and looked at a house that was once a card and gift shop. It was cute and quaint. It had lots of land but all the rooms were too small. for house.The price went down from 200K to the current price of 135K. Obviously this is way more than we want to spend but it was it was interesting. It was fun going back there. We have not been back to Mauricetown in a while nice little break from the everyday.I was over at my mothers house Wednesday night trying to fix her computer. It looks like more memory. Will have to check further. It was a slog getting through the backlog at work. This week was nice and sunny and not too hot just about right. On Thursday night we had a special Zoning Board meeting about a proposed solar farm that is to be built where 300 homes were going to be built till the great recession made that impossible. It was odd and the fact that nobody wanted to second the motion to approve. This was due noise concerns. It was later on was proved after a long time. I then went to a friends house for a minute after the meeting and we had a good laugh over some political goings on.
Friday morning I had to take the 4:15 crack of dawn bus to go to my seven o'clock doctors appointment on CityLine Avenue. The apt took 10 minutes.. I then went to work after that I walked a dog and I met up with Sue and she was in a good mood. I got home at 10PM which was too late to enjoy the 3rd Friday activities in Millville. Heard it went well. I know Dennis sold some of his work and Fred's work went over well at the RRCA. Saturday, yesterday we visited our grandson Cailiff. at Jon and Densie's house. We met up withe Dawn and John's parents over there. We had a nice relaxing time. Later, we went back home and we changed some curtains around and chilled out for the rest of the evening and watched a a B grade horror made in the 70s which I forgot the name. It was filmed in Rome so I am to presume it's an Italian flick.
today, Sunday, I woke up at 9:45. I am chilling and writing out this blog entry with my Dragon Dictation app. I dictate a paragraph at a time and then copying and pasting to e-mail. Following that process. I will be pasting on Blogger. I plan to go to John's house to add pictures and make finer alteration since blogger does not have an app.
Can't wait to a new laptop. Much easier to type with 2 hands then one thumb.

2nd Part of Vacation

2011-07-12T18:32:00.001-04:00

Densie, Cailiff, Carolyne and Kay

Well, this vacation was certainly not boring for sure. I did sleep in to 9 or 10 am each morning and boy can that be fun. It was kind of cool to forget what day it was after that yucky week at work. Carolyne's friend Kim stopped by and then we all made a visit to see Cailiff, Jon and Densie. No welfare and that continues to be good.
Now I prey I can get a real computer, so I can type w/ TEN fingers instead of JUST a thumb!!!' :)

At least I am dealing with the Pa budget this week!!!

1 Woodland Terrace

Today we met the realtor. We first met at 1 Woodland Terrace in Bridgeton. It's is a suburban-looking neighborhood but this house is unique. It's sand-stone exterior and has TREES around it. It's got over an acre of forest behind it. The rooms are surprisingly large since the home looks a bit smaller then ours. We are NOT in a place to change. They did not object to the price even though they know a sale may not happen for months/years in this real estate market!

Listening to the Lawyers

Heading out to see Cailiff

They liked the studio, master bedroom and kitchen. . They were concerned that a buyer would a COMMERCIAL loan to buy the house. Is that odd or what?? The Realtor told us the issues with the house on our corner. It was the Psychic at one time.

The expert and the Shop-Rite Lawyer

We had our 3rd Zoning Board meeting concerning the Wal-Mart expansion and improvements. It of course lasted another 3 hours and at the end it was approved 7-0. Word is out that the Shop-Rite Lawyer will file a lawsuit that will just further delay the project.

Saturday we had our first yoga class at St. Andrews Episcopal Church. It was fine except they had some kind of sermon upstairs we could hear the guy had a microphone but overall the class went well. space was fine and had air conditioning. After that we visited the grandson and mellowed out the rest of the day.

Cailiff Crowe :)

The Word on the street is that the current director of the RCA's thinking of leaving again. Folks are looking at someowho is well known to possibly take her spot is she decides to leave the RCA. I have a clue of whom it might be but I will not speculate on this blog. I will leave that to others.
There have been some
Here's a embarrassing photos.of Big Lou in the past week as well. It smells like a local Weinergate except for one BIG difference. The Local Media has not touched it at all. This is just showing that I do live in the middle of nowhere where some politicians are OFF LIMITS to scandal reporting.
Well its Sunday nite and gotta go.

A Grand Bargen!!? For whom??

2011-07-07T01:59:00.000-04:00

Cutting Social Security!
How much will the DEMOCRATS give away to get the debt ceiling up. The Republicans keep moving the football
When will it end?
http://talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/2011/07/the_big_break.php?ref=fpblg

Sad News and Change

2011-07-07T01:29:00.000-04:00

Ostara Yoga classes will be held at St Andrews church at 186 E. Commerce Street starting This Saturday July 9th at 11am.
We all morn the loss of Joyce Skinner owner of Energy Center Plus. She was very gracious to our yoga class for last 2 years. You will be missed!

First Week of July at Home

2011-07-06T22:57:00.000-04:00

Cailiff Crowe July 7

Well after the hardest week of work that I can remember now appropriate that I picked vacation seen my new grandson to stuff has been neglected because I'm doing the welfare whacka.
Yesterday I mean the day before we got to visit Caleb Chandler our cute grandchild and we plan to make another visit later on today or tomorrow depending on how Jon and Densie are feeling. Right now we are working on the backyard garden around the bird feeders

I would love to have a time on the computer.
It's a working vacation. I sleep to 10 am instead of 4:15 am.
I will be working on your yard :)
Now getting packed up to leave in 60 min
Densie and Jon had a doctor's appointment and errands
Carolyne has two apts in Bridgeton today. She is to meet the pastor for the new place she's having her yoga and other to return the keys to the energy Center so it's been determined assuming that's okay with you. Just giving the heads up.

Tuesday I got out the Spanish tile and laid them out in Densie and Jon's backyard. Next set up a table with the umbrella. That idea fell flat but the umbrella and table look nice on the back porch. Man, I set the furniture up and it was hot as heck today. Glad I am not at work I'm working hard but I can sleep in till 10. Sleep is dreamy!

50 Summit St Bridgeton

Well came home and set the cat traps and saw St. Andrews church at 186 E Commerce Street in Bridgeton.This the new location for Ostara Yoga starting Saturday July 9th at 11am!! tomorrow we plan to meet up with Kim to see Densie and Cailiff. I went aheadI went ahead and watch the movie Primary Colors which loosely based on the 1992 campaign of Bill Clinton. It was an entertaining and interesting movie I then went on my Twitter account and saw an article about construction federal agency blame who grin for the collapse of Levoy Theatre which occurred January 3, 2011 the article written by the
paper was very critical of Ogren and listed their previous violations. This got me upset and sent several emails. I went to bed tired It's now 4:12 AM I'm usually getting up for work now on a normal week but this week has been anything but normal!! last week was extremely normal!! My phone is charged and ready for another domestic work-a-day Adventure.

Carolyne and June

We went to Bogarts books in Millville New Jersey and I'm on this dictation program to see if it comes out and we're having doing what once doing a vacation sit around drink coffee talk nonsense and look at books about the secret history of consciousness you know you don't kill time without stopping o'clock visit the grand baby and take our dogs with us and it will be grand.
I cooked eggs and lunch and we hung out at Densie's till 3;15PM, then it was time to go.

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Proposed Agreement 2011-15

2011-06-28T22:50:00.000-04:00

This is a Damned Good Contract

2011 State Contract Tenative Agreement- FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Re: 2011 State Contract Tentative Agreement

Will there be any rolling furloughs?

No, the contract negotiating team was able to get the commonwealth to back off of any rolling furlough language.

Are there any changes to Alternative Work Schedules?

The Commonwealth will investigate and clarify if necessary the issues surrounding the COP’s failure to respond to AWS requests, the parties will meet to develop boilerplate language and to come to an understanding as to the cost-savings criteria necessary for schedules to be approved.

Are there any changes to vacation leave?

Yes. The commonwealth wanted to cap ALL employees’ vacation leave earning at 20 days per year, however the team was able to fight off this change. The agreed-to language in the tentative agreement will cap vacation leave earning at 20 days per year for employees hired after June 30, 2011 only.

Has the number of personal days been changed in this contract?

The proposed contract language will maintain the current number of personal days. However, if you go an entire year without taking a sick day, you will earn an additional personal day.

Did the amount of sick leave change in this contract?

Yes. The amount of earned sick leave will change from 13 days to 11 days per year. However, if you do not use any sick days within a year you will receive an additional personal day. The sick leave buyout at retirement remains the same.

When will the change in sick days take affect?

The sick day changes will take effect January 1, 2012.

Are there any changes in health care contributions?

Yes. During the first three years of the contract the contribution will remain at the status quo. In the fourth year the contribution will slightly increase. See below for the contribution rates.

Year	Employee Contribution	Employee Contribution with Get Healthy Program
Year 1	3%	1.5%
Year 2	3%	1.5%
Year 3	3%	1.5%
Year 4	5%	2%

What is the health care contribution rate for retirees?

The contribution rate for retirees will be the same as for active employees, except that it will reduce to 1.5% when the retiree is Medicare eligible.

Are there any changes to the calculation of health care contributions for retirees?

Yes, instead of the contribution being based on your career ending salary, the contribution will now be calculated from your average salary in your last three years of employment.

Will employees receive any wage/step increases in the new contract?

Yes, employees will receive a total of 10.75% wage increase. The increases will be as follows:

July 2011: No General Pay Increase (GPI)
January 2012: No Step Increase
July 2012: 1% GPI
April 2013: Step Increase
July 2013: 0.5% GPI
January 2014: 0.5% GPI
April 2014: Step Increase
July 2014: 2% GPI
January 2015: Step Increase

Will employees have to pay increased co-pays at the Emergency Room? If so, when does this take affect?

Yes, the proposed contract language includes increased emergency room co-payments from $50 to $100 that would go into effect on July 1, 2012. This change will require a vote from the PEBTF in order to take effect. The PEBTF trustees will decide when to take this issue up.

Can retirees participate in the Get Healthy Program?

No, currently there is no Get Healthy Program for retirees. Most retirees fall under the Disease Management program and can participate in it, but there is no waiver. The PEBTF decides the coverage of benefits dependent on the financial health of the fund. The union will continue to pursue the issue with the PEBTF.

Where can I get more information about my retirement questions?

SERS staff will be trained on the new contract language and would be happy to assist you.

How does the tentative contract affect Triple III’s (Interment Intake Interviewers)?

The tentative agreement language has eliminated the concept of super Triple III’s, which would mean that Triple III’s who attain Super III status will now automatically become permanent UC interviewers. In addition, the commonwealth has agreed to meet with SEIU 668 to discuss the creation of more permanent interviewer positions.

What is a side letter?

A side letter is a written agreement between the employer and the union that has the force and effect of contract language, but does not appear in the contract book. Side letters were obtained to further discuss and to add contract language within a defined period of time for Portal to Portal, Alternative Work Schedules and Statewide Seniority Units.

Are Energy Assistant Workers directly affected in this contract?

The tentative agreement language will maintain status quo for Energy Assistance Worker’s reimbursement for out of pocket healthcare costs.

If I retire before July 1, 2011 will I be able to lock in my Retired Employee Health Plan (REHP) benefits?

The commonwealth contends that it reserves the right to change any aspect of the REHP for employees who have already retired. In the past, the commonwealth has made changes to REHP benefits for those who retired after a labor agreement went into effect. They reserve the right to make changes for all retirees at any time. The process of evaluating and re-evaluating the plan offerings is ongoing every year. There are various proposed changes on the table that could affect the level of benefits and/or the cost-sharing terms. All participants and employees will be advised as soon as a change, if any, is being considered for implementation.

Does the new contract reinstate seniority for those using parental [maternity] leave?

Yes, the contract provides that employees who lost seniority due to parteneral leave utlizlied prior to July 1, 1993, will be entitled to reinstatement of seniority upon presentation of documentation. Due to the complexity of the implementation, this will go into effect in 2012.

Will the commonwealth be paying back the money they owe to the PEBTF?

No. However, the commonwealth agreed at the table to maintain a three month reserve in the fund. If the reserve level falls below the three month level, as determined by the actuary, the commonwealth must pay in the amount needed to maintain the three month reserve. Any dispute will be resolved by a neutral actuary. If the fund has more than a three month reserve, this amount will remain in the fund.

Is there a third option on a contract vote?

No. Members must vote yes to accept the contract proposal or vote no, which means the Union would go out on strike. In the past members have asked if there was a third option to voting on the contract, which they assume would mean they would reject the offer and continue to negotiate. This is not the case.

There is no such thing as a “third option”. It is the job of the negotiating team to attempt to get the best possible contract at the negotiating table. To reject the contract offer, but not authorize a strike, does not send a message of strength to the employer. In fact, it demonstrates to the employer that the members are not committed enough to the union’s demands to fight for them. There is, therefore, no incentive for the employer to modify its demands after such a vote.

The negotiating team understands that it has a major responsibility in not putting a contract offer out to a vote without making every effort to get the best final offer from the employer. At that point, whether it is before June 30th or after July 1st, the negotiating team puts a real contract offer in front of the membership. It is the best contract offer that can be obtained from the employer, short of a strike. The members must make that ultimate decision on the employer’s last and best offer; is it acceptable, or is it so unacceptable that you are willing to strike?

June 28, 2011:The Other Events

2011-06-28T22:42:00.001-04:00

Chinatown June 29, 2011

Hello world. I was at 8th and Arch in Philly and there was a HUGE line at the PENN DOT Drivers Center. Glad I didn't have to go there! I am also glad that the Segway is not popular. This is one of the most goofy useless inventions ever hyped. See the photo below to see how on a crowded sidewalk they would be a menace to society. Let the DORKS spend money, the economy needs it.
Now in Chinatown in Philadelphia on the way to training at 7th and Arch. This is where the African American Museum is located. Hope to get some cheap yummy coffee. Training starts at 10am.

Slipshod Training Material

Speaking of DPW Training, it was really absurd. I could tell it was put together in 6 weeks like they told us. It takes away work from the Earn Centers and puts it back on us. It presumes that we have time to be social workers and job developers. We as CDU have not been trained to do this (well today for 6 hrs) and we do not have the staffing levels and time to do what they would like. I think our welfare stats will drop.
like a stone as we learn and have stuff change from day to day for the next several months.
Baby boy Crowe was born this morning. His name has not been disclosed as of this time. It's now 7:30. I got the cutest photo taken at the hospital. The boy has this little knit hat on. So Carolyne is babysitting the the dogs at the Crowe's. I am getting milk at the WAWA. I then will do stuff such as taking out the trash.

Parade of Dorks

I did that stuff and I was offered the use of a friend's computer so I can put in photos and type with 2 hands instead of a thumb. I am pretty good with my thumb but having all 10 of my digits is alot more fun.

Sunset in Millville NJ June 29

The details of the proposed new state contract.are out. Its a really good tentative agreement since the state was really out to cut benefits and pay for the next 3 years. This contract if ratified will be a 4 year contract. I have a contract meeting on Monday July 11 at the Crowne Plaza at 18th Street in Philly that starts at 6pm. There SEIU668 members will have the chance to ask questions and a formal presentation will be made about the contract proposal.
I am off next week for a short stay cation. I am sure it will be nice to be away of the controlled chaos of the new CDU regs start hitting the fan. I will be able to be more of a help for the baby Crowe. I think the diaper change lessons are weeks away.
Well, the 4th of July is right around the corner. Millville is having a parade for the first time since I moved here in August 2003. They used to have one before but I am not sure when that was. The Phillies play the Red Sox this week. Tonite Cliff Lee dominated the Red Sox with a 5-0 shutout.
As the Philly Inquirer states:.

He threw a shutout for the third straight game, equaling Hall of Famer Robin Roberts as the only two Phillies pitchers to ever do so. He has not allowed a run in 32 straight innings, the longest streak of his career. It's the longest scoreless streak for a Phillies starter since Roberts twirled 322/3 scoreless innings 61 years ago.
In the month of June, Lee threw 42 of a possible 45 innings in five starts. He allowed one run on 21 hits with eight walks and 29 strikeouts. That yields a crazy 0.21 ERA for June

Well, its now 10:39Pm. I should not wear out my welcome. Thank you for letting me use your computer. I can write a real blog entry with photos on a nite where I am home alone with no puppies.

Congratulations Jon and Densie

2011-06-28T21:23:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the world Baby Boy Crowe

Born: June 28 2011 6:17 am

Weight: 6 Lbs 4oz

Height: 20 inches

June 2011: The Second Half

2011-06-27T05:12:00.000-04:00

It is now Saturday June 25 and still

Tues June 21st March for a Fair Budget and Contract

no computer. Oh well, must press on.
It has been an eventful 2 weeks. First
off, Densie will be due to have her baby
next Weds. It is going to be a boy but I
Know not what they will name the child..
In other news, one of nieces wedding planned
for Sept was canceled...
As for work, 2 folks retired from our CDU Unit so
we are shorthand. Our union negotiate a 4 year
contract w/ Gov Corbett. Late Thursday a tentative
agreement was reached. I was amazed that the only
Giveback was losing 2 sick days. The employee
contribution will not increase till
The 4 year of the contract.
Last weekend we had my mother come up for the weekend and get a nice time also today and I will move for my sister-in-law back to south Philadelphia

Moving Day 6-27

Out on the Magizzu front, apparently there is supposed to be some interesting stuff coming out but that's up to the Magizzu watch. around the last week of work before I take off for the July 4 week. I think we did okay our state contract considering what's going on around the country with public employees taking the hit for budget deficits. Can't wait to be able to post on a real computer, blogger does not have a real App. I can not believe that.

Special Effect on Me

Today, Sunday I am at the Crowe's to do some household help. We then have to clear out the Energy Center in Bridgeton since the owners are selling due to the grave illness of one of the owners. We hope Ostara Yoga will find a suitable place soon. There are 2 strong possibilities pending and we will find out this week.
Last weekend we invited my Mother over.

2011-06-13T07:09:00.000-04:00

Here we are the second full second week of June 2011. State contract talks are moving at a glacial pace but again they are still moving. I found out some information on a person of interest to Cumberland County which is leaking out as I speak. Today seems to be a fairly mild day and so bloody hot. Hope to save enough $$ by July to buy it. So my friends, there will few if any photos. I have not figured how to add photos on Blogger via the iPhone.
I hope my Step-Daughter and husband find a home for their dog. I posted on the famous UC list. I wish it would help.....
The Phillies won 3 of 4 from the Cubs. Howard and Utley looked good.
I had this dream last night where somehow I had $100,000 and then proceeded to spill it in a body of water and bring it to the rock so a bag of some sort I couldn't find the money I sent a couple one dollar bills maybe $100 bill is somewhat disconcerting. I think it made for a restless sleep. Now I think I will do it like I should. I will take a nap along the bumpy Rt 47 as it picks up the elite riders of the Save-A-Lot in Glassboro and Pittman. Watch them jump out of their cars, & look past me for a seat. Oh the glory. Life is good!!

Dingo Needs A Home

2011-06-12T19:38:00.000-04:00

We need to find our beloved dog Dingo a new home. :( He is a 5 year old mixed breed. He looks a bit like a white German Shepherd or Husky and is about that size. The vet has suggested possibly Akita or Australian Shepherd.

He is a perfect love muffin to us & his four doggie brothers & sisters (and reasonably tolerant of our cats), and has been for the 4 years we’ve had him. That is until recently. He has become very aggressive to our oldest dog, Beazer. Not to sugar coat it, he has attacked Beazer on several occasions. We have no idea why he has suddenly targeted Beazer, with whom he has gotten along fine over the years. We hoped it was going to stop but it apparently isn't. We are about to have our first baby, and don’t have the space to keep all of the dogs and the little one separated or supervised at all times…

We really do love him dearly. He is a great watchdog, and will be a loyal companion for the right owner. He’s been to the vet and the groomers routinely, and never has a problem in that situation... in fact, they always say how good he is. He’s just developed this "issue" with one of his roommates. He has nipped at my little nephews a few times -- they are too young to handle dogs properly. I need to stress again a savvy, responsible strong person is the only likely match for him.

Although in general he gets along w/other dogs, we cannot promise which dog he will or will not be aggressive towards so he needs to be the only dog; no children. He is up to date on all of his shots and flea/tick treatment, housebroken, very vigilant and protective, and loves to play fetch. He is an indoor dog and must remain so. He is used to having a big yard in the country to roam around in but is also good on the leash. Used to being spoiled. He is not crate trained and would not do well in a crate. He never soils in the house or chews.

He is very special to us, and we need to find him a loving new home!

856-364-0676

crowejon@comcast.net

Computer Dies and Other Stuff

2011-06-09T20:59:00.000-04:00

Hello the big news is that our computer just died. I went to an IT guy at the Annenburg School diagnosed it as being a shot, burned out motherboard. The hard drive is intact and he is saving the entire contents of the hard drive. Now it's time to start looking at what options we have for a new computer.
Last nite had a mellow time at Dhalick in West Philly. Saw Tyrone, an old friend from West Philly from the 90's. His friend Loretta was cool. She knew a lot about computers and motorcycles.
Today was the hottest day of the year. I was inside the welfare office where it was a busy day!!
Found out that Joyce has decided to sell the building. It was quite a shock to hear about this. Not sure what will happen next for the classes that are currently being held there. The price is ok but it does need work. It's 8,000 SQ feet of space. Now on the bus and I should be home by 9pm. Will have to put in the AC's in 2 other rooms and walk dogs. Take out Chinese will taste real good on a day like today.

Motorsports and Early June 2011

2011-06-07T05:38:00.000-04:00

Market Frankford EL June 6

5:30 This Morning June 7

Two days in a row for this blog. This will be the first time in awhile I will have done that. Sometimes its too much energy (even with a cup of Joe) to get the energy to type and then run to the bus stop. One driver likes to show up early. Well, he will at least pick me up at Pine Street and save me the walk.
I check out the Vineland Daily Journal and I read that Steve Durst, formally of Union Lake Crossing, wants to buy out the NJ Motorsports Park. This is an interesting development and it seems to be opposed by the current group that filed for Bankruptcy. As the article states;

Durst and Gallagher said if they succeed in taking over the park the group would invest $10 million to $15 million immediately in the facility on a range of capital improvements. The idea is to take the facility's "clubhouse theme" and develop the park as a "total family involvement" recreation spot.

• The group would build a 50,000- to 55,000-square-foot facility for The Racers Group at a cost of about $5.5 million. TRG recently left rented space at the park, criticizing current owners.

• An all-terrain vehicle course and a motocross facility would be developed "on a site not objectionable to area residents," Durst said.

• A "family recreational campground" would be developed.

• Amenities for members and competitors, such as showers, would be added. More vegetation and paving to hold down dust are proposed.

• The group would fully compensate the park's long list of unsecured creditors, largely small area businesses, to the sum of about $2 million.

It appears on the face of it a good deal for the park. The Current owner Lee Brahin does not think this proposal makes sense legally and he notes there will be an auction where the stating bid will be 23 million. This auction will take place sometime next month. I am glad there is interest in the park. I am not sure Mr Durst is the person. I seem to recall, he was going to invest in the old Millville Gardens site in the 3rd Ward. He then pulled out of the project for reasons unknown to me. I am not sure if he will do the same on this project especially when he states the bidding starts 10 million too high. Of course I am not an expert but anyone who bothers to read this can educate me on this matter. I am all ears!

What can I say about Anthony Weiner that has not already been said I think the New York Daily news was funny on this. They have Congressman Weiner and others before him on a 28 page photo gallery. Its pretty funny!

Bus Stop June 6

I am planning to leave early from work to help around the house a bit. I will first be going to a house to feed a cat then off to work.

Scubbin

2011-06-06T05:34:00.000-04:00

Life Remedies

Its now another Monday morning and we are in the beginning of June 2011. This weekend we did some house cleaning of the 1st floor. It was needed but of course it took longer then anyone expected. It got done but now stuff has to be moved from the back porch and I need to get home sooner man.

Cleaning Up

Out state contract talks are moving at snails pace and we need a remedy by the end of THIS month of June or we have a problem. The Commonwealth and SEIU668 have only agreed to some minor stuff. I am sure it will go down to the wire like it always does with a new Governor. The resulting contract will suck in several ways, I just don't want it to suck when it comes to the benefits, vacation or sick time. I have saved my sick days like the state wants to. Now they want to remove the incentive to save time at the same time cut our pay if you are sick more then a week. Truly BOGUS dude!!
A friend I met on the 408 and I made up this movie called Foot Tight.

I was reading they are going to make a remake of that GREAT move that stars Kevin Bacon called Footloose. Can you believe that?? We were inspired while on the 2 hour journey to Camden. We are having some good laughs. This move Foot Tight stars Justin Beaver and Kevin Bacon as his father. Anyway go on the link above and have a good laugh. Hell, we all need a laugh. I KNOW I do.
Lets all try to stay sane this month!!! YEH!!

End of May. End of Week,

2011-06-03T06:08:00.000-04:00

I'm on the 408 bus this morning. It's a really nice morning with none of the humidity of past few days. This week has been very busy at the welfare office since it's the beginning of the month. As you know I was that really long Zoning Board meeting with Walmart last night that went on till 11:35!! The other night I was at Dahlik in West Philly with Pat and Mike for a bit and now it's Friday and here comes another weekend!! I am going to see the Go Go's in Atlantic City on Saturday night. I am going with Pat and possibly with Jon as well. Should be pretty fun.
I am tired now. I was having the best dream but I had to get up at4:20am so I could get milk and OJ at the WAWA.

Zoning Board Meeting June 2nd

2011-06-03T05:34:00.000-04:00

Ronald Gasiorowski Cross-Examining

Last night I experienced one of the longest Zoning Board Meetings.
Why you ask? Well, its because Wal-Mart is seeking variences to expand its Millville Store by 39,000 feet to make it a Super Wal-Mart. This effort is being opposed by the owners of the Millville Shop-Rite. This was the 2nd Zoning Board meeting that has taken up this request. The main reason was due to cross-examination by Bottino ShopRite attorney Ronald Gasiorowski., who asked question after question to several experts from Wal-Mart. I really give my personal feelings on this but I can say that the meeting went to 11:35 and ended when Mr. Gasiorowski stated he had a medical condition.
This application resumes in July on the first Thursday unless the date is changed due to conflicts.

The State of The Commonwealth

2011-05-30T22:45:00.001-04:00

This past week we heard word that Phila CAO was in a "state of emergency" Phila CAO has 70 unfilled positions. Our managers went to a meeting and reported to us that the state may give these positions to other parts of the state if our stats did not improve. With "modern office" it would be easy to "farm out" Philly jobs to cheaper locations in the Commonwealth. The managers told of state workers stealing and this explains the renewed stress on security.
Karen Heller of the Philadelphia Inquirer gives her view of the new DPW Administration and the policies of the Corbett Admin in general.

DPW Head Gary Alexander
Who knew the road to ruin was trod with toe cleavage? Or that a glimpse of no stocking could prove so shocking?

Harrisburg has long been a hotbed of temptation - for legislators fondling Other People's Money, sometimes in the middle of the night.

To maintain professional decorum, Secretary of Public Welfare Gary Alexander enforced a staff dress code: no skorts, flip-flops, tattered jeans, hats. For a meeting of his leadership team, Alexander insisted that men appear in suit and tie and that women wear "closed-toe shoes and nylons or tights."

Perhaps Alexander, an ordained deacon, wants to return his department, whose focus is supposed to be the poor, to the Mad Men era, except that might lead to midafternoon nips and nooky. His model of comportment seems more Ozzie and Harriet.

In the warmer months, most women under the age of 80 don't wear closed-toe shoes and nylons. Fashion editors, Michelle Obama, women perambulating the streets of Center City, nuns, all are now unqualified to be leaders at the DPW.

In announcing Gov. Corbett's top appointments, the press office made a point of listing how long each nominee had been married - good news, citizens! - almost all of them for decades. When being single, divorced, or gay is increasingly accepted, is this achievement relevant for public service?

Nylons and silver anniversaries are the window dressing of a troubling agenda. Our state governments are trying to will us back to a simpler, crueler time when rich men prosper with limited taxes and the poor can fend for themselves. Harrisburg and Trenton appear to be waging a battle over which can adopt the more regressive policies faster.

Pennsylvania House Republicans, seizing an opportunity after the revelation of Kermit Gosnell's West Philadelphia butcher shop and the state Department of Health's failure to properly inspect, this month approved legislation that would impose some of the nation's strictest, costliest operating regulations on Pennsylvania's 24 free-standing abortion clinics.

If the state Senate (where a far more sensible bill has been proposed) approves, the rules could force several sites to close, which appears to be the legislation's true intent.

"I thought conservatives were supposed to be against big government and intrusive, overburdening regulations," said Rep. Dan Frankel (D., Allegheny). "This bill would drive many women to seek risky, illegal abortions based on price - the same issue that drove desperate women to the Philadelphia house of horrors."

They're legislating us back to 1973.

House Republicans also proposed whacking a quarter of all AIDS program funding, and 9 to 11 percent of the DPW's child-care assistance, rape-crisis and domestic-violence services, food stamps, and breast cancer screening.

Fear not. The staff that helps fewer people in tough times will be properly attired. You will not be turned away by an employee in a skort.

As for negotiations. Little of bargaining but plenty of presentations. It would be good to know how hard-core the Commonwealth is on our benefits and salary.
We will be trained on the Corbett changes in CDU at the end of June to implement in July. Its more work to save money but have not seen it so I will withhold judgement

Friday May 27

2011-05-27T05:38:00.000-04:00

Well, its now Friday before the Memorial Day weekend and the heat is now upon us. A cool wet Spring has ended and now its time to crank up the fans.
This week, was ok, we walked the dogs to the Alliance Jewish Cemetery in Rosenhayen. It was a nice evening and its a sobering experience. Jesus our pup really enjoyed the open space. It was cool to be home and still have the sun shining.
The Phillies are now scoring runs and beat the Reds 3 out of 4 including a 19 inning game, I had stopped watching when Jay Bruce hit a homerun in the 10th inning. Wilson Valdez pitched the 19th inning and won the game.

The Windermere is razed in West Philly

Speaking of Memoral Day Weekend, the Margarita Bash is on this weekend. This may be the last one ever since they are putting up the house for sale. It may be greener pastures for my friends (or the desert). I do not know.

Near Ferry Ave PATCO Stop

They razed the Windermere Apts in West Philly. There was a huge fire this past Winter and the whole aftermath was handled badly by most of the powers that be. It remains to be seen what will take its place. Right now its just another empty lot in West Philly.

Glad the Millville Police are cracking down on druggies and the prostitution problem here in Center City. As I famously reported on Facebook last week, the hookers and pimps hang around 2nd Street in the crack of dawn when I am catching the 408 bus. They made 34 arrests. Way to go MPD!!!! My tax dollars at work!!
Well, got to get dressed for work and stay cool. See you this weekend

Baby Shower

2011-05-24T07:40:00.000-04:00

My Stepdaughter had her baby shower last Saturday and it was very nice. Everyone enjoyed the event. Baby Crowe is due June 30th and it will be a boy!!

Levoy Reconstruction May 17-23

2011-05-24T06:34:00.000-04:00

Building up the South Wall

Loading Bricks to be donated

Fath Building Day 120

Thunderbolt Construction Keeps an eye on Levoy!

The Levoy reconstruction continues apace while on day 120 there has been no improvements done to the Fath Building next door. Meanwhile, the South Wall is being reinforced and bricks are being donated to the Palace of Depression reconstruction project in Vineland.

Strange Days

2011-05-23T05:36:00.000-04:00

Taken on Main Rd on bus

This week has been quite strange. I was dealing with the ladies of the morning so to speak and the weirdo that came our house yesterday claiming to be an artist. Then someone at work was playing with my mind stealing my phone receivers at the end of the day. I witnessed a double rainbow. The state offered some really draconian cuts to our benefits and wages. The weather has been raining off and on all week.

State Contract Negotations

2011-05-18T05:36:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, the Commonwealth gave its initial contract proposals. The "highlights" are stated in the SEIU668 website.

On Tuesday, May 17, 2011 the SEIU 668 Negotiating Team had an initial contract negotiation meeting with the commonwealth. The meeting was preceded by an in depth prep meeting of the Negotiating Team.

The commonwealth and SEIU 668 presented their initial proposals to each other. Both sides were given the opportunity to seek clarification of the proposals and present their initial stance on particular proposals.

Key highlights of the commonwealth’s proposal include:

· Require a give back of the 4% general pay increase from 2010

· Limit healthcare employer contribution to $400 bi-weekly

· Forces employees to take rolling furloughs

· Eliminate two holiday days

· Severely limit sick and vacation leave

· Delete preservation of bargaining unit work language, severely crippling the union’s ability to prevent privatization

The Commonwealth will not allow employees to accumulate sick time. Ok now what would be the incentive to save sick time?
The Commonwealth is NOW reporting a 500 million dollar SURPLUS!
This means they are just using the economic situation as a golden opportunity to slash wages and benefits.
They want to be able to privatize at will without discussion with the union. I have seen that privatizing in the long run does not save money but looses money due to less accountability.

Levoy Reconstruction Restarts!

2011-05-14T10:28:00.001-04:00

Crew at work.

The Levoy started construction this past week. This is quite the good news. crews were on scene working on the building that partially collapsed during a restoration project in January. According to the Levoy Theater Preservation Society Board, the set back forced project leaders to conduct more inspections and sort through new plans. Here is a TV report from News 40 about the start.
I will share updates as they come.

May 11

2011-05-11T05:55:00.000-04:00

/tune to catch the bus

Samosa Yumm.

Good morning today is Wednesday morning around quarter of five in the morning another nice spring day arrives.In today's news the Singer Bobby Rydell will be performing at the Landis theater on July 9. I see we get some top-flight entertainment out here in Cumberland County. The dude was a has-been when my brother was in elementary school and he sat there and sang Christmas rocking horse I mean let's get real. Hope the Levoy does better than him and Bernadette Peters.
Speaking of the Levoy, I hear that construction may resume as early as this week. That is a welcome sign for sure.
The new admin is going to change alot of my welfare job effective July 1st. Also the State will be meeting with my union SEIU668 Tuesday May 17. Lets see what happens
Well, no other news to report but the baby shower is Sat May 21st in Wynnewood.

The First Week in May is Ok.

2011-05-09T05:52:00.000-04:00

Good morning this early Monday morning. I have not written in my blog in in about a week so here is summation. but we just passed first off I went to see Jean Wheatland with John and Pat in New York City. It was a nice sunny spring day in Manhattan where we saw lots of different things and then went to the concert and Tom was enjoyable Steve Miller came and showed up as a surprise. Jane sang Our Lips are Sealed from her GoGo's days of the early 80's. We took the train then Jon drove me home in Millville. I got to sleep for an hour then got up to catch the 4:15am crack of dawn 408 bus so,

Jane with Les Paul Trio

Midtown

Pat and I last Monday in NYC

In Harrisburg for Rally

Over 3,000 Strong on May 3rd

I could catch the bus to Harrisburg for a huge labor rally being held in response to Gov. Corbett's plan 2012 budget which would cut education funding 50% in the next year.Also his budget will mean in a 4% pay cut and more co-pays for medical. Over 3000 people attended the rally it was very hot I got a good sunburn. I got some really pretty cool pictures of the day
after that I then went to work for the rest of the week which was mainly uneventful but very very busy of course. Weds night, I stayed over in Philly and we saw the Perfect Storm. This movie was very entertaining. Friday after work, the 5:55 bus had a breakdown and never showed up. I go the next bus at 7pm.

New Hotel Near Pat's House

7pm Friday

Mother's Day at Wildflower

Enjoying Mother's Day at Wildflower

after that I then went to work for the rest of the week which was mainly uneventful but very very busy of course. Weds night, I stayed over in Philly and we saw the Perfect Storm. This movie was very entertaining. Friday after work, the 5:55 bus had a breakdown and never showed up. I go the next bus at 7pm. Saturday we got some stuff done with the garden since it was nice outside. Sunday Jone and Densie paid us a visit for Mother's day. Jon fixed the flushing mechanism by using spare parts we had in our house. He sure is good at figuring stuff like that out. We next went to Wildflower., the vegan food spot at the Village on High. Boy is the food good. Next Sunday Carolyne will have an Ostara Yoga class next to Wildflower. The weather is supposed to be nice. In fact next week there is no rain in the forecast if you can believe that! we saw a president Obama in the 60 min. episode and they are people on websites saying that Osama Bin Laden has been dead for years. I have seen the website called infowars which I must say is very paranoid. I bet this Alex Jones dude is making a pretty confortable living off these paranoid stories.
Well, got to catch the bus now...

Fun with My iPhone

2011-05-02T05:34:00.000-04:00

Last Days in April

2011-05-02T04:41:00.000-04:00

Waiting for the Bus 4-27

SEIU668 Breakout 4-26

This Hurt to get rid of!

Well, this week has moved along fast. Tuesday our union SEIU Local 668 had a breakout. This was in response to the Governor not starting contract negations for a new contract. The old contract ends June 30th of THIS year. Next Tuesday is Lobby Day in Harrisburg. I plan on going.
I had infected hangnail that I got taken care of by the Dr and boy it hurt. There is the Photo before I went to the Dr.

Osama bin Laden Killed in Pakistan!!!

2011-05-02T04:13:00.002-04:00

Image via Wikipedia

HE IS IN HELL!!!!!!

OSAMA BIN LADEN IS DEAD!!!!
It took almost 10 years but the bastard is dead!
Here is President Obama announcing the news.!

Let’s just be happy that Osama Bin Laden has already found out that there aren’t going to be any virgins!!
The latest is that this man is in Davy Jones Locker..

WASHINGTON – A U.S. official says Osama bin Laden has been buried at sea.
After bin Laden was killed in a raid by U.S. forces in Pakistan, senior administration officials said the body would be handled according to Islamic practice and tradition. That practice calls for the body to be buried within 24 hours, the official said. Finding a country willing to accept the remains of the world's most wanted terrorist would have been difficult, the official said. So the U.S. decided to bury him at sea.
The official, who spoke Monday on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive national security matters, did not immediately say where that occurred.

Friday on the 408

2011-04-29T07:14:00.000-04:00

I am on the 408 bus. The bus is beeping and the check engine light keeps going on. When the driver called dispatch. They just said to get to Walter Rand in Camden. Hell, we are now just getting out of Newfield towards Franklinville Dave is now trying to make up tine!!. Now it's 7:05 am and the bus has been running ok. It looks like a sunny day is in store. I plan to leave work early so I can catch the Pitman express. My sister in law is coming to stay over and bring the dogs.
I am now typing this on the iPhone. Not sure why blogger has NO app for this phone. I am unable to post photos or go into "compose" mode. Well time to get off the bus in Camden.

A Poll From the Daily Journal

2011-04-29T05:04:00.001-04:00

Image via Wikipedia

President Barack Obama produced a detailed Hawaii birth certificate to confirm his legitimacy to hold office. Does this bury the ‘birther’ issue once and for all?

Yes
22.3%
No
32.8%
It should have been buried years ago with the release of the short form birth certificate.
45.0%

Total votes: 238

This is not a scientific poll (Lets Hope Not!!)

This is from the Vineland Daily Journal as of 5am today April 29th. I heard that 40% of Republicans believe
that President Obama was not born in the US. All I can say some folks STILL have a problem with a BLACK PRESIDENT!!!
Of course this release of the "Long Form" only made these wingdings more crazy. Don't believe me? Read this blog for a moment.
Do you think a white guy would have this happen? This is so sad.

A Happy Easter in Fortescue NJ

2011-04-26T05:39:00.000-04:00

Jesus, Me, Carolyne and Marilyn

Dawn and Matthew

Carolyne and June

We meet up with family at the Charlesworth in Fortescue New Jersey for Easter. It was the nicest day ever this Spring for sure. We enjoyed each other's company and then after our Easter food we hung out on the beach along with some 4-legged creatures who frolicked all day long. Thanks for Kay for organizing this family get-together. I think it was the nicest way to spend Easter.

2011-04-21T07:59:00.000-04:00

Hi I am on the EL going to work.
Hope to a friend who I have not
seen in months. I plan to stay
over in Philly tonite.
This is being typed on my cellphone.
I really have no time to do this
at work. It is going to be cooler
today and it may rain tomorrow.
I have a bunch of folks to interview
today and I am on call tomorrow.
Have a dog to walk after work today.
I will be landscaping my Stepdaughter's
yard soon. Its good Sping is here.
No

Another Wednesday Off

2011-04-21T05:36:00.000-04:00

I had a nice day off and I will try not to get in trouble by what I say on this blog. In the past week I have managed to mildly upset a few of my 8 readers. That is a high percentage, I think.

Jesus and Coffee. A Nice Start!

June and Carolyne

Anyhow, it was a beautiful day to spend outside. It was about 80 for the high and the sun was out for at least three quarters of the day.
First off, the red coffee maker up and died on us. The Clock said Err2 over and over. We looked up the manual online and it said to turn it off and on. Well, needless to say, that did not work. It was an electrical issue. We did price out new coffee makers but held off. Man they are not cheap. We have from Jon and Densie and we are quite thankful.

Jon Measuring Up.

After going to WAWA for some Guatemalan coffee, I attempted to go to WXTU for their virtual ticket run for this 27th annual WXTU concert for my sister in law. Well, the link never did work, so I noodled around online for an hour. There is one in Millville on May 18th at the Incredible Bulk from 5 to 6:30 pm. Maybe I will leave work early and get a ticket. I myself do not plan to go. I am not a big country buff, but if asked, I will check it out. Never been to a country concert. That ought to be a trip.

Shopping for Rocks!!

I did scrape our metal star. It was hanging in the front of our house for several years. Carolyne wants to paint some new colors. Jesus, my cute boy pup helped out while I was scraping.
Next went shopping for various items. One of the items was some rocks for some landscaping for our back yard. Rocks are good for accents and prevent the take over by market forces..Ha..Ha...
I was on Facebook and a person said that Obama was still playing the blame Bush game. Well, folks love to bash Obama with crap like the Birth Certificate stuff. Here is a nice little sample of this. They can not wait to beat him in the 2012 election.
Got to catch the 5:44 bus now Have a great Easter Week!!

Home Grown Lettace Yum!

Updates!

2011-04-19T14:01:00.001-04:00

Update:
The dumpster did get an updated permit. I guess between the Levoy fence and the dumpster, we all just need to wait.....
The taken over Millville

The Weekend in Mid April

2011-04-18T05:39:00.000-04:00

Our Backyard

New Store in Arts District

Densie and Carolyne

This weekend way pretty good, I must say. Friday was a nice day but quite cool for mid April. I check out one or two places downtown. One gallery had some pretty cool paintings that you have to see to believe. It was the 10th anniversary of 3rd Friday in Millville NJ. I think it went fine, the weather held out. Saturday, we did some gardening and replanting in the backyard. It was in need of a make over and this is what we did. It was nice having the day to ourselves to take care of business. We got done in time before it got dark and a powerful thunderstorm came crashing in. Man, it was drenching rain and wind. Thank goodness we do not live in North Carolina near Raleigh.
Well, President Obama FINALLY called out the House Republicans on the "brave" Paul Ryan plan that ends Medicare as we know it and gives generous tax cuts to those who already know how to avoid paying much in taxes. As As Paul Krugman states in the NY Times:

Now, Republicans claim that last year’s midterms gave them a mandate for the vision embodied in their budget. But last year the G.O.P. ran against what it called the “massive Medicare cuts” contained in the health reform law. How, then, can the election have provided a mandate for a plan that not only would preserve all of those cuts, but would go on, over time, to dismantle Medicare completely?

The Republcan Ryan Plan aint no joke

Its time for the President to just stand up and call the Republicans out. We can not stand wish-washy Democrats. Just STOP!!

A day off

2011-04-14T05:36:00.001-04:00

Diggin My Day Off from Work

Over my rainbarrel

At the Millville Queen

Back Yard Extension

Well, I had a good day off from the Welfare Wakka. I did some outside work digging and doing a little gardening.Densie and Jon came over and saw that the crib from Target was damaged during delivery. Its now time to figure out how to return it and to get a new one. Hope Target is not a pain in the butt about it.
We went to the Millville Queen after my work on the front of our house and had some good eatin for sure. I even went to a workshop on how to make a rain barrel. It was at the 4-H building on Morton Ave in Millville. Its closer to being Bridgeton or Vineland to me. Anyway, they had the tools and parts needed to make one and they had the barrels as well, We learned not to have the water uncovered as to attract mosquitoes to the barrel and not to use the water collected to drink or to bathe. Water running off a roof collects stuff nobody wants to drink.

Please Remove This Dumpster

2011-04-14T05:25:00.001-04:00

Note the Dates!!!

A local merchant spoke to me. The store is located near the large blue dumpster that has been sitting on High Street for awhile. He stated he was losing business since it takes up parking spaces and folks have to walk around it. I went to the Fath Building and the city of Millville did charge $50.00 to have it parked on High Street for 30 days. They gave Thunderbolt General Contractor Corporation 30 Days to use this dumpster. This 30 days expired yesterday. Will they move it?? Will the City enforce its ordinance?? I think folks need to call city hall and the zoning officer so it will be gone in time for 3rd Friday and the merchants nearby can get more business.

UPDATE:
The city told me as well as Mr. Operman told me a new permit was obtained. We just have to wait for the dumpster. I have to remember..patience is a virture. I work for $$

Cumberland County in Trouble:Our Political Candidates

2011-04-12T07:45:00.000-04:00

Good morning. I have not been writing about our political conditions here in Cumberland County New Jersey. I am now going to play catch-up. Then again this is no game. This is about the continued economic viability of Cumberland County and to Millville as well.
First off some good news. Millville celebrates 10 years of 3rd Friday's. This started with volunteers such as Liz Nicklus, Carl Johnson, Leslie Ficcalia, Mike Cagno and others who started the RRCA from scratch as volunteers. Now we have 2 anchors. The RRCA on one end and the Village on High on the other end. Maryann Cannon deserves full praise for getting this project started at an old gas station on High Street.
Ok, Lets enjoy this Friday
Back to our politics... I see that Rev Dunkins is not running for Freeholder

but a woman named Carol Masso will be running. She seems to be an insider with the party. I know little about her. I wished that Jane Jennerone had dropped out instead since she has been embarrassing. She has been the bad cop for big Lou. I did notice that Mr. Magazzu is STILL running the party as this statement leads me to believe.

“Cumberland County residents have received the short end of the stick from the Trenton Republicans,” said Cumberland County Democratic Chairman Lou Magazzu, in a statement announcing his party’s county slate in the upcoming November elections.

So I guess Lou is not "gone" like I was told by a Democratic insider last month. I really did believe him too! The face that Jane is still on the ballot seems to confirm my opinion on this matter. Lou comes out and says this statement that the Democratic candidates will defend Cumberland County against attacks from the Christie Admin.

“The team of Whelan, Jannarone and Musso will be a firewall to protect us from any further attacks.”

Well, Mr Magazzu, your current candidates have not "protected" us here in Cumberland County that well. As you said yourself.

“The (Chris) Christie administration has unfairly targeted Cumberland County by planning to close the Upper Deerfield (motor vehicle) inspection station and already closing the Bridgeton inspection station, Vineland Developmental Center and the urban enterprise zones of Bridgeton, Vineland and Millville.

Our Assemblymen are not much better in protecting our economic interests.Assemblyman John Burzichelli has no ideawhy the Vineland Development Center is targeted for closing.

A member of the budget committee, the Third District assemblyman stated he doesn’t understand why the center is to be closed when relatives and advocates for those staying there have praise for it — and while many patients cannot speak for themselves.

“Something just doesn’t sit right with this,” said Burzichelli, the Democratic deputy speaker in the Assembly. “I’ve asked for follow-up information on this. This is a real important issue to many people in this county.
“I think there is going to be a need for a facility here.”

Well, with all due respect, you might want to do your job and FIND OUT!!!
Meanwhile Jeff Van Drew is accused of tearing up petitions of a woman who DARED to run in the primary against him. Yo Jeff, why don't you and Mr Burzichelli go out and challenge the Christie Admin on why the Vineland Development Center is being closed, the UEZ is closing its local office, and why another DOT building is going to be shutdown.
Ok, Now that I have commented about the Democrats, its time for the Republicans. I see that Sam Fiocchi gets full endorsement from First District GOP nomination for STATE ASSEMBLY. Gee, did he not just get elected for Freeholder umm 4 months ago? I voted for Mr Fiocchi thinking that he would bring a balance and commonsense to the Lou-Dominated Freeholder Board. I was again mistaken. He just just used his Freeholder seat (barely warm) as a stepping stone. He did not impress my friend who was seeking leadership concerning the proposed closing of the County Library.
I do not know the Republican candidates for Freeholder except Joey Farabella who was a good Millville Cop. If anyone out there can educate me, I am willing to listen. Can anyone get rid of Lou and Jane? Can we get strong leadership so we are not the red-headed step child of the State of New Jersey?

A Spring Weekend in April

2011-04-11T05:35:00.000-04:00

June and her new coat

Kay and Carolyne at Guilty Pleasures

Planted our Bamboo Yesterday!

Carolyne in her Studio.

Good day sunshine. It was a mild day in April. You know like Spring was meant to be. I missed my zoning meeting due to being late for the bus. I did have a very cool weekend. We had a nice yoga class, then we hung out with Kay downtown. They did some shopping while I snapped some photos. We then went to Bojo's and had a beer. We were to have food but after 30 minutes or so just decided to leave. We heard that the 2 women who used to cook left. . Next we went to the Oar House and had late lunch. It was a good time. I was so tired that I went to sleep around 8:30 and slept till 8 yesterday.

At Oar House

Yesterday, I got to walk the dogs for awhile. Met up with Dennis and Linday at the oppisite ends of High Street. Linda Works Sunday's at the RRCA and still sees stuff with my name on it. We had a good chuckle at that. There is a framed photo of Mike Cagno but who is the 2nd director of the RRCA? Can anyone there tell me? Its it like the Commies who leave out photos of non-persons? Um..? Umm?
Anyway back to Spring. Yesterday was the nicest we had in weeks. We planted our bamboo plant and I can't wait for it to grow. Also we added lights to Carolyne's studio. It was cool project figuring out how to get the lighting in the right spots. We both got haircuts. Carolyne looks very nice!!
Well, its now 5:33am got to get ready for the 408 Bus now.

An Exchange

2011-04-06T05:37:00.000-04:00

I received this exchange between a friend who was concerned about the proposed closing of the County Libriary. I was very interested since like myself my friend voted for some of the Republicans thinking it may inprove the quality of the Freeholder Board.
Here is just a portion of my friend's letter to Sam Fiocchi

Closing a library, in my opinion, is a poor decision. Targeting 4H,
libraries, and sr. centers, etc., affect those who most need the services and are
least able to speak out - the children, the poor, and the elderly.
As newspapers such as the London Times and the NY Times (effective March
28th)> increasingly begin to charge for their subscriptions, it will become
Increasingly more difficult for people who are struggling to make ends
meet to have access to the world around them. Libraries will be increasingly more
utilized to access these types of subscriptions. Libraries are also
heavily used by job seekers who in the face of unemployment do not have the extra funds
available to afford an internet connection. Other areas in the county,
astoundingly, are still without a reliable internet connection, and people
from> those areas rely on those connections.

Here is Freeholder Fiocchi's response in part. He seems to blame the Democrats for the entire problem of the County debt of 11 milliion

thank you for taking the time to write to me. The Freeholders do not want
to shut down the library but we are facing a budget deficit of $11 million
dollars. I am a newly elected Freeholder and the poor business and spending
practices of the previous Democrat controlled administrations have put us
on this course, we now are facing difficult choices and we are compelled
to straighten out

He goes on to say the following to back this up

The county levy has doubled in
the last 8 years, the budget has nearly doubled in the same period and our
taxes in NJ are the highest in the nation. Aditionally, ratables are
down, revenues are down and so is state and federal aid. Be assured that the budget committee is looking at every dollar

My friend responds to Mr Fiocchi's assertions

I must say that I am terribly disappointed that partisanship had to enter into your email - especially given that as an independent, I voted for you...
As you yourself point out, we are a struggling community. Removing library services serves will have negative externalities - it will continue to entrench our county with the belief that low educational values are alright. Education gives us the opportunity to do more for ourselves and more for our economy.
As far as partisanship--the country inherited a recession, sir, from a Republican President. Cumberland County has been poorly run by Democrats, which is why I voted Republican this past election.But the truth the economy is a national and global issue, and cannot be placed squarely on the shoulders of any one party.
I understand and appreciate the difficulties that the freeholders are facing, and indeed the entire community, but I am very disappointed in your partisan response.

Random Bus Stuff and Pups

2011-04-05T05:30:00.000-04:00

A fun Ball

Yup, They DID mess up

the Pitman express it was supposed to show up 20 min. earlier which would be approximately 527 is already min. late I'll I'm not sure what is going to come it's now 5:44 and the bus came. The bus driver told me there was a misprint. So it's only 3 min earlier. I found out when I got on the bus. So I benefit since I can take PATCO in the morning as well. PATCO is cheaper.
After work I found this yellow ball. It was so bright and chearful that I had to take it with me. After all all of us need some cheer! I donated it to a kid next door since it would get chewed up or lost. I ate breakfast with my dogs this morning. They enjoyed their chow like I did.
Have a mild Tuesday.

My Chow hounds this morning

New DPW Secretary Blames Rendell for Welfare Spending Increase

2011-04-04T05:05:00.000-04:00

Image via Wikipedia

As you know the new Gov of Pennsylvania Tom Corbett plans to reduce my salery. His pick for Secretary of Public Gary Alexander gave his view of what he plans for the Department of Public Welfare.

Rising demand in Pennsylvania for social services during the recession and the spiraling cost of health care has driven up the agency's budget by about 70 percent in a decade. One in six Pennsylvanians is now covered by Medicaid, the 45-year-old federal program created to help states pay for medical and long-term care for the poor and disabled.

You can tell that a new sheirff is in town. Check out this statement.

Alexander, who will manage many of Pennsylvania's services for the poor, elderly and disabled, told senators in a packed Appropriations Committee hearing that the mantra for case workers under Rendell was "when in doubt, give it out" or "close your eyes and authorize" — statements he repeated to a House committee later Wednesday.
"That is stopping," Alexander told senators. "I told the workers, 'That should happen no more.'"

Mr. Alexander proceeded to blame the Rendell Adminstration for the increase in spending in the Department of Public Welfare.

also contended that the administration of the Republican governor's predecessor, Democrat Ed Rendell, practiced gross mismanagement. Former top Rendell aides said such statements prove that Corbett administration officials are either lying to conceal their true aims to slash health care or don't know what they're talking about

It appears that DPW is going after Medicaid to satisfy a political agenda where the well-connected like the gas drillers are not taxed but the social safety net is.
We will have to see how far they go with this. As for our contract which is up for negations. The Commonwealth has not set ANY dates to start negations. The Commonwealth has presented their proposals to AFSME and it is not pretty.

As we expected, the commonwealth has targeted everything financial in the contract and is demanding major concessions on wages, healthcare, scheduling, overtime, leave retiree healthcare, equalization, work-related injuries, mileage and Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). They also propose random drug testing and elimination of use of tobacco products. Please realize these are the initial proposals and will be negotiated until we reach an end result.

Well, stay tuned!

Route 55

Poway Ca: This Past Weekend.

Photos October 28

California October 13 to 27th

All Aboard!!!

S**T Happens

Photos of the Week

Keep On Rocking Me Baby!

Caught in the Act!

The Week that Was: October 3rd to 7th.

Depressing

A Thought: Is Marriage for White People??

TrackRacket Lawsuit

September into October..

Funky Nights

Burning Bus

What's The Frequency??

Monday:FEMA, Fish and Phillies

Birthday Fun, Trail Mix and Scap.

The Levoy Builds Again

September 22nd to September 24th 2011

Photos Thurday September 22

REM: 31 Years of Groovy Sounds

Google+ and Tax+

This is September 19th 2011

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The Sale of Cumberland Manor

Maurice River September 17th 4:37pm

Got a Free Computer!

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A Response to Karen Heller of the Inquirer

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